The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7

If it seems like we're talking about the new Corvette Stingray a lot, it's because we're talking about the new Corvette Stingray a lot. We haven't driven it so the specs are just numbers and the promise of great performance is just a guess.


The 2014 Corvette is more powerful, more capable, more comfortable — and surprisingly, more fuel efficient. The Corvette has already experienced six generational redesigns in its history, the fact is that times have changed. The automotive world isn't the same as it was when the previous generation was introduced.

Nothing so drastic as a switch to a mid-engine layout is planned for the C7. The base Vette will remain a front-engine, rear-transaxle coupe with a glass hatch (that is, until the C8 arrives, anyway). Something similar to the current car’s suspension, transverse leaf springs and all, will appear on this 2014 model. We also don’t expect any drastic dimensional changes; while mules we spotted in September appeared to have a narrower track, their bodies were donated by C6 Grand Sports, which have wider fenders and tracks than do base Corvettes. The C7 is likely to shed some mass, which would yield a better power-to-weight ratio.The most significant changes are likely to be a drop in weight and under the hood, where the Corvette's engine size is likely to drop significantly. It's still going to be a V8, but a smaller one.


Of all the rumors, the one that seems most solid is that the C7 will go on sale sometime during 2013 as a 2014 model. Incidentally, June 30, 2013 will mark the 60th anniversary of the first Corvette coming off the assembly line.

Right now, 65 percent of the people buying Corvettes are over 50. And for a lot of potential buyers under 40, it simply isn't on their aspiration radar. Now is the time for GM to step up and build a C7 Corvette worthy of the speculation it has inspired. A Corvette that can win every race it enters. A Corvette 10-year-olds dream about, 20-year-olds fantasize about and 30-year-olds actually buy.

Love it or hate it, the Chevrolet Corvette is an American icon. For most of its 60 years, the 'Vette's shown that a commodity-focused U.S. automaker can confound expectations and compete with the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.