Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7

At the Detroit Motor Show, Chevrolet has officially unveiled the seventh generation of the Corvette. From the land where the Corvette Stingray was created from scratch, as that is its true name, we have been able to take in everything from its modern, sporty and striking shapes to its completely redesigned mechanics.

As with most Corvettes or any other sports car, the most notable aspect is the new exterior design lines, which in the case of the C7 break many traditions with the use of rectangular and sharp-edged rear lights, a feature that carries across much of the bodywork, although, as always, the values of this series remain intact. Another novelty worth highlighting is the presence of rear windows, an element that had not been used since the first generation.

INTERIOR AND FINISHES

Inside, the changes are even more profound. The cabin of the new Corvette undoubtedly offers an aesthetic improvement, with an instrument panel oriented directly towards the driver. Its shapes and lines are very much reminiscent of those used in the Audi R8.

One of the major highlights is the new 8-inch screen located in the centre of the instrument panel, accompanied by an information, multimedia and navigation system, something quite common in supercars of this decade.

According to the manufacturer, in the C7 we can find a significant improvement in the materials used. The leather has greater quality, in the same way that the carbon fibre and aluminium are genuine and not cheap imitations. The aim is to rival its European and Japanese competitors, while trying to showcase one of its nicknames, “the American Ferrari”.

MECHANICS AND PERFORMANCE

At launch, Chevrolet will only offer customers a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 engine, which delivers 449 CV of power and over 600 Nm of torque. Different variants will follow later. This engine retains two valves per cylinder.

Mechanically, the biggest surprise comes from the gearbox. An automatic torque converter with six speeds will be available, but the greatest ingenuity lies elsewhere. The manual gearbox will have seven speeds plus reverse, something we had only seen until now on the Porsche 911 (991).

The new Stingray makes use of lightweight materials in its construction and chassis, which includes a carbon-fibre bonnet, a removable roof panel, composite bumpers, and doors and boot panels made of aluminium. For now we only have a claim from Chevrolet. “The new Corvette C7 achieves an optimal 50/50 weight distribution”.

With all these advances, seen for the first time on the model, the supercar is capable of nearly reaching 100 km/h in under four seconds and generating more than 1 g of grip in corners.

As an option, Chevrolet will offer an upgrade kit called Z51 Performance Package, which includes the following elements: an electronic limited-slip differential, a dry-sump lubrication system, carbon brakes, an improved transmission hydraulic system, as well as an exclusive aerodynamic package that improves stability at high speeds. Two types of seats are also available: the standard ones, which are somewhat more comfortable, and, secondly, bucket seats designed for the track.

It comes equipped with high-performance brakes signed by Brembo. The lightweight alloy wheels start at 18 inches and are fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres with run-flat technology, which allows driving for around 80 km at a maximum speed of 80 km/h.

Source | Chevrolet