Almost since it's inception in 1953, the Chevrolet Corvette has been the most iconic sports car on the American road. Coupe, convertible, targa, T-top....to drive a 'Vette is to wrap your hands around the steering wheel of one of the most easily identifiable cars in the world. History is written by the winners.
1953-A New Car Hits the Road
After winning World War ll, American soldiers returned home with an affinity for many things that they encountered in their travels. Among the things that they developed a fondness for were sports cars. Jaguar, MG and Alfa Romeo made such cars in Europe, but auto makers in the United States didn't have anything to compare. General Motors auto designer Harley Earl convinced his superiors that there was a void in the market that needed to be filled, and if GM didn't fill it, their competition would. Late in 1953, GM entered the sports car genre with the Chevrolet Corvette.
The 1953 Corvette could be bought for around $3500 and was available in any color combination the buyer wanted, as long as it was white, with a red interior and black top. Only 300 of these cars were built, and if you have one in the garage, you can name your price.
C2-C4: Corvette Develops a Loyal Following
Beginning in 1963, the second generation Corvette, or C2 would begin a 5 year run. Sometimes called the Sting Ray, these cars would introduce a different body design and a few minor upgrades, like head rests and AM-FM radio, but the legacy of the C2 would be the introduction of the big block 396 engine in 1965. This would give way to the 427, which debuted in 1966. That cute little car from the early 50's had developed an attitude, and well over 400 horse power.
The C3 and C4 would carry the Corvette from 1968 through 1996. The car, and the buying public would deal with a lot during this time. Vietnam, Disco, Oil Embargo...the Sting Ray became Stingray, and in 1976, it went away altogether. Engine horsepower fluctuated wildly, from an asphalt shredding 435 in 1969 to a wimpy 165 in 1975. The high watermark was arguably 1979, when more than 53,000 cars were snapped up by the buying public, still a one year record. The low point was surely 1983-there were NO 1983 Corvette's sold. One change has lasted to this day-in 1981, production shifted from St. Louis to the current location in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
C5&C6-The Car Becomes Easier to Drive
Starting with the 1997 model, quality became a priority for Corvette. Previous cars weren't always reliable and often featured a punishing ride. Starting with an almost blank slate, Corvette engineers redesigned nearly everything, from the headlights to the exhaust pipes. Squeaks and rattles vanished and creature comforts improved. Some engines topped 400hp. In 2003, a limited edition model celebrated Corvette birthday #50. All of these improvements were welcomed by 'Vette fans. Sales remained steady, despite price increases that topped out at over $100,000 on some models.
With an incredible 60th year approaching, the Corvette is one of the greatest success stories in U.S. automobile history. The car continues to please it's legions of fans who can't wait to see what's around the next bend in the road.
Dave Lovejoy - Dave is a graduate of the University of Nebraska. He is involved in farming and has a custom made furniture business that has customers ...
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