The Future For Corvette
Discussion
Came across a very interesting article in the latest addition of Motor Trend
here in America.
Basically it states what is known about the C7, what is expected and what
is hoped for - makes for a great read.
I know borders will have it in the UK at some stage, but I'll grab an extra
copy or two if anyone wants one?
here in America.
Basically it states what is known about the C7, what is expected and what
is hoped for - makes for a great read.
I know borders will have it in the UK at some stage, but I'll grab an extra
copy or two if anyone wants one?
Edited by Cuban on Wednesday 17th October 07:43
Great post and link - just enjoyed half an hour looking at all the photos and reading the article!
Interesting viewpoints on what the next Corvette should be, from the front/mid-engined debate to how it should look and be priced.
The front or mid-engined debate is interesting, and I wonder which will win in the end. I'm not sure that I like the idea of two Corvette models - one front and one mid-engined - I prefer the current line up where the improvements in powertrain, suspension etc. are all within the same 'space'...
Furthermore, I'm not so sure that Motor Trend's (or GM's for that matter) with the Porsche 911 are entirely required, the Corvette - just because it may be as quick or quicker, - is a different vehicle for a different market, at a different price. And one of the beauties, always, of a Corvette is being faster than a car that cost an awful lot more!!
I also don't like the idea of the 5.0L Northstar V8 as an option, since the current LSx lumps are very powerful and efficient. Even though the C4 ZR1's LT5 engine 'sired' the Northstar, and it'd be back 'at home' in a C7 Corvette, I'd keep the current setup.
But having said all that: perhaps GM want to make a revolutionary change with the Corvette, introducing a very high revving, mid-engined 'vette. While this may win some new sales from those aspiring to European exotica, I think it could isolate the core Corvette buyers. However I'd say GM will ultimately come out with a C7 very similar to the C6, base HP from an LSx lump in the 475-500hp mark.
For me, ignoring the 505hp 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, or the excellent fuel economy for a 7.0L car!! ... the Corvette wins hands down in one area: value for money. It should stay that way.
Interesting viewpoints on what the next Corvette should be, from the front/mid-engined debate to how it should look and be priced.
The front or mid-engined debate is interesting, and I wonder which will win in the end. I'm not sure that I like the idea of two Corvette models - one front and one mid-engined - I prefer the current line up where the improvements in powertrain, suspension etc. are all within the same 'space'...
Furthermore, I'm not so sure that Motor Trend's (or GM's for that matter) with the Porsche 911 are entirely required, the Corvette - just because it may be as quick or quicker, - is a different vehicle for a different market, at a different price. And one of the beauties, always, of a Corvette is being faster than a car that cost an awful lot more!!
I also don't like the idea of the 5.0L Northstar V8 as an option, since the current LSx lumps are very powerful and efficient. Even though the C4 ZR1's LT5 engine 'sired' the Northstar, and it'd be back 'at home' in a C7 Corvette, I'd keep the current setup.
But having said all that: perhaps GM want to make a revolutionary change with the Corvette, introducing a very high revving, mid-engined 'vette. While this may win some new sales from those aspiring to European exotica, I think it could isolate the core Corvette buyers. However I'd say GM will ultimately come out with a C7 very similar to the C6, base HP from an LSx lump in the 475-500hp mark.
For me, ignoring the 505hp 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, or the excellent fuel economy for a 7.0L car!! ... the Corvette wins hands down in one area: value for money. It should stay that way.
Hmm, interesting idea. The only thing is I don't think the Corvette brand is big enough for two versions with a limited differentiation between the two layouts.
Even Porsche have to do some artifical messing about (less powerful engines) with the range to stop the cheaper Cayman doing significant damage to the 911 sales.
The other aspect is what Corvette has always stod for, a front engined muscle car, and a model life of 54 years suggests the current formula is a good one.
Even Porsche have to do some artifical messing about (less powerful engines) with the range to stop the cheaper Cayman doing significant damage to the 911 sales.
The other aspect is what Corvette has always stod for, a front engined muscle car, and a model life of 54 years suggests the current formula is a good one.
Here's the Cadillac Cien. It's a stunning looking car and had the pleasure of seeing it first hand at Goodwood a couple of years ago. If GM wants a mid-engined car, I'd suggest that's the way to go.
As for the Corvette? I'd like to see a few more curves along the lines of the Giugiuaro concept from a few years back.
The jet fighter canopy can go though
As for the Corvette? I'd like to see a few more curves along the lines of the Giugiuaro concept from a few years back.
The jet fighter canopy can go though
Edited by Twin Turbo on Wednesday 24th October 17:36
What's key in the article is reference to GM's CAFE (corporate average fuel economy) mandate. Essentially, all new product (not just Corvette) will have to show improved EPA fuel economy over the model it replaces. This will be a challenge for C7 if it retains the pushrod small-block - unless they employ 'active fuel management' (cylinder deactivation) and VVT.
My most worrying take on the article is option 3 - a Vette badged Pontiac Solstice - Heaven forefend.
I disagree that the 911 sidebar is not relevant. Porsche have lost a lot of buyers to the C6 in this country, so it is appropriate to bring the two marques closer in the sales context.
My most worrying take on the article is option 3 - a Vette badged Pontiac Solstice - Heaven forefend.
I disagree that the 911 sidebar is not relevant. Porsche have lost a lot of buyers to the C6 in this country, so it is appropriate to bring the two marques closer in the sales context.
Matt Harper said:
This will be a challenge for C7 if it retains the pushrod small-block - unless they employ 'active fuel management' (cylinder deactivation) and VVT.
Or maybe a nice 2.6 litre V6 in the C7 entry model, with the shorter engine leaving room for a battery pack, regenerative braking and additional electric motors in the front hubs...... 
Yeah, you jest.... look back at late C3, early C4 specs. GM have chopped this car's balls off before -a Pontiac Solstice with a Vette badge on it is a bloody scary possibility - I'll take cylinder deactivation on an LS3 every time over a 250hp LS2, if it gets the EPA average over 19mpg - as mandated by CAFE.
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