Automotive News, Media & Press - Corvette C7 Prototype caught testing

From Autoblog.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2014-chevy-corvette-c7-opt.jpg

The Corvette is the very definition of a halo car, and the fact that 2013 marks its sixtieth year in production is nothing short of a miracle. The seventh-generation Corvette is still a model year away, during which time Chevy plans to send off the C6 with a special edition 60th Anniversary 427 Convertible.

Development of the C7, however, continues at full speed, and we have the very first shots of a prototype being tested in cold weather to prove it. The car in question is wrapped in vinyl covering, underneath which hides the familiar black-and-white swirl paint job we see so often on prototypes. Even still, we can identify some aspects of the evolution that will take place between the C6 and C7.

For one, comparing profile shots of this prototype with the C6, it's apparent that the front wheels have moved farther forward, increasing the dash-to-axle ratio and likely the wheelbase. The rear end also appears to be larger, with a higher deck lid and slightly longer overhang. We also noticed that this prototype's side mirrors are a different shape than the C6's, and its dual tailpipes are positioned closer together to form a perfectly spaced line of four pipes.

There's no evidence of a split rear window and a mid-engine layout is clearly not in the cards. These photos should put those wild rumors to rest, but what's under the hood and how the interior has been improved are still unknowns.

http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/chevy-corvette-c7-prototype-spied-testing/

Can't wait for more details on this new generation. The Corvette keeps getting closer and closer to bring world-class in every way. Wonder how that's gonna affect the bottom line.

Thanks for the pics. Although, only reason to run a vette on ice & snow is to take so called "SPY" :secret2: pics to post on the net. There can be no other purpose. Are the scoops above the rear sail panels in the vinyl there to hide vents or are those just pockets in the vinyl?

The wheels look skinny.

I hope they wise up and give it a dual clutch type tranny.

Thanks for the pics. Although, only reason to run a vette on ice & snow is to take so called "SPY" :secret2: pics to post on the net. There can be no other purpose. Are the scoops above the rear sail panels in the vinyl there to hide vents or are those just pockets in the vinyl?

Testing traction/stability control systems?

I hope they wise up and give it a dual clutch type tranny.

I'd prefer they keep it a somewhat simpler design in attempt to keep costs somewhat reasonable. The current vettes are amazing performers and I don't see the need for a double clutch style trans when they're cutting into the 11's and 10's with the current style tranny. If something works, and works well, don't fuck with it IMO

Nothing wrong with an option for a dual clutch tranny.

If a dc clutch tranny is set up right it will be faster and easier on parts. A sequential box would be cool also.

Testing traction/stability control systems?

Could be but my guess is cold weather and high altitude testing. Many times I have driven into the mountains up I-70 and seen some GM vehicle under wraps. Usually a family car or truck. If I see this thing I will break laws to close in on it and snap some pics/video.

I'd prefer they keep it a somewhat simpler design in attempt to keep costs somewhat reasonable. The current vettes are amazing performers and I don't see the need for a double clutch style trans when they're cutting into the 11's and 10's with the current style tranny. If something works, and works well, don't fuck with it IMO

What performance car with dct have you driven hard? I had dct on my 09 M3 and those shifts were amazing. I still respect your opinion though.

Still the same uninspiring mirrors from 97? Really?

Could be but my guess is cold weather and high altitude testing. Many times I have driven into the mountains up I-70 and seen some GM vehicle under wraps. Usually a family car or truck. If I see this thing I will break laws to close in on it and snap some pics/video.

First rip off the huge bra, then take pics. I'll bail you out of jail if you succeed. :)

Testing traction/stability control systems?

Could be but my guess is cold weather and high altitude testing. Many times I have driven into the mountains up I-70 and seen some GM vehicle under wraps. Usually a family car or truck. If I see this thing I will break laws to close in on it and snap some pics/video.



Probably.

Spy photos are taken too clean & close to not have been planned prior to testing. That's what I was eluding to.

Still the same uninspiring mirrors from 97? Really?

2010 has passed, you can stop using "really?" at the end of sentences.

2010 has passed, you can stop using "really?" at the end of sentences.

My bad. Really? Really? But really?

I hope they don't put the dual clutch in it. If they add that then the next thing you know AWD won't be far behind it. I want a Corvette not a GTR.

^^^ This. DC is sweet but not in a Corvette, not yet...

Although, only reason to run a vette on ice & snow is to take so called "SPY" :secret2: pics to post on the net. There can be no other purpose.Well actually, since the C5 era and with the introduction of it's more advanced Active Handling systems the Corvette has been touted (and tested) as an all weather capable (within reason of course) vehicle. :nod:
Just a good set of dedicated snow tires away from having the ability to get someone to work as long as it wasn't attempted in two+ feet of snow LOL.
I suppose that in these photos they're simply testing/preparing the C7 for those same 'limited snow use' qualifications.




Testing traction/stability control systems?Could be but my guess is cold weather and high altitude testing.Exactly. :nod:

Looks similar to the C6 in those pics which is a good thing. I don't know how they are going to top it though. The car just has the perfect blend of refinement and rawness, I have never been in a car that falls within it's price range that has that kind of effect.

I'm excited for the C7 though, no doubt about that. Looking good so far.

Looking good. I'm very curious about the frame and body materials.

Im thinking this will be very ctsv coupe styled. Very sharp lines, chiseled front, stacked lights

Looks similar to the C6 in those pics which is a good thing. I don't know how they are going to top it though. The car just has the perfect blend of refinement and rawness, I have never been in a car that falls within it's price range that has that kind of effect.

I'm excited for the C7 though, no doubt about that. Looking good so far.

Agree each time I see a C6 I just cant get over how good it looks even for a car thats been in production since 2005 it's a fantastic looking car (though interior needs improvement) so I really hope they dont screw up the C7 which from the pics the may be going in the right direction.

Looks similar to the C6 in those pics which is a good thing. I don't know how they are going to top it though. The car just has the perfect blend of refinement and rawness, I have never been in a car that falls within it's price range that has that kind of effect.:werd: I thoroughly agree. :nod:
I feel that even the C5s captured much of what you're referring to but they might've leaned just a little more on the 'rawness' side of that balance for some tastes (not mine).
The C6 really hit it out of the park though, :thumb: mine has been a truly stellar (and fast) machine for years now.
Hopefully the C7 maintains that mix/combo while also raising the overall bar even higher. :nod:

Call me crazy, but I miss the rawness of the C4. Is that weird?

Yes.


:jest:

Call me crazy, but I miss the rawness of the C4. Is that weird?

You can keep that! Including the 96 Grand Sport.

Kiss my butt!

Call me crazy, but I miss the rawness of the C4. Is that weird?Not at all, :cool: some have even referred to the C4s as the last of the 'real' Corvettes though I'm not sure I'd totally agree with that part. ;)
My first Vette was a '95 and it was lots of fun, I loved it's steering as well as the high door sills and how ya sort of fell into their tight 'cozy' interior. :)

http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q244/LS1LT1/027_25A.jpg

I understand why people say that. I learned to drive mostly in my mom's old '94 LT1. Her '01 was no doubt a "better" car in every way... Just wasn't the same.

Can't wait to see it revealed.... & its testing in the snow? Hmm

Hopefully it looks as good as the sneak preview shots.

Plus, this will bring C6 prices down again. I know what I'm getting when this comes out.:)

Still the same uninspiring mirrors from 97? Really?

Do you normally choose cars based on their side mirrors? I don't think there is anything wrong with the current set up.

C4, the last real Corvette? I like the newer generations far better, greater performance, better handling and improved comfort.

I think Cheverolet will do a fine job with the new Corvette, they are evolving and improving thanks to their racing program.

Idk about C4's being the last "real corvette" but they are definitely the most underrated. 92-96 models are great bang for the buck.

I just don't see the C7 chassis being much different than the C6. Really no need to other than a few tweaks. Kind of like how the C6 was over the C5. Probably some carbon fiber here and there, new headlights, etc.. I think the big news is going to be the interior (see cadillac) and the powertrain.

the c4 was ugly, and piss poor quality

Do you normally choose cars based on their side mirrors? I don't think there is anything wrong with the current set up.

C4, the last real Corvette? I like the newer generations far better, greater performance, better handling and improved comfort.
That last part was kinda the point. Every Corvette from 1953-1996 was uncomfortable, hot, noisy, etc. The Corvette had never tried to be comfortable before. It's kinda like the Jeep guys that say '96 was the last real Wrangler.
the c4 was ugly, and piss poor quality

You know what they say about opinions ;).

Still the same uninspiring mirrors from 97? Really?

Why would they put production mirrors on a camouflaged test mule?

Looks like they stole some ques' from the 458 italia. Headlights and front grill maybe? The CME is gonna be nice.

It looks decent, for being covered up haha

Why would they put production mirrors on a camouflaged test mule?

Ok smart guy. So these ain't the production mirrors? What your comment come back at you.

Guess they were right on with their concept!

http://jalopnik.com/5859302/2014-corvette-first-photos/gallery/

I hope they don't put the dual clutch in it. If they add that then the next thing you know AWD won't be far behind it. I want a Corvette not a GTR.

Chevy doesn't need to put AWD and just because they put a DCT in the car doesn't exactly mean they would put AWD. DCT's should be an option, especially for those who are die hard road racers that want a trans that has precise shifts. I don't see any harm in advancing.

If it's gonna be world class it needs AWD and a DC set-up.....no two ways about that. The quicker shifts and added traction will always make for a better, more consitant and well rounded car. The only way to battle those technologies it to get real with reduceing weight.

Testing traction/stability control systems?
The cold weather testing is standard stuff, all kinds of performance cars have gone through it, I remember seeing spy pics of the C5 doing the same thing.

Guess they were right on with their concept!

http://jalopnik.com/5859302/2014-corvette-first-photos/gallery/
While Ive heard from "reliable sources" that that is really close to the real deal, how can you tell this half covered camo car looks like that?

If it's gonna be world class it needs AWD and a DC set-up.....no two ways about that. The quicker shifts and added traction will always make for a better, more consitant and well rounded car. The only way to battle those technologies it to get real with reduceing weight.

No, it really doesn't. AWD is not necessary (look at track times please), and adds complexity, cost and weight. The Corvette is a front (midship) engine RWD and always should be, its part of the driving experience.

Chevy doesn't need to put AWD and just because they put a DCT in the car doesn't exactly mean they would put AWD. DCT's should be an option, especially for those who are die hard road racers that want a trans that has precise shifts. I don't see any harm in advancing.

They may not need to but neither did Lamborghini and look what happened there. Nothing but AWD and paddle shift everywhere. While I still love Lambo's I miss the manual gearbox and RWD that the Diablo had.

the c4 was ugly, and piss poor quality

Very good friend of mines has a '96 with 74k miles on it, I don't see any kind of flaws that particularly stand out on his car where I'm like "Ok, this car was just built like absolute crap". They are really no worse than F-Body's, I look at my car with 72k miles on it and look at his and I find a lot of the same type of issues between the two.

Agree each time I see a C6 I just cant get over how good it looks even for a car thats been in production since 2005 it's a fantastic looking car (though interior needs improvement) so I really hope they dont screw up the C7 which from the pics the may be going in the right direction.

I think the interior is perfect on the C6's, it's not too nice where you kind of forget what you're driving, but it's not made like a Fisher Price toy either like the previous generations :D

The cold weather testing is standard stuff, all kinds of performance cars have gone through it, I remember seeing spy pics of the C5 doing the same thing.


While Ive heard from "reliable sources" that that is really close to the real deal, how can you tell this half covered camo car looks like that?



No, it really doesn't. AWD is not necessary (look at track times please), and adds complexity, cost and weight. The Corvette is a front (midship) engine RWD and always should be, its part of the driving experience.
It may not be necessary but look at the times the awd gtr puts out. Close to 10s in the quarter mile straight off showroom floor.

Man, IDK if it's just me, but it looks like shit. I liked the Stingray concept car they had, this just looks very big/tall and ugly IMO.

Chevy doesn't need to put AWD and just because they put a DCT in the car doesn't exactly mean they would put AWD. DCT's should be an option, especially for those who are die hard road racers that want a trans that has precise shifts. I don't see any harm in advancing.

Agreed.

There should be two options:

1) Conventional Manual (6 or 7 speed)

2) DCT (lightning quick shifts, 7+ speeds)

JMO


They may not need to but neither did Lamborghini and look what happened there. Nothing but AWD and paddle shift everywhere. While I still love Lambo's I miss the manual gearbox and RWD that the Diablo had.

LP-550-2

LP-550-2

I'm aware of that one but lets be honest it was the outcast of the lineup.

I'm aware of that one but lets be honest it was the outcast of the lineup.

Countach FTW. ...im sorry it was my favorite car when i was little.
before i even knew what lambo was.

annnyways, maybe by the time i can afford a vette, the C6 z06 will be as cheap as an f-body and i can snatch one up :)

If it's gonna be world class it needs AWD and a DC set-up.....no two ways about that. The quicker shifts and added traction will always make for a better, more consitant and well rounded car. The only way to battle those technologies it to get real with reduceing weight.

So in your mind Ferrari isn't world class??

The day they make vette AWD is the day I stop liking them.

Very good friend of mines has a '96 with 74k miles on it, I don't see any kind of flaws that particularly stand out on his car where I'm like "Ok, this car was just built like absolute crap".

I think the interior is perfect on the C6's, it's not too nice where you kind of forget what you're driving, but it's not made like a Fisher Price toy either like the previous generations :DHaving previously owned a C4 and currently owning a C6, I don't know if I could agree with you any more than I already do. :D




No, it really doesn't. AWD is not necessary (look at track times please), and adds complexity, cost and weight. The Corvette is a front (midship) engine RWD and always should be, its part of the driving experience.Agreed.




It may not be necessary but look at the times the awd gtr puts out. Close to 10s in the quarter mile straight off showroom floor.True.
And one should also look at the Corvette Z06, it too runs REAL CLOSE to 10s (and has actually hit 10s on one occasion) right off the showroom floor as well. :nod:
ZR1s do the very same as well of course. :drive:

And one should also look at the Corvette Z06, it too runs REAL CLOSE to 10s (and has actually hit 10s on one occasion) right off the showroom floor as well. :nod:
ZR1s do the very same as well of course. :drive:

EXACTLY... Show me a GTR running these times stock with stock tires or DR tires only :rolleyes:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Zv5RDzwS4g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct_RxkWp41g&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2EsAz2GCHo&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptZbFx6v98I&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

A new GT-R can get pretty close to that 11.02...

Just an FYI, the MK3 GT-R has already ran a 10.89 completely bone stock, down to the tires and not at a strip.
The MY12 is already on sale in Japan and is scheduled for release to the rest of the world pretty soon.

I can't wait to see what the next Corvette will be capable of.:D

Fast forward to 1:40 for the MY12 GT-R's time:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEh1w3RfD3I&feature=pl

It may not be necessary but look at the times the awd gtr puts out. Close to 10s in the quarter mile straight off showroom floor.

Im talking about real tracks, ones with turns.

If it's gonna be world class it needs AWD and a DC set-up.....no two ways about that.



:eek2: AWD...in a Vette??? A quote borrowed from Jeremy Clarkson; "Are you MAD (crazy) man?" A Vette w/ training wheels is just sacrilegiuos. Gotta leave some fun & drivers' input in a performance car. That's done by leaving the manual trans & rear wheel drive alone. Dual clutch aside, technology has gotten car performance to the point where an 89 year old nun can drive a 24 hrs of LeMans car in the actual race.

Performance car road course racing has gotten to the same point as drag racing where the results are more related to the cars' technology than to the skill of the driver. Really sad, IMO. :thumbsdow

I'm still pissed that Congress mandated traction control. F'ckn a$$holes need to leave their laws off of my car.

If it's gonna be world class it needs AWD and a DC set-up.....no two ways about that. The quicker shifts and added traction will always make for a better, more consitant and well rounded car. The only way to battle those technologies it to get real with reduceing weight.

:eyes:

like the Koneigsegg needs it?

the 458 Italia or any Ferrari really?

GT3RS?

all those RWD Lambos?

MP412-C Fax Ma.. i mean McClaren?

so, it NEEDS awd and a flappy paddle box to be world class huh?

btw, "dual clutch" doesnt refer to the transmission.. it refers to the clutch:bang:

:eyes:

like the Koneigsegg needs it?

the 458 Italia or any Ferrari really?

GT3RS?

all those RWD Lambos?

MP412-C Fax Ma.. i mean McClaren?

so, it NEEDS awd and a flappy paddle box to be world class huh?

btw, "dual clutch" doesnt refer to the transmission.. it refers to the clutch:bang:

No shit, but it needs that type of clutch to operate that type a trans....so back at ya :bigun2:

If you think you can row the gears as fast as that trans can your a fool.....and when is extra traction not good????

Shorting shift times = better acceleration
Traction = better acceleration/better handleing

The only downside would be extra weight.

Now if they got real with makeing the car light say less than 3000lb then that would be awesome also.

Very interesting

No shit, but it needs that type of clutch to operate that type a trans....so back at ya :bigun2:

If you think you can row the gears as fast as that trans can your a fool.....and when is extra traction not good????

Shorting shift times = better acceleration
Traction = better acceleration/better handleing

The only downside would be extra weight.

Now if they got real with makeing the car light say less than 3000lb then that would be awesome also.

Extra weight and wasted power in a straight line (after launch of course).

AWD=more weight=less acceleration
More technology=higher price
Complete revamp=higher price

The vette's are setup fucking amazing. They better not start messing with a formula that has been highly competitive for 60 years.

Corvette=supercar performance in a simple, affordable platform when compared to the cars it runs with. :usa:

Im talking about real tracks, ones with turns.

I get you. I know all about turns in cars and bikes.

EXACTLY... Show me a GTR running these times stock with stock tires or DR tires only :rolleyes:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Zv5RDzwS4g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct_RxkWp41g&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2EsAz2GCHo&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptZbFx6v98I&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL
Don't be naive.

So Vettes CAN drive in snow!! I knew it!

I have a feeling this car is going to be overstyled. IMO at least. Maybe when the C7 comes out the C6s will drop in price, and I could have a hope of buying one.

Traction = better acceleration/better handleing


Odd, I see more RWD race cars than AWD.. A lot more

Call me crazy, but I miss the rawness of the C4. Is that weird?

Not at all...unless you want to sit inside it.

The interior is actually one of my favorite parts lol

I'm still pissed that Congress mandated traction control. F'ckn a$$holes need to leave their laws off of my car.Agreed, but at least we can still turn it completely off (in most cars at least).

:burn:
:burn:





Extra weight and wasted power in a straight line (after launch of course).

AWD=more weight=less acceleration
More technology=higher price
Complete revamp=higher price

The vette's are setup fucking amazing. I might have to agree...sometimes, less is more. :nod:

The interior is actually one of my favorite parts lol

Bit of a masochist? If I had a C4 I would do everything I can to swap a C5 or C6 interior into one. Probably even before go fast mods. Haha.

It's not that bad :lol:

Odd, I see more RWD race cars than AWD.. A lot more

We are not talking about race cars with sticky tires. I will agree then that rwd would be better overall. We are talking about street cars with limited traction. It's hard not to admit the GTR is a badass with it's awd.

The interior is actually one of my favorite parts lol:nod:




Bit of a masochist? If I had a C4 I would do everything I can to swap a C5 or C6 interior into one. Probably even before go fast mods. Haha.I do love C5s and C6s (so much so that I bought one) and most will agree that they are both clearly better (and faster) cars overall than any of the various C4 models but a lot of people do miss some elements of the C4 generation. That interior (and I do prefer the later '90-'96 iterations of the C4 interiors) had a sort of cocoon or low slung race car like feel to it when ya fell into it that the later C5/C6 cars seemed to lack (which again, was still a welcomed change to the majority of people like yourself :)).
Sort of like comparing the act (art?) of climbing into a '70s/'80s era Lamborghini Countach versus climbing into a '70s/'80s era Porsche 928, they were both relatively fast sports cars/sports coupe and the 928 was certainly much easier and less cumbersome to enter but some still found the challenging contortions required to enter the Countach simply more fun. :D

Haven't the GT-R's been having a lot of trans related problems that havent been covered under warranty? I thought I read that someone.

Also, weren't the C4 literally styled after star wars and designed to give you a space-aged "cockpit" feel?

It's not that bad :lol:

http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1986-corvette-6.jpg
^Yes it is.....:jest:

http://www.amcarguide.com/wp-content/gallery/corvette-c4/1996-chevrolet-corvette-c4-grand-sport-edition-interior.jpg

The later update makes it look alright though.

Haven't the GT-R's been having a lot of trans related problems that havent been covered under warranty? I thought I read that someone.Yes I believe that there were a few cases of that in the 2008-2010 models, not sure about the more recent releases.

:nod:




I do love C5s and C6s (so much so that I bought one) and most will agree that they are both clearly better (and faster) cars overall than any of the various C4 models but a lot of people do miss some elements of the C4 generation. That interior (and I do prefer the later '90-'96 iterations of the C4 interiors) had a sort of cocoon or low slung race car like feel to it when ya fell into it that the later C5/C6 cars seemed to lack (which again, was still a welcomed change to the majority of people like yourself :)).
Sort of like comparing the act (art?) of climbing into a '70s/'80s era Lamborghini Countach versus climbing into a '70s/'80s era Porsche 928, they were both relatively fast sports cars/sports coupe and the 928 was certainly much easier and less cumbersome to enter but some still found the challenging contortions required to enter the Countach simply more fun. :D
Yep.
Haven't the GT-R's been having a lot of trans related problems that havent been covered under warranty? I thought I read that someone.

Also, weren't the C4 literally styled after star wars and designed to give you a space-aged "cockpit" feel?
The GT-R had a handful of problems related to people overusing the launch feature. But that problem was fixed a couple years ago.

http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1986-corvette-6.jpg
^Yes it is.....:jest:

http://www.amcarguide.com/wp-content/gallery/corvette-c4/1996-chevrolet-corvette-c4-grand-sport-edition-interior.jpg

The later update makes it look alright though.

Definitely talking about the '90-'96 cars. The earlier models had shitty interiors like basically every other 80s car.

http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1986-corvette-6.jpg
^Yes it is.....:jest:

http://www.amcarguide.com/wp-content/gallery/corvette-c4/1996-chevrolet-corvette-c4-grand-sport-edition-interior.jpg

The later update makes it look alright though.Yes, as I'd posted above, the later (1990-1996 or more specifically, 1994 and up) interiors were notably better than the earlier (1984-1989) cars with their 'video game style' digital dashboards which were actually all the rage back then LOL, Toyota and Nissan were all over that style in their Supra and 300ZX of that era as well. :D
I liked my '95 Corvette, I only sold it because the Camaro Z28 LS1 that I'd bought (and do still own :cool:) as a daily driver was actually faster than it LOL. :burn:

I drove a stock C4 pretty hard once.
Frankly and personally, I would compare its chassis feel to a wet noodle.:|:P

No doubt.

I drove a stock C4 pretty hard once.
Frankly and personally, I would compare its chassis feel to a wet noodle.:|:PMine was a coupe and I did find it to be a bit on the 'flexible' side when the targa roof was out, I would think that the convertibles would've felt somewhat similar, though they did come with some extra bracing.
But with the roof bolted in my car felt VERY solid, cornered/stopped quite well actually and I really loved the weight of the steering and even the feedback of the road surface through the wheel was very good in my opinion. :nod:

Put an LT4 C4 and an LS1 C5 in front of me and tell me to pick one, I think I just might pick the C4...

Put an LT4 C4 and an LS1 C5 in front of me and tell me to pick one, I think I just might pick the C4...Those two cars would be VERY close in a straight line race too, both solid high 12 second cars in good air. :nod:

Anyone else catch the mismatching wheels on the test mule?

Im down with putting whatever high end clutch, trans, engine whatever into the top tier models, but leave the bases alone. They've always been a working salary attainable fast car which is why they sold so well

Put an LT4 C4 and an LS1 C5 in front of me and tell me to pick one, I think I just might pick the C4...

How about a C4 ZR1 vs C5 Z06? :D

For an only car, C5Z... Second or third car, ZR1 no question. :drive:

To me the C4s are some of my favorite Corvettes to look at, a nice C4 lowered on some Fikse FM5s still looks killer to me. I have a C6, it's a nice car, very easy to live with. The interior is o.k but a bit disappointing far as material quality, I would expect more from a car that costs what it does. Far as the C4 being the last real Corvette, I can't agree with that. If you look at the C6 line up, GM has done a bad ass job, no car in the pack is slouch and even your base coupe can match the performance of just about any performance model Vette from the previous generation. In a few years I wouldn't mind ditching the coupe I have now for a Z06.

When people say that, it has nothing to do with performance.

Anyone else catch the mismatching wheels on the test mule?Yes I saw that as well...possibly testing two different designs for strength and/or brake cooling purposes perhaps?





Far as the C4 being the last real Corvette, I can't agree with that. If you look at the C6 line up, GM has done a bad ass job, no car in the pack is slouch and even your base coupe can match the performance of just about any performance model Vette from the previous generation.When people say that, it has nothing to do with performance.Agreed.
I don't actually 'say it' myself as I feel that all Corvettes are 'real' Corvettes, but I do hear others say it/imply it and I do understand where they're coming from when they do. :nod:

big c4 fan here

Never been a fan of c4s. I bought one and sold it asap. I just didnt get a feel for it. It was a 96. I got it real cheap,needed an opti and replace head gasket and wp. Sold it, and went and bought me another 4th gen z28.
Im gonna be on the lookout for cash prices on c6s.
Ive always wanted a vy/black interior 6spd c6 :D

Odd, '96s had the upgraded Opti that was supposed to be free from the issues that plagued the early LT1 cars.

Agreed, but at least we can still turn it completely off (in most cars at least).
:burn:
:burn:




True. Although, the mandate killed the Viper. How many millions must Dodge now spend to conform to the law? That's if it comes back @ all. With Gilles @ the helm of Dodge, would expect it to happen, but who knows if the cost will allow it.

"Congress...killing America one law @ a time."

To stay on topic; C7 FTW.

Another off track thread. From prototype C7 to C4!

Anyone else catch the mismatching wheels on the test mule?

Im down with putting whatever high end clutch, trans, engine whatever into the top tier models, but leave the bases alone. They've always been a working salary attainable fast car which is why they sold so well

Caught that too.. what about the different exhaust tips? may be 2 diff cars?

Caught that too.. what about the different exhaust tips? may be 2 diff cars?

Probably more than 2 different cars. It is highly likely they are testing different configurations on the same day in the same elements in order to get a more direct comparison with their results.

C7 in the pic. appears as an early Pantera prior to the wing and wheel flared versions.

But larger and wider rubber.

I still don't understand all the people complaining about the dual clutch gearbox....sure it might deliver .5 MPG better or shift so many milliseconds quicker.....who cares?

For many of us it is about the driving experience and feeling like you are connected to the car. Nothing gives you that feel of power and control like power shifting a short throw shifter coming out of a turn.

When people say that, it has nothing to do with performance.

What does it have to do with then? You can't tell me the C4 in it's time was more like the C1 of it's time than the C6 is.

Another off track thread. From prototype C7 to C4!
At least this one stayed on Corvettes...that is incredible :lol:
I still don't understand all the people complaining about the dual clutch gearbox....sure it might deliver .5 MPG better or shift so many milliseconds quicker.....who cares?

For many of us it is about the driving experience and feeling like you are connected to the car. Nothing gives you that feel of power and control like power shifting a short throw shifter coming out of a turn.
:nod:
What does it have to do with then? You can't tell me the C4 in it's time was more like the C1 of it's time than the C6 is.
Again, not saying I agree with it, but I know what they're talking about when they say it;
That last part was kinda the point. Every Corvette from 1953-1996 was uncomfortable, hot, noisy, etc. The Corvette had never tried to be comfortable or refined before. It's kinda like the Jeep guys that say '96 was the last real Wrangler.

No shit, but it needs that type of clutch to operate that type a trans....so back at ya :bigun2:

If you think you can row the gears as fast as that trans can your a fool.....and when is extra traction not good????

Shorting shift times = better acceleration
Traction = better acceleration/better handleing

The only downside would be extra weight.

Now if they got real with makeing the car light say less than 3000lb then that would be awesome also.

majority of flappy paddle gearboxes have used a single clutch setup. so.. dual clutch isnt required. the reason for a dual clutch like in the ZR1 would be the ability to withstand more.

Ok smart guy. So these ain't the production mirrors? What your comment come back at you.

Interesting that you feel the need to feel insulted so quickly. You are the one that brought up the mirrors. I was just curious why you assumed them to be using C5ish morriors on the production C7 from that picture. Let's assume that the C7 mirrors would hint at the lines of the production car, we were out doing preproduction testing, and actively trying to hide the styling of the car; wouldn't it be logical to use a mirror that did not give anything away.

At least this one stayed on Corvettes...that is incredible
That's a good point.

Ive always wanted a vy/black interior 6spd c6 :D:thumb:




Odd, '96s had the upgraded Opti that was supposed to be free from the issues that plagued the early LT1 cars.True...I believe '95 was the first year of the updated Opti spark. :nod:




C7 in the pic. appears as an early Pantera prior to the wing and wheel flared versions.Yes, with maybe even a little Lamborghini Miura mixed in there as well. :nod: