Motorheads Performance
We've all been waiting to see what the new 2014 Corvette would look like, and what it would have under the hood. What we didn't expect was to see the "Stingray" name resurrected!
This is great news for traditional classic car lovers who saw the iconic 60's Corvette Stingray as the best of the Corvette's. Add "Stingray" to Corvette and you've got hearts thumping. Hoping to build on the successful relaunch of the Chevrolet Camaro, GM has surprised even industry experts who missed this prediction. Yes, the new 2014 C7 Corvette will be a Stingray.
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| 2014 Corvette Stingray |
While styling of the new Corvette does not closely resemble the incredibly popular Stingray models of the 1960's and early 1970's, it boasts modern features that should win over the hearts of enthusiasts. Among the changes are serious updates over the C6′s performance standard, with Corvette engineers looking to beat C6 Grand Sport lap times.
Under the hood, the new 6.2L LT1 V8 produces an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 foot-pound torque and times of 0-60 in under 4 seconds. All this while giving estimates of 26 MPG in fuel economy. The compact engine design lowers the hood line and also the vehicle's center of gravity for what should be terrific handling. Guy Algar states, "We're sure many will want to take advantage of an optional dry-sump oil system that will deliver through high g-force cornering." The base car weighs almost 100 pounds less than the C6 due to its aluminum frame that’s 57% stiffer than its predecessor. The base model has a carbon fiber hood and roof panels for reduced weight, and the hood and quarter panels feature functional extractor vents.
The new Stingray looks to be built for performance and fun. We took note of the stick shift mounted on the passenger side door armrest, and you can bet passenger's will be grabbing for it when testing out the performance that the new Corvette promises to deliver. Performance upgrades to the C6 Corvette include
steering, which is said to be 5 times stiffer for greater precision. The seven speed manual transmission should be a hoot to drive, with its "active rev-matching" system which automatically anticipates downshifts at the first touch of the lever. This rev match seamlessly synchronizes the engine revs to the selected ratio, giving faster shifts, better handling and providing greater stability.
We know that performance enthusiasts in Texas, including the classic car and classic sports car enthusiasts, will find resurrection of the "Stingray" name intriguing, and the described performance something that needs to be driven!
REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
bcove.me - The New 2014 Corvette Stingray - VIDEO
Chevrolet - 2014 Corvette Reveal
Corvetteonline.com - C7 Stingray Preliminary Spcifications and Uber Gallery
LSX TV - Chevrolet Unveils The 2014 C7 Corvette Stingray
Time - The New 2014 Corvette Stingray (PHOTOS)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.
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