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The Corvette Stingray has earned itself a lot of respect over the generations, starting from the original that still looks stealthy and aerodynamic. It's impossible to imagine American motoring history without the Chevy Corvette - it is arguably considered the "American Dream" and one that may turn to reality, because of just how affordable a car like this gets, thanks to a great phenomon called depreciation.
The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has triggered the love for supercars in America in the same way Ferraris have, all over the world. The 1957 Corvette SS, designed by Peter Brock, was about to have a huge impact on American car culture. The seventh-generation C7 Corvette has remained a great car, despite having been replaced by the mid-engine C8. With its engine up-front and power being sent to the rear wheels, it stayed true to the Corvettes before it. The C7 Corvette Stingray may not have made the headlines of being a 'Ferrari-beater', but that's something Corvette owners aren't bothered about.
With its massive, high-performing engine and stealthy looks, it was easily among the most affordable new supercars you could buy on the market. It was so much more attainable than all the European supercars, and continues to be so in its C8 avatar. Now the C7 Stingray may not be as hardcore as the Corvette C7 Z06, but its 6.2-liter V8, pushing out 460hp, with an ability to sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds, makes this car extremely desirable even today. Some say it has started to show its age, but we don't think so; in fact, for as long as you ignore the slightly dated infotainment system, the C7 Stingray could make for a great, value-for-money buy in the used car market.
Ever since it was introduced back in 2014, it has seen multiple high-performance versions of itself evolve, become faster, lighter and look angrier. The changes since 2014 are not much, even if you're looking out for used 2019 model, but one thing that remains is its legacy. The Corvette is to Chevrolet, what the Mustang GT500 is to Ford. Both popular in their own right, and legendary, if we may say so.
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray Looks Stealthy
It's going to be close to 10 years since the Corvette C7 Stingray was introduced, and there's not a single angle from which it looks old. The haters will hate, but Corvette owners and enthusiasts will always continue to praise it as the true driver's car it is – and we belong to the latter. It still looks sharp, ready to slice through wind. It looks angry, but not unforgiving, and every detail is worth taking in for minutes together. The split window-inspired fastback look cannot be mistaken for being anything other than a Corvette, and the tail section with four central tailpipes look like guns lined up for firing bullets - another signature Corvette detail.
The C7 Stingray's hood is a full carbon fiber piece, and the headlights have high-intensity xenon lights with LED DRLs incorporated. All the vents on the outside are painted in Carbon Flash. There are practical design touches too, like cap-less refueling and the heated and power-adjustable wing mirrors. The gray metallic brake calipers look menacing behind the staggered 19-inch wheels up-front, and the 20-inch ones at the back.
Although the sharp lines are there, there are no details carried over to the C7 from the previous-generation Corvettes. The dual-element tail lamps look gorgeous, and it's lighting that's a signature element on the Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray. The white LED lights are set in a black-chrome lamp housing, with HID projector headlights. The edge-lit amber LED turn signals look great flashing. The tail lamps incorporate aircraft-like air outlets for the differential and transmission coolers.
Inside Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray's Cockpit
C7 Stingray's cockpit does not look dated by any stretch of the imagination. The interior, materials and surfaces still look solid. It offer a driver-focused layout of the instrument cluster and infotainment controls. Fit and finish hold no comparison to the Europeans, but then, the Corvette doesn't cost as much either. The controls are within the reach of the driver, and you will be amazed at just how spacious it is - and for anyone buying a used example should understand that you get what you pay for.
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray Packs V8 Power
The Corvette C7 has a thirsty V8 engine, but it makes it one of those cars that you'll drive down that favorite ribbon of tarmac the moment you hear of the apocalypse in the news. The 6.2-liter engine produces 455hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Opt for the Z51 performance package and the performance exhaust, and the numbers go up a bit.
It is said that straight-line performance is strong, and won't cease to impress even around a corner. Brembo brakes come as standard, so does a locking rear differential. This is a car that clearly wants to be driven, and not parked for the folks on the sidewalk to simply stare at.
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray Is Still Awesome
According to Classic.com, You'll be able to find yourself an early model year, with low-mileage for about $35,000, making it cheaper than a brand-new full-size SUV on the market. But a good and newer example would set you back by $60,000. However, don't mistake the Corvette for being easy on you; it demands your attention and driving skill - and should you make the slightest of mistake, you'll end up at the side of the road, with all the airbags out!