• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

Archives for July 18, 2019

So Long, Farewell to the C7 Corvette

July 18, 2019 by admin 4 Comments

The Corvette Grand Sport is the second of four trims for this sports car model.

America’s love affair with the Corvette began in 1953 and continues today. It is this country’s quintessential sports car, something neither the Ford GT nor the Dodge Viper can rightfully claim. Indeed, aside from skipping the 1983 model year, the Chevrolet Corvette spans seven generations, with the eighth-generation model set to debut.

Fittingly, a 2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport coupe found its way to me, then left on the eve of the C8’s unveiling. In between, I reveled in all things Corvette, by thoroughly enjoying the model at hand while eagerly anticipating what’s on the horizon.

The Last Hurrah: 2019 Corvette Line

So, exactly what is a Corvette? Today, it represents a line of sports cars with each model (or trim) appended with a unique name. Every model of this front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, two-seat sports car has a 6.2-liter V8 engine. The engine is either naturally aspirated or supercharged, depending on the trim. Customers have a choice of 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions.

For 2019, you’ll find the standard Corvette Stingray ($55,900), followed by the Corvette Grand Sport ($65,900), Corvette Z06 ($80,900), and the pace-setting Corvette ZR1 ($123,000). Add $1,095 for the destination charge.

If you prefer a convertible, your base price rises by $4,500 across the model line. Lastly, the ZR1 incurs a $2,100 gas guzzler tax, the only Corvette model so punished. Then again, with 755 horsepower at the ready, the tax is a trifle inconvenience to deep-pocket individuals.


Corvette shoppers have a choice of coupe or convertible styles.

Corvette Grand Sport Style

What’s so special about the Corvette Grand Sport? Well, as Chevrolet would tell it, this model has Corvette Racing DNA. Corvette Racing, which launched in 1999, represents the on-track performance aspirations of this sports car thanks to Pratt & Miller Engineering, which builds Corvette race cars and operates the program for Chevy Racing.

Notably, Corvette Racing has garnered more than 100 first-place finishes down through the years and is a regular participant in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the IMSA season, the latter known as the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Inspired by Corvette Racing, the Grand Sport pulls in several special features, including an aerodynamics package, performance suspension components ported from the Z06, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport performance tires. The naturally aspirated V8 engine benefits from a few tweaks too, which pushes it to 460 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque (compared to 455 h.p. and 460 lbs.-ft. in the Stingray).

Beyond the aero kit upgrades, the Grand Sport has model exclusive front fender inserts, a Z06-style grille, and wider rear fenders. Inside, the Grand Sport has lightweight and supportive GT bucket seats. For $1,995, Corvette fans may upgrade to a set of Competition Sport bucket seats, which are ideal for performance driving. Specifically, these seats offer enhanced fit and bolstering for high g-cornering.

Leather seats are the standard, although various upgrades bring in perforated Napa leather, including some with sueded microfiber inserts. Both seats offer 8-way power control and, to my surprise, supply enough room to maneuver to make it possible to enhance comfort — the lumbar controls are most certainly welcome. Also, a tall driver can sit inside without compromise and that’s not something every sports car offers. Yes, the power-controlled steering column helps here.


The Grand Sport has 19-inch wheels in the front and 20-inch wheels in the back.
Red brake calipers are available.

Let’s Go Racing!


I’ve been asked whether I take models such as the Corvette to the track. The answer is a resounding no. My only allowable track time is under the auspices of the manufacturer and that happened only once: at Rockingham Speedway with the 2014 Lexus IS sedan.

Let’s just say I’ve gone faster on the street than I have on the track, including in a few non-performance models. Even so, I’m much more cautious about my speed after getting ticketed when driving the Charger Hellcat last summer. Why haven’t you heard about this before? I have my reasons!

Within the confines of the law, there are a few things you can do with this Corvette that aren’t likely to raise the hackles of law enforcement personnel. Tackling a freeway ramp is one such pastime, including the twisty on-ramp to Route 1 near my home. When the coast is clear, it offers an ideal test of this model’s 0-60 mph time and supplies a taste of its steering and handling capabilities. Under full throttle the Corvette sighs and booms, its quad exhaust system drawing attention.


A driver-centric cockpit places all controls within easy reach of the driver.

A head-up display provides a host of driver information.


The Vette’s low-to-the-ground placement, wide stance, and big tires (285/30ZR19 (front) and 335/25ZR20 (rear), combine to provide excellent connectivity to the pavement. It’s stupid easy, actually: all you have to do is apply pressure to the pedal and a slight touch to the steering wheel — the Corvette makes a novice driver seem like a professional.

I’ve driven this generation Corvette with both the seven-speed manual and the eight-speed automatic. My test model had the automatic which does, of course, remove an important element from the driving experience. Oddly, though, I would have preferred just six forward gears with the manual — the seventh seems unnecessary, an arrangement the Porsche 911 uses too. Sadly, this may be the last Corvette with an available manual.

One thoroughly nifty tech feature is the available performance data and video recorder. This system records video and real-time performance data for playback and analysis. You can even share the results. The way this works is through a windshield-mounted HD camera which captures everything for replay on the color touch screen or saved to an SD memory card.

When operating the Corvette in track mode, it records video, audio and synchronized performance data, including your speed, g force, track maps, lap times, and start/finish line. The Sport mode simplifies the data, including speed and g force information. The Touring mode simply records your scenic drives.

There is also a performance mode, which may be the most useful of all: it records your 0-60 mph, quarter-mile and elapsed time as well as your 0-100 and 100-0 runs. Finally, owners should be pleased with the valet mode as it effectively spies (records) what others are doing with your car when not in your hands.

When not lapping or taking in the many performance attributes of the Corvette, it performs as a nice cruiser. Yes, it can serve as your daily driver — it is that comfortable and in some ways it is economical for a V8. Thanks to cylinder deactivation technology, the Corvette shuts down half its cylinders, operating as a V4 during those times. The changeover is apparent right on the instrument panel, but it can also be felt while driving. Switch on cruise control while on your journey and operate in economy mode and you’ll soon average about 20 mpg. That’s better than your fuel-gulping pickup truck and nearly equals some turbocharged six-cylinder models.


Lightweight seat frames provide optimum support.

Parting Thoughts: C7 Corvette

Three different C7 Corvettes later and I’m still quite pleased with this model. The Corvette’s look, feel, and performance are top-notch. It isn’t perfect — the removable targa roof is heavy and the interior doesn’t rise to world-class standards (but at least it is a major improvement over previous models). What this one does is place a handsome capstone on the model range.

To appeal to a new generation of consumers, the Corvette will go through its most important transformation when the C8 model debuts and goes on sale later this year. I had thought that Chevrolet might build both models, but the end is nigh for the C7 and the next-generation model will carry the banner for many years ahead.

If you’re shopping for a Corvette, the standard Stingray is a logical place to start. The other two models above the Grand Sport supply outstanding performance, with the ZR1 representing one of the fastest production vehicles you can buy.

2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

  • Sticker price from $66,995
  • Price as tested: from $79,530
  • Seats 2 occupants
  • 6.2-liter 16-valve V-8 gasoline engine
  • 460 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
  • 465 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,600 rpm
  • 4.06 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 11.5-to-1
  • 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 106.7 inches
  • Length: 176.9 inches
  • Width: 73.9 inches
  • Height: 48.8 inches
  • Passenger volume: 52 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 15 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 15/16 mpg city, 25 mpg highway
  • Premium grade gasoline recommended
  • Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,298 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: NR
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Bowling Green, Kentucky
Centered quad exhaust tips supply the Corvette with a distinct look.

See Also — Book Review — Legendary Corvettes

2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: CHEVROLET CORVETTE, Chevy, CORVETTE, front engine, MID-ENGINE SPORTS CAR, V8 engine

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover

Recent Comments

  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival — Auto Trends Magazine on Buying Guide: 2020 Kia Sedona
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival — Auto Trends Magazine on Kia Telluride: Opulent, Large Crossover
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival — Auto Trends Magazine on Class Act: 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival — Auto Trends Magazine on Highlights of the 2020 Toyota Sienna
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand — Auto Trends Magazine on Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Car Reviews
  • New Models
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications
  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
  • White Space Wonder: 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • About the 2021 Genesis GV80
  • The Toyota Supra Gets a Four-Cylinder Engine and We’re Simply Gobsmacked!
  • Jim Farley Appointed Ford President and CEO
  • 12 Things We LOVE About the Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack
July 2019
S M T W T F S
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031  
« Jun   Aug »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in