Chevrolet revealed the much-anticipated 2014 C7 Corvette Stingray on January 13, 2013. After watching the short teaser videos that GM put out to get our attention we can see what all the hype is about. The new Corvette is simply beautiful. For the most part it was designed from a clean sheet of paper taking very little from its C6 predecessor.
The LT1 Engine returns to the 2014 Corvette after an 18-year hiatus. The GEN5 Small Block is one of the most technically advanced engines ever and the most significant redesign of the Small Block to date. The new GEN5 LT1 is a race-proven 6.2L V-8 delivering an estimated 450 horsepower and helping produce 0-60 times in less than four seconds.
Some of the technology that is in the DNA of the new LT1 is quite impressive.
- Active Fuel Management
- Continuously variable valve timing
- All-aluminum block and oil pan
- Advanced oiling system, with available dry-sump system
- New tri-lobe camshaft
- New, cam-driven fuel pump
- PCV-integrated rocker covers
- Four-into-one exhaust manifolds
- Direct Fuel Injection
The LT1 is paired up with either a six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission or an industry-exclusive TREMEC TR6070 seven speed manual with Active Rev Matching. The seven-speed transmission is connected to the LT1 with a dual mass flywheel and dual disc clutch. The Z51 option includes a transmission with close-ratio gearing for more aggressive driving.
The six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80-E is also available and has been optimized for use with Active Fuel Management. Shift feel and shift points can be adjusted with the Driver Mode Selector.
With all of the new technology and power coming from the engine and transmission it would be useless without an equally advanced chassis and brake system. The third generation Magnetic Ride Control, Electronic Power Steering and Electronic Limited Slip Differential help to keep this new Corvette handling and planted to the ground.
Standard Brembo brakes feature four-piston fixed calipers derived from racing. The large calipers and rotors deliver excellent stopping power under extreme conditions.
- 12.6-inch (320 mm) front rotors and 13.3-inch (338 mm) rear rotors are standard and have 35 percent more swept area than previous-generation brakes. This has improved stopping distance by 9 percent.
- Dual-cast, slotted 13.6-inch (345 mm) front rotors and 13.3-inch (338 mm) slotted rear rotors are included with Z51 Performance Package. This is a 6 percent improvement in swept area over the previous-generation Grand Sport.
- All brake packages on the C7 have fixed front and rear calipers. The results yield a better pedal feel, more even pad wear, reduced drag and improved modulation
The chassis on the all-new C7 Corvette is 57-percent stiffer and 99 pounds lighter than the C6. The increased stiffness and rigidity reduces noise and improves ride and handling. The frame is composed of 5 segments varying in thickness from 2mm to 11mm. The Bowling Green assembly plant has an all-new welding shop that welds the frame together using computer and laser technology.
Reducing the overall weight was one of the most critical engineering elements on the new C7 Corvette. GM has incorporated the use of advanced composites including carbon fiber and carbon-nano composites. This has resulted in a 37-pound reduction over the C6. With all the weight savings the C7 has an ideal 50/50 weight balance.
There are two different exhaust systems available on the C7. The exhaust pipe diameter was increased to 2.75” to help increase flow. The available dual-mode exhaust offers a 27-percent increase in flow and when the valves open the exhaust becomes more aggressive.
Overall the 2014 Corvette Stingray looks to be an amazing modern day muscle car. GM has spent countless hours designing, engineering and refining the C7. I cannot wait to get my hands on one and see what it can do!