At the end of this summer, Chevrolet plans to release the newest edition of its beloved Corvette Grand Sport. Chevy’s Corvette comes in three models: the Stingray, known for its quality and affordable price; the Z06, equipped with the enormous Z06 engine, automatic transmission, and convertible top; and finally the Grand Sport, which falls somewhere in between the two.
As St. Louis ‘Vette enthusiasts may know, the Grand Sport got its start in 1960 when Zora Arkus-Duntov (fondly referred to as “the Corvette Godfather”) and legendary driver Briggs Cunningham entered three Corvettes into Le Mans. While their Corvette won its class and brought home 8th overall, GM nixed it and only very few vehicles made it out to customers. In 1984, Chevrolet came close to the Grand Sport with its Z51 package; however it wasn’t until 1996 that the Grand Sport was officially produced.
Over 50 years after the legend began, Chevrolet will introduce its followers to the newest edition of its Grand Sport. This model will feature bigger wheels, Michelin pilot Super Sport tires, Brembo brakes reminiscent of those on the Z06, wider rear fenders, special grille inserts, stiffer spring rates, and an electronic limited-slip differential. It has a LT1 V8 engine rated at 460 lb-ft of torque and comes in either a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic editions. Standard on this vehicle is GM’s sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control.
The Grand Sport offers all of the fun of the Z06 without the intimidation factor that is sometimes associated with it. It soars around the tracks, proficiently handling curves like the sports car it was intended to be. Chevy has stated that the Grand Sport is capable of reaching 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Like Porsche’s 918 Spyder, the Grand Sport (equipped with the Z06 package) is predicted to go from 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet. Unlike the 918 Spyder, it’s price will be significantly less than a million dollars.
Thrill-seekers and Chevrolet enthusiasts alike should definitely check out the 2017 Corvette Grand Sport when it comes to Jim Butler Chevrolet at the end of the summer. We hope you’re as excited for the release of this new vehicle as we are!