American automotive engineering begins and ends with the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, now in its seventh generation after the first one rolled off the assembly line in 1953. The C7 generation and before that the C8 generation have endowed as much value, advancement, technology, and creativity as they should be to place the Corvette among the world’s best in the class of sports cars. In this article we’re going to look at how the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C8 compares to the C7 model.
Exterior Design
When comparing the two models and comparing the appearance and shape of C8 with that of C7 one can easily identify some of the differences. That is the essence of the Chevrolet Corvette – and these elements were given due treatment in the design of the C7 Stingray. Its front mudguard had a large wing like grille and it further had a low, wide stand giving a muscular look.
On the other hand, the C8 model changed the Corvette’s looks entirely and for the better, one might say. This iteration is the first to place the engine mid-ship, which not only changed the car’s proportions, but also virtually transforms its look. The car’s exterior design is more angular with both the lines and the surface panels of the C8 being more exaggerated to hint at the car’s performance credentials The low-slung centrally-located engine effectively lowers the car’s centre of gravity and gives it better balance and agility.
Interior Design
The C7 and C8 Corvettes inside the cabin are different too: Similarly to other cars from the C7 model line, its interior still looks sporty and luxurious with top calibration of the materials and chic driver-oriented cockpit. The dashboard is the most appealing, and the control center is an eight-inch infotainment touch screen for most functions.
The C8 model, however, greatly expands the interior game to a level previously considered by few. With its minimalist driver-oriented interior, the C8 looks very futuristic and luxurious. Standard interior features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, Mercedes-Benz like supporting instruments, an IntelliLink infotainment system and optional carbon fiber interior trim, aluminum and heated premium leather seats, and advanced technology puts the Corvette in a new range of performance cars.
Performance
The C7 and C8 Corvettes both come with fierce engines, but the powertrain arrangement of these two Corvettes is entirely different. The C7 Stingray comes standard with a 6.2L V8 engine with 455HP & 460lb-ft torque for the base model and 650HP in Z06 Trim level.
While the C8 has a-next generation 6.2L V8 engine coaxed to 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Still, this powerplant is more efficient because of the newly introduced induction system and direct injection systems. Furthermore, Chevrolet launched the C8 with a high-revving 7.0L V8 in Stingray and there is a highly expected 8.0L V8 in the Z06 model that, according to expectations, will deliver more than 700 horsepower.
The dynamics with regard to servicing and maneuverability have been applauded in both generations. So while the C7’s rear-mounted engine is well balanced and makes for a very rewarding drive, the C8’s mid-engine positioning takes things and step further with greater levels of grip, new levels of stability and sharper levels of agility.
Technology and Features
If comparing the technology and features provided with the C7 and C8 models, one can state that Chevrolet has only enhanced its best solutions. Additional conveniences in the C7 Stingray are Magnetic Ride Control, Performance Traction Management, and an option for Performance Data Recorder helping a driver get the best out of the car on the track.
The C8 Corvette is built with these features in mind, and kicks them up a notch with Rear-Wheel Steer, adjustable suspension, and a helpful suite of driver assist options such as Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Change Alert. The C8 model also comes with a new enhanced infotainment system that has an 8 or available 12 inch high touch screen for enhanced driver control and convenience.
Conclusion
All in all, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C8 and C7 look like triumphs in the world of American sports car. C8 model is a revolutionary mid-engine layout accompanied with many new features which the Corvette series reaches new heights. The C7 Stingray, however, still looks as iconic as it does and still does extremely well today. In the end it’s a case of you versus these two generations and it is down to which generation you would prefer to drive or the other.
