A Closer Look at the 2021 Chevy Corvette
American automobile manufacturer Chevrolet (or ‘Chevy’, as it is more often referred to) has experienced a variety of hits and misses during their years in the industry (the company was founded in 1911. When it comes to the less-popular ‘misses’ they are known for, we can list the Vega, the Corvair, and yes, the Chevette, which managed to sell better than the other two, by the way. For the few seeming flops they have had, they have had even more success. Among their most cherished claims to fame is the renowned, and apparently immortal, Corvette, as it has withstood a variety of criticisms, remaining both popular and iconic, year after year.
The Corvette produced by Chevy for the 2021 model year is absolutely no exception. Here we have a space-aged version of one of the most recognized and coveted cars of all time, so you can expect some doubt and hesitation from the die-hard sentimentalists. On the other side of the same coin we all know there is the group that will stand by their ‘Vette through hell, fire, and brimstone, even with so much newness oozing everywhere as far as the car is concerned. Where do you stand?
Well, you may or may not be familiar with the new model version, but you certainly have come to the right place to get that way. Since its initial release in 1953 the car has drawn lovers and haters alike. Overall, however, it’s the lovers that seem to win out in the popularity race every time, through sixty years and eight generations of continuous manufacture. It’s difficult to live on the planet Earth and not have some kind of opinion about one aspect or another of the legendary sports car. But if you’re definitely unsure which side of the fence you stand on, we’re here to help you narrow things down.
Presenting another knowledge-packed ’10 Things’ list, specially prepared and presented to you for your approval. Forget all you’ve heard to this point about the 2021 Corvette; cease any comparisons you have held between it and the ‘Vettes of yesteryear. We are here to give you the lowdown and help you choose a path based on real information. So read on and discover…
10 Things You Didn’t Know About the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette
1. Orders Up
According to GM Authority, orders for the new 2021 Chevy Corvette could begin being placed on May 21, 2020, a full 30 days ahead of schedule. A note from GM to dealerships stated, “…the purpose in advancing the 2021 model year ordering is to enable you and your existing customer to create a replacement 2021 model year order”. It seems that some who ordered for the 2020 model year did not receive their auto due to backed-up production, and others refused delivery altogether because it took too long to get their cars. Good to know, and wise for GM to act accordingly.
2. Touching Briefly On Changes
Though the Corvette line, in general, has remained as consistent as possible over the years in keeping with the changing times, it has certainly undergone changes, and the new model year is not an exception. Here are a few basic changes made to the Corvette for the 2021 model year:
• New addition of the Stingray Graphics Package
• Wireless capability, featuring Android Auto and Apple Car Play
• Brand new interior color schemes
• New paint color options
• New striping options
These are just a few of the changes made to the aesthetics and all-inclusive information center. In a while we’ll discuss some of the other, more in-depth changes that have been made to one of America’s most iconic motor vehicles.
3. Bumps On the Path To A Bright, Shining Future
The new C8 Corvette was first released for the 2020 model year, but both the United Auto Workers strike of 2019 and the coronavirus pandemic managed to halt production of the new car significantly. But true to form, Chevrolet refuses to give up, and now Corvette lovers are looking forward to the release of the 2021 model with great anticipation. Looks like there is a light at the end of the tunnel for everyone.
4. The Rise of the C8
Well, when it comes to these things it’s important to keep it simple. So, in an effort to do so, the C8 side-tag on the 2021 Corvette means simply that the car is mid-engined (the engine is located near the center of the vehicle), and in this particular case it also means that the mid-engine placement has been somewhat reinvented. There have been some structural changes that allow for the strategic placement of the engine, which makes for more carriage power all the way around.
5. The ‘Smartest’ Car, In All Its Glory
We are able to program a lot of things today, making them do what we want them to do for us, when we want it done, of course. The new ‘Vette fits into that category easily. One example is the fact that you can actually program this car to lift its nose (a result of being able to easily adjust its suspension) so it doesn’t bottom out when pulling into an inclined parking space. Nice feature, wouldn’t you say? We’d have to agree, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
6. So, You Wanna Talk About That Engine, Eh?
Here’s what we’ve got for you, folks: As far as that mid-engine is concerned, you’re looking at the following:
• 6.2 liter V-8 VVT engine
• Powerful side intakes for premium air-cooling
• Just for kicks: A glass pane makes the engine visible from above!
• Active Fuel Management with Direct fuel injection
• Power (without performance exhaust option): 490/356.4 @ 6,450 rpm (SAE Certified)
• Torque (without performance exhaust option): 465/627.8 @ 5,150 rpm (SAE Certified
• ECU Consisting of E99 (32-bit processing)
• Dual overhead cam system (DOHC)
• Choice between a dual-clutch automatic from Tremec or a TR-9007 seven-speed or a GM 10-speed automatic transmissions
This is just the beginning. The 2021 Chevy Corvette gets right around 700 horses, which is definitely nothing to sneeze at, so buckle up, Buttercup, you’ve got a hell of a ride coming.
7. Where It’s Popped Together At
While we all know that Chevrolet is an American auto company through and through, it’s always nice to know the specifics. The fact is that the 2021 Corvette is manufactured in the States from snout to south; it is an American automobile indeed. The GM factory in Bowling Green, Kentucky is expected to handle the manufacture of the new ‘Vette, so you can pretty much rest assured your car is starting in the States and staying in the States.
8. The Main Competitors
Like any product or brand, the new model year Corvette has competitors (as had every previous years’ models). This particular model year has just as much competition as can be expected. On the high-end sports car market, the 2021 Corvette expects to face-off with the likes of the Audi R8, the Ford GT, and the Porsche 911…contenders definitely worth the respect they have earned. They have also set the bar for this Chevy model, so expect improvements to be made in accordance with the changes that come to light as far as the ‘Vette is concerned.
9. A Couple of Extra Colors, Too
You think we’d just leave you hanging when it comes to options and extras, did you? Well, of course not. We figured we’d give you just enough to taste, and then leave the eating of the meal entirely up to you! There are two exterior color combinations to choose from, which actually take over for the colors that were available on last year’s model. The new colors are Silver Flare and Red Mist Tint Coat; the pair will take over for Blade Silver Metallic and Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat, respectively.
10. So, What About That Price?
This is really where we come down to the brass tacks, especially when it comes to much-coveted sports cars like the Chevy Corvette. To make things a bit easier to chew and swallow, let’s start with the basics. There are two trim versions of the ‘Vette: the Coupe and the Convertible. Technically speaking, the convertible version is an option, so you’re looking at spending approximately $7,500 more for the topless ‘Vette. As far as ‘more than what?’ is concerned, well, for the standard 2021 Chevy Corvette Coupe, potential buyers are looking at spending a base price of $59,995. Not too shabby for everything that you’re getting, if you’re being honest.
Okay, now that you’re being honest, we’re fairly sure that you are definitely considering a purchase. Believe us, most people are thinking about it, and it seems a lot more affordable than in years gone by. Regardless, test drive one, even if you’re not too sure about a permanent commitment, because it will be the experience of a lifetime. Have fun on the road, and above all else, be safe out there.
