Corvette Blog

Petroleum tycoon, Carlton Beal Jr., just recently made the trade of all trades at the All American Chevrolet dealership in Midland, Texas.

Beal traded his 2008 red-on-black Bugatti Veyron for a Corvette ZR1!

With 20,307 miles on the odometer, the seemingly new Bugatti Veyron actually matches up well to the ZR1. The Veyron clocks 0-to-60MPH in just 2.4 seconds, reaching high speeds of 253 miles per hour. The ZR1, on the other hand, reaches the 0-to-60 MPH mark in 3.3 seconds and high speeds of 205 miles per hour. Not too shabby.

The only strong difference: cost. A new Veyron runs for $1,600,000, a ZR1 only $107,000. With such a huge cost gap, the dealership wouldn’t accept the Veyron trade-in until they lined up a buyer, which they did.

Overall, in my opinion, Beal was smart in this trade… Not only did he regain some cashflow, but he is also the proud owner of an American-made vehicle that performs nearly as well as his former European ride.

[ Jalopnik ]
 

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

Imagine a complete set of 36 Chevrolet Corvettes ranging from 1953 until 1989… all neglected in a dark, dingy apartment basement covered in inches of dust and damaged with flat tires and sagging convertible tops.

Well, for years that’s just where Pop Art icon, Peter Max, chose to store his collection of vehicles for an on-hold art project. Max originally purchased the collection of vehicles from Mr. Amodeo, who had won them as a prize from a 1989 VH1-sponsored contest!

Yes, at that time, VH1 was heavily competing with sister network, MTV. In an attempt to attract an older audience, freelance television producer for VH1, Jim Cahill, pulled together this promotion which “had to be big, but the theme of it had to resonate with baby boomers.”

Cahill brainstormed the perfect baby boomer prize – Corvettes! After gaining the approval from top execs, Cahill purchased the 36 vehicles in 1988. “I got to shop for all the Corvettes that I’d always wanted,” he said. “We actually assembled them pretty quickly.”

Fortunately for VH1, the promotion was a huge success, creating nationwide buzz and enticing 1.3 million callers to enter the contest by calling into a call-in number.

As for now, the collection of Corvettes has been relocated to a building in Upper Manhattan – just waiting for their next move or art debut…

[ The New York Times ]

Posted By Ryan In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

AutoWeek’s executive edition, Roger Hart, just recently celebrated his 10th year on the job. To commemorate those years, Hart listed his top 10 favorite cars he has had the opportunity to drive.

“In going through my list, I realized some of the cars I loved, while being great cars, are on the list as much for the driving experience and where I drove them as for the actual car itself. But thinking about it, that's the way it should be,” says Hart.

In no particular order, his top picks were:
1. Ferrari F430 Scuderia
2. Porsche Carerra GT
3. BMW Z8
4. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 KR
5. Ford Mustang Cobra Jet
6. Rolls-Royce Phantom
7. Nissan Skyline GT-R
8. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
9. Ford GT
10. Dodge Viper ACR

Why the ZR1? Hart insists it’s the “best performance bargain on the planet” as well as a relatively easy drive for a sports car that produces 600+ horsepower. Not only did the drive train impress him, but also the interior of the vehicle. As he puts it, “an amazing car” whether on the racetrack or for a daily commute.

Do you agree with his listing? 3 Fords? 2 Mustangs? If you had to choose, how would you rank your top 10? Tell us here.

[ AutoWeek ]

Posted By Ryan In 2010 Corvette , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

General Richard “Dick” Cody, four-star U.S. Army general, lives by this motto.

Now retired, Cody served in six of the Army’s divisions during his 36 years of service. He is best-known as an Apache pilot and master aviator. He also served as the commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division – Air Assault and 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. In Operation Desert Storm, he led the initial air strike in Iraq as a battalion lieutenant colonel.

Needless to say, Cody’s pure devotion to this great country is obvious.

In furthering this commitment, Cody just recently ordered his TENTH Corvette from the Bowling Green plant – a 2010 Corvette Grand Sport.

When asked about the plant, Cody said he is "absolutely impressed with the workers. Certainly impressed with the quality of how they manufacture the Corvette."

Hearing these remarks come from such a high-ranking retired Army official is truly inspiring.

[ WBKO ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts | 0 Comments Permalink

The biggest Corvette extravaganza is nearly 200 days away! So, mark your calendars now!

Date: Aug. 27 – Aug. 29, 2010
Location: Carlisle PA Fairgrounds
Gate Times: Thurs.-Sat. 7am-6pm & Sun. 7am-3pm

If you consider yourself a Corvette enthusiast, it’d be in your best interest to pack your bags for this long-weekend summer vacation to Pennsylvania. You’ll never witness anything like it!

Corvettes at Carlisle will unite again this year to form an aerial image of the American Flag, a tradition since 2008. However, this year the flag will be even bigger, comprised of 158 Corvettes - 57 red, 51 white, 35 blue and 15 silver.

Homes for Our Troops, a national, non-profit organization committed to helping our disabled and injured soldiers, will receive half of the event registration fee from those 158 individuals who take part in the flag creation.

If you have a red, white, blue or silver Corvette and you want to be apart of the flag creation, visit CarlisleEvents.com to submit your information.

To simply pre-register to attend Corvettes at Carlisle, call (717) 243.7855 or visit Store.CarlisleEvents.com and save $10!

[ CarlisleEvents.com ]

Posted By Ryan In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

The editorial staff from Edmunds.com have a great perk! They get to travel on long road trips with very nice cars and then write about it in their Long-Term Road Tests blog!

Now after joy-riding hundreds of vehicles of all makes, they have chosen their next culprit… the 2002 Corvette Z06.

Why a 2002 Z06? Well, the crew wanted to find a powerful, used Corvette with reasonable mileage and no aftermarket features all for a relatively low cost.

So, after much searching, they ended up purchasing a Z06 for $20,000 from a man who just couldn’t afford having two cars anymore. The cost didn’t matter much to them when they admit to having seen the “405 Horsepower” badge on the vehicle’s side.

With 41,906 miles on the odometer and an average fuel economy of 14.2mpg, the crew has already begun their 12-month adventure. See where the Z06’s 5.7-liter LS6 V8 engine takes them...

Follow their journey by clicking here.

[ Inside Line ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Performance , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

Have questions about your recent Corvette purchase – or any GM vehicle for that matter? Now, you have the ability to tweet online with a live person!

General Motors has officially entered into the social media phase, employing six tech-savvy individuals to solely monitor their Twitter account – GMCustomerSvc.

Not only does the team monitor for GM-related tweets, but they are also readily available to answer any of your questions or concerns. Their hours of operation are:

• Mon. – Fri. 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday offline

Now, go tweet with GM!

[ GM on Twitter ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Dealers , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

The devastation of the Haiti earthquake has left the country in great need. In response to this need, GM auctioned off a 2008 limited edition Chevrolet Corvette Z06 at this year's Barrett-Jackson car auction.

The bidding closed at $200,000, leaving the American Red Cross with 100% of these proceeds to help with its relief efforts in Haiti.

Watch the LIVE footage as Kate Forbes from the American Red Cross addresses the Barrett-Jackson crowd before the one-of-a-kind Corvette is auctioned off to its lucky new owner after the jump.

The Corvette itself was the last of 427 Z06s ever produced within North America as well as the last 2008 Z06 available in Crystal Red Metallic. Under the hood stores a 7-liter V8 engine that can produce up to 505 horsepower.  It was also signed by Corvette plant manager Will Cooksey who retired in 2006.

To help donate to the Haiti relief aid, visit redcross.org or text HAITI to 90999.

[ AutoWeek ]

Posted By Ryan In 2008 Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Tom Read from GM's Advanced Powertrain Technology Communications recently stated, "We are considering the program".

What’s this program that he speaks of? Well, it will allow Corvette ZR1 buyers to build their very own LS9 V8 638 horsepower engine!

So now, in addition to employing 38 skilled builders at the Wixom, Mich. Performance Build Center to personally oversee and construct 45 LS9 engines each week, GM may present this same opportunity to customers who purchase their own ZR1. I’m afraid watching your Corvette come off the production line has now been replaced with building your own engine.

Pretty cool, if you ask us.

What do you think of this opportunity if GM comes through with approving it? Would you want to take part? The first hurdle you’d have to face, of course, would be the purchase of your $100,000 baby.

Check out the video after the jump.

[ Jalopnik ]

Posted By Ryan In Buying a Corvette , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Parts , Corvette Production , Corvette Purchase Incentives | 0 Comments Permalink

Plans to add a Motorsports park to Bowling Green’s National Corvette Museum are in the beginning stages. The museum has already begun purchasing surrounding land to make this park become a reality. Of the 300 acres needed, 70 acres have been purchased by the museum.

The proposed park will include a quarter-mile drag strip, 2.5-mile course, 10-acre autocross diagonal skid pad, paddock, control tower, go-cart track, as well as restroom facilities.

Wendell Storde, executive director of the museum, says this park could potentially bring 100,000+ visitors to Bowling Green annually. Many in the community are enthused about this new park and its potential to attract visitors to the area.

Fundraising and sponsorship initiatives are just beginning, though the museum did raise $177,000 from last year’s 15th anniversary celebration. The museum plans to privately raise $25 million for the park to come to fore wishing.

Museum officials hope to begin construction on the park come 2011.

[ Motorsportspark.org ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Museum | 0 Comments Permalink

We thought Santa’s main mode of transportation was his magical elf-crafted sleigh. But, boy, were we wrong. Santa was recently spotted instead in a Corvette!

That’s right.  In honor of the Korvettes for Kids Toy Run, Santa made his way to Bridgeport’s Troop G in a 2004 bright yellow Corvette!

Santa’s journey was accompanied with 50 of his elves who each drove their own Corvette. The elves were needed in to accompany Santa since he had to deliver more than 100 bags of toys!!

The toys, many of which were donated by the 300 Club Corvette of Connecticut members, were then distributed to needy and sick children within the region. “Giving back to the community is the philosophy of our club,” said George Macary, vice president of Club Corvette.

Now in it’s 11th year, the Korvettes for Kids Toy Run proved to be yet another success! What a wonderful way to bring Christmas cheer!

[ Connecticut Post ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Northeast U.S. | 0 Comments Permalink

Three new members were officially inducted this year into the 2010 Corvette Hall of Fame!

With twelve years of history and over 40 inductees who, in some way, have influenced Corvette’s success, the National Corvette Museum's Hall of Fame is proud to now include:

GRADY DAVIS, former executive vice president of Gulf Oil Corp.

• "Davis was the man and the muscle behind Gulf Oil’s sponsorship of Corvette Racing through the early 60s. He showed everyone that Corvette was a world-class racecar. He established the benchmark for Corvette Racing that we continue to emulate today."

– nominator John Walko

FRED GALLASCH, retired assistant brand manager of Corvette

• "All of us have passion for our families. Many of us have passion for our employment. Most have passion for their hobbies. Fred's passion for Corvette has been his hobby and his employment, and the many friends he has made through Corvette have become family."

- nominator Karl Hannum

JAMES INGLE, retired Corvette development engineer

• "...one of the unsung heros of the Corvette. Since his first assignment in 1975 as the lead development engineer dedicated to the Corvette, Jim has demonstrated a mastery of the Corvette engineering, and a no fooling, let's get it done attitude. I believe the Corvette evolved into the best sports car on the market in part due to the efforts of Jingles."

- nominator William R. Nichols

These three men’s names and photos will soon be showcased on the walls of the museum’s famous red spire room. Congratulations gentlemen!

[ CorvetteBlogger ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 2 Comments Permalink

It's always fun to see owner satisfaction reports, especially from an industry leader like Consumer Reports.  This year's survey is in and low and behold, we have something to celebrate.

After 380,000 car owners were surveyed by Consumer Report’s Owner Satisfaction survey, Corvette ended up at the top… top #3 to be exact.

1. Dodge Challenger
2. Ford Fusion Hybrid
3. Chevrolet Corvette
4. Porsche 911
5. Toyota Prius
6. Acura TL

The survey included a question that 80% of car owners had to answer “definitely yes”. The question asked, “Considering all factors (price, performance, reliability, comfort, enjoyment, etc.), would you get this car if you had it to do all over again?”

Definitely yes.

Corvette has continued to make it to the top of this list ever since 2005. Keep it up Corvette!

[ Consumer Reports ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

With the holidays now upon us, need a fun yet unique gift for your devoted Corvette spouse?

CarCrazyDesks.com is a good start.

• They sell furniture.
• They customize all orders.
• They recycle using old products.
• They cater to one niche market – Corvette enthusiasts!

The company is in business to recycle rear-ends of C5/C6 Corvettes and turn them into furniture! Their work not only includes customized Corvette desks, but also Corvette shelving, bars and barbeque grills!

So begin shopping for that perfect gift… check out CrazyCarDesks.com. But, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. Their desks alone cost $2,300.

[ CorvetteBlogger ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

In these already troubling economic times, millions in federal economic stimulus money has been spent on the building and preserving of our national museums.

Within the past four years alone, $28 million has been spent on funding 55 transportation-related museums, including the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

The argument:

• Some rationalize that the stimulus money is needed MUCH more in mending our current economic problems.
   
• Others feel that our national museums enrich our communities and give our future generations an abundance of knowledge, history and culture. They also help to improve tourism, which grows local economies.

We love our Corvette Museum, don't get us wrong... but should public money be used to fund the museum?  So, we’ll leave the big question up to you… Where should our nation spend this stimulus money? Share your comments below.

[ Houston Chronicle ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette History , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 4 Comments Permalink

…Use it for a coffin!

Yes, that’s exactly what one family did after following the wishes of their deceased loved – Donna Mae Mims, 82. Donna was the first woman ever to win a Sports Car Club of America National Championship back in 1963. She was nicknamed “the Pink Lady” because of her love for driving pink cars.

So naturally, in remembrance of Donna’s great achievement, the family utilized a 1979 pink Corvette to prop her body up in during her funeral home visitation hours.

Growing trend? No.

Taking Corvette-love to the next level? Heck yes.  Nevertheless, this too will be sure to turn heads!

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

…Etch it on your tombstone!

That’s what one deceased Corvette lover’s family did after their loved one’s passing. Trust me. Just drive through this particular Brookville, Indiana graveyard. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see a marble-etched image of a 2007 Indy 500 Corvette C6 Convertible on the tombstone.

Apparently, customized tombstone etching is becoming quite a growing trend. So, hey, if you can’t bear to pass away without your ‘Vette, why not etch it on your tombstone?

It will be sure to turn heads!

[ Jalopnik ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun | 0 Comments Permalink

You may already know this question yourself. But to gain an overall perspective from others’ views, Hagerty Insurance, a leader in providing insurance for classic cars, asked their customers this very question.

Content of the question included situational analysis about the current economic times, GM and Chrysler bankruptcies, the end of Pontiac, and the potential future for both Hummer and Saturn.

“Now more than ever, American car manufacturers are the center focus of this economic decline,” exclaimed McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty Insurance. “As car enthusiasts, many of us would hate to see these cars become extinct. We appreciate the place in American society that a great car can occupy and the value of that car to future motorists down the road. It would be sad to see them go.”

With nearly 1,000 votes submitted, here are the results:

1. Chevrolet Corvette
2. Ford Mustang
3. Dodge Challenger
4. Chevrolet Camaro
5. Ford F-150
6. Cadillac CTS
7. Saturn Sky
8. Hummer
9. Dodge Ram
10. Chrysler 300

Once again, Chevrolet Corvette dominates the competition. Surprised? We want to hear from you. How would you rank your top 10?

[ The Car Connection.com ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News , Corvette Recognition , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

The very FIRST 2009 Competition Sport Package Z06 was raffled off last week courtesy of the National Corvette Museum. The lucky ticket #54 won William Leighton of The Woodlands, Texas this beautiful Z06 prize.

This raffle was yet another event planned to continue the weeklong C5/C6 Birthday Bash celebration! Tickets for the raffle cost $450 each, though the vehicle equates out to a $77,500 purchase. Mr. Leighton, lucky enough, also has the option to receive his new prize at the museum in a celebratory delivery fashion. Not too shabby!

Funds from the raffle go toward purchasing the next museum’s raffle car. General Motors graciously gave the museum the opportunity to buy the first Z06 for the event. “We are excited to have the first VIN representing this extraordinary Corvette model to use as a fundraiser,” states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. “We appreciate the allocation from our friends at GM allowing us the chance to purchase this car for use as a fundraiser, and look forward to meeting the winner when they take delivery at the Museum. We hope that by continuing to offer these raffles to benefit the Museum, we are also giving someone an opportunity to become a Corvette owner that might not have had the opportunity.”

Don’t worry if you missed out for this raffle, tickets for future museum raffles can be found by clicking here. Good luck!

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Contests , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Founded only 5 years ago, n2a Motors artistically modifies Corvette models into even hotter, sportier rides. Their motto declares that they recreate “no two [Corvettes] alike” for each of their customers.

To date, the company has transformed the original C6 Corvette chassis into three unique Corvette models: 789, Anteros and the Stinger.

The Stinger alone, which is n2a’s latest model, takes a great deal of work and time to rebuild. Just the process of installing the Stinger’s new carbon-composite body takes over 800 hours! The interior of the vehicle is not ignored either, as it is completely restored with wool and leather features.

The Stinger incorporates the close bodystyle replicas of both the ZR1 and Z06.

• The ZR1-based Stinger comes with a 638 horsepower LS9 engine. This engine allows the vehicle to climb to top speeds of 205+ and reach 0 to 60 seconds in 3.4 seconds. Serial numbers 001-003 are reserved for this vehicle.
   
• The Z06-based Stinger is equipped with a 505 horsepower engine which allows it to travel from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds. Not too shabby. Serial numbers 004-010 stand reserved for this model.

n2a Motors will only continue to succeed as they expand and diversify their already successful Corvette portfolio. Look for the Stinger to hit production lines October 1st.

[ n2a Motors ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts | 1 Comments Permalink

Twitter. This new age social networking technology scares many, and seems to be what all of the news networks and even Oprah are trying to embrace and utilize.

HOWEVER, for those of you Corvette owners who have adopted the idea, I have wonderful news! Now instead of discreetly trying to Tweet from your Blackberry or iPhone on the drive home or while stuck in traffic, you can simply do so with OnStar!

Vehicles with OnStar already equipped will soon be able to send and receive hands-free Tweets through the voice-activating system.

We all can thank Andru Edwards, President of GearLive.com, for coming up with this revolutionary new streamline feature. It works by converting your voice messages into texts which can then be sent directly to your Twitter fan club.

Now, grab your keys and get to Tweetin’!  As a side note, CorvetteBlog will be launching a twitter stream very soon.  Stay tuned for more details!  Hell, we might even twitter from our Corvettes...

[ GearLive ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Jason Castriota, a New York-born Italian automobile designer, has begun filming a mini-documentary (Project M) centered around what it entails to build a vehicle from start to finish. Kinetic Fin is producing the film “Mantide” which aims to compliment and address the stunning work and new era of Stile Bertone, an automotive styling studio located in Caprie, Italy.

Their vehicle of choice to build… Corvette ZR1!

Be sure to check out the link below to gain access inside Project M to capitalize on Castriota’s newest venture. The film is said to have debuted April 23 in Italy.  For a gallery of pictures of their ZR-1 rendition, click here.

[ InsideProjectM.com ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Pictures , Corvettes of the Future | 2 Comments Permalink

Their mission is to provide their clients with the best [automotive] design solutions possible created within the clients’ set borders, sprung from their creativity and translated into visual emotion. Ugur Sahin Design belongs to this mission, as they were founded in 2007 within the Dutch Chambers of Commerce.

They have indeed proved this mission when they unveiled the absolutely stunning modern version Ferrari Dino. Just last year, they went to work on the C6 Corvette. During the process, Ugur Sahin Design partnered with Mallett Cars to aid with the final touches for the all new striking Corvette Z03!

The transformations they have made will increase engine cooling while improving the vehicle’s downforce capabilities. Z03 engine options include:

Base Engine
Supercharge LS7-like V8 Engine
700 Horsepower!
Cost: $32,700

Upgrade Engine
Supercharge Engine with Twin Turbos
999 Horsepower!
Cost: $35,795

With this type of transformation, why not add the extra few thousands to cover the upgraded engine’s cost? I certainly would… that is if I had the monetary means to do so!

[ Ugur Sahin Design ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

As we promised from an earlier blog, we have updated news regarding the National Corvette Museum’s expansion inside Bowling Green, Kentucky. When we last wrote, plans for the construction of the 70+ acres outside the current museum had just been approved and funding for the large project was in its early stages. That was then.

Now, the museum has plans to add on an additional 47,000 square feet to the building’s existing floor plans. The massive expansion and enhancement to the current facilities hopes to lure in more tourists and Corvette enthusiasts. The expansion will occur within the following sections: the Library and Archives, Corvette Store, Delivery Prep offices, Admissions, Hall of Fame, Conference Center and Café, and extra amenities that will accommodate public needs, such as bathrooms and storage lockers.

Labor Day weekend is the temporary date of completion for this project, which also just so happens to be the Museum’s 15th Anniversary! What a way to celebrate!  You can also watch a video of the expansion after the jump.

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Speculations have amassed that the Stingray, which was just recently revealed at the Chicago Auto Show, may lead to the creation of the C7 Corvette.

BadBoyVettes.com is a Corvette enthusiast company that solely concentrates on the tweaking of Corvettes for racing, whether it’s on a track or hitting the streets. These Bad Boys have been known for their ‘Vette schemes, as they were the ones responsible for creating the C6.R. Together again, they have come up with the racing edition to the ‘Vette Stingray, which they have deemed to call the Corvette C7.R.

What are your feelings about the looks of this mascot skull-headed Stingray dubbed C7.R? We want to hear from you!

[ Whipnotic ]

Posted By Ryan In C7 Corvette , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Enthusiasts | 2 Comments Permalink

Care for a history lesson? Maybe you will if you find it’s geared toward the initial creation of the Corvette. Well, the very first Corvette was introduced in 1953 by a Russian immigrant engineer named Zora Arkus Duntov.

Duntov, born in Belgium and raised in Berlin by Russian parents, fled to New York when the beginning of WWII raged. With a degree in mechanical engineering from the Institute of Charlottenburg and a passion for racing, Duntov started a company that built aluminum heads for Ford vehicles. With tremendous improvements to the horsepower of such Ford vehicles, Duntov’s name quickly generated huge recognition throughout the United States.

Porsche and Daimler Benz were so impressed that they hired him as a consultant to improve their racing programs. At the same time, Duntov made such an impact with General Motors about innovative Corvette improvements that they hired him full time as a research and development engineer.

From that point on, the Corvette was forever changed! After WWII, soldiers began returning to the states with the desire to own a two-seater sports car they had seen overseas.

With this in mind, Duntov was able to construct a two-seater Corvette with fiberglass, since steel was such a hard commodity to find after the war. The lightweight vehicle was also equipped with a two-speed automatic transmission from a 6-cylinder truck motor. Needless to say, the Corvette called for much improvement in order to compete with the infamous European Jaguars and Ferraris of that era.

As time has progressed, we have seen numerous extrordinary improvements to the Corvette. Heck, the 2009 Corvette ZR1 has the ability to blow even the best European vehicles right out of the water! We have Duntov to thank for such an inspiring ‘Vette vision.

[ Wikipedia ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette History | 0 Comments Permalink

Corvette Grand Sport Cake, comprised of Banana and Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting.  As some would say, Ashley really put her foot in it!

Ashley has created a Corvette enthusiast's dream birthday cake, and she has posted the story about it on her blogsite.  Ashley said she was partially inspired by photography we had posted on our website.  Thank you, Ashley, for sharing photos of your creation with us.

It looks mighty yummy to us here at CorvetteBlog.  Any chance there are some free samples for those of us here in frozen Michigan?

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Models & Toys , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

The 13th annual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards were held at the end of January in Detroit. Polk is known throughout the worldwide automotive industry for their ability to guide automotive manufacturers in identifying market trends and how to best market vehicles to consumers. The company focuses their marketing attention to all cross-functional parts of the industry’s team, which includes manufacturers and dealers, aftermarket, finance and insurance providers, media companies, advertising agencies, government agencies, and research firms.

All in all, it’s quite an honor to be recognized by such a prosperous global firm. Well, General Motors was one of the few to gain such recognition at this year’s award ceremony. The car manufacturer was awarded for their Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer. "GM's high loyalty rates are partially driven by a wide range of vehicles available among its seven makes," said Melissa Travers, manager of Polk's Loyalty Solutions team.

Not only was GM honored, but so was our beloved Corvette, receiving the Luxury Sports Car honor for most Loyal Customers.  The picture above shows Stephen Polk, the Chairman and President of R.L. Polk & Co. with Karen Rafferty, the Product Marketing Director for Chevy Mid-Size & Sports Cars.  This award is no surprise to all of us Corvette enthusiasts.  Once you own a Corvette how could you ever buy anything else?

Other car manufacturer winners included Honda, Toyota, Chrysler, Lexus, Chevrolet, Ford, and Subaru. This was GM’s ninth consecutive honor at the Polk awards. Congrats to GM for another prestigious award!

[ RL Polk & Co ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Keith from CorvetteBlogger reminded me that he had blogged about Mario Andretti's process of replacing his Z06 with a ZR1.  According to Keith, Mario is hoping to be the owner of car #500!

Another ZR1 buyer is Paul Teutul, Sr. of Orange County Choppers.  I hope he doesn't convert it into a cycle!  That would be some Corvette Convertible, wouldn't it?  Paul looks like he will enjoy the ZR1 just like it is, though, right?  See Paul's 2006 Z06 here, and his ZR1 past the jump.

Who are the other 350 or so who have bought them?

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts | 1 Comments Permalink

What do all these people have in common?

Jay Leno, famous car guy and host of The Tonight Show

Racing legend Mario Andretti

James Brown, host of the NFL Today Show on CBS

Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR driver

Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports

Joey Kramer, Aerosmith band member

NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon

Teri Hatcher, actress of Lois & Clark and Desperate Housewives fame

NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Ed Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United

Todd Schnitt, radio host of the Schnitt Show in Florida

These are among the rich and famous who are lining up to buy their very own 2009 Corvette ZR1!  According to Corvette Quarterly, some have their rides already, while others are waiting.  Have you ordered yours yet?

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Museum | 0 Comments Permalink

Ever heard of the Gumball 3000? If not, it is an eight-day rally of 120 super hot cars driving over 3,000 miles across two continents. This year the slogan reads “East Meets West”. The cars will first assemble together in San Francisco, driving down the western coastline, ending up in the deserts of Las Vegas. From there, the cars and drivers will be flown to Pyongyang, China, endure miles of driving through Shanghai, and end up at this year’s home of the Olympics, Beijing.

Often times, the drivers paint eye-catching graphics on the exterior of their vehicles to make them stand out amongst the other hot rods. One of this year’s participants could really fool most people. It’s a Corvette Z06 painted to look like a taxi car. The vehicle even holds the TAXI sign on the roof to be extra deceiving. Wouldn’t that be great – if you need to get somewhere fast, order the Z06 cab!

The Gumball 3000 is an exclusive group of expensive vehicles. Getting involved with the rally also costs a very pretty penny. For a one fee deal, the trip can cost as much as $100,000. I guess if you have the beautiful vehicle and the time available to take off work, why not join??

“Gumball is about challenging tradition and taking a non conventional approach to exploring and developing cultural and creative boundaries.” - Maximillion Cooper, Founder & CEO, Gumball 3000 Group

[ Gumball 3000 ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts | 0 Comments Permalink

Where can you find the “Fastest 60 Acres in America”? Well, located in Phoenix, Arizona is Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. This driving school allows drivers to experience intimate handling under roaring high-speeds, tight turns, and other nerve-wrecking conditions. In fact, just this month, the school added the 2009 Corvette ZR1 to the 200 other fleet vehicles!!

A Bondurant 2-day training package now comes with the purchase of a ZR1. But for those of you who are not looking to purchase a $100,000 vehicle and would rather prefer a wild adrenaline rush, training lessons at the driving school start around $3,395.

The training begins inside the seat of a regular Corvette C6 Coupe, but then progresses as you absorb the information. Eventually, they move you up into the higher-powered Z06, and then ultimately into the ZR1. The school allows participants to spend 80% of their time on the tracks, too.

For more information on the driving school and lessons, visit www.bondurant.com. Happy training!

[ Motor Trend ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

A local Minnesota resident and Corvette owner, Michael Shoop, has recently converted his 1987 ‘Vette into an all-electric powered machine. The transformation of the vehicle began when he realized the benefits of purchasing a hybrid vehicle, but also the expensive costs that ensued. After researching and finding the ideal eco-friendly Prius to be a bit too pricy, Shoop began allocating his funding to a new project: the Volt Vette.

“I wanted a simple solution for driving around town and doing it in style,” claims Shoop.

With the generous help from the Minnesota Electric Auto Association, Shoop has successfully converted his V8 gas-guzzling sports ride into an all-electric, environmentally friendly joy ride. As of now, the vehicle tops out at 40 mph, and has been able to go 20 miles just on pure electric charge. Still, adjustments are in the process.

The overall project has only cost Shoop an average of $25,000. Now, just think, that price also negates any extra payments made at the gas pump. “You wouldn’t believe the smile on my face when I drive past the gas station,” he says. If you ask me… that’s a damn good deal for any eco-friendly Chevrolet Corvette!

[ Motor Trend ]
 

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

If you’re a devout fan of Barrett-Jackson, then you ought to be familiar with a Mr. Dave Ressler.

Even if you didn’t watch this year’s televised annual classic car auction held in Scottsdale, Arizonia, you still may recognize the name, which is often associated with his popular purchase: a MILLION dollar 2009 ZR1 Corvette!

Dave Ressler, a Chevrolet dealer and Corvette enthusiast, continues to purchase new and auctioned off Corvettes to add to his growing collection. The Ressler family collection contains now up to 25 Corvettes of all varieties. Just recently, another was added to the count…

When the ZR1 entered center stage at the auction, the audience rose to gawk at this fine-looking vehicle. Jay Leno was present to announce all the car’s special features: a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine, 620 horsepower, durable yet weight resistant carbon fiber hood and rooftop, and the exact same brakes as the Enzo Ferrari. This ZR1 Corvette is truly a collector’s item, as it is the only one painted a LeMans blue with a VIN number of #0001. All proceeds raised by this vehicle were given to benefit the United Way charitable fund. When the bidding began, Dave Ressler stood with all intentions of not going home without it. As the bidding climaxed out at $900,000, Ressler raised his own bid to $1,000,000 to secure his purchase. Quite an asset to add to the family collection!!

Take a look at this video to watch the car bidding take place.

[ CorvetteBlogger ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Memorabilia , Corvette News , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

Since the first details were released on the 2009 Corvette ZR1, there have always been rumors that anyone purchasing a ZR1 would get a free session at a High Performance Driving School.  We now have confirmation that every ZR1 purchase includes a free two-day driving school offer.

The offer will be valid for the original purchaser and be valid for 12 months from the delivery date.  The two schools that are part of the program are Bob Bondurant in Phoenix, AZ and Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch in Las Vegas, NV.  You can choose which you want to attend.

The purchaser will receive information at delivery including the name and phone numbers of each school's concierge to set up their dates.  Of course getting there and staying there is all up to you, but heck, a free two day high performance driving school is nothing to shake a stick at!

So let's say you aren't interested in the school but still purchase a ZR1, there will be no refunds or financial implications.  This is an offer everyone should take advantage of.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Purchase Incentives | 5 Comments Permalink

The Corvette racing enterprise is extensive.  While the Corvette Racing Team C6.R twins wrapped up the GT1 Manufacturer's Title this last weekend at Laguna Seca,   C5.R Corvettes continue to compete in various venues around the globe.  And, especially in Europe, GT3 competitions now include Corvettes, as well.

To celebrate it all, the Corvette Motorsport website provides a pretty wide range of information on equipment, events, and racing news.  Some interesting videos are there for your enjoyment, too.  Check it out!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Racing , Corvette Videos | 1 Comments Permalink

The Woodward Dream Cruise is just days away, but the classic cars began appearing in April this year!  As we've written before, upwards of 1.7 million car nuts like myself will descend upon the glorious six lane state highway known for decades as Woodward Avenue this coming Saturday.

The closer it has gotten to this date, the more the cruisers have appeared at all times of day, but especially in the evening.  The local TV news has stories.  The Detroit News has stories.  The Detroit Free Press has stories.  And, of course, the Detroit metropolitan area's only Corvette Blog has stories.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Corvette enthusiasts are united in their adoration of America's Sports Car.  Corvette enthusiasts are divided, as is everyone else in the world, by geographical location.

No group in the world has done a better job in giving Corvette enthusiast bodies organization than the National Council of Corvette Clubs.  This group lists some fifteen regions of Corvette clubs in the United States, and provides links to pretty much every country in the world that has organized their Corvette enterprise.

Effective this date, Corvette Blog officially salutes this fine organization, the regional U.S groupings, and the Corvette clubs around the world.  We will attempt to provide links to every group as time allows.

If you represent a club anywhere in the world, and wish to be one of the first to appear on Corvette Blog, please contact us.

Posted By Bill Connell In Australia , Austria , Canada , Carolina , Corvette Enthusiasts , Czech Republic , Denmark , East Ohio , Eastern Canada , Eastern U.S. , Finland , Florida , France , Germany , Hungary , Indiana , Italy , Luxembourg , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , New Zealand , Northeast U.S. , Northwest U.S. , Poland , Puerto Rico , Roadrunner (AZ, NM, Western TX) , Rocky Mountain , South Africa , Southeast U.S. , Southwest U.S. , Sweden , Switzerland , The Netherlands , United Kingdom , Venezuela , West Coast , West Ohio , Western Canada , Western U.S. | 0 Comments Permalink

According to John Gunner in his Gunner's Garage blog today, he was party to an interesting conversation at this past weekend's Bloomington Gold Corvette Event in St. Charles, Illinois.  Mike Yager of Mid-America Motorworks was telling Keith Martin, publisher of Corvette Market magazine, that he sees a new trend evolving in the Corvette hobby where having fun with your car is taking precedence over how perfect the car's condition is and how much it's worth.

I hope it's true.  A similar thought hit me hard when I was at Bloomington Gold, staring at this sign pictured at the right, showing as it does, a 1972 Corvette Stingray with only 4 miles on it!  And while the owner undoubtedly meant for that low mileage to increase the car's value, all I could think of was how the car's purpose had been distorted.

A vehicle equipped like this, with the 454ci engine, was meant for one thing really: on the ground flight!  Speed!  Cruising!   Sadly, the engine was never even broken in.  I really hope Yager is right.

[ Gunner's Garage ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events | 2 Comments Permalink

Corvette Blog is back fresh from the Bloomington Gold event in St. Charles, Illinois.  And what a great time it was for this blogger!  And to think I missed the first 34 years! 

Corvettes were there by the thousands!  Vendors who cater to Corvette enthusiasts were there by the score!  The venue was well designed.  The sights were great.  The weather was almost perfect (at least while I was there).

We've made some new friends, and told a lot of folks our story that we are a "source of everything Corvette".  Please check back over the days to come as we write about Corvettes and people that caught our attention at Bloomington Gold.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events , Corvette Recognition , Corvette Restoration , Vacationing in a Corvette | 0 Comments Permalink

I call it Steve's Corvette Garage.  Yesterday, I was given a first class tour of Advanced Automotive Technologies in Rochester Hills, a couple dozen miles north of the world capital of the automobile, Detroit.  The building's exterior reveals nary a hint of the automotive delights inside!

Gregarious owner Steve Pasteiner piloted me through an efficient, clean, hands-on operation, with many informative stops along the way.  It's a challenge to delineate all the areas of expertise demonstrated here, but I will give it a try.

I had previously blogged about one of Steve's products, the 50th Commemorative Edition Corvette.  Two of these beauties there were shipping later in the day, and another was nearly completed.  Others were earlier in the process.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Parts , Corvette Restoration | 2 Comments Permalink

Although there were two significantly different front ends and three different rear ends to the C1 Corvette, they all shared a solid rear axle.  When the 1963 Sting Ray arrived, the solid rear axle was gone forever. However, a knickname was birthed for the C1: Solid Axle Corvettes.

The Solid Axle Corvette Club has brought Corvette enthusiasts together for thirteen years or so, and their Annual Convention is upon us in just about a month!  Join them in St. Charles, Missouri the week of June 11.  Complete details can be found on their website.

A tip of the hat goes out to Classic Motorsports Magazine for a story in the May print issue.

[ Solid Axle Corvette Club ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Events , Vacationing in a Corvette | 1 Comments Permalink

Corvettes are often vehicle of choice for Cannonball Run type rallies across the country.  The Joy Ride Rally recently chronicled by SoCalSpeedZone included at least one heavily accessorized C5 and one C6 Z06.

Part of the beauty of the experience is the ability to have a lot of fun while helping raise significant funds for charity.  For example, $1000 of the entry fee for those driving in the Joy Ride Rally was designated for the Salvation Army's Hurricane Katrina Relief Project.  This adds up to a pretty nice sum!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Videos , Vacationing in a Corvette , West Coast | 1 Comments Permalink

Jack LaLanne, at 92 years young, is the proud owner of America's premier 400hp supercar, the C6 Corvette.  Vette Magazine was recently delighted to interview LaLanne about his longstanding love for the Corvette, after he traded his 1997 C5 for the new generation.

LaLanne told the magazine that his relationship goes all the way back to 1953 at the car's introduction. Corvettes that he has owned include a 1953 Roadster, a 1997 LS1 Coupe, and his current LS2 2005 Coupe. Jack made sure that they understood that the Corvette has always been a part of his life. LaLanne summarized his love affair with these words: " Well, anyway, the best thing I've ever done in my whole life and the thing that's pleased me the most is my Corvettes." 

[ Vette Magazine ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts | 0 Comments Permalink

The National Corvette Museum announced today that they are looking for a classic 1963 Corvette convertible or split-window coupe to display for nine to twelve months.

As you may know, the displays at the museum are not static.  You will see an ever-changing collection of Corvettes on subsequent visits, because only about 5% of the vehicles displayed actually belong to the museum!

Details of the arrangement can be accessed at their website.

[ National Corvette Museum ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

Per word from the Corvette Action Center, former moderator there, and longtime Corvette devotee, Ken Stapels has passed away.  Ken had been awaiting a liver transplant.

If you would like to examine a website devoted to all things Corvette, take a look at Ken's.

[ Ken's Website ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink