Corvette Blog

Every July, cruising enthusiasts bring their Corvettes, classic cars, and sports cars to participate in the Telegraph Cruise on one of Michigan's most famous highways, Telegraph Road.  This year's event is Saturday, July 26.

Since we are right on Telegraph, CorvetteBlog and George Matick Chevrolet are inviting cruisers to stop by the dealership to see the Corvettes and other classics in our lot.  Several clubs who are associated with the United Council of Corvette Clubs, for example the V-8 Estate Corvette Club,  have said they will be in attendance.

The gates open at 8am, the cruise begins at 9am, and the gates close at 4pm.  CorvetteBlog looks forward to seeing you then.

[ 2008 Cruise Announcement ]

[ 2007 Telegraph Cruise ]

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

July 2008 finds the United Council of Corvette Clubs enjoying their annual convention in Atlanta, Georgia.  Home base for activities is the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, located right near the Atlanta Airport.

CorvetteBlog is here to support the UCCC and participate in some of the events.  Thursday was consumed with drag racing at the Silver Dollar Raceway in pecan country, in the town of Reynolds, about 100 miles south of Atlanta.

Unfortunately, a powerful storm blew through during the proceedings, and the final runs never were run.  Dorothy Swearingen of the Silver Dollar Raceway risked life and limb out by the tracks, though, taking photos of the participants.  To see or purchase photographs of these competitors, follow the instructions below:

Log on to www.silverdollarraceway.com.

Click on PHOTOS.

Click on www.classicpics.com.

Enter CORVETTE CLUB in the Search Field.

You should then see 46 photos taken, and have the opportunity to purchase print copies for yourself.

Posted By Bill Connell In Carolina , Corvette Events , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. , Florida , Indiana , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , Northeast U.S. , Southeast U.S. , West Ohio | 0 Comments Permalink

The autocross and drag racing activities began Sunday morning at 8, and continued throughout the day, until about 5 pm.  Having exclusive use of the facilities enabled the United Council of Corvette Clubs to work through their agenda with few delays.

This Blog shows a number of additional views of the day's event, cars, and competitors.

[ Car Show Blog ]

[ Points Meet Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Racing , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. , Indiana , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , Northeast U.S. , Southeast U.S. , West Ohio | 0 Comments Permalink

Well, it's history now!  The United Council of Corvette Clubs met on Sunday, May 25 in Thompson, Ohio to compete for dragging points.

The Green Hornet was there, too.  That is, the powerful Green Hornet shown to the right, as seen from up in the control tower.

Our announcer, Dijon, explained pretty much everything from the microphone, as he walked us through the time trials, the run-offs, and the final runs for King or Queen of the Hill.  An upcoming Blog will show our winner for the day.

Enjoy some of the photos of the day past the jump, and in subsequent Blogs.

Posted By Bill Connell In Carolina , Corvette Events , Corvette Racing , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. , Indiana , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , Northeast U.S. , Southeast U.S. , West Ohio | 1 Comments Permalink

CorvetteBlog was at the Car Show today for the United Council of Corvette Clubs gathering at the Cleveland Airport Marriott Hotel.  When I wasn't helping judge the cars, I had a chance to shoot photos of some of my favorites.

The Green Hornet is a 1970 Corvette Coupe, which relies on 850hp for power, with 1300hp on tap with nitrous oxide.  Expect Greg Williams to perform well at tomorrow's Points Competition over at Thompson Raceway Park.

Posted By Bill Connell In Carolina , Corvette Events , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. , Indiana , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , Northeast U.S. , West Ohio | 2 Comments Permalink

The United Council of Corvette Clubs (UCCC) is a national organization of Corvette owners.  The organization membership is made up of members from across the USA, and from many backgrounds.  The common bond is the Corvette.  The organization sponsors an annual convention in July that includes drag racing, road course, car shows, and various social activities for the membership and guest.  The organization also holds a Points Meet each year either in Cleveland, OH, or Monroeville, PA.

This year, the Points Meet is in the Cleveland area, and this is the weekend!  A Car Show will be held tomorrow, Saturday, May 24, at the Cleveland Marriott Hotel, and then on Sunday, May 25, the Points Competition will be held at Thompson Raceway Park (Thompson, Ohio).

Check out their website for all the details.  CorvetteBlog plans to be there, too.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. , Michigan , Midwest U.S. , Northeast U.S. , West Ohio | 0 Comments Permalink

We loved the Barrett-Jackson auction on Saturday of the first 2009 Corvette ZR1, for $1,000,000 mind you!  Our friends at CorvetteBlogger have gone and put it on YouTube for everyone to enjoy, if you weren't lucky enough to be watching on Friday night.  Enjoy and relive this awesome moment!

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Corvette Events , Corvette Videos | 1 Comments Permalink

BREAKING NEWS!  How exciting it was!  A "Corvette on Steroids" as they said in the commentary.  The first 2009 Corvette ZR1 was just sold at the Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction for over $1,000,000, excluding the 10% bidders fee (Lot #1316),  with all proceeds going to the United Way of SE Michigan.  We watched the auction live on the SPEED Channel, hopefully you caught the event as well.

The car shown at the auction though, was not the vehicle that the bidder will receive.  The car they purchased will be LeMans Blue, the ONLY one produced in that color  with option code BD1, which will be immediately retired and the VIN number ending in 001.  The car will be delivered at the National Corvette Museum.

This was a completely unique auction tonight with Jay Leno helping to present the car along with Troy Clarke, the president of GM North America.  Was it me though, or was Jay Leno's description of the ZR1 half-assed?  I'd much rather have had Troy Clarke who knew everything about the vehicle give the description, but celebrity sells right?

You can check out all the other awesome things that went to the winning bidder of this masterpiece in our post just hours ago.

Now when can we get our hands on the next ZR1, that's the real question!?

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Barrett-Jackson, the leader in Automotive Auctions and Classic Vehicles is lucky enough to be auctioning off the first 2009 Corvette ZR1 tonight!  We will have full coverage on what the vehicle goes for, as we are monitoring the results live.  You can follow along tonight as well by tuning into the SPEED channel's coverage.

Proceeds from the sale of the ZR1 will go to the United Way for Southeast Michigan.  This is not like any other auction tonight either, as Jay Leno will help present the car along with Troy Clarke, the president of GM North America.  Representatives from the United Way will also be on hand for the presentation.

Not only will you get the HOTTEST new car around, but you also get the following:

• Delivery of the vehicle at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.
  
• A three-day experience at the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving, with renowned Corvette racer Ron Fellows serving as a special instructor
  
• Tickets to the Tonight Show with Jay Leno
  
• A personal tour of Jay Leno’s "Big Dog" garage
  

[ Barrett-Jackson ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Yet another video has surfaced of the introduction of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 at the GM Style event last Saturday.  This one comes to us from SlashGear.com and is a more lengthy version than others that we have posted thus far.  It really gives you a taste as to the evening's biggest reveal and star of the night!  Check it out.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

The GM Style show was too hot not to have a few posts to get you in the swing of things.  This video comes to us from TopSpeed.com and shows the reveal of the 2009 Corvette ZR1.  GM does know how to do a reveal, at least as part of their GM Style show.  It will be interesting to see how they reveal the vehicle to the press this week outside this show as well.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

Last night in Detroit, GM had it's second annual GM Style show that showcases the hot new GM vehicle designs with fashion, music, and celebrities.  It really is an interesting way to get more media exposure and highlight your vehicles before most other automakers hit the ground in Detroit.

This year, the big star of the show, and the final vehicle to roll out on the runway, was the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with Jeff Gordon behind the wheel.  The ZR1 no doubt be one of the hottest vehicles to see at the NAIAS starting this week.  Mary J. Blige, Maroon 5, and Kid Rock also took part in the event, which was open to about 1,500 people.

Our friends at AutoBlog have a great gallery of high-res pictures from the event last night, you can click over and check them out in full. 

Also, click on to see the video below of Bob Lutz, GM's Vice Chairman getting down with Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.  Classic, you don't want to miss it.

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil) , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Today the Chevrolet Corvettes were revealed as the official Pace Cars of the 2009 Indianapolis 500 which takes place on Sunday, May 25, 2008.  In fact, this will be the first time when a pair of two distinctly different, yet incredibly hot, Corvettes will be featured.  The first will be a Z06 running on E85 Ethanol (in the foreground) and the second will celebrate Corvette's 30 year Pace Car history.

The Ethanol Z06 will be driven during the pace lap by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi. 

Now what about the production models you ask?  We know you already want to get your hands on one of them!  It is reported that Chevy will produce a total of 500 Pace Car replicas in both coupe and convertible form, each signed personally by Fittipaldi.

For a complete gallery of images of the pace cars, click here.  For more details on the production version and its special features, keep reading. 

[ Indianapolis Motor Speedway ]

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

The most successful team in American Le Mans Series history has set the schedule for the 2008 season.

The Corvette Racing Team will test two new Compuware Corvette C6.R race cars in February as they prepare for March's first race from Florida on the 15th:  the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

Corvette Racing decided to compete in all 12 Series rounds with both Corvettes in GT1.

According to WhoWon.com, "Corvette Racing was conceived as a long-term program to showcase the performance, technology and value of Chevrolet's world-class sports car," said Mark Kent, director of GM Racing. "Since the team's competition debut in 1999, Corvette Racing's success in top-tier road racing has produced a strong return on our investment, paying dividends in marketing, engineering, technology transfer, personnel development and other areas of our business. Corvette is now a performance icon that's recognized around the world, and Corvette Racing's continued participation in the American Le Mans Series and the 24 Hours of Le Mans will be an important element in the global celebration of GM's 100th anniversary in 2008."

[ Who Won ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events , Corvette News , Corvette Racing | 1 Comments Permalink

Wil Cooksey has announced his retirement from being Plant Manager of the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, manufacturing site for the Corvette and the Cadillac XLR.  Wil is shown photographed at the right when conversing with the author of this blog at Corvette Funfest this past September.  Following retirement, Wil will then become Chairman of the Board for the National Corvette Museum across the street.

News was broken recently announcing that he will be replaced by Paul Graham, currently Plant Manager at the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas.

[ Retirement Announcement Video ]

[ WBKO TV News Item ]

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

What Corvette event is bigger than Corvette?  What is the biggest Corvette activity in the middle of the upper U.S. Midwest just before Thanksgiving?

There's only one answer: the Chevy Vettefest in greater Chicago this weekend!  From what I've read, Championship Auto Shows is putting on a fantastic show this weekend that features a fine collection of unusual Corvettes.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

As I have written many times previously, one of the great parts of visiting the great Corvette venues in America is meeting the Corvette drivers themselves.  At Corvettes at Carlisle last summer, I had an opportunity to speak with a number of folks representing some of the Corvette clubs represented there.  This list represents those I met.

The Corvette Club of Western Pennsylvania is shown. 

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , East Ohio , Eastern U.S. | 0 Comments Permalink

Stunning in its appearance.  Powerful in its essence.  Practical in its fuel flexibility.  Have these three descriptions ever been used of one vehicle?

The E85 powered Corvette C6RS features a Katech Engineering modified 6.2L powerplant.  The annual Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association show has been honored this week with this beauty!

More photos appear past the jump.

[ Related Blog ]

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Events , Corvette Performance | 1 Comments Permalink

Would you care to own a 2007 Corvette Z51 Convertible for the investment of $100?  The Roy F. Collier Community Center in Inez, Kentucky is looking to raise some much needed funds for social work and community support through just such a raffle!

The community center has a Movie Theatre, Daycare Center, GED Classes, and After School programs that benefit the community.  Other programs include: Karate Classes, Drug Rehabilitation Classes, Community Action Outreach Program, Arcade, Indoor Walking Track, Tennis Courts, and Gymnasium.

Photos of the vehicle appear after the jump.

[ Win My Corvette ]

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

Mike Yager recently interviewed Dave McLellan, former Corvette Chief Engineer, when Dave visited Mid America Motorworks in September.  We have given a lot of coverage to the Corvette Funfest event simply because so many great things were going on.

Interviews of significant Corvette personalities is a key part of the Corvette Funfest, and a great deal can be learned about Corvette history when the right question is posed to the right interviewee.  This YouTube posting does not disappoint.

[ Related CorvetteBlog Postings ]

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

Everyone loves when the SEMA show comes up every year.  This year is no different, and the big event at the show will be Jay Leno's own ethanol (E85) powered Corvette Z06.

This particular eco-friendly Z06 will run on E85 and has a custom 500 cubic inch engine that gives it about 600 horsepower.

Leno is no stranger to loving cars or adapting them for the environment.  Last year he launched the EcoJet.

We'll have full coverage of the show and the Corvette's reveal.  The SEMA show runs from October 30th-November 2nd in Las Vegas and unfortunately, isn't open to just anyone.

[ ecorazzi ]

Posted By Ryan In Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Events | 1 Comments Permalink

The Celebrity Choice Awards are a fun feature of Mid America Motorworks' annual Corvette Funfest.  Corvette factory personalities and media representatives present at the event individually review the Corvettes at the show, and then select a Corvette that "speaks" to them.  As a result, there are cars from all the generations, in everything from stock to customized form.

One of the Celebrity Choice cars that I was impressed with was owned by John Zandy of Manteno, Illinois.  John calls it a 1978 Corvette Greenwood, after a body design of John Greenwood.  What really sets this car apart is the flourishes added by its owner.  I have dubbed John the "master of creative solutions".

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 4 Comments Permalink

Tens of thousands of attendees at Corvette Funfest in late September experienced a free concert from seventies singing sensations, Three Dog Night.

Mid America Motorworks took the time to create a time- release video of the construction of the sound stage for the Saturday night concert.  This will appeal to a lot of folks beyond just the Corvette fan base.  Just click on the old album cover to see the video.

[ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Without a doubt, one of the nicer aspects of large Corvette enthusiast gatherings (like Funfest) is the gathering of the club members.  Usually, clubs caravan to the events, which is fun all by itself.  There's the feeling of being a part of something bigger that is so cool!

Upon arrival at the event, the clubs put up a tent or a canopy (or two) and hang a sign.  There are plenty of lawn chairs, often coolers, and even barbecue grills (especially if someone has brought a Corvette trailer queen), because there's always plenty of room in that haulin' Silverado for extra stuff!

When CorvetteBlog is on the road, we like to visit with the clubs, make friends, constantly learn more about the Corvette hobby, and introduce folks to CorvetteBlog.

Honestly, we hope more readers will lead to more folks buying new and used Corvettes from our parent company's inventory, or placing an order for a new Vette right from CorvetteBlog.  We continue to offer GM Supplier Pricing to CorvetteBlog readers, so we invite your conversation.  It can truly save you money!

There were some eighty clubs registered this year, but we weren't able to meet you all.  I've listed the Corvette Clubs we did have the pleasure of meeting at the Funfest.  Check out their websites.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Indiana , Michigan , Midwest U.S. | 2 Comments Permalink

Everything's Bigger in Texas!  That certainly includes the State Fair of Texas, which makes the State Fair here in Michigan look like a starter kit.  If you do happen to be in Texas over the coming three weeks, you'll want to hit up the State Fair in Dallas.

As always, Chevrolet will have an awesome presence during the event, including the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) Corvette!!  If you haven't seen this baby in person, you don't want to miss out.  They will also have Kevin Harvick’s #29 Monte Carlo and an XBOX racing pit area to get into the action.

The State Fair of Texas is home to the biggest car show in Southwest America, with two huge exhibit halls and more than three million visitors each year.  Some of the other highlights from Chevy will be the all-new 2008 Chevy Malibu, the Tahoe Hybrid, the OCC Silverado, and the Dale Jr. "Big Red" Silverado.  Go check out the Le Mans Vette and stay for the fun!

[ BigTex.com ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette Racing | 0 Comments Permalink

If you have a nose for Corvette related literature, you are already well aware of the newly published Mike Yager's Corvette Bible.  In fact, I've even seen the book blogged elsewhere myself.  Details on the book follow after the jump.

I wanted to save my blog on the book until I had a photo I knew I would be proud to show off (also after the jump).  Mike Yager himself was kind enough to autograph my copy:

To Mr. Corvette Blog
Thanks for your support of the Corvette hobby!
Hugs, Mike Yager

All I can say is that "supporting the Corvette hobby" is a ton of fun!

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

Thanks to the kindness of Jim Jackson, fellow passenger on the helicopter, I have another aerial view of the Corvette Funfest last Saturday.  I have included several other shots that I took to show the variety of the views.

There were merchandise tents in abundance, offering discounted Mid America Motorworks products, original artwork, clothing, quite a variety of food (although, regrettably, I didn't find any elephant ears), magazines, exhaust systems, and sweet aluminum trailers for transporting Vettes.

More photos past the jump!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

CorvetteBlog loves to go on the road because we discover so many stories.  For example, sitting next to the 2004 Medium Spiral Gray Metallic Corvette Coupe I drove to the Corvette Funfest was a 1991 Corvette Coupe in a color never produced in the Corvette factory.  I glanced at it as I got out of my car, and it was green.  As I moved, parts of the car became purple, blue, brown, plum, even apple red.

Turns out that Mr. and Mrs. Ken Skirnski had driven their car from White Hall, Michigan, bringing the odometer to about 93,000 miles.  This car, originally manufactured in Arctic White, now boasts a paint job in Perfect Jade!  Ken has done much work over his six years of ownership, and it shows!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Keith Martin's Corvette Market Magazine has been officially launched.  Mike Yager is one of the "movers and shakers" interviewed in the inaugural (Fall 2007) issue, and he made sure the magazine was given significant visibility at last weekend's Corvette Funfest on the premises of Mid America Motorworks in Effingham, Illinois.

Mike introduced Keith next to his beautiful Chevrolet bowtie-shaped swimming pool (see photo past the jump), and then the whole Yager family joined Keith in a ribbon cutting ceremony as Corvette industry leaders gave applause.

Keith seeks to fill a vacuum in the sales and purchase process of Corvettes by providing current market trends, auction results, advice on which models to buy-sell-hold, and advice from movers and shakers in the industry.  Given the explosive growth in pre-owned Corvette sales and the success of the parent magazine, Sports Car Market, a magazine devoted to Corvettes was deemed merited.  A link to this resource will be added to the home page of CorvetteBlog.

Posted By Bill Connell In Buying a Corvette , Corvette Events , Corvette Magazines , Corvette News , Corvette Pricing | 2 Comments Permalink

Yes, right at the crossroads of 454 Big Block Drive and Stingray Alley, Mid America Motorworks held yet another amazing Corvette Funfest this past weekend.

The aerial photo taken from the helicopter on Saturday morning demonstrates the incredible number of Corvettes in attendance for an incredible event.

Frankly, I've got a lot to say about this show over the next couple of weeks, but the people were wonderful (both running the show, and in attendance), the Corvettes continue to amaze (in the variety of appearance and in reflection of human personalities), and the weather was about as perfect as could be for the last weekend of summer.

As Paul Harvey says, "Stand by for news!"

[ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 8 Comments Permalink

CorvetteBlog is headed to Effingham, Illinois for a great time with an expected 15,000 Corvettes and 50,000 Corvette enthusiasts like yourself!

Mid-America Motorworks is fired up and ready to be besieged by fellow Corvette owners, drivers, racers, writers, and collectors at Corvette Funfest 2007.  Mike Yager has his staff prepared as never before for a first class experience, and CorvetteBlog is hitting the road early Thursday to make the trek from Redford, Michigan.

If you see the pictured Medium Spiral Gray Metallic 2004 Corvette Coupe with the little stock number sticker in the corner of the windshield, you have found the CorvetteBlog-mobile!

And, yes, this little beauty is for sale!  Factory equipment includes: Automatic Transmission, 3.15 Performance Ratio Axle, Body Side Moldings, Transparent Removable Roof, High-Polished Aluminum Wheels, Remote 12 Disc CD Changer, and the 1SB Package.  The 1SB Package includes Memory Package, Twilight Sentinel, Electrochromic Mirrors, Head Up Display, and Power Telescoping Steering Wheel.

Mileage before the trip stands at only 18,459.  By the way, the transferable GM Certified Pre-Owned Warranty extends to five years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvettes for Sale | 0 Comments Permalink

Among other things, John Cafaro is an inductee of the National Corvette Museum Hall of Fame (2002).  The biography about John in Tom Benford's Corvette Illustrated Encyclopedia reads:

GM designer John Cafaro was responsible for the shapes of Pontiac Fiero and Bonneville and the Chevy Camaro before joining the Corvette design team.  He was the chief exterior designer and design team leader for the 1997 Corvette, and he (has) stated that the GTP racecar, the Corvette Indy concept car, and fighter jets all influenced his design decisions.

He was also responsible for all production Corvette design from 1991 to the present (2004).  Cafaro worked on the C5R Corvette race program, managing all bodywork design and graphic design packages for the Chevrolet Raceshop and GM Motorsports from 1992 to 1999.  His creativity and work has received kudos that include: Motor Trend Car of the Year for the 1984 Corvette, Autoweek Magazine Award for the 1997 Corvette coupe, North American International Auto Show Car of the Year for the 1998 Corvette convertible, and Motor Trend Car of the Year for the 1998 Corvette convertible.

So what is this marvelous Corvette pictured above?

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette History | 1 Comments Permalink

What in the world is a "Mule Test Corvette," you might ask?

You will recall that people liked the appearance of the first Corvettes in 1953.  Hey, they're still good looking 55 years later!  Unfortunately, they had no power or performance.  They were, as many have said, "dogs" in the performance area.  The two-speed Powerglide transmission and wimpy six cylinder engine made few friends with prospective customers, and Chevy dealers had to work really hard to sell out the production run of just 300 cars that first year.  The 1954 model was no better.

But then Zora Arkus-Duntov was given the responsibility to develop the car people wanted.  One of the test vehicles he used to improve performance is called the Mule Test Corvette.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette History , Corvette Racing | 2 Comments Permalink

Would it not be a great thing if there were a resource for everyone seeking to restore a Corvette?  What if there were written materials with technical information to help rebuild a vehicle to the highest standards of excellence?

We know that there are Corvette enthusiasts who are geniuses in terms of making all the correct decisions relative to transforming a "barn find" into a beauty from the past.  We see the evidence at Bloomington Gold, Corvettes at Carlisle, and National Corvette Homecoming, or at any of dozens of other judged shows.  Wouldn't it be marvelous if these folks would share their cumulative thousands of years of experience with the newbies?

Well, of course, I am setting you up for the good news that this is exactly what the National Corvette Restorers Society does!  If you are in the process of restoration -- or if you are contemplating purchase of an older Corvette (1953-1993) -- talk to these people immediately!

I spent quite a bit of time at the N.C.R.S. booth at the Bob McDorman 34th Annual Corvette and Classic Chevy Show, and learned so much I will have to share it with you over the course of several blogs.  Please check out their resources.

 [ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Restoration | 3 Comments Permalink

Question: what two things do the following people have in common; Johnny Carson (see at right), Burt Reynolds, Ricky Van Shelton, John Mellencamp, Rosemary Clooney, Roy Orbison, and Dinah Shore?

First, they're all celebrities, known for their contributions in the world of entertainment.

Second, they were owners of a Corvette.

Second question: where is their famous Corvette today?

Easy!  They are all in the Bob McDorman Collection, in Canal Winchester, Ohio.  They were all available for viewing last weekend at the 34th Annual Bob McDorman Corvette and Classic Chevy Show.

Other photos follow the jump.

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

With fresh memories of Corvettes at Carlisle still lingering in my mind, I was wondering if there were any collectibles around that were related to the annual extravaganza.  I had seen Kathy of Vette Collectibles at Carlisle, assisting at the autographing table, but hadn't thought to ask her about Corvettes at Carlisle collectibles that day.

It turns out that there are two Corvetts At Carlisle specific diecast models still available from Vette Collectibles.  Purchase of both C6 Corvette models includes a charitable contribution to the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation.  Click on the Vette Collectibles link to the right for more information on these models.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Memorabilia , Corvette Models & Toys | 0 Comments Permalink

The selection of unique Corvettes at the McDorman Corvette and Classic Chevy Show (this past weekend) was amazing.  There was actually a wider array of Vettes on the property than at the National Corvette Museum!

I have to admit, though, as impressed as I was with the Vettes in the Corvette showroom and in the dealership's six barns, I was also impressed with some of the Corvettes driven there for the day by their owners.   And, of those, I was not more impressed by any than the Orange Crush'R.

Starting with an Atomic Orange Metallic 2007 Corvette Coupe, owner Jim McGruder of Columbus, Ohio had Antique Gold Metallic and Antique Bronze Metallic highlights added to provide a beautiful contrast.  Additional shots appear past the jump.  A close look is warranted to reveal excellent attention to detail in the customization process.  Nice job, Jim!  I wish my photography had done your car justice.

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

CorvetteBlog announced this fundraiser back in May; now, the time is almost here.  Corvette owners are invited to drive scenic Ontario highways this Sunday, enjoying the sights and sounds, while raising money for a great cause.  Unlike as in the picture to the right, only paved highways will be used.

This year's run is the ninth, and over $200,000 has so far been raised for children's charities.  If Christie Lake, Webster Falls, Dundas, Hamilton, Ancaster, and Cambridge are locations that appeal to you, check out all the details on-line.  Best wishes from CorvetteBlog for a successful event!

[ Corvettes for Kids ]

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

Sure, it rained off and on, but there was much to be excited about Saturday at the Bob McDorman 34th Annual Corvette and Classic Chevy Show in Canal Winchester, Ohio.  I was welcomed by an immense, "scary", Shark inflatable, but after that, it was all fun!

The dealership boasts of over two hundred Corvettes on the premises, including a few dozen new ones, but also including many extremely rare Corvettes with a history.  Later in the week, I'll show you the pictures I took of Corvettes of famous people.

Included in the weekend's events were a Mecum Auction, six barns of collectibles automobiles, pedal cars, neon signs, and Briggs and Stratton powered mini-cars.  Vendors of Corvette related "stuff" set up in the service bays and on the lot, and everything from fried Walleye sandwiches to elephant ears were available for lunch.  Also available was musical entertainment, a cruise-in, and concours judging.

The local Corvette club involved was Capital City Corvette Club.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , East Ohio , West Ohio | 0 Comments Permalink

Ever see 14,000 Corvettes at one time?  Over 14,000 Corvettes are expected next week for the annual Corvette Funfest in Effingham, Illinois.  Corvettes from model years ending in 7 will be especially honored when Mid-America Motorworks opens the gates Friday morning, September 21.

I just received my pre-registration package this morning, and not only will it make arrival on the grounds easier next Friday, but the package provided me with tickets to secure my free t-shirt, poster, pin, program, door prize ticket, and Three Dog Night concert wrist band.  I highly recommend your registering early, too.

Look for numerous CorvetteBlog reports to follow my attendance.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

The 2007 Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix was a great experience for metropolitan Detroit, for Michigan, and for the U.S. as a whole!  Of all the Grand Prix events we've had here, whether in the canyons of the inner city, around and about the Renaissance Center, or on the old island in the Detroit River, this Grand Prix was the best yet!

Virtually everything was done well.  My biggest criticisms are these:

1.  When my batteries ran out on my digital camera, I had trouble finding anyone who had an idea of where to buy more.  Now, I did find some, and they were reasonably priced, but it just took me a while.

2.  When I went to take the shuttle back to Foxtown to get my car, the line was pretty long.  The parking fee was reasonable, the shuttle fee was reasonable, and the ride was comfortable.  I just had to wait about 45 minutes to get voted off the island.

I make these statements not to complain.  These are my biggest criticisms of an extremely well-run and well-planned event.  As I said, virtually everything was well done!  Thanks to Roger Penske, and the thousands who followed his lead.  Congratulations on a job well done!  For those who didn't make it this year, we hope to see you in September 2008.

By the way, CorvetteBlog was the only blog dedicated to "all things Corvette" to be there to cover this important event.  Thanks for reading!

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

Wouldn't we all love to win a 2007 Corvette this weekend?  Well, if you're around the Salt Lake City area, you just might have the chance!

The 4 day annual Greek Festival is starting on Thursday, and runs through Sunday, this weekend at the Hellenic Memorial Cultural Center in Salt Lake City.

Not only will you get to try fantastic Greek delicacies like grape leaves, spinach pie and gyros - but all at a great price - nothing over $4!  Coming from the many festivals we have like this in Detroit, that's incredibly cheap for food at a festival!

There will also be dancing, tours of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, a 5K run, and the highlight for us Corvette lovers, the raffle for a 2007 Chevrolet Corvette and other prizes.

Go down and check out the festival and get your chance to win the Vette of your dreams!  If you go and have pictures, we'd love to post them after the event; just let us know.

[ Salt Lake Tribune ]

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

Once a year, Bob McDorman Chevrolet puts their foot into it with a massive three day Corvette and Classic Chevy Show at their dealership in Canal Winchester, Ohio (just south of Columbus).

The doors open this Friday evening with a cruise-in, and the fun continues through Sunday afternoon.  Other events include a concours, an auction, and an opportunity to see classic Chevrolet's formerly owned by celebrities (like the C1 pictured at the right, once owned by Burt Reynolds). 

Check the website for a complete schedule, but CorvetteBlog is going to see the barns of collectible Corvettes and other Chevies (not available any other time of the year) and, hopefully, you!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

The opportunities to learn when present at an event like an American LeMans Series race are so much greater than from just reading about it!  As you having been reading on CorvetteBlog, the ALMS just made its Michigan debut this past weekend.  The ALMS portion of the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix was a two hour, 45 minute timed event.

The ALMS includes four classes of vehicles in each race:

LMP1 -- Purpose-built, closed wheel cars that are among the most technologically advanced and fastest sports cars in the world

LMP2 -- Slightly smaller, less powerful, yet extremely nimble vehicles, with proven capability of winning overall

GT1 -- Heavily modified versions of production cars; this class includes the Corvette C6.R

GT2 -- Production sports cars with few modifications

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

A limited number of Corvette enthusiasts received special treatment at the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix this past weekend. 

Not only did they get to enjoy the roar of the C6.Rs screaming around the track, as did the rest of us, but they were treated to special Corvette Corral parking on the island and a pre-race parade loop around the course.

Other participating marques had corrals, too, but no marque was represented so well as Corvette.  Ferrari's, Viper's, Audi's, and Porsche's were present, but in much smaller quantities.

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

GT1 Class winners in the American LeMans Series race yesterday as part of the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix were Johnny O'Connell and Jan Magnussen in their #3 Corvette C6.R (pictured here, at race end).  They finished a complete lap ahead of their sister #4 car, piloted by Olivier Beretta and Oliver Gavin.  Once again, the Corvettes faced competition from no other marque.

This was my first in-person ALMS race, and I must share some observations:

As drivers have previously said, the flow of the track in an ALMS race is unique, with different classes of vehicles competing at the same time.  There are essentially four different levels of play at any moment.

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

As the yellow Compuware C6.R Corvettes tore around the 2.1 mile track this afternoon to qualify for the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, their moves were loud and powerful!  Car #3 driven by the "Two J's", Jan Magnussen and Johnny O'Connell, gets pole position.  Car #4 in the capable hands of the "Two Ollie's", Olivier Beretta and Oliver Gavin, follows.

Once again, the spectators were disappointed to see no competition from other marques, but we know that the Corvette Racing Team continues to tweak and improve.  Ultimately, improvements on the track bring improvements to the retail Corvettes.

My photos were taken from Grandstand #2, just north of the finish line, facing Canada to the east, and almost directly across from the paddock area.  Many follow the jump.

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

Friday is Free Prix Day.  There is no charge to enter Belle Isle or to wander the grounds today.  The Corvette Racing Team will be practicing at 8:40 a.m. and at 3:20 p.m.  Qualifying for the GT1 Class begins at 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, of course, is the actual American LeMans Series race, with a race starting time of 3:15 p.m.  Believe me, from the looks of things Tuesday at the Corvette Racing Team Pep Rally, and having talked to some of the drivers, these boys are ready!  Keep in mind that admission to the island on Saturday and Sunday is by ticket only.  As of Tuesday there were only about 4000 tickets of any kind left.  They may even be all gone by now!

Sunday is the Indy Car competition, beginning at 3:45 p.m.

Keep in mind that the only parking available on the island is for a limited number of pre-registered Corvettes.  The best plan is to park at an outlying area, and take one of the many free shuttles.  Passengers will be dropped off at the entrance to the walking bridge to Belle Isle.

The complete schedule from the Detroit Grand Prix website is copied for you just past the jump in this blog.  ALMS activities including our Corvettes is highlighted.

[ Parking and Shuttle Information ]

[ Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix Website ]

[ CorvetteBlog on the Pep Rally ]

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

A huge Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix Pep Rally was held Tuesday morning just outside the Wintergarden of the Renaissance Center, by the Detroit River, to celebrate the return of racing, especially American LeMans Series Racing, especially featuring the Corvette C6.R race car, to the city of Detroit. 

Representing the Corvette Racing Team drivers were the complete team of Johnny O'Connell, Ron Fellows, Jan Magnussen, Olivier Beretta, Max Papis, and Oliver Gavin (shown signing autographs).

Representing the American LeMans Series was Scott Atherton and representing the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix was Chairman Bud Denko.       

Roger Penske was recognized for his extensive contributions to bringing the sport back to Detroit.

Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager, and Troy Clarke, GM North America President, spoke highly of the effort, making the point that "Corvette is turning the competition into spectators."

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

I've got to admit that sitting there in the stands, I laughed a lot at this burnout competition craziness!  Lance Miller (pictured), Event Manager of Corvettes at Carlisle, began the competition by destroying a set of rear tires on his beloved yellow ZR1 Corvette.

Next was Patrick, founder of Digital Corvettes with his blue C5 Z06, destroyed another set.

Third was Doug Ring from East Coast Supercharging, who managed to shred one of his rear tires.  It looked like black spaghetti!

And there were others who gave it a shot, but the victor was Matthew Recabo of Mohegan Lake, N.Y. who "smoked 'em til they popped" (according to Lance).

My photos past the jump show the difficulty in distinguishing the cars when performing.  And, as far as the smell, it remained in the asphalt near the stadium on Saturday!  Shall I say it was memorable?  If you were there, are you thinking that this is absolutely crazy, too?

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 2 Comments Permalink