Corvette Blog

Now that the transition from GT1 to GT2 class is complete, Corvette Racing is back in full gear! Corvette Racing has been invited to race in the GT2 class of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) as well as this year’s 78th 24-hour Le Mans race in France.

• ALMS: Two twin Compuware Corvette C6.Rs are amongst 17 entries to compete within the nine ALMS events this year. The season-opening event for Corvette Racing is the 58th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, a 12-hour endurance race, on March 20. (Watch it live on the SPEED channel.)
   
• Le Mans: Two C6.Rs will travel to France to compete in the ultimate 24 Hours of Le Mans from June 12 until June 13. Competition is fierce for this 17 vehicle GT2 race class, which will include five Porsche 911s, two BMW M3s, five Ferrari F430s, an Aston Martin Vantage, a Spyker C8 and the new Jaguar XKR.

With the success Corvette Racing has had in just receiving these invitations, Corvette Racing program manager Doug Fehan admits it’s still important to stay close to home. "While Corvette is truly a global brand, our most important market is North America," said Fehan. "Our participation in the American Le Mans Series is both a proving ground for our technology and a showcase to demonstrate Corvette's capabilities for our customers and fans."

For the following races, Corvette Racing drivers will include Emmanuel Collard, Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta, Antonio Garcia, Johnny O'Connell, Jan Magnussen and Ron Fellows.

Needless to say, stay tuned to Corvette Racing!

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Racing | 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 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

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

The National Corvette Museum celebrated their second-annual tradition this year during the first weekend in November. Three days of festivities were planned in honor of our U.S. veterans.

Nearly 150 veterans were included in the long-weekend of events, which included drag racing, golf cart autocross, tours, scavenger hunts, poker runs, a formal banquet and more. A Bowling Green Veterans Day Parade topped the cake on Saturday.

No Corvette required upon admission, only $10.

[ Bowling Green Daily News ]

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

Art Van recently celebrated their 50th birthday this month at the Warren Art Van Furniture store. Entertainment at this “Michigan Legends Charity Concert” included performances by The Original Vandellas, the Miracles and the Contours. The event raised money for the Gleaners Community Food Bank.

Amongst all this excitement, the night concluded with a 1959 “little red Corvette” give away. With more than 541,000 online entries placed between June and November, Traverse City resident, Tracie Sears, and husband, Todd, were the lucky winners of this fully restored classic car.

"I never dreamed I'd actually win! My husband and I drove down from Traverse City to see the concert, but I never expected to hear my name called as the winner!" exclaimed Tracie.

Not too shabby of a party favor, if you ask us!  Check out the video after the jump.

[ Art Van ]

Posted By Ryan In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Contests , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

The giving season is almost here. Over your turkey dinner, I encourage your family to consider helping out the Kids Wish Network (KWN).

This year the Kids Wish Network is aiming to further their reach with their "Hero of the Month" Program, a program which helps children in hospitals all over the country who have overcome traumatic and life-changing circumstances with courage and spirit.

What a phenomenal message to help spread to our youngsters…

However, with such a huge demand for this program, KWN needs your help! I encourage you to donate - not only will your donation help children nationwide but it will also enter you to win TWO Corvettes.

Yes, two…

• 2009 Hero Edition Corvette ZR1
• 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

Enter to win now by simply clicking here. Better yet, Use Promo Code MB1009A and Receive 2 Free Bonus Tickets with any Purchase over $20.

Make a difference this holiday season in a child’s life… and maybe even in your own garage!!

[ Kids Wish Network ]

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

Amazing Joe Pruitt wants everyone to know that this is the weekend.  The 2009 edition of the National Corvette Homecoming occurs in Bowling Green, Kentucky this weekend.

What could be more fun than a weekend with tons of Corvette fans in the same city as the new and improved National Corvette Museum!  Check out Joe's website for all the details.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

General Motor’s Bowling Green Assembly Plant produced its 1,500,000th Corvette on May 28, 2009. The special announcement was made at a Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association June meeting.

“The 1.5 millionth Corvette is a great example of how Chevy is America’s Brand,” says Chevrolet’s Product Marketing Director, Karen Rafferty. “For nearly 60 years we have built America’s Sports Car and this milestone is a solid proof point.”

In keeping with tradition, the historic 1,500,000th Corvette was built identical to the first, 500,000th, and 1,000,000th Corvettes ever built. Each are assembled with a black convertible top, white body, 3LT body style, and red interior.  What a neat idea and tradition!  More photos of the event after the jump!

Do you predict Chevrolet will make it to producing Corvette No. 2,000,000? We can only hope!

[ LeftLaneNews.com ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette History , Corvette Museum , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

This year marks the 29th annual largest Corvette show, Corvettes at Carlislie. Each year this event takes place at the Carlislie PA Fairgrounds during the summer months. This year, the event is scheduled from Friday, August 28th through Sunday, August 30th. And in special attendance…Mario Andretti.

Andretti is a famous race car driver, and an icon to many. Do you know of a race car driver who has successfully dominated the four major racing categories: Formula One, IndyCar, World Sportscar Championship, and NASCAR? Well, Andretti was one of the two racers to ever do so. He has held quite a long career as a driver. In fact, for three decades in a row, he was named “United States Driver of the Year”. Quite an accomplishment and inspiration to all!

So if you’re a race car fan, it’d be in your best interest to leave the weekend of August 28th open. Your attendance at the Corvettes at Carlislie show will allow you to mingle with Andretti, get an autograph or two signed by him, and observe many other hot looking ‘Vettes.

[ Corvettes at Carlisle ]

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

Custom built to resemble a 1953 Corvette, the Avelate Concept Corvette is mounted on a 1999 C5 chassis, and is one of just three built!  Rare as they are, Avelate Corvettes were promoted in Dupont Registry Magazine (2003), Corvette Magazine (May 2004), Vette Magazine (March 2004), and the 2007 Exotic Sports Cars calendar.

This vehicle, in the upcoming Russo and Steele Scottsdale Auction, has a hand-built custom body.  Custom leather interior, custom paint, hand-built front and rear bumpers, side trim, grill, tail lights, headlights, custom wheels, knock-offs, exhaust, and more complete the build.  Of the three Avelate Corvettes, this car is the only custom version.  It is definitely one of a kind!

It will be interesting to see the bids on this beauty!

[ Custom Vettes ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

The Chevy Vettefest claims to be the world’s largest all indoor, all Chevrolet show and swap meet.  With nearly 400,000 square feet of exhibit space in the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont (greater Chicago), Illinois, the show packs more than 400 swap meet and commercial vendor spaces, and more than 400 of the country's best Chevy's.  The show runs Saturday and Sunday, November 22 & 23.

The Triple Crown Gallery, a show highlight, features the finest Corvettes that are accepted only after achieving NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold status, the most prestigious awards achievable for restored and original Corvette enthusiasts.  Achieving Triple Crown Status is considered the ultimate achievement among many in the Corvette world.

[ Chevy Vettefest ]

[ Blog on 2007 Vettefest ]

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

The Kids Wish Network has announced its 2008 Corvette Dream Giveaway!  To make things exciting, they are giving away not just one Corvette, but two!  To make it more exciting, they are giving away a classic 1967 Corvette 427 Convertible and a 2008 John Lingenfelter Tribute 427 Corvette Convertible. 

Then to ratchet up the appeal, they are throwing in up to $75,000 to pay the federal taxes on these beauties!  Now, here is the amazing part: you and I can buy tickets to win for just $3  Bulk quantities of the tickets make the price even lower.  Hurry, though, because the winner will be announced on Christmas Day 2008.

Log on to winthevettes.com to read the entry rules and buy your tickets.  Whoever wins these beauties, please send us photos of yourself behind the wheel, so we can blog about you.  And remember, this is so great for the many children who will be helped.  Let's make this a great fundraising success!

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

For the past two years, General Motors Corp. has hosted the GM Style Event as a pre-party for the North American International Auto Show, held each year at the Cobo Center in Detroit. This event brought the rich and famous to Detroit with fabulous entertainment from folks such as Kid Rock, Mary J. Blige and others.

This year, however, GM has decided to call off the event in an effort to reduce costs. The cost cuts are being made to allow for the company to get through a trying time, in fact their slowest sales time. General Motors, like other automakers, are experiencing rough times due to consumers making the shift to purchasing cheaper, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The loss of this event not only puts a damper on the auto show but also the city of Detroit’s profile. "Obviously we'd love to have it," said Joe Serra, senior co-chairman of the 2009 auto show. "But you've got to respect the business decisions they are making. It's one of those tough ones."

This is not the only event that GM has failed to promote due to their cost cuts. They have also decided not to promote at the Emmy Awards or next year’s Academy Awards. Marking research analysts say that the advertising cuts that GM have made are not surprising given GM's restructuring efforts.

What are your feelings on GM’s cutting cost plans? Canceling this Style Event – good or bad idea?
 

[ Detroit News ]

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

Last Thursday's 2008 GM Performance Build Center Open House is now history, but what an excellent opportunity it was to see the amazing engines that power both the Z06 and the ZR1 in production!   Whether this annual event is officially keyed to the timing of the Woodward Dream Cruise I know not, but it does provide a great chance for those in town for the best car show in the world to see the craftsmanship of these fabulous engines.

Photography was not allowed in the assembly area, but that was no problem as Popular Hot Rodding Magazine previously provided the pictures of what we saw.  My own photos in this blog focus on the exterior and public areas.  Check the video of the build process for extra insight, and then view the photos past the break.

[ More ZR1 Info ]

[ Jewel in GM's Powertrain Crown ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Events , Corvette Performance , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

The 10,000 fanciers of the automobile who descended upon the Meadowbrook Concours d"Elegance in Rochester Hills, Michigan Sunday discovered a stunning collection of chrome and steel.

Because GM celebrates its One Hundredth Anniversary this year, there were many more GM products in attendance than I have seen at Meadowbrook before.  Of special note were the Corvettes, including the 1959 Sting Ray Special Racer and 1967 Astro I Concept (professional pictures below).

A gathering of supercars was parked near the mansion's extensive assortment of garages.  Included among them were the Bugatti Veyron, the Audi R8, and the Corvette ZR1.  I was told that the car I captured on my cell phone was Harlan Charles' daily driver.

[ Detroit News Article ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

One of those fun activities at the 2008 Cruisin' Telegraph event this past Saturday was when a first time Corvette owner received his keys!  The photo shows William Rhodes receiving his keys from CorvetteBlogger Bill Connell, in the presence of Lou Vinson, Central Regional Director, United Council of Corvette Clubs.

We have it on good authority that William drove all the way home to Indiana with a big smile!  Many of the UCCC members are photographed with William in photos after the break.

[ Related Blog ]

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

The 2008 version of Cruisin' Telegraph is history!  Cruisers drove up and down about ten miles of Telegraph Road through Redford, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, and Taylor, Michigan on Saturday.

A good number of members of the United Council of Corvette Clubs made George Matick Chevrolet their home for the day.  A huge tent for shade, goody bags, and free food all contributed to a festive atmosphere, but, of course, the best part was the Corvette display.  Corvettes came from as far as Flint, Michigan, Toledo, Ohio and Gary, Indiana.

Enjoy the views below the break.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Indiana , Michigan , West Ohio | 5 Comments Permalink

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 | 1 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 | 2 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 | 3 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

• 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
  

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 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 | 1 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

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. | 3 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

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 | 2 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 | 3 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

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 | 1 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

One of the Corvette clubs that I was privileged to meet at Corvettes at Carlisle last week was Corvettes Unlimited of New Jersey.

CUNJ is celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, as they were founded in 1977.  This very active Corvette club, located in Vineland, is led with passionate devotion by Dave Kinsey.  I noticed that you can call him Dave, but he prefers "Mr. President"!  Mr. President is shown by one of his prize Corvettes, with a canopy full of faithful club members in the background.

The club regularly attends big shows like Corvettes at Carlisle, but also sponsor their own events like their "Cruise Down Memory Lane" event held this past June (their 16th year).  If you are from New Jersey, you likely cannot find a more dedicated group of Corvette enthusiasts with whom to cruise.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Eastern U.S. | 4 Comments Permalink

Leading up to this year's Woodward Dream Cruise, igotshotgun.com did a four video series on the historic Vinsetta Garage.  I discovered it at SPEEDChannel.com myself, but you can find it either place.

The Vinsetta Garage opened in 1919, and it looks like it, with two ancient non-functioning gas pumps sitting out front.  Owner/manager Jack Marwil runs a tight ship with an assortment of fine technicians, who transfer beauties of the past into efficiently functioning automobiles for cruising today.  Restoration and modifications go hand in hand.  Their fans are multitudinous, who clearly make understatements like "They do really fine work here!"

The Vinsetta team members pride themselves in restoring vehicles to "better than new," but have discovered, interestingly, that sometimes "some people get turned off by that, especially the Corvette guys!"  From what I hear, GM really likes this place.

[ igotshotgun.com ]

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

As we have blogged before, CorvetteBlog is fired up about the next round of the American LeMans Series being right here in the automotive capital of the world!

To celebrate the arrival of the Corvette Racing Team in our backyard, in the 2007 Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix this weekend (Friday thru Sunday), Chevrolet is hosting a pep rally tomorrow morning (Tuesday, August 28) at 11a.m. at GM Global Headquarters at the Renaissance Center.  If you are nearby, don't miss it.

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

There were Corvettes for as far as the eye could see Friday at Corvettes at Carlisle.  As an example, where else could you ever see a dozen and a half almost identical 40th Anniversary Edition Corvettes (shown) all side by side?

Sweltering in oppressive heat and humidity with a heat index above 100 degrees, conditions were a little testy here in south central Pennsylvania, but the large crowd of Corvette aficionados enjoyed the massive selection of Corvettes and vendors.

Details about the vendors, the seminars, and the burnout competition soon.

[ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 1 Comments Permalink

On our way from the Detroit metro area to Corvettes at Carlisle today, I'm happy to say that we saw a lot of Corvettes!  And, the wave has been saved.  At one rest stop, we saw the Capital City Corvette Club with their bevy of beautiful rides, and later we chased a Corvette Grand Sport down Pennsylvania Route 30 for dozens of miles in our stealthy black 2001 convertible.

Before we hit the twisty, country roads of Pennsylvania, though, we were glad we stopped in Sheffield, Ohio for a lunch stop at Quaker Steak and Lube.  You might inquire as to why this is pertinent to the Corvette enthusiast.  Please do, because this restaurant is a Corvette lover's lunchtime or dinnertime dream!

On the walls of the entire restaurant were automotive parts, racing items, and memorabilia.  One large area is devoted to all things Corvette, with the rear end of a C5 mounted against the wall, an entire C3 mounted on another wall, and even a C6 up on a garage lube rack (under which patrons may sit).

By the way, the wings and sandwiches were pretty good, too, but I'm no food reviewer.  Restaurants by this name are all over the Midwest, though I'm sorry to say, none are in Michigan.  Additional photos past the break. 

[ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Michigan , Vacationing in a Corvette | 4 Comments Permalink

The Corvettes at Carlisle Show opens tomorrow morning, and many quality Corvette specialists will be there to share their wisdom.  Among the topics being presented this year:

C4 Corvette Troubleshooting

C5/C6 Corvette Troubleshooting

Corvette Fever

Callaway Corvettes

2008 Corvette Walkaround

Corvettes for Beginners

[ Related Blog ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

CorvetteBlog is looking forward to being present for Corvettes at Carlisle this year.  The event opens this Friday morning and runs through Sunday.

Some of the popular activities included this year are: interacting with dozens of vendors focused on Corvette equipment, restoration, and aftermarket items; the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation Silent Auction; a Corvette auction; autocross activities; a burnout contest; opportunities to get autographs from Corvette personalities; seminars*; the Corvette parade; a Sunday morning worship service; and (the highlight for some) a Sunday afternoon giveaway of a pre-owned Corvette!

Virtually anything you might be interested in related to Corvette will be here, and tens of thousands of folks have already started making their way to Carlisle, Pennsylvania for the action and excitement!

[ Corvettes at Carlisle ]

*List of seminars to be published tomorrow on CorvetteBlog

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

If you'll be in the Toronto area Wednesday in advance of the Mosport weekend, make plans to stop by Metro Hall Square for the 2007 Mosport Race Fest.  Local Corvette-driving hero, Ron Fellows, and fellow Canadian Tony Burgess will be the featured guests for an afternoon of fun with the American Le Mans Series.

Here's the info:

What: Mosport Race Fest

When: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday, August 22

Where: Metro Hall Square, 55 John St. in Toronto

Featuring:

Show cars from Penske Motorsports (Porsche RS Spyder), Lowe's Fernandez Racing (Lola-Acura) and Porsche (911 GT3)

XBOX Race Simulators (fans and media can race Ron Fellows)

Corvette Racing-pit stop demonstration with Ron Fellows at 12:15 p.m.

Ron Fellows and Tony Burgess Autograph session at 12:45 p.m.

[ Related Blog ]

[ Corvette Racing Team ]

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

One sweet Vette!  It looks like a 1957 Corvette, but it is 6" wider and 3" longer.  The size enhancements made it possible to adapt C5 front and rear cradles, a C5 interior, and a Chuck Mallet LS1 500hp engine.

Registered as an assembly vehicle, this incredible car features a power hood and a power trunk; Z06 rims, cluster, and air ducts; and attention grabbing customization.  Thanks go out to Dwight Polzin of Fenton, Michigan for showing me his amazing vehicle.

By the way, this car will be in the Chuck Mallet exhibit area at Corvettes at Carlisle later this week.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

This year's Woodward Dream Cruise is over, but the memories linger.  What a beautiful day; the weather could not be improved on.  But as soon as it was over at 9PM, the rains came!

I parked near Coolidge and Woodward (for free, just one block from $20 parking), and basically walked north to 15 Mile Road, left for a burger with friends at Grumpy's in Clawson, returned to the Chevrolet exhibit in the Birmingham triangle, and walked back to my car. 

In so doing, I saw everything that I will blog about, plus more.  I saw new GM product like the HHR Turbo SS; the Pontiac G8; a bevy of Transformer Movie cars (that didn't transform, by the way); new Corvettes in Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat (pictured below), many, many classic Corvettes; the awesome AutoZone bookstore in Birmingham; and last (and least) a Volkswagen Microbus (pictured) that had been chopped in half and made into a pool table!

I think a great day was had by all!  Not bad when 1.2 million people or more get together to enjoy their favorite pastime.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

We had previously blogged about the Mackinaw City (Michigan) Corvette Show,coming up this next week on Friday and Saturday.  Now, the Baymont Inn & Suites of Mackinaw City is making a special offer to all who mention the Corvette Blog when making reservations: the daily rate will be reduced by $30!

If you stay at the Baymont, you will be located right next door to the show grounds!  You can park your vehicle and walk back to the hotel for your comfort and convenience.

This is a wonderful event and a great fun-filled weekend you will not want to miss!  Contact the hotel at 866-331-7737 to make your reservations NOW!  Please mention the Corvette Blog to receive your discounted rates!  The folks in Mackinaw City say, "We hope to see you here in the town that LOVES COMPANY!" 

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

When I visited the America's Corvette Show last Saturday, I came across information on a new and different kind of Corvette cruise.

Catch A Wave Productions is putting together a cruise in the western Caribbean on the MS Carnival Liberty in January, 2008.  This is no regular cruise, though, because it is Corvette-themed top to bottom.

Special speakers on the cruise include our very own David Hill, Corvette Chief Engineer; Werner Meier, owner, Masterworks Automotive Services; and Joe Babiasz, creator of Collector Car Enterprise.

[ Catch A Wave ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette News , Vacationing in a Corvette | 1 Comments Permalink

Corvette Blog congratulates 31 year old G.J. Dixon (shown) of Scarsdale, New York as winner of the Chevrolet powered Rev It Up 2007 National Championship.  Dixon drove both race-prepared Chevrolet Cobalts and Corvettes faster and more precisely than the 10,000 additional entrants in the world’s largest driving school and national racing competition, to take the coveted title.

Corvette Blog announced the competition back in April, and Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager, made the announcement regarding the winner in a press release dated August 13.  Mr. Dixon receives as his prize a brand new 2008 Corvette!  Whoa!

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

If you love Corvettes, it is hard to imagine a more exciting time of the year!  Consider the unbelievable assortment of Corvette related activities that will transpire over the next few weeks or so, and then make a point to enjoy as many as you can:

Woodward Dream Cruise, Oakland County, Michigan, 9 am to 9 pm, tomorrow

Reveal of the Callaway C16 Corvette, Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance, Southern California, tomorrow

Corvettes at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Friday thru Sunday, August 24-26 (earlier blog)

Corvette Crossroads Show, Mackinaw City, Michigan, August 24, 25 (earlier blog)

National Corvette Museum Celebration, Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 30-September 1

Grand Prix of Mosport (ALMS), Bowmanville, Ontario, August 26

Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix (ALMS), Detroit, September 1

34th Annual Corvette and Classic Chevy Car Show, Canal Winchester, Ohio, September 7-9

If we are missing an event you have scheduled, please let us know in the Comment field below.  We want to include your event, too.  Please provide website information.

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

General Motors has pulled out all the stops, and is making an unprecedented effort to impress and inform, in the world's greatest one day car show: the Woodward Dream Cruise!  According to a recent press release, vehicles available for viewing at the show include:

Split Window Corvettes
2008 Corvette
Volt Concept
Camaro Convertible Concept
Classic GTO's
The four car stars from the Transformers Movie
Holden Efijy Concept
G8
Chevy SS Concept
Caddy V-Series
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Silverado
Belly Tank Lakester

This cruise is the one to see!  CorvetteBlog will be there, and we hope to see you there, too!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

This blog will appeal to all who own a Corvette, classic or otherwise, and owners of other collectible automobiles.  One's behavior amongst gorgeous and unique cars is extremely important!

Tom Greenwood (pictured with fellow cruiser Scott Burgess) of the Detroit News lists the 5 commandments for observers at the Woodward Dream Cruise, or at any other car show, for that matter:

1.  Watch what you're doing when admiring a car up-close-and-personal.  Someone has made a significant investment in iron; respect that!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Corvettes will likely be cruising in record numbers this Saturday at the Woodward Dream Cruise.  The weather is supposed to be perfect: high 70's and sunny.  Vehicles are gathering even now!

Included in attendance will be a group of Corvette cruisers from southern California, who are halfway through a 7000 mile cruise themselves.  The group calls itself the 2007 Road Trip from California to the Dream Cruise and Beyond, and has additional plans for stops on the way home. 

Mark Phelan tells the interesting story of a trip inspired by last year's Cars movie and the iconic Route 66 TV show, in today's Detroit Free Press.

[ Related Blogs ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Southwest U.S. , Vacationing in a Corvette | 0 Comments Permalink

I was shocked!  A front page article by Bill Laitner in the Detroit Free Press yesterday announced that the City of Royal Oak, Michigan is giving out tickets to Corvettes and all other cars using historical license plates, prior to the official date of the Woodward Dream Cruise on Saturday!

In Michigan and many other places on the globe where people are nuts about cars, owners of vehicles of a certain age (in Michigan: twenty six years) can purchase a historical license plate at a greatly reduced price (in Michigan: $30 for ten years).  Eligibility for the plate requires limited use of the vehicle, officially "only for events such as historical club activities, parades, and car shows".

My read of the official rules regarding these plates suggest that someone has his shorts in a knot!  CorvetteBlog nominates the Royal Oak Police Department for "Scrooge of the Year" award.

Interesting info on Michigan license plates: from Tom Greenwood.

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

Another of the vendors I spoke with Saturday at America's Corvette Show sells custom designed automotive art.  Diane Everse (pictured) is President of Car Art Work, and she and her husband focus (almost) exclusively on producing novel artwork dedicated to the Corvette.

Their specialties are business card holders, plaques, Christmas tree ornaments, and cookie cutters, all displaying either the outlines of the various Corvette generations or the representative emblems.  Their entire catalog is available on-line.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Memorabilia | 0 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

Lewis Five Motorsports was one of the many vendors I saw this past Saturday at America's Corvette Show in Warren, Michigan.  They are manufacturers of a growing number of modifications to the C5 Corvette.  Scott Lewis and some of his amiable family (pictured) showed me two products that I expect will find quite a market.

First, exposed headlights for the C5 give the car that C5.R racecar look.  They are available with the option of high-intensity discharge.  L5 Motorsports can paint to match your car and install, but if you're not in Michigan, you can have them painted (or not) and shipped for your own installation.

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

The Seventh Annual America's Corvette Show is now history.  Held Saturday at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, it coincided with a celebration of the 1957 Chevrolet also being held on the grounds.  As a result, CorvetteBlog was able to secure some great photography of many other classic Chevies, and even the Camaro Coupe and Camaro Convertible Concepts.

Hundreds of classic Vettes were joined by a nice selection of Corvette vendors and corn dog hawkers in the humid sunshine.  A charity benefit silent auction, celebrity judging and autographs, and remarks from the likes of GM bigwigs like Gary Cowger, Troy Clarke, Ed Peper, and Tom Wallace made it a great day for Corvette enthusiasts.

Visit CorvetteBlog throughout the week as we report vendors we interviewed and show cars we saw.

[ Corvettes America ]

[ Related Blog ]

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

Some 1.7 million car lovers are expected on Saturday, August 18 at the Woodward Dream Cruise, running north from Detroit into Oakland County!  And you're not paying attention if you can't imagine hundreds of Corvettes being among the expected 40,000 classic, custom, and collectible cars.

Scott Burgess of the Detroit News speculated Wednesday as to what top ten cars being built today would likely be prized for cruising twenty five years from now.  Scott is a bright guy and has been a great recent addition to the News staff.  Scott's top ten list are....

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Michigan hosts its biggest Corvette Show of the year this Saturday at the GM Tech Center in Warren.  On the spacious grounds of the facilities where GM does so much of its research and development, hundred of Corvettes of virtually every variation will line up for judging.

The event will be held rain or shine from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.  Parking is free, but there is a fee of $8 for spectators over 12.  Corvettes America provides three ways to win with Celebrity's Choice, Show & Shine, and People's Choice competitions.

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

In addition to the few automobile dealerships (two of which sell Corvettes) who hosted classic car clubs for Cruzin Telegraph, I also noticed there were a few businesses and churches that put forth a strong effort to accommodate crowds.  One church even invited cruisers to pull off Telegraph Road and drive through their parking lot, speaking to the drivers and passengers, offering them beverages and snacks appropriate for the day.

I present here a potpourri of shots of some of the beautiful cruising cars of this year's event:

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

A great weekend of Corvette enthusiasm awaits those attending Corvettes at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn this weekend!

Among the long list of opportunities for participants:

Parade laps in your Corvette around the track on Saturday and Sunday

Silent auction benefiting National Corvette Museum

IndyCar Series Practice and Qualifying on Saturday

IndyCar Series Race on Sunday

[ Michigan Speedway ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Many of the classic cars and hot rods seen at George Matick Chevrolet during the Cruzin Telegraph event on Saturday were from the "Little Bit of Class" Classic Car Club of Detroit.

Try as I might, though, I couldn't find a Corvette on display, there were several other Chevies (our favorites).  Thanks to the folks of Little Bit of Class for sharing your special day with Matick Chevrolet!

[ Related Blog ]

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

Dozens of classic Corvettes showed up on Saturday for the annual Cruzin Telegraph event just west of Detroit.  Coincidentally enough, the cruise was held on Telegraph Road from the community of Redford at the north, running south through Dearborn Heights and Dearborn, and finishing in Taylor.

It seemed to this writer that the numbers of both cars and spectators were down this year.  Perhaps having the organizing committee disband this spring had an impact after all!

Although isolated Corvettes could be spotted here and there along the entire route, they did seem to concentrate in two areas of the cruise: at George Matick Chevrolet in Redford in the morning, and at Taylor Chevrolet.  The Corvette Legends Club enjoyed the hospitality of Matick; the Downriver Corvette Club was hosted by Taylor. 

[ Related Blog ]

[ Corvette Legends Club ]

[ Downriver Corvette Club ]

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

Once again, Arctic White appears on the Corvette Z06!  Previously, Arctic White has only been seen on the 2007 Ron Fellows Signature Edition Corvette Z06.

Check out this attractive Pace Car for the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard at Indianapolis this Sunday: a 2008 Corvette Z06. 

[ Brickyard Website ]

[ Related Corvette Blog ]

[ Corvette Blogger ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 1 Comments Permalink

The Waterford Hills Road Racing course opens its doors to competitions each summer.  In addition to the Corvettes running this Saturday, Waterford Hills has seen Bowtie and Miata competitions this summer.  Yet to come are Mopars and Neons.

In addition to the competition between Corvettes this Saturday, be sure to enjoy the Corvettes on the Hill Car Show.  Complete information is available at their website.  Since Corvette Blog will be at Cruzin Telegraph, be sure to send us some digital photos from Waterford Hills if you attend!

[ Waterford Hills ]

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

Cruising infamous Telegraph Road through Wayne County, Michigan in your classic Corvette is just four days away.  Cities from Redford (Corvette Blog's homebase) to Taylor join together this Saturday to host Cruzin' Telegraph in the annual event.  Local radio station WOMC-FM will also be present.

Telegraph Road was called "Bloody Telegraph" years ago because of heavy traffic and inadequate infrastructure, but continuous improvements have brought it to a high state of driving worthiness.  Only one bridge reconstruction project will mar driving perfection this year, as the (usually) six lane highway makes way for Corvettes, hot rods, and the competition.

Cruzin' Telegraph is one of four annual mega-cruises in the metropolitan Detroit area.  Cruises on Gratiot Avenue on the eastside and Fort Street downriver have already been held.  Following this weekend's excitement, only the granddaddy of them all, August's Woodward Dream Cruise, remains for this summer.

[ Related ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

This will be my final blog on the Corvettes at the Summit Show this past weekend, but I'd like to share a few photos of cars or aspects of cars that I thought were notable.

The gills on the Black 2002 C5 of Jack Theurer from Ontario (purchased from Mid-America):

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

Five hundred Corvettes are expected at Blob's Park, Maryland in two weeks for an event sponsored by the Baltimore County Corvette Club, known as B-Triple-C to its members.

The Ultimate Corvette Meet & Greet and Car Show promises, fun, food, vendors, trophies, and a live deejay for those in that part of the country.

Have a great show, folks!

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

Not your everyday daily driver!  Ron Smith (and spouse) from the Flint, Michigan area showed off their 1991 Arctic White Corvette Convertible at the recent Corvette Legends sponsored show in Canton.

Ron has specialized in tracking down the uniqueness of his Vette.  He has determined that, based upon body color, suspension, radio, transmission, leather seats, and blue soft top, he has one of only two ever produced.  In addition, he has tracked down the identical Vette to the state of Florida.

This is a man so proud of his Corvette that he drives it everywhere.  The 177,000 miles on this vehicle are a testament to its dependability to Ron and the two previous owners!

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

To whom would you turn for fiberglass or rolled composite panels to repair your Corvette?

Gary Everett from American Custom Industries in Sylvania, Ohio was present with an extensive display at the Corvettes at the Summit event this past Saturday.  ACI specializes in hoods, fenders, and other fiberglass / molded composite panels for 1963 - 2008 Corvettes.

Gary made a point that their fabrication technique is "hand laid" rather than "press molded" so the quality is enhanced.  ACI is likely the company you need!  Visit their website for all the helpful details if you are in need or repair or restoration.

[ Related Blog ]

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

Not every Corvette owner has been able to collect signatures of Corvette chief engineers and Corvette Racing Team race drivers.  And, of those few who have, even fewer would have those signatures painted in silver on the engine covers of his Corvette!

Yet, this is exactly what David Newman of Oregon, Ohio has accomplished!  Every engineer's signature is there, except for Zora Arkus-Duntov.  I saw there the signatures of Johnny O'Connell, Ron Fellows, and many others.

David's 2005 is lovingly nick-named the "Silver Bullet", and his business card shows a picture of his prized automobile.  It was a pleasure to meet David this past weekend at the Corvettes at the Summit event.

[ Related ]

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

An event in Detroit called "Be A Tiger For Kids," being held August 21, will raise funds for Cornerstone Schools and give many folks an opportunity to win a 2000 Corvette or a 2008 Tahoe.

Funds are being raised to provide scholarships to more than 1,000 students at Cornerstone Schools.  Cornerstone Schools is working to change Detroit one child at a time.  The Detroit Tigers support that effort, and are asking you to join the team!

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

A special pleasure for this writer was getting to meet cartoonist Larry Wright at Corvettes at the Summit.  Larry was relaxing next to his nearly flawless Machine Silver 2006 Corvette Convertible.

Larry's great sense of humor has put me in stitches for decades!  See a sample of his work past the jump.

Larry wrote about his day at this event, sponsored by the Corvette Legends Club, in the Detroit News.  Though Larry's photo's are better than mine, I did scoop him in one regard.  I got his picture!  Thanks Larry for the opportunity.

[ Detroit News Article ]

[ Related Blog ]

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

The Corvette Blog visited the Corvettes at the Summit event in Canton, Michigan on Saturday.  Overcast skies (see picture) didn't keep some 120 Corvettes from showing up for the judging and fun.

I met some really nice folks from Ontario, Ohio, and Michigan, and saw a nice selection of Vettes, from two 1954 C1's to a 2008.

One of the interesting cars on display was a 1978 Corvette 25th Anniversary Indy 500 Pace Car replica owned by Joe Walker.  Joe won the car a couple of years ago at a church raffle in Minnesota, and brought the car back home to Michigan.  The license plate reads: 1RAFFLE.

The Detroit Free Press carried a story on the event  Saturday.

[ Related ]

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

I just received my Corvettes at Carlisle newsletter, and read an exciting announcement from General Motors.  GM recently stated that they are planning to bring some rarely seen Corvettes from their fabled Heritage Collection to the annual August gathering.

The special Corvettes include a 1993 40th Anniversary Maroon ZR-1, a light blue 1989 DR-1 convertible, a red '89 Corvette ZR-1, a black 1990 Corvette ZR-1, and a red ZR-12 with a Falconer engine. This is an important display that connoisseurs of fine automobiles and ZR-1 enthusiasts won't want to miss.

The Corvette Blog will be there to photograph and report on this exciting display. For more information on Corvettes at Carlisle, visit the show’s website.

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

The city of Canton, Michigan is host tomorrow to the Corvettes at the Summit Car Show.  The Summit is the central city park is this growing city in the western region of metropolitan Detroit.

Sponsored by the Corvette Legends Club, the venue is quite attractive as the Vettes ring the pond.  The day's events include competitive judging, a 50/50 raffle, and a road tour into Washtenaw County to the west or Oakland County to the north.

If you stop by to see this beautiful collection of America's Sports Car, keep your eye open for Corvette Blog!

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

Yes, a Chevrolet dealership on the route of the upcoming annual Cruzin' Telegraph event is looking to provide parking space for a Corvette Club for FREE!

If you are an officer of a Corvette Club, and your club would like to avail yourselves of free parking space on the west side of Telegraph Road the day of the Cruise, please contact Corvette Blog A.S.A.P.!  Respond with a comment below with you name and phone number, and the Blogger will give you a call.  (Your information will not show on our website).

[ Cruzin' Telegraph ]

[ Related Blog ]

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

If you find yourself in Brisbane, Australia this weekend, be sure to check out the ninth annual Corvettes Down Under Car Club's "Corvette Classic".  Last year, some 35,000 people attended the show.

Perhaps for me, the motivation to be there would come from seeing with my own eyes probably one of the finest collections of right-hand drive Corvettes in the world!

If you are curious about right-hand drive, the club offers a fine FAQ at its Visitors link. 

[ Related Story ]

[ Corvettes Down Under Car Club ]

[ Courier Mail Story ]

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

I personally have never owned a C2 or C3 Corvette.  Wished I had, but haven't.  Because of this clear lack of personal experience, I did not know (before 2007 Bloomington Gold) that working on the front end of a 1963-82 Corvette was so difficult!

If this has been a challenge for you, New Hampshire's American Freedom Products has the solution for you.  Detachable hood hinges make it a cinch to access headlight mechanisms, do radiator work, or reach the horn for repair.

The hood removes easily without removing the hood hinge bolts, so fit and gap tolerances are not jeopardized.  Also available is a hood lift harness to make hood removal a single person process.

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

If you're into neon (and surely not the Dodge Neon), neon Corvette clocks are now available.  One of the vendors I met at the Bloomington Gold event was Jeff "the English guy" from Pennsylvania.  The company is Compasstar, Inc.

The clocks are in in a 20" hand-formed aluminum case, and look sharp.  All parts are made in the U.S.A. and the neon bulbs are said to last for ten years even if burned 24/7!   A wide range of Corvette versions is available.

Pricing seems very reasonable, too.

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

Where better to have a national event featuring Corvette than Bowling Green, Kentucky?  With the availability of the National Corvette Museum and the Bowling Green Assembly Plant right there, folks looking to vacation in the midst of everything Corvette could do no better than be at the National Corvette Homecoming August 10-12!

The National Corvette Homecoming is not a function of the Museum, as some may have thought.  When I spoke with Joe Pruitt at Bloomington Gold (at right), he explained that they function as a totally separate entity.

Activities scheduled for this summer's event include: Cruise-In; Vendor Swap Meet; Car Corral; Seminars; Car Shows; Parade; Drag Races; and Reunion Car Shows for 1957, 1967, 1977, and 1987 Corvettes.

New this year is the Sans Pareil Corvette Show, designed to judge and award unique Corvettes for their excellence in five areas: Interior, Exterior, Engine Compartment, Underside, and Operations.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Vacationing in a Corvette | 2 Comments Permalink

Another of the hundreds of suppliers to classic Corvette enthusiasts present at Bloomington Gold was Coffman Corvette.  Coffman's focus is on convertible tops for Corvettes built from 1956 into the 1970's.

Pam and Ernie construct or fabricate all their Corvette parts in Mansfield, Ohio:  frames, tops, weatherstripping, and mounting hardware.  Rhonda was doing a great job running the "just the basics" display "store" and answering questions at Bloomington.

Information on all their offerings, including intake manifolds, radiator supports, and radiator brackets, can be found at their website.

[ Coffman ]

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

This marvelous 1963 Corvette Grand Sport was driven by "Mr. Chevrolet" Dick Guldstrand at Sebring.  A stunning vision of a sports car, this vehicle was available for viewing and photographs at the Bloomington Gold Show last month.

Stunning from all directions, it is no surprise that the Sunoco Blue racer was a big winner for the newly formed Roger Penske Racing Team.  Guldstrand went on to many other victories and accomplishments, including veneration in the National Corvette Museum Hall of Fame.

[ Guldstrand Motorsports ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette History , Corvette Racing | 18 Comments Permalink

"Will you and your Corvette go to heaven?"  That was the question I encountered as I visited one of the more unusual vendors at Bloomington Gold.

John Kalashian, founder of Corvettes for Christ, has an answer for that question, so he took four days out of a beautiful late spring for friendly chat with folks about spiritual things at Bloomington Gold.  He hopes someday to be a volunteer chaplain for BG.

John said that he had a lot of fun taking more interest in the Corvette owners than in their cars, even as his pretty 1986 Corvette sat in the background.  John (second from right) is pictured with BG officials.

John's website isn't up yet, but he can be reached at Corvettes for Christ, P.O. Box 32, Caledonia, WI 53108-0032.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 4 Comments Permalink

Bill Thomas' Corvette-based 1965 Cheetah is back!  I know, I know: you may not have even missed it!

One of the amazing vehicles I saw at the recent Bloomington Gold Show was the 2007 version of the 1965 Cheetah.  When I met the on-site representative, Ron Keck, I just had to ask: what's a Cheetah?

Ron explained that the Cheetah is a safety-enhanced continuation of the original vehicle, not a replica.  The original vehicles were authorized by Chevrolet to battle the Cobra in the early 1960's, but funding for the program was pulled when just a couple of dozen of these little spitfires had hit the race tracks.  They had torn up the racetracks in 1964 with eleven victories.

The first photo shows the original car parked in front of a 1959 Chevy wagon.

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

According to Krysten Oliphant for The Detroit News, "Golf is rarely associated with high-speed excitement and thrilling turns.  But players in the Buick Open experienced just that -- riding in high-speed sports cars with professional drivers -- Tuesday, at the General Motors Driving Experience at Waterford Hills Road Racing.

Vehicles used during the event included blue and yellow Chevrolet Corvette Z06s, a yellow race-ready Pontiac Solstice GXP, and an official 2007 Indianapolis 500 Corvette C6 Pace Car. 

Golfers who enjoyed the experience included Parker McLaughlin, Jason Gore, Frank Lickliter, and Jeff Gove .

[ Detroit News ]

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

If you find yourself vacationing in a Corvette in southeastern Michigan this weekend, you may need to know that north and southbound traffic on Fort Street through what metropolitan Detroiters call the Downriver Area will be pretty heavy.  This is the annual Saturday event called the Downriver Cruise.

Not as immense as the granddaddy of them all, the Woodward Dream Cruise in August, this is a key celebration of American automotive ingenuity for those living south of Detroit.  Two other large shows like this erupt in southeastern Michigan every summer: the Cruisin' Gratiot in June and Cruzin' Telegraph in July.

Thousands of classic cars, always including many Corvettes, will be present for viewing.  Upwards of a half million spectators are expected to come enjoy the beautiful weather and great fun!

Try to find the Corvette Blog, if you can.

Posted By Bill Connell In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Events , Vacationing in a Corvette | 0 Comments Permalink

Each year the Bloomington Gold Corvette Show designates one year's Corvette for the designation "Special Collection".  This year the selected vehicle was the 1957 Corvette, celebrating as it is it's fiftieth year.  A special air conditioned hall at the Pheasant Run Resort, St. Charles, Illinois, was home to the selected vehicles for the duration of the show.

Given special attention in the display were several editions of the famous racing 1957 Airbox Corvette.  Several examples of the 43 that were built were present.  These cars were equipped with both (Regular Production Option) RPO684 which included the heavy duty brakes and suspension, and RPO579E, which included an airbox which increased horsepower by capturing cooler, higher density air, forcing it to the fuel injectors; and additional hosing ducts to cool the rear brakes to restrain the performance when necessary.  23 Airbox Vettes are known to survive today.

Posted By Bill Connell In Classic Corvettes , Corvette Events , Corvette Recognition | 5 Comments Permalink

Corvette Blog is delighted to announce that the Maritime & Science Technology Academy of Miami, Florida is first to submit photos of their beautiful Corvettes for publication.  We are looking at a white 1980, pewter 1998 and red 1967.  Thank you, sir, for a job well done.

The beach picture (wouldn't you like to work by the beach?) was taken across the street from the school, and the flag pole shot is right at the school.  Robert F. Lassiter, U.S.C.G. (Retired) states that the site is Hobie Beach on Virginia Key, between Miami and Key Biscayne.

That reminds me of the Chevrolet Biscayne, a fine car that never quite had the attraction of the Corvette!

[ Related story ]

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

Well, today is the day!  Be sure to take a digital photograph of your Corvette at your place of business today.

The organization that founded this event, Mid America Motorworks, is collecting digtial photos for their website, and Corvette Blog is collecting them for our website.  Our plan is to show everything we get, so if you want your photo to be on the web, send 'em in!

Address your email to bill [at] corvetteblog [dot] com with the appropriate attachment.

Email to Mid-America Motorworks should be addressed to clubs [at] mamotorworks [dot] com.

Related:

[ Corvette Blog ]

[ Mid America Motorworks ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

We've blogged about out friends at Vette Collectibles before, as purveyors of excellent quality Corvette themed diecast models, clothing, and merchandise.  I was pleased to meet some of these fine folks at the Bloomington Gold Show, too.

According to Kathy at VetteCollectibles.Com, the special edition Bloomington Gold Zippo Lighters are almost out of stock.  Each lighter is marked with a unique number on the front, making them a great collectible. 

And, if you're looking for something cuddly for a little one, or someone just young at heart, nothing can beat a Bloomington Gold Bear.

 As with many of the vendors I met at Bloomington Gold, they will be at Corvettes at Carlisle in August, too.

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

One of many vendors of Corvette merchandise that I met at the Bloomington Gold Show was Bob Johnston from deep in the heart of Texas.  As a licensee from GM for twenty years, Bob knows what he's doing.

Bob's specialty is neon signs.  He produces C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, 50th Anniversary, Chevrolet, and Chevy Bowtie signs from 100% American materials.  They'd look great in an office, a den, a showroom, or even a garage.

In addition to the signs, his company AutoEtcNeon also sells Bloomington Gold earrings, key fobs, and license plates.  Everything I saw had a quality look about it, and I recommend a look at his website.

[ Corvette Neon ]

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

I have a potpourri of views of Corvettes I saw last Saturday at the Corvettes at Canterbury event in Lake Orion, Michigan.

First, two pictures of Sam & Tammy Martin's heavily chromed 2000 Pewter Silver Metallic Corvette Convertible.  Their license plate shows their commitment: IN2VETS.  My wife liked Tammy's 2-1/2 pound Shih Tzu puppy, too!

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

Like so many Vette lovers, Shirley & Tony Caruso have owned their blue 1963 Sting Ray convertible for many years, but have only been able to drive and enjoy it for a shorter time.  Their pretty Sunday driver was at Corvettes at Canterbury recently when I caught up with them.

Tony said that the car is Shirley's, but it was hard for her to get a word in edgewise as he told their restoration stories, like having the uncompleted car decorated with Christmas lights in the garage.  They like to attend shows, visit with friends, and put up with nosy bloggers like myself.  Thanks for your story, folks!

[Corvettes at Canterbury ]

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

John Clark of Brighton, Michigan will not be participating in Drive Your Corvette to Work Day this Friday in his Marina Blue 1967 Corvette Sting Ray.  And it's not because he's contrary!  He's blessed with being retired.

I met him this past Saturday at the Corvettes at Canterbury car show, where his sharply restored Sting Ray caught my eye.  John is the fifth owner of this little beauty with the white stinger on the hood.  John explained to me that in 1967, the optional stinger, which raises part of the hood, was available on small block cars, but was required on big block engines like his 427 cubic inch, 390hp engine to provide clearance for the air cleaner.

Also shown is one of the nicely restored side exhausts.  Care to guess the original cost for side exhausts (per the window sticker)?  They were only $131.65!

Related:

[ Drive Your Corvette to Work Day ]

[ Corvettes at Canterbury ]

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

The Corvettes at Canterbury Show was a pleasant way to spend the first Saturday of summer.

The venue, Olde World Canterbury Village near Lake Orion, Michigan, was a beautiful setting.  The shops there are in the various buildings of the historic farm of William E. Scripps, publisher of the Detroit Evening News in the early 1900's.

The Corvettes were parked around the various buildings, so a stroll to all the sites took me by all of the cars.  A nice collection of perhaps two hundred vehicles were present for review.  Owners were chatty, and, not surprisingly, we made some new friends for the Corvette Blog.

I trust the GMC Corvette Set club raised a good amount for Leaders Dogs for the Blind with their auction and other activities!

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

140 Corvettes from a club called the GMC Corvette Set will gather tomorrow morning at Olde World Canterbury Village, Lake Orion, Michigan for fun and fund-raising.

The beneficiary of the event, Leader Dogs for the Blind, is highly regarded in the greater Detroit metropolitan area (and beyond) as a provider of superior service animals to the community.  My friend Craig has benefited from the companionship of four of these fine creatures over the decades, so I’ve come to know the quality of this organization.

So, if you find yourself just north of the Palace of Auburn Hills, home of the Detroit Pistons, tomorrow, stop in to see the great cars, and to bid in the silent auction.

Registration begins at 8am.  You might just see the Corvette Blog there, too!

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

It was inevitable that Corvette limousines be created, right?  There are Hummer limo's and Chrysler 300 limo's.  There are even medium duty truck limo's these days. 

Sorry, but I wasn't really ready for Corvette limousines.  I saw this white 1994 vehicle at the GoldAuction at Bloomington Gold.  The black 1979 Vette (below) was pictured recently at corvetteblogger dot com.

What do you think?  Is there a market for streeetttccchhheed Corvettes?

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Events , Corvette Pictures | 15 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

The massive Bloomington Gold Corvette Show is upon us!  Billed as "America's original Corvette show," Bloomington Gold is the place for all Corvette enthusiasts this week!  (Well, except for those at the race in Le Mans, France, of course).

The Pheasant Run Golf Course in St. Charles, Illinois (just west of Chicago) opens the gates Thursday morning.  The show runs through Sunday.

Over 3000 Corvettes are expected.  Hundreds of Corvette vendors will be present.  The best of the best will be there.  There's the auction.  There are certification programs.  There are classes.  Vehicles will be inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame.  A fantastic good time to be had by all.  Hope to see you there!

[ Bloomington Gold ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Celebrity Corvettes , Classic Corvettes , Corvette Events , Corvette News , Vacationing in a Corvette | 2 Comments Permalink

Those months of driving in the American Le Mans Series are paying off for the Corvette Racing Team.  It was hard to not want Aston Martin -- or anyone for that matter -- to show up to give our boys a run for the money.

Of course, no one showed up most of the time, but the wisdom in running without competition is coming to light.  Reports from Le Mans indicate that the Corvette Racing Team is in better shape than ever to take on other marques this weekend.

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

A rare 1953 Corvette will be sold tomorrow at an auction in Lapeer, Michigan.  The "no reserve" auction is being handled by RM Auctions on the grounds of the home of John McMullen, longtime successful Pontiac dealer.

McMullen is drastically trimming his world class collection of some 140 cars to less than a dozen of the world's best automobiles.  The Corvette joins two early Thunderbirds, a 1931 Duesenberg Model J, a 1934 Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria (shown), and many others.

The 9AM auction is open to the public in exchange for the purchase price of the $80 catalogue (which admits two).

[ Detroit Free Press Story ]

[ RM Auctions ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Buying a Corvette , Classic Corvettes , Corvette Events , Corvette News , Corvettes for Sale | 3 Comments Permalink

Friday, June 29th, is the date of the 7th Annual Drive Your Corvette To Work Day, sponsored by Mid America Motorworks. In honor of Drive Your Corvette To Work Day, enthusiasts across the United States make "America's Sports Car" their commuter car for the day. Every year, the Friday closest to June 30, Corvette's official birthday, is chosen to observe Drive Your Corvette To Work Day.

The goal is to have as many Corvette owners as possible drive their car to work that day. Launched in 2001, Drive Your Corvette To Work Day is an annual event celebrated by thousands of Corvette owners.

The photo shown at the right is of employees at American Axle and Manufacturing, who lined their vehicles up in a previous celebration of Drive Your Corvette to Work Day.

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

Owners of Corvette Pace Cars are invited to participate in the 2007 Corvette Pace Car Reunion, September 27-29. Owners and participants will have the opportunity to meet and greet other pace car owners and share in the excitement of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, as well as the Museum itself!

Participants taking part in Indianapolis area activities will be able to tour the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including the Victory Podium and Gasoline Alley garages, and ride around the 2.5 mile oval in their tour bus. Also included is a visit to the Hall of Fame Museum. A road tour caravan to Bowling Green will lead to the rest of the Pace Car Reunion!

The third day includes guided tours of the Museum, seminars in the Chevrolet Theater, a catered boxed lunch, and a memorable evening with National Corvette Museum Hall of Fame Member and retired GM executive Jim Perkins. Dinner in the Museum's Skydome followed by an exciting auction in the Chevrolet Theater is planned for all in attendance.

[ Corvette Museum ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Museum , Corvette News | 5 Comments Permalink

Corvette enthusiasts around the Toronto, Ontario, Canada area are invited to participate in the the "Corvettes For Kids" Road Tour on September 16.

This beautiful four hour tour on country roads surrounding the Toronto area will bring special satisfaction to participants because funds raised will go to support a camping experience for kids.  All roads are paved and great care is taken for traffic control to ensure a safe and enjoyable drive.

The charity supported is Camp Oochigeas.  (Camp Ooch, for short).  It is their hope that through the combined efforts of Corvette owners, smiles can be brought to the face of many children, and make their lives more enjoyable.

[ Camp Ooch ]

[ Corvettes for Kids ]

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

Other than in the actual competition Sunday, Corvettes are taking over the Indianapolis 500 this weekend!  Saturday’s lap around the track by 300 Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro owners is part of the celebration, in conjunction with the company’s role as the Official Pace Car of the 2007 Indianapolis 500.

According to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website: “The premise for this program was to create an opportunity for our Corvette enthusiasts in the Indianapolis area to help us celebrate Chevrolet’s heritage pacing the Indianapolis 500,” said Terry Dolan, manager of Chevrolet Racing. “When our dealers approached five car clubs in the Indianapolis area about the idea, there was unanimous support. Our 300 spaces to participate filled up very quickly.”

In addition, television's "Grey's Anatomy" star Patrick Dempsey will be driving the Corvette Pace Car on Sunday. Dempsey is considered a good selection not only for his star power, but because he is a co-owner of IndyCar Series and Indianapolis 500 team Vision Racing.

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

This summer's celebration of one of the engineering marvels of modern times includes a Corvette Show!  The amazing structural marvel of Michigan, the Mackinac Bridge, is celebrating its 50th birthday the weekend of August 25-26, and the 18th annual Corvette Crossroads Auto Show is part of the festivities.

What a great way to enjoy your Vette in northern Michigan this summer.  The Detroit News featured an article on the celebration yesterday, and additional details can be located at the website of the Mackinaw Chamber of Commerce.

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

AutoBlog posted a great article on the Corvette assembly plant today.  Great pictures of the Bowling Green Assembly Plant abound.

As we had reported earlier, the plant is just across the street from the National Corvette Museum.  I spent three hours or more at the museum late winter.  Throw in the assembly plant, and you've got an exciting full day of activity!

Related:

[ AutoBlog ]

[ Museum ]

[ Corvette Blog Museum Stories ]

[ Bowling Green Assembly Plant ]

[ Assembly Plant 25th Anniversary ]

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette Museum , Corvette Production | 0 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

As Corvette increasingly stakes its claim to world-wide fame and becomes more desirable in Europe, GM has taken steps to support that interest.  The Corvette Performance Academy was developed to promote safety and skill among Corvette drivers.

A series of events on demanding test tracks in Germany, France, Sweden, Belgium and Luxembourg will allow drivers to learn how to safely take the Corvette to the extremes.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , Corvette Racing , Corvette Safety , Vacationing in a Corvette | 0 Comments Permalink

The Corvette Blog is grateful to Grassroots Motorsports Magazine for the tip that Rev It Up is providing competition opportunities this summer. The ability to test drive the entire 2007 Chevrolet performance lineup (although with Z06 you will be in the passenger seat) is offered for a minimal entry fee. Oh, the prize will be a 2007 Corvette!

The first event will be held in San Francisco July 6, 7. Orange County, Houston, Orlando, a NJ-NY site, and Washington, D.C. will follow in sequence over the next month.  Information and sign up opportunity is provided at Rev It Up.

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

The Corvette Racing Team competes in the second race of the American LeMans Series this Saturday in St. Petersburg, Florida at 5 P.M.  Much shorter than the recent 12 Hours of LeMans, this race lasts only two hours forty-five minutes.

In a story about driving their C6.R Corvettes in races within city limits, and in races with much faster and slower race cars at the same time, Olivier Beretta and Johnny O'Connell point out the change of dynamics in dealing with these challenges.

[ ALMS Story ]

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

Once a year, most of the Corvettes in Michigan's largest automobile showroom are removed to attached indoor storage to make room for a school auction!

The "before" photograph  was taken a few years ago, before the C6 Corvette introduction.  The "after" shot shows some of the current Vettes moved to one side of the showroom to make room for tables and baskets.

The South Redford School District has benefited by tens of thousands of dollars over the years as parents, students, educators, and friends pour into the monstrous showroom of George Matick Chevrolet of Redford to bid on selected auction baskets and offers from local businesses, and to enjoy a great party.

The dealership prides itself in effective community activities like this.  Do unto others as you would have them do for you.

This year's event is Friday, March 23, and, as you can see, the dealership is ready for the crowds.  If you're in the area, feel free to join us for the fun!

[ Matick Community Involvement ]

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

Corvette was featured in several short videos produced by Motor Trend MultiMedia in conjunction with this year's Chicago Auto Show.

Ron Fellows talks about his award winning Corvette C6.R racecar and his "first off the line" personal 2007 Ron Fellows Edition Corvette Z06 on camera.  He admits he doesn't use a Corvette for transporting his family, though.  Space requirements place him happily in a Cadillac Escalade.

Stand by for showroom pictures at this website when our dealership's first Ron Fellows Edition Corvette Z06 arrives!

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

As I wandered through the Detroit Autorama at Cobo Hall on Friday, looking for Corvettes, and in total amazement at the beautiful display of sheet metal and rolled fiberglass composite, I encountered a former client of mine.

As we chatted for a few, Larry Baker explained to me that he had acquired a vehicle in which I, as an author of the Corvette Blog, would be interested. And was he ever correct! He is an owner of a 50th Commemorative Corvette!

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

The first 75 participants in the car show to arrive get a goodie bag and a dash plaque. Door prizes will also be awarded throughout the day.  The fire truck pull (which I would LOVE to see) begins at 11am and includes local high school students, and fire fighters from four local departments.

It sounds like a great cause and the chance to hang out with 2 great Corvette Clubs makes it even better!

[ Macon Telegraph ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events , Southeast U.S. | 0 Comments Permalink

We're always looking for new and exciting Corvette-focused events. Do you have a Corvette Club or have a special event focusing on the Vette? Let us know about it. Click here to email us at CorvetteBlog and we'll do our best to get you noticed.

We love Corvettes.

Posted By Ryan In Australia , Austria , Canada , Carolina , Corvette Events , Corvette Fun , 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 , Vacationing in a Corvette , Venezuela , West Coast , West Ohio , Western Canada , Western U.S. | 0 Comments Permalink

The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky has a superb choice of events for Corvette enthusiasts this coming year.  Check out any of these great activities in western Kentucky:

The C5/C6 Birthday Bash is scheduled for April 26-28.

The ZR-1/C4 Gathering follows May 3-5.

The Cruise-In sponsored by www.corvetteforum.com will be May 24-26.

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

As I walked into the massive display room of Cobo Hall, the first car that grabbed my attention was the equally massive Audi R10 diesel powered race car.  One local columnist and amateur race car driver, Henry Payne, stated in the Detroit News that this competitor is "the most significant car in the North American International Auto Show."

And significant it is!  In June 2006, the diesel powered Audi R10 won the world's prize competition, the 24 Hours of Le Mans.  As Payne noted, "it became the first non-gasoline powered car in the 74-year history of the legendary French competition to finish first!

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Events , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

As the photograph suggests, we might all be a little upset if we were selling our 1960 Corvette Convertible, too!  This little fuelie comes from a three year frame off restoration.

Being auctioned with an Orange County Chopper with matching Corvette paint scheme as a set, the big auction day comes this weekend.

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

This is the week!  The 1967 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe identified as "Lot 1285" goes on the market this week at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona.  You are running out of time to set up that million dollar line of credit that you might need!

This fabulous Vette has received a lot of attention lately, including cover page glory on the November/December 2006 issue of Motor Trend Classic.  This Saturday, January 20, is the day that lots 1200-1400 cross the block.

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

Yes, the question is: "Do Celebrities Sell Cars?"

The General took a major flying leap to answer this question here in Detroit Saturday evening, January 6, by staging an impressive limited access venue called the GM Style Event.  On the banks of the Detroit River, under an elaborate tent next to the Renaissance Center, GM presented its newest bevy of concept vehicles and future product to approximately 1200 invited guests, in the company of eighteen or so Hollywood luminaries (Carmen Electra, Kristen Bell, Rosie Perez, etc.)

Autoblog covered it best.  See their amazing array of 216 high-resolution, paparazzi-style celeb shots.  Locally around Detroit, news coverage was all but non-existent. 

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

This gorgeous 1967 Corvette was delivered in the Fall of 1966 to beloved space hero Lt. Colonel Virgil "Gus" Grissom.

Gus was one of the original seven Astronauts and was the second American to enter space in July of 1961. He was the first American to ever enter space twice when he orbited the Earth several times in 1965 in the "Molly Brown" three-man capsule. He would have been the first human to ever enter space three times. However, he, Roger Chaffee, and Edward White were tragically killed in the Apollo One disaster on January 27, 1967.

Professional body-off-the-frame restoration is documented by photos. Winner of more than twenty awards including NCRS & Corvette Bowling Green award. This is the most historically documented Corvette ever built that is tied directly to the American Space Program.

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

The National Corvette Museum has begun a new raffle fundraiser. The prize this time is a 2007 Corvette Coupe in Atomic Orange Metallic.

Only 500 tickets will be sold! The $250 ticket price will be well worth it to one winner, who will take home a gorgeous new Vette. Amenities include: the top of the line 3LT package, Cashmere Leather, polished aluminum wheels and automatic transmission.

Details can be accessed at their website: The National Corvette Museum.

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

Jay Leno is all set for this weekend's Daytona 500. He'll be driving the official Pace car... none other than the Corvette Z06. We previously wrote about the event and have a great selection of pictures to check out.

I'm very envious! The LA Times reports:

Leno said he wouldn't charge Chevrolet or its parent, General Motors Corp., an appearance fee despite all the publicity he generates for the automaker. Simply being able to drive the Corvette at high speeds is compensation enough, he said.

"They called me and asked, 'Would you like to do it?' " he recalled. "My attitude is, 'Hey, I'm a big car fan, so sure. I would love to do it.' My fee is that I'll get to use some GM vehicles."

Leave it to Leno.

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

The first National Corvette Museum event of 2006 will be the Ninth Annual C5/C6 Bash.

Whether you have made the bash a part of your regularly attended shows each year or if you have never attended an NCM event before, you will want to be a part of the Ninth Annual C5/C6 Bash April 20-22! This year's bash is the first event of the season held at the Museum and the activities planned are everything you want in a Corvette event!

Posted By J.P. In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Detroit News describes three great ways to spend money.

Before visitors sample Las Vegas' newest attraction, they'll have to take a Breathalyzer test. And that obviously means staying sober, at least for a time, in Sin City.

General Motors is betting folks will give it a try.

In its latest marketing ploy, the giant automaker announced plans to open a hands-on driving experience this spring on an 11-acre tract at the north end of the Strip behind the Sahara Hotel & Casino.

The idea of the two-track driving course is to entice some of the city's millions of tourists from the gaming tables, slot machines and celebrity shows long enough to slip behind the wheels of Corvettes, Cadillacs and Hummers "without any pressure to buy," says Steve Tihanyi, general director of marketing and entertainment alliances for GM

So, the three recommended ways of spending your money are drinking, gambling, and buying a Corvette. It should be noted that only buying a Corvette will cause your money to appreciate.

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink