There are so many different things to know when you’re buying your first Corvette, whether you’re looking at one new or used, that it can seem like an impossible task to know everything you need to know before buying one. However, this guide will help you get started with 10 of the most important things to know about Corvette cars before you buy one.
1) Corvette history
The Corvette is a sports car manufactured by Chevrolet. It is the American counterpart to the Ferrari 458 Italia, Porsche 911 Carrera S and Lamborghini Gallardo. The first generation was released in 1953 and it was produced through 1962. The second generation was released in 1968 and it was produced through 1982. The third generation was released in 1984, with production ending in 1996. The fourth generation of Corvette models was introduced in 1997 and they are still being manufactured today.
2) Different types of Corvette
The Corvette has come a long way since it was first introduced in 1953. There are four different types of Corvette models, which include the Stingray, Z06, Grand Sport, and ZR1. The Stingray is the base model and most affordable car with a starting price of $54,000. The Z06 is better suited for racing purposes and costs $71,000 with an average speed of 216 mph.
3) Corvette features
Corvettes are a type of American muscle car. They have been in production for over 60 years and are available in six different models: the Stingray, the Grand Sport, the Z06, the ZR1, the Corvette Convertible, and the Corvette Coupe. All of them offer high-performance engines, a sleek design, and excellent handling on both roads and race tracks.
4) Corvette performance
Corvettes are often considered the best-handling American sports car. For this reason, they’re built on a strong lightweight frame and use independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, tubular shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars. They also have a transverse leaf spring for the live axle with radius arms, coil springs, trailing arms, and tubular shock absorbers.
5) Corvette prices
Corvettes are known for their aggressive and sleek design. They’re also well-known for their high price tags. The base Corvette starts at $55,000, while the new Z06 starts at $81,200. You can expect to pay over $100,000 if you go with the Grand Sport or ZR1 models.
6) Corvette financing
Corvettes are expensive and require a lot of upfront money. If you’re not willing to put down $20,000 or more, they’re not the car for you.
The Corvette is also a sports car, which means that it’s meant for driving on the open road. You can’t take your Corvette off-road or through the suburbs; it will sustain damage if you try.
If your budget is tight and your needs are modest, there are cheaper options out there.
7) Corvette insurance
It’s tough finding the right car insurance, but it’s even tougher when your prized possession is a Corvette. If you’re lucky enough to have bought your Corvette and are looking for some insurance, read on for some important information that might make or break your decision.
- Have a good driving record: Obviously, if you’ve had any accidents or traffic violations in the past, find an insurer that won’t penalize you too much for these mishaps.
8) Corvette safety
If safety is a concern for you, then the Corvette might not be the best car for you. The NHTSA gave it only two stars in frontal crash tests and four stars in side crashes. This makes sense because of the lack of airbags and also because it has a high center of gravity, which can lead to rollovers.
9) Corvette maintenance
Car maintenance can be expensive, but it’s necessary for keeping your Corvette running in optimal condition. Oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance can help extend the life of your car.
Here are some other important tips for taking care of your Corvette:
- Keep the car clean by washing it regularly with soap and water.
- Check the fluids periodically to ensure they are at the correct levels.
10) Corvette accessories
Corvette accessories are a great way to personalize your car. However, if the accessories will require additional maintenance or if they are not compatible with the style of your vehicle, then it is better not to invest in them.