Get Ad-Free Access: Just $39/year
1965 L78 Enginge
For more than a decade after the Corvette's initial release it had small-block power. In fact, the 265 cubic-inch V8’s 1955 introduction was largely responsible for the Corvette’s validation as a sporty, performance-minded vehicle. However, by the mid-1960s, those behind the scenes at Chevrolet had begun developing a new powerplant. This engine would become the first big-block V8 to be used in Corvette production.
2017 corvette c7 z06
You can find a newer, low-mileage, Corvette at a price point that is reasonable when looking at a C7 vs the competition. You'll pay more than you would for a Mustang, Challenger or Camaro, but you'll get a lot more car for the money too. 
For the 2020 model year, Chevrolet manufactured a total of 20,368 Corvettes. A decently strong year given everything going on the in the world. The Coupe was the most popular of the two models available with 82.4% of the 20,368 total.
The first mid-engined Corvette came along during a pandemic. That didn't stop Chevy from selling 20,368 units in its first year (at premium prices I might add), even with a global chip shortage stopping production in both 2020 and 2021.
1966 corvette
Despite its popularity, the second-gen Corvette holds the record for the fewest number of production years of any generation Corvette. The most valuable examples of the C2 Corvette live sort of like "bookends" at the start and finish of second-gen production.
1962 corvette
While there are some early C1 Corvettes out there that are exceedingly rare and prohibitively expensive, there are plenty of first-generation Corvettes - especially those between 1959 and 1961 - that are well within the range of most budgets.
When one of his cars was severely damaged in 1972, John Greenwood converted his 1969 L88 Convertible into a formidable race car. Included as the formidable ZL1 engine with 750 bhp on tap. Other modifications included a rear spoiler, quick replacement radiator and camber adjusters. At Le Mans, this car set the GT-class record for top speed down the Le Mans straight with 215 mph.