Are You Considering a Mid-Engine C8 Corvette Stingray?? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!
For the past seventy-plus years, Corvette ownership has been an outward expression of the American Dream, the two-seater sports car that looks as stunning on the open road as it does parked next to the white picket fence that frames the idealistic family home. Although the reality of Corvette ownership is that, for many, it comes later in life once the kids have grown and found their way through college and out into the world this is not always the case. While purchasing a NEW Corvette might push the limits of the household budget for some, the USED car market has made the possibility of Corvette ownership far more affordable for nearly any budget, even making it more manageable when considering the purchase of the latest iteration of America’s Sports Car – the mid-engine, eighth-generation Corvette Stingray.
Now, in the interest of not sounding like we’ve completely lost our grip on reality, we recognize that most used C8 Corvettes still fetch some pretty significant dollars, especially those examples that have lower mileage and have been well maintained. We understand that there are other, more affordable choices out there, and we’ve assembled buyers guides for each of those models too. If you are interested in learning more about any of these, please make sure to use one of the following links to find your way over to those guides:
- C1 Buyers Guide
- C2 Buyers Guide
- C3 Buyers Guide
- C4 Buyers Guide
- C5 Buyers Guide
- C6 Buyers Guide
- C7 Buyers Guide
Today, though, we’re here to help you navigate the options available to you in the both the new- and used-mid-engine Corvette Stingray market. We want to equip you with all the tools you’ll need to properly evaluate whether a mid-engine Corvette is the right car for you and, just as importantly, if the car you are considering checks out to help ensure your Corvette ownership experience is filled with many years of unparalleled driving enjoyment!
Let’s Start Here: What Makes the Mid-Engine C8 Corvette Stingray a Good Choice?
Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, a 19th-century Scottish author, once coined the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” For many Corvette enthusiasts, this expression exemplifies public opinion of the mid-engine Stingray. For some, it is the culmination of everything that came before it. It features an aggressive stance, some of the most dramatic body lines, and arguably one of the most aerodynamic profiles of any Corvette ever assembled in the brand’s 70+ year history.
For others, the argument has been made that the mid-engine Corvette Stingray is too much of a departure from the design elements that made a Corvette, well, a CORVETTE. There are undeniable influences that can be attributed to some of the many European supercars that helped inspire Corvette’s designers through the development of the mid-engine Corvette, and some of the car’s staunchest critics have rallied against the car, calling it a “poor man’s Ferrari.”
But while there may be some contention about the car’s outward aesthetic, or about the build quality of the car’s interior (more on this later), the one area that is devoid of grievance is the new Stingray’s performance.
I’ve driven the new C8 Corvette repeatedly over the last few years, and its performance is remarkable. From straight-line acceleration and the incredible, almost intuitive responsiveness of the car’s dual-clutch automatic transmission to the car’s robust brakes and planted posture at high speeds, there’s a LOT to love about this newest Corvette (in all of its available iterations.) The C8 Coupe and Convertible are balanced, powerful vehicles capable of sub-three-second 0-60 times. For those not already in the know – that’s pretty darn quick. Bump it up to a mid-engine Z06 or an ERay, and the numbers get even faster. How does a 0-60 time at 2.6 seconds out of the Z06 and 2.5 seconds out of the Eray sound to anyone keeping score?
Year By Year – What Are the Differences?
2020
The 2020 model year was the first year for Chevrolet’s all-new, mid-engine Corvette Stingray coupe and hardtop convertible. As with the seventh-generation before it, the 2020 Corvette came in three different trim levels (1LT, 2LT, 3LT), with all three trim packages also offered with the optional Z51 performance package.
Also, as with the C7 Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible models before it, the new C8 featured a 6.2-liter V8 engine. Designated the LT2 engine, this latest iteration of GM’s enormously popular LT powerplants was rated at 490 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft of torque. When equipped with the dual-mode performance exhaust of the Z51 package, engine horsepower increased to 495 horsepower. The Z51 option also included an electronic limited-slip rear differential (ELSD), firmer springs and dampers, a splitter and multiplane decklid spoiler, additional radiators, a transmission cooler, more aggressive brakes at all four corners, a 5.17 rear axle ratio, Performance Traction Management, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP summer tires. The Z51 upgrade was such a popular option that 20,368 (76% of all 2020 Corvettes) were equipped with the Z51 performance package.
One of the most interesting characteristics of the eighth-generation, mid-engine Corvette Stingrays was the absence of a manual transmission option. Instead, all C8 Corvettes could only be purchased with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which was a first in the history of the brand. Paddle-mounted shifters were installed in every C8 Corvette, which enables owners to “manually shift” their Corvettes, but the intuitive programming of the dual-clutch automatic transmission is so good that most drivers simply prefer to let the car take care of business for itself. In fact, Car & Driver Magazine recorded a 0-60 time of just 2.8 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 11.2 seconds at 122 miles per hour when testing the 2020 C8 Corvette on-track. Their test vehicle (which was equipped with the Z51 Performance Package (which added $5000 in cost to any version of the car)) also managed a braking distance of just 149 feet from 70 mph and a 1.03g skid pad, clearly identifying the new mid-engine Corvette as a car capable of competing with other, far more expensive entrants in the supercar category.
2021
While mostly unchanged from its inaugural year, the 2021 Mid-Engine Corvette Stingray did have a few new standard features added to the mix. These included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, new options for the digital gauge display, and a Buckle-to-Drive safety feature that prevented the driver from shifting the car into gear until the driver buckled their seat belt. The 2021 Corvette also offered consumers.
In addition, there were several new optional features available to consumers when ordering their 2021 Corvette. These included Magnetic Selective Ride Control, a feature that could previously only be ordered when purchasing the expensive Z51 performance package. When ordered new, this option added $1851 to the purchase price but was far less expensive than the entire Z51 package. The benefit of the Magnetic Selective Ride control was that, by using a magnetorheological fluid inside the shock absorbers, drivers could change the viscosity of the fluid in the shock, thereby increasing or decreasing the stiffness of the car’s ride.
Like the 2020 Corvette before it, the 2021 models could be ordered with full-body racing stripes. Unlike the 2020 model, the 2021 model included a larger variety of stripe colors, including blue, orange, red, and yellow. A new Sky Cool Gray-and-Strike Yellow interior color scheme was also added to the options sheet. Consumers could also order an optional Roadside Safety Package, which was available for all trim levels. This package included a Highway Safety Kit and a First Aid Kit.
2022
For the 2022 model year, the mid-engine Corvette Stingray featured several new features (both standard and optional). The Corvette’s LT2 6.2-liter V8 engine received an upgraded direct injection fuel system, improved engine calibration, and an enhanced Active Fuel Management system. Three new, optional color choices were introduced, including Hypersonic Gray, Caffeine, and Amplify Orange Tintcoat. A new, low-profile rear spoiler was introduced as was an optional Z51-inspired front splitter for consumers purchasing a non-Z51 model.
IMSA GTLM Championship Edition
The most notable addition to the 2022 lineup was the introduction of the 2022 Corvette Stingray IMSA GTLM Championship Edition Corvette. This special edition model was offered on Corvettes with the 3LT trim level when equipped with the Z51 Performance Package. Each Championship Edition Corvette came finished in a custom, Corvette Racing-themed graphics package and could be ordered in one of two colors: Accelerate Yellow (the No. 3 edition), which featured gray graphics, and Hypersonic Gray (the No. 4 edition) which featured yellow graphics.
Additionally, the exterior of these cars featured a high-wing spoiler finished in Carbon Flash, yellow brake calipers, Black Trident-designed wheels with the “Jake” logo on the center caps (and mounted using black lug nuts), Exterior mirrors finished in Carbon Flash, black side rockers, and splash guards.
The interior of these Special Edition Corvettes featured a Strike Yellow and Sky Cook Gray cabin (designed to mimic the yellow and gray racing theme of the C8.R race cars). Each came equipped with standard GT2 seats (although Competition Sport seats were offered as an optional upgrade), yellow seat belts, and a C8.R Special Edition numbered plaque commemorating each example of the car.
Each car also came packaged with a custom-fitted indoor car cover that featured the likeness of the No. 3 or No. 4 Corvette C8.R race car (and matched to the Special Edition color/package ordered at the time of purchase.
For reference, the IMSA GTLM Championship Edition package started at an additional $6,595, and will likely result in a higher asking price for these examples on the used car market.
2023
The 2023 model year marked the seventieth anniversary of the Chevy Corvette. To commemorate this milestone, Chevrolet introduced a 70th Anniversary Edition package. All of the 70th Anniversary Edition cars were offered to consumers in one of two colors – an all-new White Pearl Metallic Tricoat (as pictured above) or Carbon Flash Metallic. Each of these cars came finished with accompanying body-length race stripes – Satin Gray stripes on the White Pearl Metallic Tricoat model, and Satin Black on the Carbon Flash Metallic. Each car came equipped with special “70th Anniversary Edition” exterior badging on both the driver and passenger doors, and each car also featured special front and rear Corvette crossflags.
In addition to the two signature paint schemes, each of the 70th Anniversary Edition Corvettes also featured distinct wheels adorned with commemorative 70th Anniversary wheel center caps. While the Stingray and the Z06 models each had their own, unique wheel designs, both sets of wheels shared a similar dark finish and Edge Red stripe around the wheel’s outer edge. Contrasting the dark finish of the wheels was a set of Edge Red brake calipers behind all four wheels.
Inside the cockpit, the 70th Anniversary Edition Corvettes came equipped with either two-tone Ceramic Leather GT2 or Competition Sport seats. The interiors featured red stitching throughout, red seatbelts, and sueded microfiber inserts on the seats and the steering wheel. Special “70th Anniversary Edition” logos were stitched into the seats and mounted on the steering wheel and sill plates.
Additional features found on/with the “70th Anniversary Edition Corvette included:
- Rear bumper protector and trunk cover
- Custom luggage set with red stitching and the “70th Anniversary Edition” logo
- An Edge Red engine cover.
All 2023 Corvettes, including those not equipped with the 70th Anniversary Edition package, included a commemorative 70th anniversary interior plaque located on the center speaker grille and a graphic imprinted on the lower rear window.
2024
As is customary with almost every new model year Corvette, Chevrolet offered consumers an assortment of new color choices for the 2024 model year. The three colors that were introduced for the 2024 model year were:
- Riptide Blue Metallic (RPO GJV)
- Cacti Green (RPO GVR)
- Sea Wolf Gray Tricoat (GXA).
- When ordered new, this was an extra-cost color that added $995 to the purchase price.
In addition to the new paint colors, the Carbon Flash Metallic exterior color (RPO GAR) was made available for all models and on all trim levels. Paint colors Elkhart Lake Blue Metallic (GS7), White Pearl Metallic Tricoat (G1W), and Caffeine Metallic (G48) were discontinued.
The 2024 Corvette was offered with some additional trim options, including wider, full-body length dual racing stripes. These stripes could be ordered in one of five colors, including blue, yellow, orange, red, or silver. In addition to the stripe packages, three new wheel options were also introduced for the 2024 model year. Of these, two – a wheelset finished in Satin Graphite with machined edge forged aluminum and a 5-split spoke machined-face Sterling Silver-painted forged aluminum – were only offered on the base model Stingray (excluding the ERay or Z06). The third, a 15-spoke bright polished aluminum wheel, could be ordered on all variants of the 2024 Corvette.
Chevrolet offered two new engine appearance packages for the 2024 model year, one for the coupe and one for the convertible. The coupe’s appearance package featured carbon fiber trim, whereas the convertible’s appearance package included a window under the tonneau cover and engine cover. Visible carbon fiber trim was offered on the two-stanchion spoiler and the door intake trim.
Additions/changes to the interior were kept to a minimum. A new Artemis-color palette with green seat belts was offered to consumers when ordering their car with the 3LT trim. Visible carbon fiber sill plates were offered as a Genuine Corvette accessory. A new infotainment system with Google built-in and an 8-inch diagonal HD display replaced an earlier unit that had been featured on the C8 since its introduction in 2020.
Several new standard safety features were incorporated into the 2024 model year Corvettes including a follow-distance indicator (UE4), a forward collision alert (UEU), a lane keep assist with lane departure warning (UHX), IntelliBeam auto high beams (TQ5), automatic emergency braking (UHY), and front pedestrian bicyclist braking (UKT).
2025
This section coming soon!
Corvette Z06
2023 Z06
Introduced as part of the 2023 model year lineup, the C8 Z06 Coupe and Convertible took the automotive world by storm when introduced. Equipped with a 5.5-liter, DOHC V8 engine that featured a low-intertia rotating assembly and a flat plant crank, this latest entry in the mid-engine lineup boasted a massive 670 horsepower at 8,400 rpm (the car has an 8.600 rpm redline) and 460 lb-ft of torque at 6,300 rpm. What’s more, the uniquely crafted exhaust note of this impressive powerplant gave the Z06 a character sound that became one of the car’s key marketing elements….and with good reason. To hear a mid-engine Z06 fire up on a cold start is akin to hearing the opening four chords of Beethoven’t fifth-symphony….yes, it’s THAT good!
As with the Grand Sport and Z06 models from earlier generations, the 2023 C8 Z06 (and all model years that have followed since) featured a wide, sculpted front and rear fascia assembly that, in the words of GM marketing “define(d) a confident stance and exotic proportions.”
Like its Stingray counterpart, the C8 Corvette Z06 came in both coupe and hardtop convertible versions, and either of these could be ordered iwth the 1LZ, 2LZ, or 3LZ trim packages. In addition, an optional (available) Carbon Aero package was introduced for the Z06. This package offered drivers the maximum track-capable downforce and manuverability of any Corvette that came before it, and certainly maximized the performance of this already incredble supercar variant of the Chevy Corvette. In addition, an available Z07 Performacne Package was also offered that included the carbon fiber aero package as well as tthe FE7 suspension with unique Magnetic Ride Control calibration, Michelin SPort Cup 2 RZP tires, the available carbon fiber wheels and Brenmo carbon ceramic brakes.
If you were a serious driver looking to buy a production version of Pratt Miller’s C8.R race car, this was about as close as one could get….at least until the introduction of the 2025 ZR1 Corvette (more on that below.)
2024 Z06
For it sophomore year of production, Chevrolet added some new features and color options to the 2024 lineup. Included in the offerings were:
- Three new exterior colors: Riptide Blue Metallic, Cacti Green and Sea Wolf Gray Tricoat (available at an extra cost)
- A Power hood pull-down.
- Available carbon fiber wheels with red stripe (required the carbon ceramic brake system)
- Five new accent-color choices with the available full-length dual racing stripes.
- Artemis interior with green accents throughout, including the seat belts.
Corvette E-Ray
Introduced by Chevrolet exactly seventy years after the original Corvette debuted at the Motorama in New York City, Chevrolet welcomed their first-ever electrified Corvette – the 2024 Corvette E-Ray – a Stingray that features all-wheel-drive and a powerful 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8 paired with a 160 hp electric motor to its lineup.
The E-Ray was developed by Chevrolet to afford Corvette owners with a sports car that could be driven anywhere, regardless the season.It uses electrification to enhance the driving experience with intense straight-line performance, all-weather confidence and sure-footed grand touring capabilities that can only be achieved with electric all-wheel-drive.
“Corvette has been a halo for Chevrolet since 1953,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “E-Ray’s unprecedented blend of confidence, luxury performance, sophistication and style provides a new reason for more people to experience Corvette.”
As of 2024, the Corvette E-Ray was the fastest accelerating production Corvette in history, clocking a 2.5-second 0-60 mph time before acheiving a the quarter-mile time of just 10.5 seconds.
“Corvettes must provide an exhilarating driving experience on backroads and tracks, and E-Ray nails it,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “The electrification technology enhances the feeling of control in all conditions, adding an unexpected degree of composure.”
The E-Ray’s aforementioned 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8 produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque to the rear axle. It is complemented by an electric motor that channels an additional 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels via a 1.9 kWh battery pack, which is located between the seats. In total, E-Ray produces a combined 655 horsepower from both the electric motor and Small Block V-8.
Corvette ZR1 (Coming Soon)
This section coming soon!
The Mid-Engine C8 Corvette Stingray Buyers Guide
Start with A CarFax / Vehicle History Report (Part 1 – Owner Types)
While this first step sounds obvious and overly simplistic, the availability of data these days makes using a vehicle history report an essential first step when beginning your personal research into any car, but most especially into a high-performance sports car. Why you ask? The answer is multi-faceted.
First, let’s explore the three most common types of Corvette owners out there and how a vehicle history report can be adapted to evaluate each:
1.) There are the “Keepers of Garage Queens” – those individuals who buy a Corvette, take it out of the garage just long enough to wash it on a regular (weekly or even more frequent) basis, drive it a few miles (and only on occasion) to a local car show or meetup event, and put it back in the garage (often under a car cover and/or in a climate-controlled environment. These cars don’t get driven much, making them an amazing find when you come across one. When you do find one of these, it’s important to look at the vehicle history to ensure that, at a minimum, regular interval maintenance has been performed. While these cars may only have a few hundred to a few thousand miles on the odometer, oil (and other fluids) do depreciate over time and have a finite shelf life, making it paramount to confirm that they’ve still received the professional maintenance required to avoid premature wear of critical moving parts.
2.) The “Weekend Warriors” – those individuals who track their cars regularly/routinely. While these cars may also have lower mileage, especially for those drivers who trailer their cars between events and only put miles on their cars when “slinging” them around a race track, most of these (if properly maintained) are going to list far more frequent service/maintenance records as a byproduct of the added wear and tear they receive from this type of use. Documented maintenance on these cars will include anything from more frequent oil changes to maintenance/repair work on the brakes, suspension, tire replacement, etc. In addition, work performed at “tune shops” should also be captured here, and will show up as part of many vehicle history reports. While the work performed by these shops may not be detailed, a history report can be a “tell” as to the nature of the car’s previous use.
3.) The “Daily Drivers.” This third and final group is, in reality, the least common of the three types (at least among Corvette owners.) At the same time, this group is going to provide would-be consumers with the most competitively priced used vehicle examples (in most cases) of any of the groups listed herein. Their cars will often have higher mileage and should (if properly maintained) have a long and thorough service history documenting the type of maintenance that has been performed throughout their use. For these, understanding the regularity (and consistency) of their service will indicate how well the cars have been maintained. When evaluating a vehicle history report on one of these higher-mileage Corvettes, you must compare the vehicle history report records with the “scheduled maintenance requirements” found in the C8 Corvette owner manual. This information can be readily found online and will help establish whether the owner fully maintained their car, or if the services rendered were limited to “essential services” such as oil changes and fluid inspections. A poorly serviced “daily driver” can often be a worse purchase than a Corvette that has regularly been driven hard at a race track, especially since most competitive drivers also understand the importance of proper maintenance and care…not only for the sake of their cars but for their own well being.
Vehicle History Report (Part 2 – Accidents)
While understanding how a car was owned and maintained is probably one of the largest benefits of a vehicle history report, the other major component that many consumers examine closely is whether the car has been involved in one (or more) accidents and, if so, the severity of the accident (if known.). Some buyer reports will provide specificity around the accident, while others will simply document that the car was previously involved in an event that resulted in the vehicle sustaining some level of damage.
Should this be an immediate deterrent? It depends on the buyer’s end game. If someone is looking to purchase a Corvette for a short period (for less than a year, for example), it is worth noting that the car’s level of depreciation will likely be greater than a car with a clean accident report. While many (in fact, MOST) automotive bodywork/repairs are done to a level where would-be consumers might not otherwise be aware their vehicle had sustained any damage, an accident is a significant blemish on the vehicle’s history, causing the affected car to depreciate more quickly and retain a lesser value than the exact same car with a clean history report. What’s more, having a higher number of previous owners will also adversely impact the car’s value.
However, buying a car that has an accident in its history also presents an opportunity to save money on the purchase. Many consumers will even seek out Corvette listings that indicate the car has been previously involved in an accident because the pricepoint on these cars will be lower than examples with a clean record. This logic might sound flawed, but any car that has sustained serious damage will often have a “salvage title” (or similar) and should be regarded with much greater caution. For others, something as incidental as a paint abrasion (after rubbing up against a bollard or guardrail) that causes a car to go into a body/repair shop will result in its being listed as having been in an accident and, consequently, will depreciate the car’s value.
When considering a Corvette, here’s the tip: Do your homework, but don’t be too quick to dismiss a Corvette that may have an accident in its history. It is not uncommon to find hundreds of examples on the market at any given time listed as having been involved in an “accident.” The wise shopper will try to understand the nature of the accident and the extent of the damage the car received. They will also do a comparative analysis of that car’s value as compared to an equivalent example without an accident on its history report. The price savings between the two are often significant and something worth considering, especially for would-be consumers looking to purchase a car for the long term.
Vehicle Inspection – What To Look For On a C8 Corvette Stingray
The next steps listed in this buyer guide need not be performed in any particular order. Each is recommended below as part of the automotive buying “homework process” when evaluating a used mid-engine Corvette for purchase. While inspecting, test driving, and having a trained mechanic inspect the vehicle are all important – but interchangeable – steps in this process, we list them in this order because we believe that being aware of the possible mechanical/functional pitfalls surrounding any C8 Corvette will improve your buying experience while simultaneously reducing the amount of time looking at an example that won’t pass muster.
What follows below is a list of “common” items that an experienced automotive consumer should be able to evaluate on his/her own. However, this list is also valuable when taking a C8 Corvette to a mechanic for inspection ahead of purchase. These items should NOT be ignored. Instead, these items should be examined thoroughly and properly repaired by the car’s current owner before they attempt to sell the car.
Transmission and Drivetrain Issues
We’ll begin with the elephant in the room…the transmission!
Despite being one of the most intuitive automatic transmissions ever developed by GM, the car’s eight-speed Tremec TR-9080 Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) has become somewhat notorious for developing shifting problems and making usual noises during operation. While a search on the internet will bring up dozens (if not hundreds) of irritated/irate customers, it is worth noting that the total percentage of C8 Corvettes experiencing significant transmission issues was around 4% (per a 2022 consumer report.)
Here are a few specific items to look for when inspecting the Tremec DCT transmission.
- Leaks: The Tremec TR-9080 eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in the C8 Corvette may leak. Look for fluid beneath the car, for the appearance of moisture on/around the housing, and discoloration of the same.
- Gasket Failures: Seemingly more common on the C8 Z06, premature gasket failure results in the discharge of transmission fluid (either in its entirety or, at a minimum, in large quantities). This will be readily notable as there will be significant fluid pooling beneath the car. While this is similar to the leaking issue listed previously, this issue is far more dramatic and will require immediate attention by a GM-certified technician.
- Transmission Control Modules/Error Messages: The transmission may flash error messages stating that owners should “put their vehicle into park and take it in for servicing.” Additionally, the Transmission Control Module has been known to incorrectly clear diagnostic trouble code communications from other modules because of direct communication loss, thereby resulting in improper operation of the transmission (and other systems) without identifying the error to vehicle operators.
- This issue was addressed in a voluntary recall issued by GM on all 2020 and 2021 models.
- Debris: Debris on the park position sensor magnet may cause the transmission control module to receive an incorrect position reading.
While this list is by no means an all-inclusive list of transmission issues, it should be noted that the transmissions in these cars have been a source of consternation for some owners. While GM has acknowledged these issues, and while improvements are continuously being made by the Tremec company to its DCT mid-engine transmission, a thorough inspection of the transmission housing, as well as the condition (and level) of the transmission fluid should be a “must do” when inspecting a mid-engine Corvette.
Common Engine and Performance Issues
Although the C8’s 6.2L LT2 V8 engine has proved to be incredibly reliable, there are still some items that are worth inspecting. Some of the most common issues experienced by consumers pertaining to the LT2 powerplant include overheating, unusual noises, and reduced power output. These issues stem from various sources like cooling system malfunctions or wear and tear of engine components.
When inspecting a mid-engine Corvette, it is worth examining the cooling fins on each of the car’s two radiators. Make sure that the radiators, which reside directly behind the grills on the left and right sides of the front fascia, are not heavily pitted/dented/damaged from road debris. Because of their proximity to the ground, and the limited protection afforded them by the factory grills, these radiators can become pitted/damaged, which will result in reduced airflow through the radiator which, in turn, reduces the effective cooling capacity of the radiator itself (thereby causing overheating.). NOTE: On Z51 models, a third radiator is mounted on the rear driver’s side inside the rear quarter panel air intake opening.
Regarding engine wear and tear, regular maintenance and periodic inspections are key to preventing major engine issues. As referenced in the “Vehicle History Report” section earlier, being aware of how frequently/completely the engine has been maintained will provide valuable insight into the car’s condition. Additionally, the engine should be visually examined (both from above and below the car). Look for fluid leaks around the valve covers and the intake manifolds.
Electrical System Issues
Like most modern cars, the eighth-generation Corvette Stingray is full of complex electronics, including a fully digital dashboard and a large, complex, touchscreen infotainment center. Make sure to take time to inspect the operation of all the electrical components inside of the car’s cockpit. Navigate through all of the dashboard displays. Go through all of the infotainment center touch screens and verify the operability of all the systems, from the stereo and climate controls to the PDR, backup cameras, and navigation system. There have been reports of the dashboard displays operating erratically and issues with the car’s lighting systems.
Interior Quality and Functionality Problems
Although the C8 Corvette’s interior is almost universally considered the nicest, and most advanced in the history of the brand, some consumers have identified deficiencies with the fit-and-finish of these interiors. Reports of loose trim and malfunctioning seat controls have been previously documented, so would-be consumers should take time to inspect the interior for quality issues. Cars equipped with the 3LT trim level have leather-wrapped interiors with sueded microfiber coverings. These coverings are known to peel over time, especially on cars that have not been stored in a climate-controlled environment. Because of this, careful inspection of the leather-trimmed surfaces is paramount to help avoid expensive and time-consuming interior repairs later on.
When inspecting system operability (see also “Electrical System Issues” above), take time to verify the operability of all of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) controls. Some examples of the C8 Corvette have been known to deliver inconsistent heating or cooling, generate unusual HVAC system noises, or even have airflow problems. This isn’t common, but is worth inspecting before purchase.
General Maintenance
Take time to review any of the documentation or maintenance history of the vehicle that was kept/collected by the previous owner. Although much of this information should have already been captured (high level) as part of the vehicle history report, taking time to evaluate the documentation may provide additional insight into the vehicle you are purchasing that was not documented in the vehicle history report.
Know What the Market Will Bear – Be a Competitive Shopper
Earlier, we shared the pricing for each NEW model year C8 Corvette. While this pricing provides some great historical data, and even offers would-be consumers with a frame of reference on how Corvettes with varying trim levels were priced when new, it is important to become familiar with what your local market will demand in terms of used car pricing. Unfortunately, not all used Corvettes are priced the same, and different markets may offer dramatic shifts in pricepoint, depending a variety of factors, including market saturation, average cost of living, median incomes, etc. Each of these factors can impact what a person should expect to pay for a Corvette, and it may lead some to travel (even great distances) to save money on a car.
When doing research on a prospective used Corvette, it is worth taking the time to shop for comparable examples in other markets. When comparing cars, make sure they have the same trim levels, similar mileage, similar number of owners, accidents (if applicable), even paint and interior colors. Even if the “comp car” isn’t identical, take note of the pricing – are they in the same price range (within a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars?) Does the person or organization selling it offer any type of warranty (even a transferable factory warranty) that might reasonably increase the asking price of the car?
By being equipped with comparable pricing, prospective buyers will be better equipped to negotiate on the price and will, in many cases, walk away with a better deal should they elect to move forward with making a purchase.
Here are some key questions to ask during the price negotiating phase:
- What is the lowest price you are willing to accept?
- This car is priced higher that comparable examples? (Make sure to have examples ready to present if asked)
- Have you had any recent repairs done?
- How much are you willing to negotiate on the price?
- Does this price include any warranties or extra features (additional floor mats, a second roof panel, a car cover, etc.)?
- What is your best price on this car?
It is important that you never assume the asking price is their best and final. While many dealerships are less willing to negotiate than they used to be, knowing what the market will bear will help ensure that you’ll get a better deal when making a purchase.
Time Of Year
Knowing when to buy a Corvette can also affect what you’ll pay. There are trade-offs to this tactic – though buyers can often save thousands buying a used Corvette in the late fall/early winter, the trade-off (depending on where the car and/or buyer is located) may mean that the car will have to be put into storage until the following spring, when warmer weather (and better road conditions) return. While Chevrolet has marketed the Corvette as being drivable year round (there was even a commercial showing a C8 doing donuts in the snow), the reality is that the Corvette is a fair weather vehicle. As such, buying at the start of winter may result in ownership of a car that is undrivable for several months.
Still, if you can be patient, you recognize some significant savings by buying a Corvette in the fall/winter months.
DRIVE IT
Although we’ve provided a variety of tips/tricks to purchasing a used Corvette, there is no substitution for actually driving the car. Where many sellers, especially private owners, may be reluctant to allow a would-be driver to get behind the wheel without a commitment to purchase, driving a Corvette (as with any car) will enable to experience the car in a way that no report or inspection can, no matter how detailed or thorough.
When working with a seller, especially a private owner, it is a good idea to communicate with the seller ahead of any appointment. This will enable both parties to reach an understanding about what should be expected when inspecting the car. Sellers may ask buyers to present cash ahead of a test drive, and this request is often reasonable, given the nature of the car being driven. Sadly, there are people out there who will pose as a prospective but who lack the financial resources to actually purchase the car. These “tire kickers” may be looking to do nothing more than joy ride a high performance car, causing unnecessary ware on the seller’s vehicle.
At the same time, buyers should be wary of sellers who are completely resistant to a test drive. There is a lot that can be learned by driving a used car, and so this part of the buying process should be paramount for both parties. If a seller is obstinate to allowing a test drive, it could suggest that there is a larger issue with the car. Be wary of sellers who want to close a deal before allowing you access to their vehicle.
When test driving any Corvette, here are some things to look for/listen for:
1.) Start the car when “cold.” A cold start (starting the car after its been sitting for an extended period of time) is an excellent way to assess the engine’s overall health by observing how well it starts and runs when cold. When performing a cold start, the engine should crank easily and the engine turn over quickly. Watch for colored smoke from the exhuast pipes – this could indicate an internal engine issue. Listen how strong the engine cranks – a slow or sluggish start could be an indicator of a weak battery, or even a faulty starter motor.
2.) Check for “pulling” in the steering. When driving down a straight road at a reasonable rate of speed, momentarily loosen/release your grip on the steering wheel and observe if the car pulls to the left or right. This is an indicator of an alignment issue, which could result in premature wear of tires, suspension components, etc. A slight pull to the left or right is not concerning, but if the car pulls dramatically in either direction, it could be an indicator of a more serious issue.
3.) Vibration in the steering wheel. Similar to No. 2, this is an indicator of either a tire balance issue or a possible alignment/steering/suspension issue. If present, refer to the inspection instructions above and make sure that all steering/suspension components are evaluated prior to purchase! Also, vibration in the steering wheel during braking could be an indicator of warped brake rotors/failing brake pads. While this is not a deal breaker, brakes on a Corvette are not cheap, so make sure to remember this finding when negotiating price.
4.) Inspect all the accessories. Too often, when buying a used car, it is easy to overlook the operability of secondary/tertiary systems like wipers, heating/cooling/defrost, the stereo, even power window, locks, cruise control, etc. When it comes to a mid-engine Corvette, these cars are loaded with technology and feature more “drive by wire” systems than any Corvette that came before it. Be VERY vigilant and inspect the operability of all the technology onboard these cars. This process may take some time as there are a lot of features (especially on 2LT and 3LT models) but the extra effort may save a prospective buyer thousands if caught before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Buying a Corvette should be a fun, exciting time. For many of us, Corvette ownership is the culmination of many years of waiting, of scrimping/saving, etc. By using some of the recommendations listed in this article, it is our sincere hope that you’ll be more fully informed when making your first (or next) Corvette purchase, and that you’ll end up with a car that will bring you many years of enjoyment!
