German car makers, especially BMW, have a habit of underrating their high-performance models, so when they win group tests and stuff people contribute that to the superior engineering. Now, apparently, Americans are doing the same, as the official spec sheets for the new 2014 Corvette Stingray reveal the car is more powerful than what Chevy first claimed.

Granted, Chevrolet did say ‘estimated’ when they mentioned 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque for the new Stingray, but that usually means the car makes less, not more. Now turns out the C7’s LT1 6.2 liter V8 engine is rated at 455 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Taking into account that this is the base model  the entry-level Stingray, if you will – you have to say Chevy has really outdone themselves with this car.

As for the fuel economy, while official figures are yet to be verified by EPA, GM estimates say at least 26 mpg highway. So, if the performance numbers are any indication, you can expect official MPG to be slightly higher than that.

Compared to the C6 generation, the Stingray has more power, less weight – thanks to a new construction that includes carbon fiber – and a much more sophisticated chassis. The car also has wider tracks and larger wheels, so naturally, it should be a completely different driving experience. The Corvette is now closer to its European rivals than ever. Does that mean it has lost its American shock and awe kind of character? Well, that remains to be seen.

Images via Corvette7