Chevrolet came to the Geneva Motor Show this year with a new and special version of the C7 Stingray, the 2017 Corvette Grand Sport. This ‘Vette is pitched as a “purist” model with racing roots, and it has the specifications to back up that claim.
Inspired by the 2015 Le Mans-winning Corvette C7.R GTE Pro race car, the new Corvette Grand Sport boasts the main factors that make a car track ready: aerodynamic kit, lightweight construction, performance Michelin tires and a naturally aspirated engine.
Visually, comes Corvette Grand Sport with specific front fender inserts, a Z06-style grille and wider rear fenders, plus an optional Heritage package includes hash-mark fender graphics in six colors, with the hash-mark detail carried onto the interior’s brushed aluminum trim. There is also full length stripes, but if you don’t fancy any of this, you can opt for regular finishes from the regular C7 catalog.
In terms of performance, the GS boasts a LT1 V8 engine with 460 hp, dry-sump oiling system and active exhaust, mated to a seven-speed manual transmission with active rev match (8-speed auto optional). The car also gets standard magnetic ride control and electronic limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, and unique wheels, and can be order with the Z07 package featuring carbon brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Cup tires.
The version of the new Grand Sport you want though is the Collector Edition which comes with Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a unique Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior. This one’s a sound investment.