Cadillac Hints to a Corvette-Based Mid-Engine Halo Car

The rumors of a mid-engine Corvette have become a routine-part of the discussion about any future models, even though GM is always quick to shut such rumors down. But this long-dreamt unicorn of a car might actually be in the works, albeit wearing a Cadillac crest rather than a Chevrolet bowtie, and the rumor originates from no less than the luxury automaker’s CEO Johan de Nysschen.

In an interview with Motor Trend that point-blank asks the Cadillac chief about the possibility of a Corvette-based, mid-engine halo car, de Nysschen says “It has to be one of the options that we consider.”

While not an outright admission, it’s the closest a GM executive has ever come to suggesting the possibility of a mid-engine Corvette.

1973 Chevrolet Aerovette

The rumor has been around since at least the late 1970s, when GM introduced the mid-engine Aerovette concept that would have competed with Ford and DeTomaso’s partnership.

That vehicle never made it to production, though GM has apparently kept plans for a mid-engine Corvette in its back pocket.

The rumor mill has been churning out more and more around mid-engine Corvette rumors, including supposed test mules.

DeNysschen’s comments only add more fuel to the speculation fire. The Cadillac CEO went on to say that in terms of corporate assets, “…a new, very advanced Corvette platform wouldn’t be a bad place to start.”

Again, not outright confirmation, but a not-so-subtle hint that de Nysschen may be the one to finally make the dreams of mid-engine Corvette fans around the globe come true.

It’s also not far-fetched considering the increased number of parts shared between the Corvette and performance-focused Cadillacs like the CTS-V, which uses the Z06’s supercharged LT4, Brembo brakes and Magnetic Ride Control. And, of course, there’s the short-lived Cadillac XTR, a Corvette in Cadillac’s clothing that never quite lived up to its potential.

The groundwork for another Corvette-based Cadillac has already been laid. Making it a mid-engine would be quite the coup for GM and could steal some thunder back from the lusted-after Ford GT