We are just days away from the launch of the new Chevrolet C8 Corvette platform which is slated to happen on July 18, 2019. There is a lot of talk about the new C8, which is to be expected, but it seems like there is some tension among enthusiasts.
Last week a leaked photo of the C8 rear end made its round on social media in what seems to be a fifty-fifty split for some that loved it and others that loathed the rear fascia. As you know, it’s tough to judge a new car by only one picture, but we are pretty optimistic that the C8 will deliver in the looks department as well as the performance.
According to Torquenews.com, The C8 platform will receive one of three new engine combinations. The base model C8 Corvette which will be revealed on July 18 in Orange County California will house a new LT2 engine. The LT2 engine is said to be a reworked LT1 from the C7 Corvette Stingray which cranked out 465 horsepower.
The new LT2 powerplant is estimated to produce 530 horsepower in the C8 Corvette with only slight changes and a new tune. Initially, word on the street was the LT2 mill would offer a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) however, this does not appear to be the case since spy shots of the dash clearly show a 6500 rpm redline.
The second engine that will supposedly be offered is the LT6. This engine will be available for the Z06 and will obviously provide more power than the base model LT2. Rumor from a Corvette Forum member says that this engine will have Dual Overhead Cams (DOHC). Justin Nohe of Torquenews.com states, “A Corvette Forum member who claims to be close to the source has seen this engine and states that it is a dual overhead cam (DOHC) with a twin turbo setup and powder coated red valve covers producing around 800 horsepower.”
The third engine option could be in the works will be the LT8 that would make its home in the ZR1 model C8. Rumor has it that this engine would be based on the LT6 but with an unexpected twist. Torquenews.com states that the C8 Z06 will likely offer a hybrid assist front wheels making the C8 all-wheel-drive which would be another first for the Corvette. This addition could add 200 horsepower bringing the Z06 to a total of 1,000 horsepower which would be cool with us.
Like most of the Corvettes of the past, it’s safe to say the Z06, and the ZR1 will have additional options in the way of aerodynamic features, tires, wheels, brakes as well as suspension. If all of these upgrades do come to fruition, the C8 is going to be a game changer for General Motors as well as the Corvette lineup.
We are willing to bet Corvette fans around the world would be able to get on board with the C8 if these rumors are true. Luckily we will get a glimpse of the base model in a few short days, but we will probably have to wait for for the Z06 and ZR1 editions.
If you want to watch the unveiling of the new C8, head on over to LSX Magazine’s Facebook page on Thursday, July 18, 2019, from 7:55 PM – 10 PM PDT as we live stream this event to the world.
