Over the next few days, GM Authority will be behind the wheel of a 2021 Corvette Stingray. The 2021 Corvette is the second model year of the current, eighth generation model, which introduced an all-new mid-engine layout for the 2020 model year, a first in the nameplate’s history.
The 2021 Corvette is produced at the GM Bowling Green Assembly plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Behind the cabin, the latest C8 Corvette is equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 LT2, which is rated at 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with the optional factory performance exhaust (like our tester), output is bumped up to 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All that muscle is routed exclusively to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Outside, the 2021 Corvette rocks slick mid-engine proportions and striking styling. Two body styles are offered – a Coupe (with a manually-removable roof panel) plus a hardtop Convertible. Both models feature two doors and seating for two. Customers also have a range of customization options, including 12 exterior colors and 8 interior colors, plus a range of stripes, fender marks, wheels, and other components.
This particular C8 Stingray is the Coupe in the range-topping 3LT trim in the (very much noticeable) Accelerate Yellow Metallic, a $500 option. The interior colorway is Sky Cool Gray/Strike Yellow.
Our tester is also equipped with a variety of optional equipment, including Carbon Flash painted aluminum wheels with a machined edge, sized at 19 inches in front and 20 inches in the rear, a $995 addition.
It’s also fitted with the engine appearance package ($995), yellow-painted brake calipers ($595), and a sueded microfiber-wrapped steering wheel ($595).
Further optional extras for our tester include the Front Lift Adjustable Height Memory ($1,995), Selective Magnetic Ride Control ($1,895), and the performance exhaust system ($1,195). Price as it sits is $80,710.
So then, if there’s anything you want to know about the 2021 Corvette beyond the spec sheet, ask us in the comments section below, and we’ll reply as soon as possible.
Ready… set… go.
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Comments
Is the repair rate and cost higher for Z51 C8 vs Non Z51 C8
when will dealers actually have and keep stock of new c8 corvettes instead of having to order them?
Never as long as the demand exceed the supply and production is “touch & go” it’s going to be that way for the next couple of years 2021 is done now they’re gonna work on 22 but still carrying a bunch of orders for 21
I waited 14 months for my 2020 I wasn’t happy about it now I feel for those people that ordered 21’s
What type of crash testing has been done on the new C8?
it is a shame whenyou put down a deposit six months ago and GM has not excepted my order yet Might just buy a mustang
I just got mine after 22 mos. It is worth the wait.
Yes I too waited 12 months for mine and it is amazing car. 2021 Z51 Sebring Orange .
Much nicer than the last two I owned .
13 month wait! I ended up with a 2021! I have had many problems with my HTC not closing and latching. It was still worth the wait. Been in the shop 4 times. Aggravating! GM says if this last attempt does not fix it they will bring in an engineer from Germany where the CT assembly is manufactured.
They are building them as fast as they can.
The scenario you describe will take place once supply begins to align with demand. When that will happen, is anyone’s guess. From what I know, they are not even close to meeting true demand yet.
I waited 11/2 years for mine. Heard everyone complaining about the wait but there was nothing that anyone could do. We were all in the same boat. Pull up a chair, sit down, relax because when you do get it you’ll be laughing and giddy with joy. Not happy with your new C8? I don’t think you’ll have a problem flipping it. But remember if you still want another one you’ll be down on the bottom of the totem pole. BTW make sure you order yours through a reputable C8 specialized dealer that WILL communicate with you and is not just a show man.
No mustangs available on dealer lots either!
Wow, are you living under a rock? Think about what the world has been going through the past 18 months. But that’s irrelevant and you want your corvette now! Talk about entitlement.
Wait your turn!
10…….not other ratings…. I’ve not found myself so disgruntled with a pending vehicle purchase (on order since Dec 2020) than this one. Don’t think it’s the salesperson either……but higher up……… ; (
Hello,
I am looking to buy a 2022 C8 (NO Z51 Package) like yours. I understand that there is no limited slip differential, does it have a positraction system ?( I will be driving the C8 in snow ) + I would like to know the 0 to 60 m.p.h. time on this base model.
Thank you P.S. I very much enjoy your GM news and more.. I have a chevrolet malibu 2016 and i have owned 7 other GM cars.
Jacques
I own one of the 1st 2020 C8 convertibles. And yes it has traction control and a weather setting that manages brakes, traction, and engine.
Does the magnetic ride control improve the ride when you are just cruising or make it harsher?
Love the mag. Suspension. Car rides very nice in tour mode and works great in sport or race. Actually rides nice.
Can you tell how many Z06 will be made in 2021 or are they going into 2022 .
Thank You for any replay
When will chevy/corvette dealerships receive their model year 2022 “corvette allocations”, and from GM, and thus their permission to file nre orders!!
Sincerely,
Wayne Wating
Since only event 3000 and above will be built for ’21 models, what is the projected total for ’21 models?
It’s beautiful man, it’s beautiful. This is the ultimate spec for me, i don’t want a wing nor spoiler at all.
You can always get a wing later. Mine is Rapid blue non Z51. Searching through eBay I found a new one, bought it and had my dealer instal it, total cost $600.00. It looks amazing!
Where can I find simple step-by-step instructions on how to set up my PDR to use as a dash Cam?
Bob
Open the HOME on your dashboard monitor. And then go to setting vehicle manual.
PDR is super easy
Just get a 16GB card, be sure to format it on ur computer, then go back to the car, open the glove box and slide the correct way [see the manual] into the reader.
The you can select the PDF from the main menu on your touch screen monitor.
And honestly, there are a TON of You tube videos on this.
I’ve had my deposit in since April 14th 2020. Still haven’t put in my order. I’m told I’m number 4 on the list though.
Enjoy in getting the daily newsletter lots of good info..Through my yrs of owning Corvette (9) my last being a C7 2015 Z51 coupe I sold with intensions of buying a new C8 that has been put on hold only because of the start/ stop of the build process and different suppliers of parts..Like anything new it always takes time in getting used to new designs/etc and i have finally have got to take point in time but again staying low until the build process gets more constant..Thanks for the great info that the newsletter puts out..Back talking about the build of Corvette i have visited the plant 32 times and a “Founding Member” of the NCM in BG KY…
Bob Simmons Founder North Central Corvette Club of PA
Founder NCM
Is it ok to drag race a few times, including launch, without adding the additional fluid to the trans?
Is there a shortcut for setting the GPS position for the Adjustable Height Memory
When you come to the place you want to raise the front end, hit the button on the center console that is marked to raise the front end. You will see it showing that the front is raising on the dash display. Then go to the 4 arrow buttons on the right hand side of the steering wheel and hit the left arrow. This will save the GPS location. To delete a location, hit the center button. The front end will stay raised until you hit the console button again or you exceed 24 mph or turn the car off. SO be careful if you are parking with the front raised because it will lower when you turn the car off.You may clear everything pulling in but have a problem when it lowers. When you start the car again it will raise again
2 questions, how seemless is using manual shifting or automatic mode and given brakes are now wireless, curious about brake feel as compared to C7. Would have a few more if you were testing the convertible but appreciate your taking questions…
Bottom line the pretty yellow has 490 at the brakes and 465 lbs ft of torque this particular version of the C8 has a top speed of 194mph.. This would be the Vette I would buy tomorrow if I could afford, but I will get it one day. The Z51 package is awesome but top speed is slowed to a still impressive 184mph!!!!
How is the passenger experience in the C8 during a couple hundred mile trip? Where do they rest thier hands & arms and is storage accessible to them? How does getting in & out compare with previous vettes?
My girlfriend and I drove from Scottdale to Seattle. And she was amazed at how comfortable the LT3 seating was.
In 2017 I moved from Seattle where I had lived for over 50 years. Best move I ever made, even better than buying the Corvettes I have owned. Can’t afford a C8 but I’m driving a poor man’s Vette. Millennium Yellow 2001 ZO6.
We’re planning a long trip (3,000 miles) with ours. I sat in the passenger seat (standard seat) and it was very comfortable. Use the control console as an arm rest. The glove compartment is in front of the passenger for storage. If a long trip is on the horizon use soft luggage that can take any shape and the targa top can still be removed.
Can’t wait to get mine so we can take road trip in it.
What kind of flexibility does the Front Lift Adjustable Height Memory option actually give you? Is this something that would be good for steep driveways?
Why did the designers of the corvette lean to a midengined platform? Did you want to copy the european design? If so WHY? And don’t give me RATIO balance!? In my opinion: having a midengine design; if anyone wants to drag race that car w/the engine behind the seats are grounds for a wheelie! And not enjoyment!
Explained here:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2019/05/heres-why-the-corvette-is-going-mid-engined/
Has nothing to do with “copying” anyone. A mid-engine layout is a natural progression of the Corvette, and mid-engine Corvette concepts have been around for decades, since the late 1950s. Educate yourself:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2019/11/check-out-the-genesis-of-the-mid-engine-corvette-with-our-cerv-i-gallery/
From the beginning Zora insisted that the Corvette should be a mid engine platform. This was way before the mid engine craze was born. He raced for Porsche with their mid engine Carreras and won his class at LeMans. Chevrolet had several CERVs all of them mid engine. So far the C8 has proven to be an excellent racing machine. BTW a tour through the Corvette Museum is definitely a must.
If I had mine to drive I would have questions that I haven’t figured out yet! But when will the 2021’s be completed?
when the door is fully open what does it measure from body to tip of door [how much room is required in addition to vehicle normal width to fully open the driver door in a garage?]
THANKS Tom V.
Why are you not able to raise the convertible top with the remote
Would like to learn as much as possible about the Front Lift Adjustable Height Memory option. This is a must have option for our next Vette. I had the front splitter removed on our 2011 ZR1 and replaced with the Z06 spoiler to avoid tearing it up.
have it on my new C8. great option. easy to work. just press button when you’re near a bump (my driveway etc) and then car raises a few inches EVERY TIME i’m in that GPS spot again. and lowers after i pass it
I live up in the hills where the gutter dips are quite a steep angle. I find my front end lift a must have. I use it quite frequently. So Happy I got this option.
i have a new C8 and love the car but hate the lumbar in drivers seat. it is too high for where my old back aches. have to use an ugly cushion in my fancy car.
wonder if anyone knows if the 2022 will have adjustable lumbar as some of the previous models did? i have the LT2 seat and i think even the higher grade racing seat is the same
I’ve aged 2 years since order placed!
I’m tall, being 6’5” and have long legs. What are the front seat dimensions and how can I download the spec sheets for all the information I would love me to know about a C8?
OK, here’s my questions. I don’t see any answers yet so maybe you’re answering via private email, hopefully at least answering. Thanks for asking and love the articles.
– How confining is the passenger seating? I see Michael answered that his girlfriend was very comfortable, but my usual passengers will be my brother-in-law and wife, who both outweigh me by 100+ pounds. So how would a “large” person do?
– How does the Sky Cool Grey interior hold up to dirt? The example I saw and sat in when they were displayed at dealers around the country was very dirty on the arm rest and center console.
– How does the sueded steering wheel hold up to body oil and sweat? It would seem to me that it would soak it up and become matted down, like the arm rests on the doors of my C7. (I had towels for the elbows.)
We’ll here it goes aging I was all set for build week of 4/26 and they move it to the week of 7/19 now this is all BS
What an awFOOL color! The Corvette reminds me of an unfinished Ferrari.
I suggest you go buy a Ferrari. I can’t hardly go anywhere without somebody saying they love my car and the color. But you know what they say about opinions and assholes ?. I don’t care about either one, good luck with your new Ferrari.
If you like your car good for you but you should like me because I gave you an HONEST opinion and won’t LIE or bull sh it you ever and you should respect that. Sure, I could be more delicate but I like to get to the point. Life is short. Yes, I do think a Ferrari looks better but it’s also 3x the cost. Oh, all Corvettes needs a spoiler and then it might not look too bad.
Ordered a 2020 and was cancelled. Ordered a 2021 when first able to do so, now cancelled. Will now place order for 2022 Porsche 911 GTS. Life is too short for GM b.s.
What are the chances of getting a 22 if I haven’t contacted dealerships yet?
You have a better chance contacting dealers who have a larger allocation. Search google for “top 100 Corvette dealers 2020” You will see which dealers sold the most cars last year. Make some phone calls and see what they can do for you. My dealer here was #51. Waited 18 months for 2020 C8. He charged my list for the car. No markup. I heard some dealers in the area with low allocations were charging a markup. Take it or leave it. No way to deal with your customers. Good luck!
How about a thorough review/assessment of the C8 from the passenger point of view. Can the passenger see the screen? Can the passenger assist with the navigation system? How about passenger access to the radio? Can the passenger see out well? Are cup holders adequate for two people? I want to use Vette for long trips and wifey needs to be happy. How about taking off a heavy coat, where to put it? Is there room in the cab for her six-pack and cheeseburger?
See comments above.
What are your feelings on the seat comfort and overall ride?
I have a 2010 (C6). The seats are not comfortable for long trips.
Does the handling feel a lot different than the front engine Vette?
I think it is much better than previous Corvettes. Ofcourse I only have 3k miles so far but did do a six hour drive and felt very good when I got out of the car. I chose the Gt2 bucket seat very Happy so far.
handling is great. i have convertible. back/side vision is awful. have to use cameras which is less than ideal.
for me, the seat is no good. i have a mildly bad lower back. the lumbar is too high and no way to adjust so i have to use an ugly cushion in my fancy car.
a trip of over an hour would be no good for me and i would guess not ideal for anyone
Curious if they’re still going for more than MSRP. I have seen many on websites that early buyers got, and marked up for resale. Hopefully Chevy will be able to increase production so I can get a test drive (I know, it’s a novel concept in this case). I am a manual guy though, and am disappointed that I can’t row my own in the new Vette. But, if the tranny is as good as I’ve heard, it won’t bother me too much. By the way, do they still offer the driving course with it?
Why do I need a special battery tender charger when the C8 battery is a normal Lead/Acid battery. Why can’t I use my normal charger?
Why does the 2021 C8 Owner’s Manual pg 279, tell us to jump start the C8 by connecting battery positive to positive and negative to negative, when all established knowledge (and good engineering practice I think) states we should connect the negative to a ground point on the vehicle?
Please stop sending me emails on driving the Corvette. I do not want to see all of the
questions/comments from everybody.
Can you open up the brake cooling ducts (for track use) and just leave them open all the time? If so, not sure why GM delivers the vehicle with these closed in the first place. Never heard of brakes getting too cool.