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C8 Corvette Side Intake Treatment Compared By Model

The C8 Corvette is currently available in four different model variants – the entry-level Stingray, the AWD hybrid E-Ray, the high-revving Z06, and the twin-turbocharged beast known as the C8 ZR1. A fifth model is on the way as well, namely the new C8 Zora. Each of these mid-engine sports cars showcase its own unique styling enhancements. Now, we’re taking a closer look at the design on offer with a side intake treatment analysis between all five C8 Corvette models.

The side view of the C8 Corvette Stingray.

C8 Stingray

Let’s start with the C8 Stingray, which is equipped with sizable side intakes placed between the door and the rear fender / rear wheel. These intakes incorporate checkmark-shaped trim around the perimeter, with an angular “slash” that ties together the door and air opening behind it. The side intake also incorporates molded body pieces through the door and lower panels, adding to the visual impact. The trim bits around the intake are colored black.

C8 Z06

C8 E-Ray

Moving on, we find similar side intake treatments for the C8 Corvette Z06 and C8 E-Ray. Unsurprisingly, both models feature a widebody exterior design, and that extends to the side intake shape. Unlike the checkmark-shaped intake seen on the C8 Stingray, the Z06 and E-Ray both incorporate a wishbone-shaped side intake, with a large, sideways-oriented “Y” formation connecting the doors and rear fenders. The shape suggests a larger intake element compared to the Stingray, with black trim used for the 2023 model year, and body-color trim introduced for the 2024 model year.

C8 ZR1

C8 Zora

Finally, we come to the ZR1 and Zora. While General Motors has yet to formally debut the new C8 Corvette Zora, GM Authority spy photos reveal similar styling as that of the recently released ZR1, including similar side intakes. Both models incorporate a wishbone-shaped side intake shape, but unlike the Z06 and E-Ray, the intake design on the ZR1 and Zora also incorporate a smaller secondary intake element located at the base of “Y.”

While similar, the side intake treatment for each of the five C8 Corvette models help them stand out in the lineup, while also providing the added benefit of extra cooling for the mid-mounted engine and the brakes, as needed. As a reminder, all C8 models ride on the GM Y2 platform, while production takes place exclusively at the GM Bowling Green plant in Kentucky.

Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

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Comments

  1. Too many goo gaw slashes that detract from the overall sculptural shape of the body as a whole. Looks even more distracting when they are all black on a non-black vehicle. Personally, I felt that the first gen C8’s with body colored side trim were by far the most attractive. But GM keeps trying to fix what isn’t broken in the spirit of model differentiation. Like the old days of head lights and tail lights being 1, 2 or 3 modules between base and high end trims.

    Reply
  2. The side intake trim on the Stingray is offered in body color, like the E-Ray. Front and rear trim as well. I think it gives the body a more flowing and cohesive look. More like a Ferrari 488, if you will.

    Reply
  3. would be nice if they would put removable bug screens to keep radiators safe from stones and bugs!!!!!

    Reply
    1. Don’tatually have a C8, eh? Nearly 28,000 miles on mine, and all I’ve found in the side intakes is a leaf. One. Simply not an issue.

      Reply
  4. Wow, what an insightful analysis of something no one else noticed! /sarcasm

    Really slow news week, I guess.

    Reply

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