Back in 2020, GM Authority reported that the C8 Corvette would not offer a Grand Sport model – rather, the new C8 E-Ray would take the spot traditionally held by the Grand Sport with regard the C8 Corvette lineup. As it turns out, that’s exactly what happened. Now, four years later, there’s only one C8 variant left to be revealed, namely the ultra-high-performance C8 Zora. With that in mind, we’re coming full circle to ask – is a C8 Corvette Grand Sport model actually needed?
A C8 Grand Sport model would theoretically follow a similar formula as Corvette Grand Sport models of the past. Applied to the mid-engine C8, that would mean the combination of a wide body treatment, as can be seen on the C8 E-Ray, C8 Z06, and C8 ZR1, plus the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 LT2 powerplant equipped by the C8 Stingray. We could also see this hypothetical C8 Corvette Grand Sport rocking a center-mounted exhaust similar to the trio of wide-bodied C8 models just mentioned.
Critically, this hypothetical C8 Corvette Grand Sport would also be more affordable than the E-Ray and Z06, thus making it a nice addition to the lineup and hugely desirable for those buyers who want something that’s a step up from the C8 Stingray, but without upgrading to the E-Ray, Z06, or ZR1.
That all said, affordability doesn’t seem to be a big factor for C8 owners. As GM Authority highlighted in 2021, the median annual household income for C8 Chevy Corvette buyers is $76,000 higher than the median annual household income for C7 Corvette buyers. Unsurprisingly, the average transaction price for the C8 is significantly higher as well, and in fact, a recent report indicated that the C8 Corvette carried an ATP figure of $106,032 during the fourth quarter of 2023, an increase of 20.9 percent year-over-year compared to Q4 of 2022. Now, with the introduction of the new C8 ZR1, which is estimated to cost between $175,000 to $200,000 (GM has yet to announced official figures), that ATP figure will likely continue to rise.
Still, we want to know – is a C8 Corvette Grand Sport needed? Let us know by voting in the poll, and don’t forget to post your thoughts in the comments as well!
Comments
Yes. Drop a new 6th gen small-block into it. ~550 hp, widebody, possibly lighter weight. Perfectos
LOL. It’s not going to be lighter. GS models are always heavier than the Stingray with the wider bodywork and bigger wheels, tires and brakes. And if GM goes to the expense of certifying a 6th gen small block for Corvette, they’ll drop it in the Stingray and E-Ray, too, not just a GS
if done, a light weight concept might be considered. Lighter seats, CF top if lighter, roll bar ready, no rearwindow glass, just cameras, lighter battery… closer to track ready
The GS is just a a Stingray with Z06 bodywork, wheel and brake sizes. Nothing more.
Sure, bring it on. I have a MY19 GS Coupe, love it. MY26 E-Ray HTC Coming, And A MYXX C9 Z06 HTC Reserved. I’ll be well in my 80s when the C10s roll but I know some folks in their mid 80s now with a C8; if they can do it, I’ll give it a try also.
Do It !!! A great compliment to the Corvette family. Build and we will buy it !
Just.make it easier to get in and out of.
Buy a Cadillac.
The reason I never bought a C7, as much as I like them is because there r so many of them. They don’t hold there value.
Also even though they would be a wide body with that motor wouldn’t it still have the outside exhaust like the ERay.
What mass produced cars do hold their value?
I see more C8s on the road now than I see C7s.
There doing the same thing to the C8
Yes, please make a new Grand Sport! It would sell well above orders for the E Ray and needs to be offered to loyal Corvette customers.
Heck yeah I would get the equity outta my farm house and then file for senior tax exemption to make up for the increase in payments. Practically like getting it for free.
GM doesn’t care about older corvette owners. The C8 was bult with the next gen of owners in mine.
No just build enough Z 06’s and ZR 1’s for the people who will want them.
Yes, make the Grand Sport. I had a C7 GS and loved it. Perfect combination of power and looks!
I don’t know if the traditional “Grand Sport” would be enough to make a difference. It would need more than just the wider body. Could it perhaps have a bit more power than the Stingray or 4 doors? That could justify it being $10k to $20k more for it to be something better but truly different.
Drop in the 2.7L with a hybrid, and sell it in China.
A Grand Sport would be an excellent addition to the C8 lineup. Base engine and the Z06 Body would be a great combination. I have a C6 Grand Sport, and it is a GREAT car. It looks and handles better than a standard Corvette.
At first I didn’t think a manual option would be missed but the C8 could really use one and the Grand Sport model would be a perfect fit.
I will always have a corvette. I have driven and raced them in 1957 all the time I am 96 now
and still have them. Phil Vickery
My Hero! 96 and still sporting a Vette.
The eBay dors not have a center mounted exhaust. It’s identical to the Stingray. The Grand Sport has always been just an appearance package. Make it an option for the Stingray won’t cost anything to produce.
ERay… does not have a center exhaust