Interesting facts you must know about the Corvette
Like most things, cars are also a matter of perspective. Some segments and specific models, which may seem appealing to some, might not exactly excite the car enthusiast in you. However, exceptions are an inherent feature of the world, giving some cars the reverence, warmth, and admiration of one and all is a common trait.
Corvettes fall under this exclusive category, with the car being a hit with almost every car enthusiast. Since its inception in 1953, many Corvette models have earned widespread recognition for their sleek design, powerful engine, and seamless transmission. Although the latest models are slightly expensive, retro models are a big hit leading to cheap corvette for sale in the used car market.
Unlike most others, Corvettes haven’t lost their value with time. On the contrary, with cheap Corvettes for sale available in the used car market a lot of individuals are buying them and customizing them to their liking. This testifies to the brand’s value and tremendous history demonstrating its might, performance, and popularity over the years. To further add to this, here are some incredible facts about this car.
- NASA Astronauts drove Corvettes
Alan Shephard is the first-known astronaut who owned a Corvette. Following his brave stint as the first American to travel in space, General Motors offered him the keys to a 1962 Corvette. Thereafter, six of the Mercury Seven astronauts were given Corvettes as part of an arrangement that offered special terms to astronauts.
In 1969, three Apollo 12 astronauts ordered identical customized Corvette 390-hp 427 Stingray. The association between the two entities was further strengthened by books and movies like The Right Stuff, Apollo 13, and Terms of Endearment.
- Corvette outshone racers at Le Mans
Famed for its exemplary engines and transmission, Corvette launched his Racing Division in 1999. Despite being relatively new compared to the likes of Ferrari and Maserati, the Corvette Racing Division secured a podium position with its C5-R. It recorded victories in 2001, 2002, and 2004 – a sensational start to life in racing.
- Corvettes are fast in reverse
It’s fairly known just how incredible Corvettes are at high speeds. The car offers impeccable stability and laser-like precision, making for a powerful driving experience. Its performance is just as good in reverse as well, with the 2014 Corvette Stingray clocking an unbelievable 53 miles per hour in reverse. The Corvette C8, meanwhile, tops out at 31 miles per hour in reverse.
- Boat Engineers designed Corvette ZR1’s motor
The Corvette ZR1’s LT5 motor needed to have a small displacement and yet produce over 400 horsepower. To accomplish the task, Mercury’s MerCruiser division was chosen as boats had similar displacement-to-power ratios. The marine division, naturally, took on the responsibility and easily succeeded in doing so in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The motor produced about 405 horsepower, performing well in road tests and even breaking the world record for endurance.
