Chevy Corvette Generations Ranked by Horsepower
Bottom line: The Corvette has gone from a 150‑hp roadster in 1953 to a 495‑hp mid‑engine monster in 2024, and every generation can be ranked by sheer output.
Chevy Corvette Generations Ranked by Horsepower – Full Power Guide
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Image: Chevy Corvette Generations Ranked by Horsepower – Full Power Guide – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Each Corvette tells a visual story. The first‑generation C1 (1953‑1962) wore classic American curves and a removable hardtop. The C2 “Sting Ray” introduced a sleek split‑window coupe that still turns heads at car shows. The C3’s long, shark‑like nose (1968‑1982) gave the car a muscular vibe, while the C4’s wedge shape (1984‑1996) felt futuristic.
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When GM launched the C5 in 1997, the design finally balanced aerodynamics with everyday appeal. The C6 (2005‑2013) refined that balance, adding sharper lines and a more aggressive front grille. The current C8 (2020‑present) broke tradition with a mid‑engine layout, giving the “Vette” a supercar silhouette that many fans love.
Performance & Mileage
Horsepower is the easiest way to compare the generations, but fuel economy matters too. Early models were thirsty, while newer engines benefit from modern tech.
| Generation | Engine | Horsepower | EPA Mileage (combined) | Price (US$) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1 (1953‑62) | 5.3 L L-8 | 150 hp | 15 mpg | 26,500 |
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| C2 (1963‑68) | 5.7 L V8 | 300 hp | 14 mpg | 38,000 |
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| C3 (1968‑82) | 5.7‑7.0 L V8 | 460 hp | 13 mpg | 45,000 |
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| C4 (1984‑96) | 5.7‑7.0 L V8 | 405 hp | 16 mpg | 43,000 |
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| C5 (1997‑2004) | 5.7‑6.0 L LS1/LS2 | 350‑400 hp | 18 mpg | 44,000 |
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| C6 (2005‑13) | 6.0‑7.0 L LS2/LS3 | 400‑430 hp | 18 mpg | 53,000 |
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| C7 (2014‑19) | 6.2 L LT1 | 460 hp | 19 mpg | 58,000 |
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| C8 (2020‑) | 6.2 L LT2 | 495 hp | 19 mpg | 68,000 |
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Price & Rivals
Price has risen with performance, but the Corvette still undercuts many European exotics. In 2024, a base C8 costs about $68,000, while a Porsche 911 starts near $110,000. That price gap makes the Vette a compelling choice for drivers who want supercar thrills without the supercar price tag.
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Rivals include the Ford Mustang GT (460 hp, $45,000) and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (717 hp, $70,000). The Mustang offers more straight‑line power for less money, but the Corvette’s handling, braking, and mid‑engine balance give it an edge on twisty roads.
FAQ
- What is the most powerful Corvette ever made? The 2024 C8 Z51 with the 495‑hp LT2 engine holds that title.
- How does Corvette fuel economy compare to a Mustang? The latest C8 gets about 19 mpg combined, a few miles lower than the Mustang GT’s 20 mpg.
- Is a used C7 a good value? Yes. With 460 hp, modern tech, and prices around $45,000–$55,000, the C7 offers near‑C8 performance for less.
What’s your favorite Corvette generation? Drop a comment below and let us know which horse power era gets your heart racing.
Source: Read Official News
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