You can’t really have a conversation about high performance cars without mentioning the Corvette. Of course, many of us are highly anticipating the arrival of the new mid-engine 2020 Corvette which will offer a ridiculous amount of performance for the under $60,000. So before the C8 Corvette arrives, I decided to take a look at the C7 Corvette Grand Sport.
2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Exterior
When it comes to the Corvette GS, Chevy designers went above and beyond to make this trim-level as hardcore as possible and integrated elements that enhance its performance. In addition to track-focused aero elements, the Grand Sport features distinct front fender inserts, a Z06-style grille, and wider rear fenders to support a wider track. Buyers can add a $7,995 Z07 package which adds carbon-ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Cup tires. All that helps the Corvette GS achieve 1.05g in cornering capability – and 1.2g with the optional Z07 package.
While the overall length and height are the same, the width of the Corvette GS is 3.5-inches wider than the standard Vette spanning a total of 77.4-inches – the same as the Corvette ZR1. For those of you wondering, the color pictured here is the Shadow Gray which I really like but my personal favorite is the Elkhart Lake Blue.
2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Interior
I’m very excited about the interior of the new C8 2020 Corvette. From the photos that I’ve seen and from what I’ve read, the interior is much better than the C7 in terms of materials and layout. An interesting note, the trunk is actually soft-close so you don’t have to slam it shut!.
2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Performance
Not to mention, with a zero-to-60 time of 2.95 seconds, it’s firmly in supercar territory. I would start with the Corvette Grand Sport, but by the time you add the Z07 package, you’re already well over the starting price of a Z06. That said, the Corvette Grand Sport is an awesome stop between the base Corvette and the more extreme supercharged models. Living with the Corvette Z06 and ZR1 on a daily basis, might become cumbersome, because these cars were designed with the track in mind.
It’ll become a monster when you put it in Track Mode and remain very reserved in Touring Mode. The naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 pumps out 460 horsepower and allows you to go from zero to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. At this point, some might think why pay an extra $10k over the price of the base Corvette just to go 0.1 secs faster. Not to mention, the big Brembo brakes and grippy Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires make a strong case for the Grand Sport.
2019 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Overall
I’m very excited about the C8 2020 Corvette. The 3LT will start at $71,945 and will only add more of a luxury feel with extra leather and suede. Of course, to hit that 0-60 time of under 3 secs, you will have to add the Z51 Performance Package for an additional $5,000. That means for just $65,000 you can get a sports car that goes from zero to 60 in under three seconds, and that’s why I will always love Corvettes.
*MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary. Your mileage will vary depending specific vehicle trim, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
