The Chevrolet Corvette C7 Grand Sport, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a significant iteration of the iconic American sports car. Positioned between the standard Stingray and the track-focused Z06, the Grand Sport aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience without the extreme performance focus – and price tag – of its higher-tier sibling. It combined the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine with components borrowed from the Z06, such as its wider body, magnetic ride control, and upgraded braking system. This variant was exclusively offered with a seven-speed manual transmission, catering to enthusiasts seeking a more connected driving experience. The C7 generation as a whole marked a departure for the Corvette, moving to a more modern, technologically advanced platform and interior.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette |
| Generation | Corvette Coupe (C7) |
| Type (Engine) | Grand Sport 6.2 V8 (466 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.4 l/100 km (12.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 282 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 290 km/h (180.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 466 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 630 Nm @ 4600 rpm (464.66 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LT1 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.2 l (11.83 US qt | 9.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 287 l (10.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4514 mm (177.72 in.) |
| Width | 1965 mm (77.36 in.) |
| Height | 1239 mm (48.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2710 mm (106.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Rear track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 370.84 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365.76 mm |
| Tires size (Front) | 285/30 R19 |
| Tires size (Rear) | 335/25 R20 |
Introduction
The Chevrolet Corvette C7 Grand Sport, launched for the 2016 model year and continuing through 2019, occupied a unique position within the C7 Corvette lineup. Built on the same aluminum space frame chassis as the Stingray and Z06, the Grand Sport aimed to bridge the gap between everyday usability and track-day capability. It was a direct descendant of the Grand Sport models from the 1963 and 1996 Corvette generations, inheriting their focus on enhanced handling and performance. The C7 Grand Sport was exclusively offered as a coupe and convertible, and importantly, only with a seven-speed manual transmission, reinforcing its appeal to driving enthusiasts.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Grand Sport lies the 6.2-liter LT1 naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a member of Chevrolet’s Small Block family, produces 466 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 464.66 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. The LT1 utilizes direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing to optimize both performance and efficiency. The engine’s architecture features an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice Chevrolet maintains for its V8 engines due to its compact size and robust nature. The seven-speed manual transmission, sourced from Tremec, features close gear ratios designed to maximize acceleration and driver engagement. The transmission is known for its precise shifts and robust construction.
Driving Characteristics
The Grand Sport’s driving experience is defined by its balanced handling and potent power delivery. The wider tires (285/30R19 front, 335/25R20 rear) and Magnetic Ride Control suspension, borrowed from the Z06, provide exceptional grip and body control. The manual transmission encourages active participation from the driver, allowing for precise gear selection and control. Compared to the standard Stingray, the Grand Sport offers significantly improved cornering ability and braking performance. While not as brutally fast in a straight line as the supercharged Z06, the Grand Sport provides a more approachable and rewarding driving experience for many enthusiasts. The gear ratios are tuned for acceleration, providing strong pull throughout the rev range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Sport came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including a performance exhaust system, Brembo brakes, and the aforementioned Magnetic Ride Control. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Optional extras included a navigation system, a Bose premium audio system, and various carbon fiber interior trim pieces. Grand Sport models also featured unique badging and exterior styling cues, such as a Z06-style front splitter and rear spoiler, setting them apart from the standard Stingray.
Chassis & Braking
The C7 Corvette’s aluminum space frame chassis provides a rigid and lightweight foundation for the Grand Sport. The suspension features independent control arm designs at all four corners, optimized for both road and track use. The braking system consists of large ventilated discs with Brembo calipers, providing exceptional stopping power. The Grand Sport’s wider track width contributes to increased stability and cornering grip. Unlike the base C7, the Grand Sport did not offer the option of rear drum brakes; all models were equipped with four-wheel disc brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corvette C7 Grand Sport was widely praised by automotive critics for its balanced performance, engaging driving experience, and relatively affordable price point. It was often lauded as the “sweet spot” in the C7 Corvette lineup, offering a compelling combination of performance and usability. Compared to the Stingray, the Grand Sport provided a significant upgrade in handling and braking. While the Z06 offered even greater performance, its higher price and more aggressive character made it less appealing to some drivers. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for sports car buyers, was respectable for a vehicle of this performance level, averaging around 19.1 US mpg combined.
Legacy
The C7 Corvette Grand Sport has established itself as a desirable and well-regarded sports car in the used car market. The LT1 engine is known for its reliability, and the manual transmission is favored by enthusiasts. While maintenance costs can be higher than some other sports cars, the Grand Sport’s robust construction and readily available parts supply ensure its long-term viability. The C7 Grand Sport represents a high point in the Corvette’s evolution, offering a compelling blend of American muscle and modern performance technology. Its focus on driver engagement and balanced handling has cemented its place as a favorite among Corvette enthusiasts.
