The Chevrolet Corvette C7 Grand Sport, produced from 2016 to 2019, represented a significant performance upgrade within the seventh-generation (C7) Corvette lineup. Positioned between the standard Stingray and the track-focused Z06, the Grand Sport aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience without the extreme price tag of its higher-performance sibling. This variant combined the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine with the option of either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The focus of this article will be specifically on the 6.2L V8 (466 Hp) Automatic configuration, detailing its technical specifications, performance characteristics, and market positioning.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette |
| Generation | Corvette Coupe (C7) |
| Type (Engine) | Grand Sport 6.2 V8 (466 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.5 l/100 km (12.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 284 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.9 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) |
| 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 engine |
| 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 | 1602 kg (3531.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 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 Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 285/30 ZR19; 335/25 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The C7 Corvette Grand Sport, launched for the 2016 model year, filled a performance gap in the Corvette range. Building upon the foundation of the Stingray, the Grand Sport incorporated elements from the Z06, such as wider fenders, larger air intakes, and upgraded brakes, but without the Z06’s supercharged engine. The 6.2-liter LT1 V8, paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission, offered a compelling blend of power, responsiveness, and everyday usability. This configuration was aimed at enthusiasts who desired a more capable track car than the Stingray, but didn’t necessarily need the outright power of the Z06. The C7 generation, overall, represented a significant leap forward for the Corvette, moving it firmly into the realm of world-class sports cars.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Grand Sport Automatic lies the 6.2-liter LT1 small-block V8 engine. This engine, a naturally aspirated powerplant, produces 466 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 465 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. The LT1 utilizes direct injection, variable valve timing, and active fuel management (cylinder deactivation) to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine’s architecture features an aluminum block and cylinder heads, contributing to its relatively lightweight construction. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from General Motors, is a key component of the Grand Sport’s performance. It features close gear ratios designed to maximize acceleration and responsiveness. Paddle shifters are included, allowing the driver to manually select gears when desired. The transmission’s programming is tuned for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Grand Sport Automatic delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the standard Stingray Automatic. The wider tires and revised suspension tuning provide increased grip and improved handling. While the manual transmission Grand Sport is often lauded for its driver involvement, the automatic version still offers a rewarding experience. The eight-speed transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, and the paddle shifters provide a degree of control that enhances the driving experience. Compared to the Z06, the Grand Sport Automatic feels more manageable and less demanding on the track, making it a more accessible option for a wider range of drivers. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to modulate the throttle and maintain control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Sport came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a Bose premium audio system, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Specific to the Grand Sport were unique exterior styling cues, such as wider fenders, a larger front splitter, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included a performance data recorder, magnetic ride control suspension, and various carbon fiber interior trim pieces. Buyers could also opt for the Grand Sport Heritage Package, which added a distinctive paint scheme and interior accents.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Sport benefits from significant chassis upgrades compared to the Stingray. It features wider tires (285/30 ZR19 front, 335/25 ZR20 rear), a revised suspension with stiffer springs and dampers, and larger brakes. The braking system consists of six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, providing ample stopping power. Magnetic Ride Control, an optional extra, further enhances the suspension’s ability to adapt to changing road conditions. The Grand Sport’s chassis is designed to minimize body roll and maximize cornering grip, resulting in a more confident and stable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corvette C7 Grand Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its balanced handling, powerful engine, and relatively affordable price point. Compared to the Stingray, the Grand Sport offered a significant performance upgrade without the substantial price increase of the Z06. Fuel economy, while not a primary focus for this type of vehicle, was respectable for its performance level, averaging around 19 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, with few widespread issues reported. Some critics noted that the automatic transmission, while competent, didn’t quite match the engagement of the manual transmission.
Legacy
The C7 Corvette Grand Sport has established itself as a desirable and capable sports car in the used car market. The LT1 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission have proven to be reliable and durable, and maintenance costs are relatively reasonable. The Grand Sport’s balanced performance and attractive styling have made it a popular choice among Corvette enthusiasts. As the C7 generation ages, the Grand Sport is likely to become increasingly collectible, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage and desirable options. It represents a sweet spot in the C7 lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value.
