The Chevrolet Corvette Targa (C7) Stingray 6.2 V8 (466 Hp) represents a significant evolution in the iconic Corvette lineage. Produced from 2014 to 2019, this variant occupied a central position within the C7 generation, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and open-air driving enjoyment. The C7 marked a departure from previous Corvettes with its more refined interior, advanced chassis, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. The Targa top, a nod to Corvette history, provided a unique driving experience, combining the thrill of a coupe with the freedom of a convertible.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette |
| Generation | Corvette Targa (C7) |
| Type (Engine) | Stingray 6.2 V8 (466 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Targa |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 19.6 l/100 km (12 US mpg, 14.4 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg, 23.2 UK mpg, 8.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 279 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 sec |
| Maximum speed | 290 km/h (180.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 288.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 390.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 466 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.6 Hp/l |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.2 l (11.83 US qt | 9.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1614 kg (3558.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 226 kg (498.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 287 l (10.14 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 593 l (20.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4492 mm (176.85 in.) |
| Width | 1872 mm (73.7 in.) |
| Height | 1239 mm (48.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2710 mm (106.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C7 Stingray lies the LT1 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a cornerstone of American performance, delivering 466 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 465 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 power and efficiency. The engine’s architecture is a traditional front-engine, longitudinal layout, driving power to the rear wheels. The 7-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise control and an engaging driving experience. The engine block is constructed from aluminum, contributing to weight reduction. The fuel system employs multi-port fuel injection, ensuring a precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion.
Driving Characteristics
The C7 Stingray 6.2L with the manual transmission delivers exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4 seconds, and it can achieve a top speed of around 180 mph. The engine’s broad torque curve provides strong acceleration in any gear, making it a versatile performer for both street driving and track days. The suspension, tuned for both comfort and handling, provides a composed ride. The steering is precise and responsive, offering excellent feedback to the driver. Compared to potential higher-performance Z06 models, the Stingray prioritizes a more balanced driving experience, offering a blend of power and control that is accessible to a wider range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Stingray trim came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a Bose premium sound system. Optional extras included heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, magnetic ride control suspension, and various appearance packages. The interior design was a significant improvement over previous Corvette generations, with a more driver-focused layout and higher-quality materials. The Targa top, operated electronically, allowed for open-air driving with the convenience of a retractable roof.
Chassis & Braking
The C7 Corvette features an aluminum frame, contributing to a significant reduction in weight compared to previous generations. The suspension utilizes double wishbones at both the front and rear, providing excellent handling and ride quality. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The chassis was designed to be exceptionally rigid, enhancing handling precision and minimizing body roll. The standard wheels were 18-inch front and 19-inch rear, with performance tires available as an option.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C7 Stingray was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and improved interior. It was seen as a significant step forward for the Corvette, bringing it into direct competition with European sports cars. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance V8, with combined fuel consumption around 19 mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to the Z06 variant, the Stingray offered a more affordable entry point into the C7 Corvette lineup, appealing to a broader audience. The Stingray’s combination of performance, features, and price made it a compelling value in the sports car segment.
Legacy
The C7 Corvette Stingray 6.2 V8 (466 Hp) has established itself as a modern classic. The LT1 engine has proven to be durable and reliable, and the C7 chassis provides a solid foundation for performance upgrades. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, particularly those with low mileage and desirable options. The C7 Stingray represents a pivotal moment in Corvette history, bridging the gap between the traditional American sports car and a more sophisticated, world-class performer. Its blend of power, handling, and technology continues to appeal to enthusiasts today.
