The Third Generation Corvette C3
*Above picture from http://www.seriouswheels.com/1978-Chevrolet-Corvette.htm
Home Generation 1 Generation 2 Generation 3 Generation 4 Generation 5 Generation 6
"The all-new 1968 Corvette
was dramatically different in appearance from any other Corvette. Bearing a
striking resemblance to Chevrolet's "Mako Shark II" concept vehicle, it
literally changed the way people looked at cars. Along with its bold new
look, the 1968 Corvettes introduced hidden windshield wipers and removable
T-Tops on Coupe models. In 1968, Corvette production hit a new record of
28,566. Corvette received its most radical styling change in 1968, and this
basic body design would continue to evolve for 15 years."
(original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"The 1970s were a time of great change for Corvette. While a late production
start for the 1970 model year prevented the first cars from rolling off the
assembly line until January, sales rebounded in 1971 and continued to climb.
But at the same time, outside forces, such as the oil embargo and increasing
government regulations, were having an impact on Corvette performance."
(original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"The original high-performance LT1 engine, a 350-cu.-in. "Small Block," was
introduced in 1970. It generated 370 horsepower. That year, the "Big Block"
displacement was increased to 454 cu. in., and was rated at 390 horsepower
in the LS5 version." (original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"In 1971, a special-purpose "Big Block" V8 was available that produced 425
horsepower. But 1971 was the last year for "gross" horsepower ratings. The
industry changed to a "net" rating system that accounted for the exhaust
system, vehicle accessories and other components. It provided a truer
measure of an engine's performance and is still used today."
(original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"The Convertible model was dropped at the end of the 1975 model year. The
next Corvette Convertible would not be available until 1986."
(original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"In 1977, Corvette hit the 1/2-million milestone as the 500,000th car rolled
off the assembly line. Leather seats were standard for the first time,
although buyers could choose cloth as a no-cost option. Production reached
49,213 units." (original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"Corvette celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1978 and, in recognition of
this event, was selected to be the Official Pace Car of the Indianapolis
500. Two special models were produced for public sale -- a Pace Car
appearance edition and a special Silver Anniversary paint package."
(original article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)
"In 1979, Corvette production hit 53,807 units -- a record that still stands
today. Sales of Corvette remained strong in the early '80s. It was clearly
now a part of the American fabric, attracting buyers with its rich heritage
and dramatic styling." (original
article
http://www.corvettesbyrickdaniel.com/corvettehistory.html)