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What It Is

The mid-engined Corvette that GM has teased us with—and that Don Sherman has demanded—for about half a century.

Why It Matters

Moving the engine rearward enables significantly improved acceleration and braking performance. Fresh exterior proportions should woo new customers even as they tip some old ones into cardiac arrest.

Platform

While the aluminum space frame and composite coachwork matrix continues, only a few structural and chassis parts will graduate from the current C7 Vette. Low production volumes will give GM an excellent excuse to show off advanced technology, such as door structures formed from sheets of magnesium.

Powertrain

For this top-hole Zora ZR1 version of the C8, we’re betting on a supercharged small-block V-8 with the fortitude to top Chrysler’s 707-hp Hellcat V-8. It will collaborate with a dual-clutch automatic transaxle. Later in the C8’s life, the engine bay could host a naturally aspirated DOHC V-8 or a twin-turbo V-6. In the likely event that Chevy decides to play the i8/NSX game, the front end is package-protected for electric motors.

Competition

Ferrari 458 performance at a Porsche 911 Turbo price should send ripples through the blue-blood clique (Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche).

What Might Go Wrong

Development delays might force GM management to leash the beast for a bit. Or, this could all be a recurring dream.

Estimated Arrival and Price

The 2017 model should arrive in dealerships by the end of next year. Expect a sticker starting at $150,000.

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