C8 Corvette Stingray Unleashed On The German Autobahn

Overview

When the C8 debuted a couple of years ago, it took the Corvette recipe from sportscar to full-on supercar. While hardcore Chevy fans were taken aback by GM’s decision with this new high-tech format for the Vette, you should have warmed up to the idea of a mid-engined Vette, especially with the launch of the Z06, late last year. Coming to this particular example, it is a US-Spec car and was just one of three Corvettes in Germany at the time of filming this video.

Sure, purists will argue that it doesn’t have the classic proportions of a traditional Vette, i.e the long hood and stubby rear, but I’d argue that for the first time ever, the all-American icon can now give any mid-engined European exotic, a run for its money. I for one am a fan of the design, but it doesn’t stop there. You’d be surprised by how practical the C8 is. Despite the supercar looks, Chevy has managed to squeeze out two cargo compartments.

Finished in a sinister shade of jet black from the nose to the spoiler, this Stingray surely looks the business, doesn't it? A borderline real-life batmobile if you will.

What’s Under the Hood

It was next time to take a peek under the hood. As I mentioned, this is a US-Spec example. The Euro-spec Corvette’s are slightly down on power as compared to their American counterparts, in order to comply with stricter regulations. But out of the box, the 6.2-Liter naturally aspirated LT2 small-block V-8 is good for 482 horsepower and 452 pound-feet of torque instead of the 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet that we’re used to Stateside. Also, the Z51 package comes as standard in Europe.

But given how rare these things are on the continent, despite a slight premium over the US-spec cars, it is still a lot of car for the money. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed usual clutch Tremec auto. The Youtuber then fires her up to see hear that cross-plank V-8 howl. Seated in what can genuinely be called a cockpit, he engages Z mode, blips the throttle, and enjoys the deep basey rumble. He also appreciates the fact that you can see the engine from the passenger cell.

Let’s Hit the Road

With that, he set out towards the Autobahn. Apparently, as it was a holiday, the traffic was pretty light, giving the C8 the best chance to stretch its legs. Eckart switched it up to track mode as he made his way onto the autobahn and almost immediately gave it the beans. He found an empty stretch and hit 272 km/h (169 mph), eventually settling down to go over other aspects of the C8. According to Eckart, the Stingray is a really usable supercar and is more at home in the twisties than on the open road.

Eckart can't get away from how well the Vette is put together because American cars have been often prejudiced for being poorly made

The C8 is a cut above the rest as he couldn’t hear any creaks no rattles. On that note, the German once again put the pedal to the metal. Moving to the inside lane the Stingray managed to easily climb to 282 km/h (175 mph).

Conclusion

So there you have it. This is what a Stingray can do when you’re not stuck at 65 on the Interstate and have enough space. Now it is worth noting that not all stretches on the German Autobahn network are without a speed limit. Even on the bits that you can go flat out, there is a recommended limit of 130 km/h (80.78 mph). The Stingray went on sale in Europe about a year ago with deliveries only having commenced recently. I can’t wait to see what the lighter Z06 can do on the autobahn, if and when it makes it to the continent.