Corvette Model Gallery

1992 Roadster

It was time for the last triad in the Corvette package to be given an upgrade. The venerable L-98 was out. While still based on the familiar 350 block the LT1 was a new engine, now producing 300 hp but slightly less torque at the bottom end. Handling was also upgraded with the addition of the Bosch ASR traction control system and the new Goodyear GSC tires which were designed to be quieter and provide better wet road handling without giving up its ability to corner in the dry. Corvette was also beginning to take seriously the criticism of owners and the media in regards to Corvette’s build quality. Engineers were also being told to build 100,000 mile reliability into many of the Corvette’s parts and systems. One last minor change for 92 was the replacement of the four circular tail pipes by a rectangular one that better suited the rectangular cut out in the body.

The "skunk works" were again busy, this time working with California builder Ryan Falconer to create a V-12 powered Corvette. Built on a ‘91 ZR-1 body but given the name ZR-12 the car required an eight-inch body and chassis extension. Motor Trend magazines referred to the car as "Conan the Corvette" and this certainly described the 650 bhp put out by the Falconer all aluminum engine. GM also revealed the Stingray III concept car at the Detroit Auto Show. While ordered by Chuck Jordan in 1989 to compete against other potential C5 designs, by 1992 it had been eliminated from the competition.

1992 was also a year of two rare Corvette events. On July 2 the one millionth Corvette rolled off the line. Painted white with a red interior to commemorate the first Corvette this milestone vehicle would eventually be turned over to the museum for display. While the building of the millionth car will never come again the selection of a new chief engineer is almost as rare. In August Dave McLellan retired and a few months later Dave Hill became only the third chief engineer in Corvette history.

The model:

This 1992 Corvette convertible... has one great looking paint job!   As with all of Rob's models, the craftsmanship really stands out.

AMT kit #8607 in 1/25th scale

 

Here are some of Rob's comments on the model:

Paint:

Work Done: 

Problems:

Comments:

 

If you have any questions or comments for Robert, you can email him at  r.wheeler@sk.sympatico.ca

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Page updated  02/06/01