Corvette Model Gallery

The New Generation - 1984 thru 1996

Never has a new generation of Corvette been so eagerly awaited as the C4. Development began as early as 1978 after GM’s decision to abandon the idea of a mid-engine, a concept that Zora Arkus Duntov had championed until his retirement at the beginning of 1975. By late 1979 designer Jerry Palmer, under the leadership of Chief Engineer Dave McLellan, had the new external design just about finalized and was showing a red full scale clay mockup to GM executives.

From the first car out of the factory, which continues to survive in the hands of collector D. Gonyer, to the last produced in June of ‘96 for enthusiast Mike Yaeger the C4 has made a lasting impression on both the enthusiast and the general public. During its thirteen-year run more than 380,000 cars were produced and a large percentage of these cars remain on the road proving that the C4 was as much a dependable daily driver as it is a performance sports car. During this period GM would also see the marketing value of Corvette with frequent special editions, 86 (pace), 88 (Anniversary), 93 (Anniversary), 95 (pace), 96 (Collector & GS) and of course, the ZR-1.

The C4 may never be seen as a classic to the same degree as the mid years and is sure to be bested by future generations for it’s performance and ease of use but it has won its place as the embodiment of the American Dream.

The models:

 

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Page updated  04/18/08