The Corvette Stingray Is Set To Receive A Singnificant Boost In Horsepower

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When announced for the first time at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the eighth-generation Corvette took the automotive world by storm. Not only was it the first mid-engine Corvette since the model's introduction in 1953, but it also came with a look and performance figures that put it right next to the most prestigious supercars in the world. During its entire life span, the Corvette has been offered with a V-8 engine – except for the units produced between 1953 and 1955 – that evolved and improved over the years. And, it appears that things will improve even more, as the eighth-generation Corvette is about to receive a power bump.

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The 500-Horsepower C8 Corvette Stingray

Since its introduction for the 2020 model year, the Corvette Stingray has offered with a 6.2-liter, naturally aspirated V-8 engine that delivers a total of 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. These numbers can be improved to 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque when adding the Z51 Performance Package. While it may sound like a lot, the C8 Corvette is actually only 35 horsepower more powerful than the seventh generation – rated at 455 horsepower. Not to mention the fact that the Corvette is getting more powerful competitors every day.

Chevrolet did offer a few improvements for the V-8 engine over the years, but it never altered its output figures. In 2022, the engine received a few changes required to meet the new federal emission standards, including revisions to the engine’s fuel delivery and Active Fuel Management systems, and small updates to the engine calibration. These changes also improved the car's fuel economy ratings, but the output was left untouched. But according to GM Authority, things are about to change soon as Chevrolet is planning to increase the C8 Stingray’s output to north of 500 horsepower. Based on previous experience, this means the updated Corvette should deliver somewhere between 510 – 520 horsepower.

This news is coming just a few days after the same outlet caught a very strange looking Corvette testing on the streets. The prototype was wearing an unusual pair of exhaust pipes that were longer and thinner than on the regular model. Back then, it was believed these were in fact EPA-certification exhaust pipes, which would only make sense if Chevrolet is testing new powertrain figures for the Stingray.

The Future Will Bring A Lot More For Corvette

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There is no word on when this change will happen, but we expect it to be under effect for the 2024 model year. Such a move would only make sense for Chevy, since the Corvette lineup is getting ready for big changes. First, we will see the E-Ray – the first hybrid Corvette with over 610 horsepower. Then the ZR1 is expected to arrive, and rumors suggest it will deliver as much as 850 horsepower. And finally, the end of the decade should bring the Zora with about 1,000 horsepower and the all-electric Vette. So, if Chevy was to improve the Stingray, this would be the perfect time to do it.