The Storied Chevy Corvette Grand Sport Makes Its Return for 2010
The last time we saw a Grand Sport production model was in 1996, when Chevy commemorated the original Corvette racers from the 1960s and closed out the C4 era. The original Grand Sports were designed by Zora Arkus-Duntov as race-ready production models. However, GM put the smackdown due to agreements to remain out of manufacturer-backed motorsports programs. The original production run of 125 that was originally planned never happened, but 5 prototypes of the 1963 Grand Sport Corvette were actually manufactured. These vehicles resembled production models but were hand-built race cars that differed quite significantly from their publicly offered brethren and were used by private racers with close ties to Duntov’s engineering group. Now, at the 12th annual C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash at the National Corvette Museum (that really exists?), Chevrolet is announcing the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport.
The new 2010 Corvette Grand Sport uses the existing LS3 6.2L engine that produces 430 hp with 424 lb-ft of torque. An optional 2 mode exhaust offer marginal power improvements that add 6 hp and 4 lb-ft of torque. The biggest separation from the standard production models comes from the wide-body styling and racetrack-bred suspension system. The Z51 package is tossed out and replaced with better handling capabilities, wider wheels and tires, updated shocks, new stabilizer bars and revised gearing. A Z06 style front splitter and tall rear spoiler is engaged along with functional brake ducts and extra cooling. In addition, Z06-size brakes are included with 14 inch rotors with 6-piston calipers in front and 13.4 inch rotors and 4-piston calipers in rear.
These models allow for cornering as hard as 1.0 g and a 0.2 second faster sprint from 0 to 60 mph. The car is available in either coupe (with removable roof, unlike the Z06) or convertible with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. All of the trim packages, including 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT, are offered along with the entire collection of the standard colors. For those who want something a little more special, the Heritage package adds back the original iconic front fender hash marks in 4 colors along with two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. If you really want to make Duntov proud, you will go with the manual transmission which is outfitted with a dry-sump oil system, differential cooler and rear-mounted battery, which make it perfect for track duty. No pricing has been set for the 2010 Chevy Corvette Grand Sport.
Source: Chevrolet