The Corvette's Second Generation

Did you know that many people consider thepower, starting with a 365 horsepower engine in
corvette to be America's first genuinely made sports1963's corvette. Each car from that point was
car? Corvette started work on their first car in 1953created a bit more powerful than the one before.
and proceeded to issue six unique generation of theYet another reason is behind the C2 generation's
favorite corvette. These generations are referred topopularity. It is one of the first sports cars that
as C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and C6, with C6 being theoffered riders a truly comfortable riding experience.
more current generation. The C2 stands out for itsThe C2 generation features an independent rear
own unique qualities.suspension system as well as features that were
The C1 generation of corvettes was produced fromcutting edge for the time period. Buyers could enjoy
1953 through 1962. The next generation, C2,their new corvette with both AM/FM radio as well as
produced the first corvette of its kind. This car wasair conditioning for true, all-around comfort.
the Corvette Sting Ray coupe. Larry Shinoda wasThe original C2 designs did, however, pose some
the designer behind this car and Bill Mitchell gave it itssafety concerns that were quickly resolved by the
identifying name. The Sting Ray was an instantmanufacturer. For example, the rear window was
success for these two men and they continued todesigned to be split yet it didn't allow for safe driving
produce other popular classic corvettes as well.as the view was limited. The brakes were upgraded
So why did these cars become instant classics?in 1965 to a four-wheel disc break, which made
Patriotism is one of the reasons behind the popularitystopping much faster and safer. It was this year that
of the C2 generation corvettes. These were the firstthe V8 "big block" engine became available, too.
real American-made sports cars of their kind. PowerFinally, the 1965 C2 was the first to use side exhaust
is another reason behind their popularity. Thesepipes, which were then changed in 1970.
corvette sports cars were made with impressive