Sunday January 13th 2013. On the eve of the 2013 Detroit auto show press days opening, GM unveils the new C7 Corvette.

The new LT1 V8 had already been presented in October 2012. With 6.2 liters of displacement, the new engine has an output of 450 hp and a maximum torque of 610 Nm, promising to cover the 0-60mph dash in less than 4 seconds. This is the first instance of GM’s fifth generation of V8s, packing direct injection, Active Fuel Management (AFM) variable distribution. Gas mileage was an area of focus, GM claims 26mpg or 9.05 L/100km in the EPA highway cycle. The torque curve was also an area of focus, GM claims that the new LT1 matches the mighty LS7 of the C6 Z06 engine below 4000rpm, no less. AFM is a cylinder-on-demand technology that cuts injection to 4 out of 8 cylinders under light loads.

The gearbox incorporates a rev matching system that ensures that downshifts are perfect. Two seat options are available, GT seats for comfort and Competition seats for track-focused use. The interior finish includes real carbon fiber and aluminum parts. The track-capable Z51 Performance Package includes an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.

2013 marks the sixtieth birthday of the Corvette, since the first  first C1 rolled out of the GM production lines in Flint, Michigan, on June 30th 1953. The C7 Stingray will go on sale in the third quarter of 2013.

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