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Corvette: Corvette Clubs

Corvette clubs are a great way to meet others with a passion for Corvettes. With clubs literally all around the world, there is no excuse to not get involved if you own one.

By Nick Vaughn - February 19, 2015

This article applies to the C1-C7 Corvette (1953-current).

Nearly since the introduction of the Corvette, there has been a passion for the car that is unrivaled. It doesn't matter if you owned one or not, that passion was likely there. Unlike any car ever made, the Corvette has elicited an excitement that is passed from generation to generation. The time frame and history of the car transcends ages, and that is just one thing that makes the Corvette so amazing. So where do people with that passion get together to talk and share their Corvette love? Within the United States and around the world, Corvette Clubs are meeting on a regular basis. No matter where you are, there is one not too far away.

Who and Where?

According to National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC), these clubs have been meeting regularly since 1956. The NCCC was founded in 1959 to help be a governing body of sorts for all of the Corvette clubs across the country. The oldest club, according to their own website, is the Corvette Club of America, founded in 1956. There are literally hundreds of clubs across the US. Of course, some of the clubs are not part of the NCCC. Either way, it's easy to find a group of people that share the common bond of the love for Corvette.

Additionally, according to the NCCC website, there are many international Corvette clubs. The passion for America's Sports Car isn't confined to the red, white and blue. There are groups in Australia, the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, Hungary, Italy, Germany, Belgium, South Africa and many more. It's hard to think of another car that has the same global appeal and following as the Corvette.

Members of Corvette Clubs are quite diverse. History shows that most of the original founding members of many of the clubs were not original owners, meaning they did not purchase their cars brand new from a dealership. They were second-hand owners. One thing that you're starting to see more is a diversity of people becoming a part of Corvette clubs. While it is a safe bet that many of the owners are "more seasoned," many clubs are starting to see younger owners. It is certainly a challenge to find a younger demographic, mainly because the cost of ownership is high. That doesn't mean that there isn't a passion for the car in the younger generation, which is noticeable in social media.

  • Figure 1. NCCA, the first Corvette club, meets up.
  • Figure 2. The Looking Glass Corvette Club is based in Colorado.

Why a Corvette Club?

What's the reason to join a club? What goes on? What do they do? These are questions that many club members answer frequently to non-Corvette owners or those interested in joining. Most clubs' number one aspect is to promote interest in the Corvette. It's about being with people of similar interests and talking about the Corvette, experiences and whatever comes up. Corvette clubs get asked all the time to show their cars as a group. Restaurants want them to simply come to their location, park their cars and let other car lovers check them out. They have track days where they race their cars, they set up charity events to raise money for various non-profit organizations, they help each other with modifications or restoration projects, and some work with organizations to promote safe driving habits.

  • Figure 3. Ohio's Corvette Troy Club raises money for various charities annually.
  • Figure 4. Classic Glass Corvette Club restoring a veteran's 'Vette.

Five Good Reasons to Join a Corvette Club

1. Meet people with shared interests

You are going to meet people that are a lot like you. You already have a common interest, I would imagine that it will be easy to find a few more things to talk about.

2. Gain access to nearby help

The internet is a good tool for research and discussion, but friends that are hundreds of miles away can't help you change the brakes on your 'Vette. Wouldn't it be great to have someone you can bring to your place to help you out if you need it? I'll bet they may even do it for free or for a few beverages of choice.

3. Share tools

You may be able to get access to specialty tools through the club. What if a member has a car lift and would be willing to let you use it from time to time? You can spend the money you've saved on another upgrade or getting a specialty tool of your own; just be sure to share if someone asks.

4. Network

Finding a group of like-minded people in your area can help you develop not only new friendships, but also networking opportunities.

5. Seek valuable advice

The other members of the club know where to shop for parts, which mechanics to use, and have probably seen and overcome any challenge you may face with your car. Their experience may or may not be available to you any other way, you just never know.

In the end, joining a Corvette Club can be a great experience. The rules are rather simple: be a friend to everyone, be passionate about the Corvette, be open to helping anyone that asks (within reason), have fun and get involved!

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