2018 Corvette Grand Sport Review: The Sweet Spot
Wow, this engine.
As the going gets twisty, and the road continues to ascend towards the sky, the LT1 V8 engine authoritatively presses us forward. With 460 horsepower, and 465 lb-ft of twisting force, the 3450-lb Grand Sport catapults itself from 0-60 in a remarkable 3.8 seconds. It’s a strong reminder that even the standard Corvette engine offers enough pace to outrun 99% of cars on the road.
Similarly striking is the sound. Switching the dial over to Track mode awakens the Grand Sport and it’s brutal exhaust note. Coupled with the sharp induction note on throttle, the bi-modal exhaust system gets expressive in the more aggressive drive modes. The overall sensation offered by the LT1 is visceral and engaging. In fact, so much so that it causes me to ramble a bit, like a simpleton, about how good it is. Watch the video for proof of that.
This 6.2-liter mill truly is a gem of an engine, offering ample power and torque across the 6,500 RPM rev range. Engine technologies, like variable valve timing, further improve power delivery and efficiency. Additionally, clever features like cylinder deactivation (Active Fuel Management) further improve everyday usability and fuel consumption.
The Grand Sport is so much more than an engine.
As much as I wax poetic about the LT1 engine, the things that make a Grand Sport a Grand Sport are truly worth celebrating.
The Grand Sport receives Z06 body panels, as well as the Z06 wheel and tire package. From there, the option of the Z07 Performance Package adds carbon ceramic brakes, Z07 suspension with Magnetic Selective Ride Control, and the aforementioned massive Z06-spec Michelin rubber. Those tires measure in at 285/30R19 up front, and a staggering 335/25R20 out back. Additionally, the Grand Sport body is fitted with Z06 aerodynamic aides, which produce real downforce. This Z07-equipped car utilizes what is often referred to as the “Stage 3” aero package. It’s an advanced package, which consists of carbon fiber ground effects (a front splitter, side strakes) and an adjustable wicker bill-style rear wing element.
This may seem like a word jumble at first, but the effect is pronounced: this Corvette is glued to the pavement. All of these tweaks and upgrades were originally designed for the 650 horsepower Corvette Z06. When you pair these hardcore track goodies to the less powerful 460 horsepower Grand Sport, the end result is a car where all of the power can be used all of the time. With more powerful Corvette variants, the driver has to be more judicious with their right foot. 650 horsepower creates extremely extra-legal speeds in an instant. This could cause less experienced drivers to get in over their heads rather quickly (pun intended).
The Corvette Grand Sport offers a 460 horsepower sports car that is this easy to hop in, drive fast and have the time of your life.
With the Grand Sport, all of those enhancements improve vehicle stability and grip. That means, with only 460 horsepower – which is delivered in a nice linear fashion from the naturally-aspirated engine, drivers can really wind out the Grand Sport along their favorite driving roads. This is one of the finest handling sports cars on sale today. The Grand Sport offers truly world class driving dynamics.
continue…
