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I have a C5 that I bought new. A book documenting the design history of the C5 came with the car. In there the 97 - 04 Vettes are referred to as C5s. That is the first time I recall seeing Corvettes distinguished by the "C" series.
Yup, gbvette62 gets the prize. GM engineering started it with the introduction of the 4th generation design in 84. Interestingly, GM purchasing/procurement always referred the the Corvette as Y-car followed by the model year. And most high volume OE parts suppliers avoided getting stuck with production contracts for the exclusive parts associated with Y-car low volume business. At least that’s how I experienced it for 35 years in the biz.
OP Thread Post Title: Does anyone know how the "C" term started?
Whew! I was relieved to find the discussion was targeted at the C1, C2, C3, etc nomenclatures. My first thought was the OP question was related to the origin of another "C" word!
2025 c3 ('74-'82) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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Originally Posted by 68/70Vette
OP Thread Post Title: Does anyone know how the "C" term started?
Whew! I was relieved to find the discussion was targeted at the C1, C2, C3, etc nomenclatures. My first thought was the OP question was related to the origin of another "C" word!
......
If that had been the case I'd be sleeping in the garage tonight....
In the Vette!....