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Corvette: Shift Knobs Review

Don't just work on the exterior when the interior needs attention as well. Learn about four aftermarket shift knobs that you can install in your Corvette.

By James Karuga - February 11, 2015

This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

There are key factors to consider when deciding which aftermarket shift knob to buy for your Corvette. Certain shift knobs may enhance your transmission's performance and even act as thief deterrents with their built-in locking mechanism. Automotive experts advise car enthusiasts to be informed about the aftermarket shift knobs they intend to buy. One reason being that some cars have transmission shifters that serve a particular function. In this article the Momo, B&M, Sparco, and Derlin aftermarket shift knobs will be reviewed by exploring their strengths, prices, and aesthetic differences for your tailored Corvette. After all, Corvettes are built to make a statement on the inside, too.

Aftermarket Shift Knobs
Momo
B&M
Sparco
Derlin
Price
 $65-110 $20-80 $40-110 $40-140
Aesthetic Appeal
 Blends well with Corvette interiors Sporty Abstract Old-fashioned
Performance
 Secure with no rattle Some rattle and overheating in the sun No rattle and reduced vibration No rattle or overheating, but lower level than stock knobs
Installation
 Easy to install, but difficult to remove Easy Easy Easy
Available Options
 Over 40 style and color options Over 10 style and color options Over 10 style and color options Over 10 style and color options
Compatibility
 Universal for manual vehicles Universal Specific units are universal Specific units are universal
Best Quality: Derlin

Best Value: Momo

Momo

Price – $65-110

Aesthetic Appeal – Blends with Corvette interiors

Performance – Little to no rattle noise when driving

Installation – Easy to install, but hard to remove

Available Options – Over 40

Compatibility – Universal for manual vehicles

With over 40 options available, Momo shift knobs offer an array of choices that fit your Corvette's gear stick. And, Corvette owners laud the aesthetic appeal of these shift knobs because they blend well with Corvette interiors. There is little rattle noise when driving with these shift knobs, but owners have complimented their slicker and smoother shift movement due to a secured, three-screw attachment. However, there are complaints of Momo shift knobs being difficult to remove or replace, and they also tend to sit high on the lever. Recommended for those who want little noise with smoother shifting.

B&M

Price – $20-80

Aesthetic Appeal – Sporty and mechanical look

Performance – Some rattle and overheats in the sun

Installation – Easy

Available Options – Over 10

Compatibility – Universal

Various Corvette owners with a B&M knob have experienced some rattle noise when the car is in motion. However, if you've already bought the B&M shift knob, this rattle can be fixed by padding the space between the shifter and the transmission with silicone or rubber. The B&M metallic knob options also tend to overheat in the sun, which make them a bit unpopular. The upside of these B&M knobs is their shifters offer a comfort level, which stock knobs lack. Since they are short throw shifters, they reduce the knob's travel distance and enhance the leverage. Recommended for those who want an easy-to-install knob with a sporty/mechanical look.

Sparco

Price – $40-110

Aesthetic Appeal – Abstract

Performance – No rattle noise

Installation – Easy

Available Options – Over 10

Compatibility – Specific units are universal

The available styles and colors of Sparco knobs give Corvette owners an abstract look. Because of their heavier feel, they guarantee silence and little vibration when on the road. They can be customized to various shapes and several palm grips. Some Sparco knobs are also compatible with reverse lockout collars on manual transmissions. Recommended for those who want an easy-to-install knob that's compatible with various shift plates.

Derlin

Price – $40-140

Aesthetic Appeal – Old-fashioned

Performance – Sit at a lower level than stock knobs, which reduces shifting distance

Installation – Easy

Available Options – Over 10

Compatibility – Specific units are universal

The Derlin knob gives Corvette owners propensity to accelerate at high speeds. With its rounded hard bar design, it creates a nice racing feel. Some Derlin shift knobs have received slack for this rounded design; however, what they lack in looks, they make up for in a high, comfortable level grip, and light weight design. They are quiet and have little rattle noise when compared to stock shift knobs, which reduces the driver's exertion, and they are well insulated against overheating in the sun. Recommended for those who want a less expensive knob that greatly enhances gear shifting.

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