The Chevrolet® Corvette has always been considered an iconic sports car. Made in the U.S., the famous two-seater Corvette has a long history that spans more than 60 years, along with seven iterations of models and innovations. Since vehicles from the C1 to C4 generations are prized by collectors, it’s not uncommon to spot them at a vintage car show. If you’re interested in the history of the classic Corvette, here are some of the highlights in its timeline.

The Classic Chevy Corvette Through the Years

First Generation (C1, 1953–1962)

The first generation Corvette made its debut in 1953 as a concept at the Motorama, a car show in New York. That same year, the first Corvette was produced in its Flint, MI, facility. It featured a 150-horsepower, two-speed engine, encased in a white chassis.

Two years later, the three-speed transmission became available, and the small block Chevy V-8 was introduced as well. A restyling of the C1 from 1956 to 1962 gave the car exposed headlamps, roll-up windows, a fuel injection engine, and a four-speed transmission.

Second Generation (C2, 1963–1967)

When the second generation of Corvette was introduced in 1963, it was a complete restyle based on the 1959 race car design of Bill Mitchell. Dubbed the “Stingray,” the C2 was a tad smaller than the C1, with hidden headlamps and a split-window fastback that only lasted for a year. It offered electric ignition and was equipped with an independent rear suspension.

In 1965, big block V-8 engines became an option, ending the need for the fuel injection. In 1967, the Corvette Stingray featured four-way hazard lights, a dual master cylinder brake system, and the limited edition L88 engine.

Third Generation (C3, 1968–1982)

In 1968, the third generation designs were inspired by the body lines of the manta ray and great white shark. The C3 coupes were also the first cars to have removable T-top roof panels, but the engine and chassis were carryovers from their predecessor. Circa 1969, a factory-installed racing package was offered, and new small-block V-8s were introduced. The last production run of the C3 came in 1982.

Fourth Generation (C4, 1984–1996)

As the last generation of classic Corvettes, the C4 was introduced in 1984 with a smaller frame, which made for a more aerodynamic design compared to previous generations. Subsequent years of C4 saw the debut of bigger, more powerful V-8 engines, a resurgence of convertibles, and anti-lock brakes on the coupes. Side airbags then became a requirement in 1990.

Take a look at beautiful classic Corvettes when you visit the Charlotte AutoFair, the premier vintage car show in Mecklenburg County, NC. For over 30 years, the three-day biannual car exhibit and trade show has drawn antique cars collectors, enthusiasts, and sellers from around the country. Call (704) 841-1990 to speak with a car show organizer, or visit their website to see the event schedule.