The Corvette Sting Ray- A Brief Biography
Written by Admin on September 19, 2008 – 2:45 pm -Once you say Corvette Sting Ray around someone who knows anything about cars, you’re sure to have quite a passionate and interesting conversation! The first thing that may come to light is that there are actually two Sting Rays from GM, one spelled as Sting Ray with the other is Stingray, but the name is the where the similarities end. To begin with, the two vehicles are from completely different corvette generations. The Sting Ray is from the second generation corvettes while the Stingray is from the third generation.
Bill Mitchell is the mind behind the second generation corvette Sting Ray. For starters, what is known today as “bucket seats” were known as cockpit style seats. They were altered from the original design for a more comfortable ride. The car was also the first hard-top coupe. While a newer split rear window design was introduced with the originally produced cars, they were later replaced over visibility and safety concerns. The exhaust was affixed to the side of the car for the first time as well and was later revised to the more traditional system.
Just like the previous corvettes, the Sting Ray was constructed with fiberglass panels mounted on a steel frame. One of the highly attractive new additions to the car was the headlights were built to rise up and then descend back into the hood when not in use. This streamlined headlight design provided a new level of efficiency for the driver. For added efficiency, buyers could opt to get a car without a trunk lid. The car still had trunk space but it could only be accessed by going behind the seats.
The Sting Ray had more new features to attract buyers including an attractive bump-out on the hood that was big enough for powerful big block engines. Also, any convertible top on the corvette could be conveniently tucked away under a panel in the car when it wasn’t in use. Three engine powers were also available to consumers where the actual horsepower could run from 250 to 435. The second generation corvette Sting Ray was also the first for drivers to be able to enjoy four-wheel disc brakes and an independent suspension system.
You don’t have to be someone who collects cars to appreciate the list of “firsts” that the second generation corvette Sting Ray brought to the automotive market. If you get the opportunity, check one out. One you do, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the evolution of the corvette.
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