I took delivery of my C8 Z51 in December 2020 and have driven over 54,000 miles, including 70+ HPDE track days (Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America, Mid-Ohio, NCM). The only modification is Giro-Disc rotors with stainless steel brake lines. The C8 is magnificent, a true pleasure to drive in all weather (including several inches of snow with all season tires on an extra set of wheels). Exceptional reliability with very good gas mileage (21mpg normal driving, 25-27mpg highway, once obtaining over 30mpg for 50+ miles). To sum up, I LOVE THIS F*****G CAR!!
Did you drive the car to all of those track days? Just curious if you were able to trust it to get you there and back, as well as performing at the track.
Yes, from the Chicago area to all of the track days except for Sebring, which was a two hour drive to the track each way. My C8 has been exceptionally reliable so long as properly maintained and "sensibly" driven.
@@kennethwilliamsincdon.t do it sir! Keep the GT350. Your car will increase in value over time while the C8 will lower in value. I have a 2017 GT350, I.m looking for a "gently" used C8. I want both!!😉
I just garaged my brand new 2024 HTC Z51 after putting 280 miles on the clock since delivery most of the miles were commuting in heavy rain below 2000 rpm and it did great so far. The sun came out and I got out my 964 for a drive (I committed to myself I would sell when the Stingray was delivered) and it is hard to imagine two cars more different. After that I wanted to keep both but your video help me remember why I bought the Stingray; daily driving a Porsche is great but good maintenance and parts are expensive and reliability is a total crapshoot. I considered a new 911 that theoretically shouldn't have been too much more than my 100K+ Stingray build but I concluded the cost per mile for a daily driver would be too high, plus the Chevy salesman called me back while the Porsche dealer apparently expected me to keep showing up to beg to order a 911 for MSRP++, if you are lucky enough to get on their order book. I love Porsches but I'm afraid their contrived scarcity sales strategy is killing the golden goose.
Thanks for the review. I bought a '23 HTC Elkhart blue with black top Z51 last summer. Other than a dead battery after two weeks the car has been a joy, and I am still suprised about the amount of praise it draws in traffic. After storing it for the winter I was very happy to be back in the saddle.
I have a 22 c8 8k miles on it and still am amazed at the gas mileage highway and street it gets as a daily driver with all the horses sitting right in your back ready to go at any given time Gm nailed it and it’s only going to get better
I love C8 Corvette but I live in Pakistan and can't afford one yet because of this video 📸 and similar videos on UA-cam I can live the dream 🏆. In other words ty
i have 20,000 on my 2020 C8 and still have the original tires and windshield . The only maintenance has been 3 oil changes , that's it. The car is an absolute blast to drive and even gets good MPG for this type vehicle . This is my most favorite car I have ever owned in 50 years and Ive had quite a few and I consider it a great value . The cars you have to compare it against all cost 2 or 3 even 4 as much. It really is a great cat.
Love my 23 C8. It made me run to the dealership to get one. I can’t afford a European supercar, but I can afford one of these and arguably still be on par or better than some of the best supercars from the past 10yrs.
I've had my '23 Z51 for a year this month. Had a '19 Grand Sport before it, a '13 GS before that, a '99 Z51 6 speed convertible before that, and a '97 C5, all bought either new or almost new. With each new generation, came amazing improvements over the prior. But with the new mid-engine C8, it was an astronomical leap, in virtually every way. The C8 is the easiest car to drive fast that I've ever driven. Of course, it helped that I took advantage of the Corvette Performance Driving course that is offered to new Corvette owners, which I highly recommend. It gave me the opportunity to test much more of the C8's capabilities than I ever would be able to do living in Hawaii. And being an avid golfer, the fact that I can fit my clubs in the trunk and still stash a bag the size of a carry on is a huge bonus. That being said, despite what GM says about being able to fit two full sets of clubs, I had to buy a smaller golf bag to fit well enough to squeeze another smaller golf bag in, unlike my C7, C6, or C5's. They could easily fit 2 good size bags, but they didn't have the frunk. All in, I am extremely happy with my C8. I ordered it very well optioned, and it came in around $98k - out the door including taxes. A lot of money, but you get a lot of car for the $. True supercar looks and performance, at a fraction of the cost all around, including initial cost, maintenance and repair costs, fuel costs, and especially insurance costs.
I sold a Testarossa, my third Ferrari and bought my 24 C8 2LT. This car drives like a million dollars and does everything well. Only complaint is the square steering wheel. I love it!
At 71 years of age, I am an operator of a 2014 Corvette which I am thrilled with. One more payment and it's mine. A new C8 or fairly new one? As a Senior American National, it may be time for me to acquire one as I am contemplating owning such a beast! Will This senior Disabled Veteran of the Vietnam Era get this opportunity this year? Corvette will never get a greater Advertising proponent than this safe Traveler!
In 2006, I bought a C6 Z51 6 speed manual. 18 years later, with 102000 on the clock it still looks new. Pop the hood and you can't see a speck of grime. Considering buying a C8. Think of selling the C6!!! Not a chance. The C8 will be added to the fleet. Corvettes, best bang for the buck...
I own a 2016 Z06 with 36000 miles and I have had no issues. My interior has held up without any squeaks rattles or anything . I test drove a c8 and still prefer my c7 z06.
I sold my 16 Z three years ago. I had the Lingenfelter 720hp package and I sold it with 60k and it was flawless. But, it still have the Chevy quality which will Never go away. The car was to much for the streets but, at the drag strip she really shined.
I own a C6 Z06, I can’t hear any squeaking or rattling over the kooks/borla. Does the car rocking from side to side at a stoplight count? I think not cause it gets a lot of love just about every time I stop for gas… I like the C8 but the C6 Z is a timeless halo vette. 650 hp, NA and 3100 lbs. yea, not stock but it still drives very well even at legal temperament.
@@cozmicsoull - they are holding $ very well. For the price point they are hard to beat. The car is kinda raw, a little unrefined and a great deal of fun. It certainly has personality and character.
The most impressive bit to me is that GM has managed to do such a good job on their very first attempt at a mid-engine car (since the fiero that is). There are definitely some QC issues, particularly with the earlier cars, but they’re all warrantied and the design itself has done fantastically
The HVAC buttons may be hard to find (and they are) but I'll take my buttons over embedding those functions in touch screen menus. All of my grips with this car are nit-picks, I love my C8!
I actually like the HVAC button wall. Once you familiarize yourself with the user-friendly layout, it is extremely easy to use by touch alone. Plus, it gives more of a fighter pilot cockpit feel, similar to how I felt back in '90, when I bought the then new Nissan 300ZX Turbo. That was also a great car for it's time, and the looks have held up very well after all these years when I occasionally see one on the road.
I valet parked corvettes in the 80s (yeah i Know thats a long time ago) todays corvettes are several orders of magnitude greater in quality and excellence. It is truly a car I will own.... soon... very.... soon !!!
I about died when he detailed only spending 1300.00 in regular maintenance in over 30,000 miles. You could have bought a base sting ray for the cost of maintenance on a Ferrari at 30,000 miles!! Ok maybe not, but I’d bet it’s close
Agreed. Not sure what part of the country he's in but chevy offers the first oil change and transmission filter change at 7500 mile for free on the on the C8 in the first 2 years of ownership. I haven't paid for any maintenance in the 1 year and 4 months of ownership of my 2023 c8 convertible. I'm at 9400 miles with 22% life on my oil so I'll take it in soon for an oil change. My dealer said my next oil change will also be free since its within 2 years of my C8's in service date. I did replace a rear tire ($530) due to large nail in the run flat (which performed as advertised and allowed me to drive home 7 miles with zero pressure in the tire). Love the car but I'm considering upgrading to the Eray. The C8 is the best performance value on the car market.
Every time I'm on the track with the Stingray I find myself saying, "I can't believe how fast this is for the price I paid". On the street it's a bit frustrating because you're never remotely close to its limits. Chevy/GM really knocked it out of the park with this car.
Solid video and review. Luckily in my 17k miles I have not had the tire issues just rotor/brake pad issues on the track. It is good to hear the interior is holding up!
Best Vette to date by a mile, no doubt. Finally gets the mid-mounted engine, supercar look and performance while still being all undeniable Vette. I only lament the lack of manual gearbox option for an even more engaging driving experience.
Great final thoughts on the C8. Well worth it and im sure you all are going to miss it and it does deserve a high spot in Edmunds history. First mid engine corvette and no major issues that most new generation cars have. You beat that thing for years , not just casual driving with SOME spirited driving , it was the opposite.
Absolutely. I love everything about my C8. Looks, MRC, engine, DTC and especially refinement are all world class. The C8 is a great handling, and great performing sports car while also riding great. It rides so well that you may think that you are driving a luxury car, but the road noise reminds you this is a performance car. The biggest downside: dealers are taking advantage of the hype to charge more on maintenance. I love the squared steering wheel especially after driving it and having even more reference points when turning the wheel makes you realize this enhances performance materially. All the critics of the squircle and the in line controls simply say they are not used to it. But like the in line controls, once you become familiar with each, they work very well together and you appreciate the excellent ergonomics, functionality and performance. The C8 engineers thought through everything far more than any of the critics. You just have be objective that the new technology may improve performance And, he leads the charge against anything without a manual. I, we get it. I still have my Integra GSR because, its a manual. At Spring Mountain, the instructors taught us to shift manually and performance was outstanding. Again, once you try the DCT, nothing matches it.
I have a(murdered out) 2023 HTC/Z51-AMAZING!Best car I have ever owned.4th vette (1993,1994,2019 7speed manual).I do not care what the value or depreciation is.I am keeping this baby.
Just wanted to add that by far where this car smokes everything else is in looks. When you pull up in a torch red c8 you experience what it is to be a super model about town.
except the butt ugly rear - the stock spoiler and lights are awful they should have went back to circular taillights and a flat or duckwing default spoiler like on the z06
@@pooshNchums some youtubers like this guy gabe made a great transformation on the stock C8 with a larger quad exhaust, lower ride height and duckbill spoiler - THIS is what a stock corvette shoudl look like ua-cam.com/video/X9Wo0ho8tKE/v-deo.html
My wife & I just bought a beautiful 2021 C8 Stingray, red mist, base LT1. It only had 1,200 miles, Certified Pre-Owned, warrantees, yada... I love this car! As a sports touring car, it constantly amazes me. Hyper performance, beautiful & stylish supercar looks, and a grin that scares my wife! Buy one!
Was looking at a C8 for several months but bought a F-Type instead. I chose the F-Type as it has AWD, longer warranty, more cargo space, classic body design and awesome exhaust noise!!
Great review. When you do a review of an outgoing long-term tester, I believe most people want to know "How would you option the car differently if you bought it today?" You obviously appreciated the front-end lift feature. Do you still think Z51 is necessary? What about magnetic ride control? Could you go for a decontented LT1 and still be happy? For prospective buyers, this is valuable insight from a long-term test. Thanks!
After having my C6 with mag ride for 12 years and 70k miles, I would consider mag ride an essential option. Chevy should just make it standard equipment.
I have a mag-ride C7 it’s an amazing system that has spoiled me forever. The car can be grand touring smooth or locked down on rails for the track with just the twist of a knob.
I rented a 2020 C8 last month to see if it will help me decide if I'll buy a 2024, and I was a bit skeptical, but it quickly changed my mind. Handling, seating comfort (I'm 6'1"), braking, steering, transmission, and power were great. Of course, the side and rear blind spots are harsh, but the rear mirror and front view cameras help. I imagine addition to the side blind spot sensors will also help. The front-end view is better than models back to its beginning due to the mid-engine design. It feels tight to the road and responsive. I'd say it's worth the price for a car that feels, by both driver and passenger, it can be driven comfortably cross country.
Love our C8. Only change I'm making is to attempt to address a problem you experienced: bent wheels and ruined tires, by reducing the wheel size from 19/20 to 18/19. Small as I can go with the massive brakes she has.
If you replace the wheels with forged alloy ones and you could keep the 20” size and they wouldn’t break. And if you move to a state without potholes, the tires wouldn’t break either. :-)
@@MegaTucker26 Forged wheels won't protect the tires from cutting the sidewalls. Also, we take our Vette on road trips annually (usually ~5000 miles), and the extra sidewall profile *should* make for a better ride.
Did the same thing with my C7 Z51. Stock wheels were ugly heavy chrome monsters with silly low profile tires. The 18/19 combo is also cheaper on the wallet when doing track days.
I owned a ‘23 C8 Coupe Z51 from new to 3300 miles. It’s a bad ass and comfortable car. Highly recommended one. It was the New Balance and jeans shorts crowd at Cars & Coffee that had me sell it. I’ll get sh-t for this but that’s what did it. Ordered a new 911 GTS and I’ll report how that experience is in a couple months after it arrives. But if you’re on the fence about a C8, you will love it. Just don’t skimp on seats and Magnetic Ride and please don’t wear NB sneakers 🇺🇸🏁
will have my c8 for 2 years in July. 2023 model. I have had to pay for one oil change. one was free. one coming up soon. but was only about 90 bucks. 18k miles on it. i do not track it through. had 3 tires replaced because of flats, but I have the tire insurance and it paid for them. so far I have 90 bucks in maintance on it.
5:05. Being one of the few who has owned an M2 (F87) and a Corvette (C7 Z06, current), the M2 is a class down to the Corvette, but it is definitely a class up in usability. It is almost, almost, as fun to drive as the Corvette, but has a good trunk and good back seat. The M2 is for those who want to be ready for anything. The Vette is for weekend drives to the beach, when its just you and the road.
The closest mid engine cars I can think of would be the 718 Cayman (identical starting price), Emira (77 grand, and 911 Carrera (116 grand). The Cayman and Emira aren’t in the same league as the Vette, and even the base Carrera can’t quite keep up. The Carrera S is as quick if not quicker, but it costs 133 grand.
@@rwilson4073 well Emira are not available yet at 77k and probably won’t ever be. Right now you can 1st editions for just over 100k. And finally after 2 years, they are now being delivered on the USA. The Emira is nowhere near as quick as the C8, it’s a different type of sports car.
@user-gs5br6vg7w unfortunately, Mr. Multi-Millionaire youtube commenter, plenty of poorer, less-wise commonfolk are lining up at the doors to buy them. Hopefully someone can put a stop to them damn union workers and their unreasonable demands 😤
My 2016 C7 has no squeaks and interior is almost as good as new. Only have had rear shocks replaced. Sitting at 75+K miles now. This is likely the first and last vett I will own since I have to have a 'man' transmissions. I love to drive , not be driven.
C8 has paddle shifters like many other supercars and can be shifted 'man'ually as you implied. If you just love grabbing a stick and moving it around by hand you may have other 'man' issues.
The C8 Stingray fulfilled the promise of the original Acura NSX did not, and still does. The affordable mid engine sports car beyond the level of Ferraris 458 series on street and track is what the car will be remembered for in the future regardless of fanboy antics. It will also be remembered by car enthusiast of being the Porsche Carrera S ALTERNATIVE for less money. ALL C8 series cars so far make the argument of paying more for less of a mid engine car kinda silly.
I've owned some old school 'Vettes--a 1966 Sting Ray, 1968 Convertible/two top and a 1974 C3 Coupe-350 w/4 sp. (195 h.p. version): all special cars for there time and, call me whatever, I switched to '70 Ford--Mustang Boss 302 w/ 4-sp Hurst T-handle...I think these new 'Vettes are dynamite, very beautiful and worth the price. Such an improvement, etc.
currently have an E46 M3 which is really oustanding. I would buy a C7 (IMO first true global competitive vette), BUT I want the C8...and eyes on the C8 Z06. Simply a sucker for high revving motors The C8 broke the mold and would be proud to own and drive it
Your three-year ownership was a lucky one in some ways. I have heard from mechanics who work on them that half the rear end has to come off for many small items to be replaced. At today's labor costs, that is not something to look forward to. I think it is a beautiful car but a totally different look from all the rest. I have a C7 and it is my last Corvette.
No question Corvette Racing is a big factor in performance and design…(Z51, HTC) I had a little rough start with those bad batches of pushrods…then apparently after repair, someone didn’t put the spark plug wire on all the way, so we limped in again BUT since then nothing but fun - the car is certainly fast enough as expected but holding the road is my eye opener…
Thank you for posting this video. I've been watching the used Corvette market for many years. I can finally afford to buy one in cash this December 2024.
I switched from a 22 Hellcat Charger Widebody Black Edition to the C8 3LT Z51 Convert and let me tell you. The C8 is hands down more fun to drive and you get more "great car" comments than "lets race" comments by teenagers. I have to say the power of the hellcat is unmatched. It never ends but thats also the problem unless you are going 100mph you are constantly losing traction and that car is scary to drive in heavy rain. The C8 I would drive in snow its that planted. The downfall is cargo space compared to a full sized sedan but overall the C8 is fantastic for the grocery store. The rear trunk works perfect. Nothing tips over and unless you live far from the grocery store you dont have to worry about anything melting. I will have to say the front lift on C8 is a lifesaver. I love the feature. Havent scraped once yet in 5k miles.
The external DCT filter was due to be changed again at 22,500 miles. Did you guys do that as well? Wasn't specifically mentioned when you were going over maintenance costs
I like the car but don't love it. They even said in the video this car drives fast by itself. If you want a car all about the numbers then this is the easiest and most cost effective way to get it. I have had slower cars that gave me more of the fizz. I miss my e92 M3 manual. But due to its reliability issues I traded it in on the C8
I think the Corvette is the most amazing Supercar. The price is modest compared to most of the competition. You can beat on it all day, and if it breaks, you pay Chevy prices for repairs.
@@backnu ah, that makes sense. I had a Camaro SS 1LE and those tires lasted about 18k miles. I thought that was short. 4 sets in 32.5k miles would be a little over 8k miles per set. That’s crazy.
I think a driver that has actually held a Vette as their dream car will talk better care of it and not abuse it like your team did. It’s by Brandon’s standards a steal amongst international super cars. Awesome vehicle.
Sounds nice. Still Can’t come to grips with the looks of it. I’m a long term Corvette guy and may some day fall in love with it but for now, I’ll drive my 911 and Corvette c7 Z06.
Corvette, since the C4, has managed something no other car anywhere has managed: it's a muscle car, a GT/daily car, and a sports car all in one package. That's not the amazing part. Here's that: it's really good at all three. A law of the universe says that a jack of all trades is riddled with compromises. The Corvette breaks that law and chuckle softly as "exotic" vehicles costing 2-3 times more and with identical performance catch fire or blow up at 50,000 miles.
It's still not enough to pull me out of my '13 Z06. Especially with the fear of the AFM. Not just with GM, but, with many others, the cylinder deactivation lifters can fail early (65-75Kmi) and wipe out the cam. I've heard of mod kits to physically remove that system. About $5K it costs to have it done, I believe....
So, you guys lost so much money when selling it. Used corvettes with more miles are selling for more money. So it still is a great value compared to other mid engine cars.
I don’t think the Vette photographs well, but in person it’s a very pretty car❤️, performance per dollar, nothing in the world offers more performance per dollar.
@@blaze376192 Used C8s are still under warranty. I would think only a very small number of C8s have over 60,000 miles on them. How many have transmission issues is pure speculation. I doubt a transmission replacement costs $30,000.
Do you think the Corvette ownership experience is worth the money? Let us know in the comments!
Replace this clown host with a real car guy, and stop forcing this alphabet agenda down our throats
Had mine for 10 months and it's AWESOME! Sometimes I don't even need to go anywhere, but I'll just jump in the car and start driving.
*NOT A SUPERCAR*
I have a 2023 3LT Z51 and love it. Just enough horsepower. I love driving it more than my 550hp Jaguar F-Pace SVR.
Definitely worth the money; I don't believe you could have leased one for the amount you spent on buying (enjoying) and selling your example.
I took delivery of my C8 Z51 in December 2020 and have driven over 54,000 miles, including 70+ HPDE track days (Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America, Mid-Ohio, NCM). The only modification is Giro-Disc rotors with stainless steel brake lines. The C8 is magnificent, a true pleasure to drive in all weather (including several inches of snow with all season tires on an extra set of wheels). Exceptional reliability with very good gas mileage (21mpg normal driving, 25-27mpg highway, once obtaining over 30mpg for 50+ miles). To sum up, I LOVE THIS F*****G CAR!!
Louder!!! I can't effing hear you!
Thanks for the post, man. Truly enjoyed reading your post.
Did you drive the car to all of those track days? Just curious if you were able to trust it to get you there and back, as well as performing at the track.
Yes, from the Chicago area to all of the track days except for Sebring, which was a two hour drive to the track each way. My C8 has been exceptionally reliable so long as properly maintained and "sensibly" driven.
Wow. I’m contemplating trading my gt350 for one. 🍻
@@kennethwilliamsincdon.t do it sir! Keep the GT350. Your car will increase in value over time while the C8 will lower in value. I have a 2017 GT350, I.m looking for a "gently" used C8. I want both!!😉
I have had 11 Corvettes from C1 to C8 HTC and I agree the C8 Corvette is the best ever made.
I've never liked Corvettes, until the C8. Everything I've seen, everything you've shown and said, proves it is a super star.
Dominating LeMans for 20+ years also proves Corvettes have been super stars for decades 🇺🇸
I just garaged my brand new 2024 HTC Z51 after putting 280 miles on the clock since delivery most of the miles were commuting in heavy rain below 2000 rpm and it did great so far. The sun came out and I got out my 964 for a drive (I committed to myself I would sell when the Stingray was delivered) and it is hard to imagine two cars more different. After that I wanted to keep both but your video help me remember why I bought the Stingray; daily driving a Porsche is great but good maintenance and parts are expensive and reliability is a total crapshoot. I considered a new 911 that theoretically shouldn't have been too much more than my 100K+ Stingray build but I concluded the cost per mile for a daily driver would be too high, plus the Chevy salesman called me back while the Porsche dealer apparently expected me to keep showing up to beg to order a 911 for MSRP++, if you are lucky enough to get on their order book. I love Porsches but I'm afraid their contrived scarcity sales strategy is killing the golden goose.
Our 2023 3Lt HTC non-Z51 with performance exhaust, front lift, low spoiler and front lift is the best car this 75 yo has ever driven, we love it.
I waited 1 1/2 years to get my 2020 C8 and I'm completely satisfied, nothing but miles of smiles. My 5th Corvette and the Best By Far 👍⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for the review. I bought a '23 HTC Elkhart blue with black top Z51 last summer. Other than a dead battery after two weeks the car has been a joy, and I am still suprised about the amount of praise it draws in traffic. After storing it for the winter I was very happy to be back in the saddle.
Absolutely love my ‘24 C8
I have a 22 c8 8k miles on it and still am amazed at the gas mileage highway and street it gets as a daily driver with all the horses sitting right in your back ready to go at any given time
Gm nailed it and it’s only going to get better
I have a 2024 Corvette C8 convertible. Love it!
I love C8 Corvette but I live in Pakistan and can't afford one yet because of this video 📸 and similar videos on UA-cam I can live the dream 🏆.
In other words ty
Anything is possible! Make that dream true!!
i have 20,000 on my 2020 C8 and still have the original tires and windshield . The only maintenance has been 3 oil changes , that's it. The car is an absolute blast to drive and even gets good MPG for this type vehicle . This is my most favorite car I have ever owned in 50 years and Ive had quite a few and I consider it a great value . The cars you have to compare it against all cost 2 or 3 even 4 as much. It really is a great cat.
I can’t believe how well Chevrolet did with this car.
Love my 23 C8. It made me run to the dealership to get one. I can’t afford a European supercar, but I can afford one of these and arguably still be on par or better than some of the best supercars from the past 10yrs.
It’s American made too 🦅 🇺🇸
I've had my '23 Z51 for a year this month. Had a '19 Grand Sport before it, a '13 GS before that, a '99 Z51 6 speed convertible before that, and a '97 C5, all bought either new or almost new. With each new generation, came amazing improvements over the prior. But with the new mid-engine C8, it was an astronomical leap, in virtually every way. The C8 is the easiest car to drive fast that I've ever driven. Of course, it helped that I took advantage of the Corvette Performance Driving course that is offered to new Corvette owners, which I highly recommend. It gave me the opportunity to test much more of the C8's capabilities than I ever would be able to do living in Hawaii. And being an avid golfer, the fact that I can fit my clubs in the trunk and still stash a bag the size of a carry on is a huge bonus. That being said, despite what GM says about being able to fit two full sets of clubs, I had to buy a smaller golf bag to fit well enough to squeeze another smaller golf bag in, unlike my C7, C6, or C5's. They could easily fit 2 good size bags, but they didn't have the frunk. All in, I am extremely happy with my C8. I ordered it very well optioned, and it came in around $98k - out the door including taxes. A lot of money, but you get a lot of car for the $. True supercar looks and performance, at a fraction of the cost all around, including initial cost, maintenance and repair costs, fuel costs, and especially insurance costs.
I sold a Testarossa, my third Ferrari and bought my 24 C8 2LT. This car drives like a million dollars and does everything well. Only complaint is the square steering wheel. I love it!
At 71 years of age, I am an operator of a 2014 Corvette which I am thrilled with. One more payment and it's mine. A new C8 or fairly new one? As a Senior American National, it may be time for me to acquire one as I am contemplating owning such a beast! Will This senior Disabled Veteran of the Vietnam Era get this opportunity this year? Corvette will never get a greater Advertising proponent than this safe Traveler!
In 2006, I bought a C6 Z51 6 speed manual. 18 years later, with 102000 on the clock it still looks new. Pop the hood and you can't see a speck of grime. Considering buying a C8. Think of selling the C6!!! Not a chance. The C8 will be added to the fleet. Corvettes, best bang for the buck...
I own a 2016 Z06 with 36000 miles and I have had no issues. My interior has held up without any squeaks rattles or anything . I test drove a c8 and still prefer my c7 z06.
I sold my 16 Z three years ago. I had the Lingenfelter 720hp package and I sold it with 60k and it was flawless. But, it still have the Chevy quality which will
Never go away. The car was to much for the streets but, at the drag strip she really shined.
I own a C6 Z06, I can’t hear any squeaking or rattling over the kooks/borla. Does the car rocking from side to side at a stoplight count? I think not cause it gets a lot of love just about every time I stop for gas… I like the C8 but the C6 Z is a timeless halo vette. 650 hp, NA and 3100 lbs. yea, not stock but it still drives very well even at legal temperament.
@@motorgearhead😂 Got my eyes on a C6 ZO6…holding value very well.
@@cozmicsoull - they are holding $ very well. For the price point they are hard to beat. The car is kinda raw, a little unrefined and a great deal of fun. It certainly has personality and character.
Try the C8 Z06
The most impressive bit to me is that GM has managed to do such a good job on their very first attempt at a mid-engine car (since the fiero that is). There are definitely some QC issues, particularly with the earlier cars, but they’re all warrantied and the design itself has done fantastically
@pauldevassy2379 Corvair was rear-engine, not mid.
The HVAC buttons may be hard to find (and they are) but I'll take my buttons over embedding those functions in touch screen menus. All of my grips with this car are nit-picks, I love my C8!
I actually like the HVAC button wall. Once you familiarize yourself with the user-friendly layout, it is extremely easy to use by touch alone. Plus, it gives more of a fighter pilot cockpit feel, similar to how I felt back in '90, when I bought the then new Nissan 300ZX Turbo. That was also a great car for it's time, and the looks have held up very well after all these years when I occasionally see one on the road.
The dude sitting on the car was giving me palpitations👀
Good!
@@clintsimone that’s not good
@@brianthomas131Why not? No one would care if you think he’s attractive.
I assume it’s because no true car guy would ever sit on a car let alone a Corvette
@@cwg73160 hilarious! I think he meant cause the guy was sitting on the car which is a no no.
I valet parked corvettes in the 80s (yeah i Know thats a long time ago) todays corvettes are several orders of magnitude greater in quality and excellence. It is truly a car I will own.... soon... very.... soon !!!
I about died when he detailed only spending 1300.00 in regular maintenance in over 30,000 miles. You could have bought a base sting ray for the cost of maintenance on a Ferrari at 30,000 miles!! Ok maybe not, but I’d bet it’s close
That's the nice thing about getting a chevy
Agreed. Not sure what part of the country he's in but chevy offers the first oil change and transmission filter change at 7500 mile for free on the on the C8 in the first 2 years of ownership. I haven't paid for any maintenance in the 1 year and 4 months of ownership of my 2023 c8 convertible. I'm at 9400 miles with 22% life on my oil so I'll take it in soon for an oil change. My dealer said my next oil change will also be free since its within 2 years of my C8's in service date. I did replace a rear tire ($530) due to large nail in the run flat (which performed as advertised and allowed me to drive home 7 miles with zero pressure in the tire). Love the car but I'm considering upgrading to the Eray. The C8 is the best performance value on the car market.
Not for a new Ferrari. 7 years free scheduled maintenance according to the factory schedule.
I will own a corvette one day
I said that for 40 years. I finally got mine.
@@mikegoodwin2386 Thanks!
Every time I'm on the track with the Stingray I find myself saying, "I can't believe how fast this is for the price I paid". On the street it's a bit frustrating because you're never remotely close to its limits. Chevy/GM really knocked it out of the park with this car.
Solid video and review. Luckily in my 17k miles I have not had the tire issues just rotor/brake pad issues on the track. It is good to hear the interior is holding up!
They likely did track alignment on theirs. You can see the wear from the negative camber on their car. Glad to hear your car is holding up.
What year is your car.?
just past 50k miles and its been smiles non stop
Best Vette to date by a mile, no doubt. Finally gets the mid-mounted engine, supercar look and performance while still being all undeniable Vette. I only lament the lack of manual gearbox option for an even more engaging driving experience.
Great final thoughts on the C8. Well worth it and im sure you all are going to miss it and it does deserve a high spot in Edmunds history. First mid engine corvette and no major issues that most new generation cars have. You beat that thing for years , not just casual driving with SOME spirited driving , it was the opposite.
Absolutely. I love everything about my C8. Looks, MRC, engine, DTC and especially refinement are all world class. The C8 is a great handling, and great performing sports car while also riding great. It rides so well that you may think that you are driving a luxury car, but the road noise reminds you this is a performance car. The biggest downside: dealers are taking advantage of the hype to charge more on maintenance. I love the squared steering wheel especially after driving it and having even more reference points when turning the wheel makes you realize this enhances performance materially. All the critics of the squircle and the in line controls simply say they are not used to it. But like the in line controls, once you become familiar with each, they work very well together and you appreciate the excellent ergonomics, functionality and performance. The C8 engineers thought through everything far more than any of the critics. You just have be objective that the new technology may improve performance And, he leads the charge against anything without a manual. I, we get it. I still have my Integra GSR because, its a manual. At Spring Mountain, the instructors taught us to shift manually and performance was outstanding. Again, once you try the DCT, nothing matches it.
GREAT car for the price. American car engineering at its finest!
One of the best Corvettes of all time. Can't wait to see what they do next with Corvette
I have a(murdered out) 2023 HTC/Z51-AMAZING!Best car I have ever owned.4th vette (1993,1994,2019 7speed manual).I do not care what the value or depreciation is.I am keeping this baby.
Just wanted to add that by far where this car smokes everything else is in looks. When you pull up in a torch red c8 you experience what it is to be a super model about town.
except the butt ugly rear - the stock spoiler and lights are awful they should have went back to circular taillights and a flat or duckwing default spoiler like on the z06
@@neo4102 no argument on the rear. Also, I prefer it without the spoiler.
@@pooshNchums some youtubers like this guy gabe made a great transformation on the stock C8 with a larger quad exhaust, lower ride height and duckbill spoiler - THIS is what a stock corvette shoudl look like
ua-cam.com/video/X9Wo0ho8tKE/v-deo.html
yeah this car unfortunately has angles.... I feel the C7 has a better overall profile than the C8, which has some better angles, but some worse ones.
My wife & I just bought a beautiful 2021 C8 Stingray, red mist, base LT1. It only had 1,200 miles, Certified Pre-Owned, warrantees, yada... I love this car! As a sports touring car, it constantly amazes me. Hyper performance, beautiful & stylish supercar looks, and a grin that scares my wife! Buy one!
The C8 is a masterpiece hands down the most bang for the buck nothing comes close. It'll be my next car. Just have to wait a little longer.
Was looking at a C8 for several months but bought a F-Type instead. I chose the F-Type as it has AWD, longer warranty, more cargo space, classic body design and awesome exhaust noise!!
First oil change and trans filter is free.... also cracked windshield happens on any car. Not sure why you would include those expenses.
Sit low and you will get cracked windshields i promise
@@noName-kn1lx Drove my C8 for 3 years and now Z06 for over a year and never had a crack. Not sure what sit low means...
@@markoon139
I think he means vehicle height, but 🤷🏽
@@markoon139 it means that rocks spit up hit your windshield instead of your grill.at 80 mph
@@noName-kn1lx maybe don't follow other vehicles so close?
It’s so rare to see numbers on ownership thank you guys for putting that out they’re
Great review. When you do a review of an outgoing long-term tester, I believe most people want to know "How would you option the car differently if you bought it today?" You obviously appreciated the front-end lift feature. Do you still think Z51 is necessary? What about magnetic ride control? Could you go for a decontented LT1 and still be happy? For prospective buyers, this is valuable insight from a long-term test. Thanks!
they tracked it hard, the bigger brakes, cooling, and better tires alone made up the cost, you get the eLSD for free essentially
This is great feedback, thank you!
After having my C6 with mag ride for 12 years and 70k miles, I would consider mag ride an essential option. Chevy should just make it standard equipment.
I have a mag-ride C7 it’s an amazing system that has spoiled me forever. The car can be grand touring smooth or locked down on rails for the track with just the twist of a knob.
I rented the C8 for my wedding day burnt orange color
I love this car
I rented a 2020 C8 last month to see if it will help me decide if I'll buy a 2024, and I was a bit skeptical, but it quickly changed my mind. Handling, seating comfort (I'm 6'1"), braking, steering, transmission, and power were great. Of course, the side and rear blind spots are harsh, but the rear mirror and front view cameras help. I imagine addition to the side blind spot sensors will also help. The front-end view is better than models back to its beginning due to the mid-engine design. It feels tight to the road and responsive. I'd say it's worth the price for a car that feels, by both driver and passenger, it can be driven comfortably cross country.
Unbeatable at its price point. Period.
Love our C8. Only change I'm making is to attempt to address a problem you experienced: bent wheels and ruined tires, by reducing the wheel size from 19/20 to 18/19. Small as I can go with the massive brakes she has.
If you replace the wheels with forged alloy ones and you could keep the 20” size and they wouldn’t break. And if you move to a state without potholes, the tires wouldn’t break either. :-)
@@MegaTucker26 Forged wheels won't protect the tires from cutting the sidewalls. Also, we take our Vette on road trips annually (usually ~5000 miles), and the extra sidewall profile *should* make for a better ride.
Did the same thing with my C7 Z51. Stock wheels were ugly heavy chrome monsters with silly low profile tires. The 18/19 combo is also cheaper on the wallet when doing track days.
Had a c8 z06 and now my 2nd c8 stingray. Hard to beat for the money. Great cars
Love the car. I have a C8. Well worth the money! I recommend buying one.
In my 16,000+ mi I have not had any issues with the tires or windshield or anything else.
I owned a ‘23 C8 Coupe Z51 from new to 3300 miles. It’s a bad ass and comfortable car. Highly recommended one. It was the New Balance and jeans shorts crowd at Cars & Coffee that had me sell it. I’ll get sh-t for this but that’s what did it. Ordered a new 911 GTS and I’ll report how that experience is in a couple months after it arrives. But if you’re on the fence about a C8, you will love it. Just don’t skimp on seats and Magnetic Ride and please don’t wear NB sneakers 🇺🇸🏁
Absolutely Love It! This is the beginning of a new era for Corvette.
will have my c8 for 2 years in July. 2023 model. I have had to pay for one oil change. one was free. one coming up soon. but was only about 90 bucks. 18k miles on it. i do not track it through. had 3 tires replaced because of flats, but I have the tire insurance and it paid for them. so far I have 90 bucks in maintance on it.
Bought a C7 Z in 2019 and still enjoy it having no regrets 😁😁
Thanks for the review.
5:05. Being one of the few who has owned an M2 (F87) and a Corvette (C7 Z06, current), the M2 is a class down to the Corvette, but it is definitely a class up in usability. It is almost, almost, as fun to drive as the Corvette, but has a good trunk and good back seat. The M2 is for those who want to be ready for anything. The Vette is for weekend drives to the beach, when its just you and the road.
Sorry,what’s an M22
Now that the Stingrays are MSRP or even below, now is the time to pick one up if you have the means.
The C8 is an amazing sports car for a relative cheap price. It is an American Icon. What is the closest mid-engine rival and for how much more???
The closest mid engine cars I can think of would be the 718 Cayman (identical starting price), Emira (77 grand, and 911 Carrera (116 grand). The Cayman and Emira aren’t in the same league as the Vette, and even the base Carrera can’t quite keep up. The Carrera S is as quick if not quicker, but it costs 133 grand.
@@rwilson4073 Thanks!
@@rwilson4073 well Emira are not available yet at 77k and probably won’t ever be. Right now you can 1st editions for just over 100k. And finally after 2 years, they are now being delivered on the USA. The Emira is nowhere near as quick as the C8, it’s a different type of sports car.
@@sevenflashowls exactly. They produce more C8s than Emiras & Caymans combined, and more stingrays than all 911 variants combined.
@user-gs5br6vg7w unfortunately, Mr. Multi-Millionaire youtube commenter, plenty of poorer, less-wise commonfolk are lining up at the doors to buy them. Hopefully someone can put a stop to them damn union workers and their unreasonable demands 😤
My 2016 C7 has no squeaks and interior is almost as good as new. Only have had rear shocks replaced. Sitting at 75+K miles now. This is likely the first and last vett I will own since I have to have a 'man' transmissions. I love to drive , not be driven.
C8 has paddle shifters like many other supercars and can be shifted 'man'ually as you implied. If you just love grabbing a stick and moving it around by hand you may have other 'man' issues.
The C8 Stingray fulfilled the promise of the original Acura NSX did not, and still does. The affordable mid engine sports car beyond the level of Ferraris 458 series on street and track is what the car will be remembered for in the future regardless of fanboy antics. It will also be remembered by car enthusiast of being the Porsche Carrera S ALTERNATIVE for less money. ALL C8 series cars so far make the argument of paying more for less of a mid engine car kinda silly.
I got the Front lift on my C8 (although I have no Aero-bits)- Never use it.....
The First DCT Filter change @ 7500 miles should have been FREE.
I've owned some old school 'Vettes--a 1966 Sting Ray, 1968 Convertible/two top and a 1974 C3 Coupe-350 w/4 sp. (195 h.p. version): all special cars for there time and, call me whatever, I switched to '70 Ford--Mustang Boss 302 w/ 4-sp Hurst T-handle...I think these new 'Vettes are dynamite, very beautiful and worth the price. Such an improvement, etc.
currently have an E46 M3 which is really oustanding. I would buy a C7 (IMO first true global competitive vette), BUT I want the C8...and eyes on the C8 Z06.
Simply a sucker for high revving motors
The C8 broke the mold and would be proud to own and drive it
What I think of it's place in automotive history ... I own one ... a red mist convertible. Why not replace it with a Z06 or E-Ray?
Your three-year ownership was a lucky one in some ways. I have heard from mechanics who work on them that half the rear end has to come off for many small items to be replaced. At today's labor costs, that is not something to look forward to. I think it is a beautiful car but a totally different look from all the rest. I have a C7 and it is my last Corvette.
No question Corvette Racing is a big factor in performance and design…(Z51, HTC) I had a little rough start with those bad batches of pushrods…then apparently after repair, someone didn’t put the spark plug wire on all the way, so we limped in again BUT since then nothing but fun - the car is certainly fast enough as expected but holding the road is my eye opener…
I’ve never seen such format, and I love it, you earn a subscriber!
I like that you had it for 3 years👏🏽
love mine so far, as long as it stays reliable i will be happy
As a ferrari lambo and Porsche owner, those C8 service costs are amazingly low…try 5-6x higher on mine
Fk we get it the C8 is bloody brilliant. An American masterpiece. Now go do a Z06 long term 🎉
Price per Looks/performance is unbeatable
E -Ray! Bring it on.
I love the square steering wheel and the center controls
Thank you for posting this video. I've been watching the used Corvette market for many years. I can finally afford to buy one in cash this December 2024.
This car was meant to be driven and it was 🔥🔥🔥
I switched from a 22 Hellcat Charger Widebody Black Edition to the C8 3LT Z51 Convert and let me tell you. The C8 is hands down more fun to drive and you get more "great car" comments than "lets race" comments by teenagers. I have to say the power of the hellcat is unmatched. It never ends but thats also the problem unless you are going 100mph you are constantly losing traction and that car is scary to drive in heavy rain. The C8 I would drive in snow its that planted. The downfall is cargo space compared to a full sized sedan but overall the C8 is fantastic for the grocery store. The rear trunk works perfect. Nothing tips over and unless you live far from the grocery store you dont have to worry about anything melting. I will have to say the front lift on C8 is a lifesaver. I love the feature. Havent scraped once yet in 5k miles.
The external DCT filter was due to be changed again at 22,500 miles. Did you guys do that as well? Wasn't specifically mentioned when you were going over maintenance costs
best corvette ever and a truly special car.
GM is killing it.
Such an amazing car
I've heard that chevy techs at dealers often don't know how to work on this car. Not something I'd want to risk
20 seconds into the video and it already sounds like you got a bit of a windshield problem is what it's like to own a corvette.
I like the car but don't love it. They even said in the video this car drives fast by itself. If you want a car all about the numbers then this is the easiest and most cost effective way to get it. I have had slower cars that gave me more of the fizz. I miss my e92 M3 manual. But due to its reliability issues I traded it in on the C8
I think the Corvette is the most amazing Supercar. The price is modest compared to most of the competition. You can beat on it all day, and if it breaks, you pay Chevy prices for repairs.
Four sets of tires!?! Dang
This is very misleading. Multiple staffers, multiple track days, multiple burnouts. This is a shady review.
@@backnu What part of "neither of these two things are the car's fault" @3:21 did you not understand?
@@backnu ah, that makes sense. I had a Camaro SS 1LE and those tires lasted about 18k miles. I thought that was short. 4 sets in 32.5k miles would be a little over 8k miles per set. That’s crazy.
@@backnunothing was misleading. It was a sports car that they actually used as a Sports car.
My M3 ate 10 sets of tires including multiple track days during 137,000 miles of service.
I think a driver that has actually held a Vette as their dream car will talk better care of it and not abuse it like your team did. It’s by Brandon’s standards a steal amongst international super cars. Awesome vehicle.
They didn't necessarily abuse it. The car is made for the track.
@@ohfacexo the multiple sets of tires, brakes, and one of the team members sitting on the hood of that car were abuse. I’m picky.
@@us1fedvet I'm not above throwing hands if someone sits on the hood of mine. I get it.
Best Chevy ever. No contest - C8 Corvette.
Do you have to have Magnetic ride if your not tracking it. And can you do without the front lift if you find a good deal on one without these options?
Sounds nice. Still
Can’t come to grips with the looks of it. I’m a long term Corvette guy and may some day fall in love with it but for now, I’ll drive my 911 and Corvette c7 Z06.
Corvette, since the C4, has managed something no other car anywhere has managed: it's a muscle car, a GT/daily car, and a sports car all in one package. That's not the amazing part. Here's that: it's really good at all three. A law of the universe says that a jack of all trades is riddled with compromises. The Corvette breaks that law and chuckle softly as "exotic" vehicles costing 2-3 times more and with identical performance catch fire or blow up at 50,000 miles.
Hard to beat this for msrp
It's still not enough to pull me out of my '13 Z06. Especially with the fear of the AFM. Not just with GM, but, with many others, the cylinder deactivation lifters can fail early (65-75Kmi) and wipe out the cam. I've heard of mod kits to physically remove that system. About $5K it costs to have it done, I believe....
I have a 2021 C8....love it!
How many stone chips are in those front radiators?
So, you guys lost so much money when selling it. Used corvettes with more miles are selling for more money. So it still is a great value compared to other mid engine cars.
No glass coverage?
The c8 is my dream car, ill buy one this year or next
I don’t think the Vette photographs well, but in person it’s a very pretty car❤️, performance per dollar, nothing in the world offers more performance per dollar.
A friend of mine works for a chevy dealer and he says the biggest issue with these cars is the transmission. And it cost 30k to get replaced 😬
It's warranted for 5 years/60,000 miles so almost no one has paid for a transmission replacement.
@@philsalley3278 Used market will, and it takes months to get parts and repair
@@blaze376192 Any subsequent owner of the car still has the remainder of the 5 yr/60K warranty.
@@blaze376192 Used C8s are still under warranty. I would think only a very small number of C8s have over 60,000 miles on them. How many have transmission issues is pure speculation. I doubt a transmission replacement costs $30,000.
Transmission issues were a big problem on the early cars, but they were a supplier issue that has since been fixed for some time
I'm 6'6", 200 pounds. Will I fit in the driver's seat? Thanks.
3 windshields?