Twas the Night Before Christmas - Corvette Style - Description ...

FUTURE EVENTS
CORVETTES OF LAKE TAHOE RUN - JUNE 23 - 26 2011
SOUTHERN OREGON CORVETTE CLUB RUN-JULY 7 - 10, 2011
WSCC CONVENTION - JULY 17 - 20, 2011
SUPPORT YOUR CLUB - PLAN A RUN
TAKE US TO YOUR FAVORITE PLACE
THE LONGEST RUNNING ANNUAL CORVETTE EVENT IN THE COUNTRY!

Corvettes of
Fresno
Tahoe tour 43
“Sopranos”
September 8-11, 2010
Horizon Hotel
South Lake Tahoe, Nv
Package price 165.00
Singles 125.00
Includes COF Hospitality Room Thu & Fri.
1 Participant Theme T-Shirt
Breakfast tickets for Fri-Sat-Sun
BBQ Luncheon on Sat
Saturday Eve Banquet
and all events
Thursday
Early arrivals
Welcome party in
COF hospitality room
Friday
Morning run to Virginia City
Slot Tournament
Theme Hospitality Rooms by attending clubs
Best Room and Best Beverage awards
Best Theme Costume
Saturday
Show and Shine Car Show
Poker Run
BBQ Luncheon hosted by Corvettes of Fresno
No-host cocktail party, Dinner, and Awards

CORVETTES OF FRESNO, INC
Is a non-profit organization formed by
those owners who are proud to drive
America‘s only true sports car –
THE CORVETTE
Our club meetings are held at 7:00 pm on
the third Tuesday of the month at the
American Legion Hall located at 3509 N.
First Street, (North of Shields on the S/W
corner of First Street & Dayton), Fresno.
If you are an interested Corvette owner,
we invite you to attend.
1971 was the last year for fiber
optic warning lights, first
introduced in 1968.
The only external difference
between the 1971 and 1972
Corvettes is the amber front turn
signals and chrome plating on the
egg-crate grills on the 1972.
A special purpose big block engine
which produces 425 HP was
available.
Last year to order the Corvette
with the Muncie M-22 (Rock
Crusher) transmission.
CORVETTES OF FRESNO, INC
2011 OFFICERS
President: Jon DeVoe
E-mail: president@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559- 683-7003
Vice Pres.: Nick DiLiddo
E-mail: events@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-439-7267
Secretary: Terri Cavanaugh
E-mail: secretary@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-439-7519
Treasurer: Harry Bellow
E-mail: treasurer@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-294-7740
Membership: Ron Miller
E-mail: membership@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-974-2616
Webmaster: Al Hall
E-mail: webmaster@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-582-6375
Newsletter: Jim Agar
E-mail: newsletter@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-297-2200
WSCC Representative: Roger Merritt
E-mail: representative@corvettesoffresno.com
Phone: 559-294-1762
CORVETTES OF FRESNO, INC IS A PROUD MEMBER
OF THE WESTERN STATES
CORVETTE COUNCIL (WSCC)
FIBERGLASS FOREVER IS A MONTHLY
PUBLICATION.
PLEASE SUBMIT ARTICLES NO LATER THAN
THE THIRD FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH VIA
EMAIL TO:
newsletter@corvettesoffresno.com

Is this April or May?
Well, by the time ya’ll read This, it’ll be may! And some of us will be in Nevada or Arizona. Depending
when you read it. I am so stoked about this trip! Thank goodness for this busy winter so we can pay for it.
Man; jet boats, train rides, gambling, stock car rides on a real nascar track in a real racecar! Yes; I want to
drive! Touring the hoover dam and new by-pass bridge. Wow! Do we sound like a bunch of kids or what?
What are we, 21 again? “again”? don’t you still feel 21? Just with a better job! Isn’t it so great to hang out
with a group of people that keep each other feeling so young? The more you do, the better you feel. Like they
say; “you don’t stop playing when you grow old; you grow old because you stop playing”! So, don’t look for
me to stop playing any time soon. Can’t wait! And get to drive a corvette for a solid week? Not just ½ a
day. Yeah baby!! But, what are we going to do the rest of the month? We need some weekend activities just
to talk about the trip. Maybe a special meeting to reminisce. Take a lot of pictures. Not that jim won’t. bet
that newsletter will break into triple digits. Ya think? And rodeo season has begun. Yeah! “Horsepower! 8
seconds or miles per hour!” and California has some great rodeos. Clovis (this weekend), Salinas, norco; just
tops in the nation. We should do a run to Cheyenne frontier days. What a great place. 2 nd only to Calgary
stampede. Both within driving distance. Well; so is panama if you have the time. You know; 2-3 days to
get there; 2-4 days there; 2-3 days to get home. Oh wait. Now it’s a 2 week trip. Let’s get over this one first.
Do some weekends, a tahoe run, maybe another ice breaker; then we’ll head ½ way across this beautiful
country of ours on a 2 week adventure. Just a thought.
Well; happy easter to everyone. Hey! You know why the easter bunny hides its eggs? I’ll tell you later.
Happy mothers day to all you mothers and especially to you moms. You know the difference. Have a great
month. Be safe out there on our highways & byways. Till we see each other again; stay young & remember
to “save the wave”.
Your pres. Jon
Presidential quote:
Life is short! Break the rules! (at least bend the hell out of um!)
Forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love freely, laugh uncontrollably,
And never regret anything that made you smile………..
―It‘s not where you‘re
going;
It‘s what you‘re driving!!‖

Membership
Ron reported that as of today COF has 103 members and 74 cars.
Members & Guests
Total Attendance was 61 - 49 Members and 12 guests, Chuck Feccia, Sharon Minnich
Larry Minnich, Frank & Lynn Moore, Christe Profera, Michael Brockman,
Daniel & Roseanne Rodriguez, Bill & Wynona Heron, Jacklyn Christiani
Nametag drawing
Janie Stafford's name was drawn - She was present and had her name badge
on. Janie won $30.00. Next months drawing will be for $10.00.
Remember to wear your nametag at the meeting for a chance to win.
Club Directories and Updates
The 2011 electronic copy of the club membership directory is available online at
www.corvettesoffresno.com (contact Al Hall for the new access info)
MAY ANNIVERSARIES
DON & SHIRLEY DOSHER 4 - JERRY & JO ANN NAJARIAN 7
KERRY & JEANNIE DEHNEL 9 - JIM & LYNNE AGAR 25 - CHUCK & JESSIE ROBB 18
MAY BIRTHDAYS
RON MILLER
MEMBERSHIP
JACK QUIGLEY 2 - ROBERT JOHNSON 5 - RON MILLER 7 - DEBBIE DUKES 20
DARLENE WAGNER 20 - RUTH LOONEY 24
A blonde suspects her boyfriend of cheating on her, so she goes out
and buys a gun.
She goes to his apartment unexpectedly and when she opens the
door she finds him in the arms of a redhead.
Well, the blonde is really angry.
She opens her purse to take out the gun, and as she does so, she is
overcome with grief.
She takes the gun and puts it to her head.
The boyfriend yells, 'No, honey, don't do it!!!'
The blonde replies, 'Shut up, you're next!'
CONGRATULATIONS!
50/50 RAFFLE WINNERS
JON DeVOE
GAILA PELOIAN
EACH WON $50.00
NAME TAG DRAWING
JANIE STAFFORD'S NAME
WAS DRAWN, SHE WAS
PRESENT AND HAD HER
NAME BADGE ON. JANIE
WON $30.00
NEXT MONTHS DRAWING
WILL BE FOR $10.00

CORVETTES OF FRESNO
GENERAL MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 19, 2011
ALL TO ORDER: President Jon DeVoe called the meeting to order at 7:12 pm. Board Members present were Nick DiLiddo, Terri
Cavanaugh, Harry Bellow, Ron Miller and Jim Agar.
Pledge of Allegiance was held.
MEMBERSHIP: Ron Miller reported at today’s Meeting: 49 members and 12 guests the following guests were introduced: Chuck
Feccia – Sharon & Larry Minnich- Christi Profera & Michael Brockmann, Frank & Lynn Moore, Daniel & Roseanne Rodriquez, Bill
& Wynona Herron & Jacklynn Fronk. April birthdays and anniversaries were acknowledged.
SECRETARY‘S REPORT: Jon Devoe called for a motion to forego the reading of the minutes of the meeting. It was moved by
Jerry Najarian & seconded by Pam Forrester Motion approved. Frank Stafford motioned to accept the minutes as printed David
Cavanaugh seconded it. Minutes accepted as printed..
TREASURER‘S REPORT: Harry Bellow reported the account activity which is on file to be reviewed by members only. Motion
was made by Gene Fox to approve the Treasurer’s report – seconded by Allen Teixeira . Treasurer’s report approved.
COMMUNICATIONS: Jim Agar Any information that you have for the newsletters needs to be submitted to Jim by the Friday
after the general meeting. Newsletter was 20 pages printed and 57 pages on line.
WEBMASTER: No report- Actively seeking someone to take over this position and Al is willing to train and he has all the necessary
software he will share.
ACTIVITIES, Past: Cystic Fibrosis Walk – Allen Teixeira 5 cars and a very nice day.
Kingsburg Run- John Johnson, 62 people and 32 cars a great evening with wonderful food.
ACTIVITIES, Future: Please refer to the Calendar of Events in the club newsletter or on the Club website,
www.corvettesoffresno.com for more details and up to date information.
4/30 Relay for Life -Jon DeVoe - 5/15 Laughlin – Grand Canyon – Jim Agar - 5/21 Eagle Field Drags – Steve Profera
6/23-26 Corvettes of Tahoe Run - www.laketahoecorvettes.com - 7/8 Grants Pass Run – Lloyd Cox
7/17-20 WSCC convention Minden Nv. - 9/8 Tahoe Tour- Sopranos Theme-
TAHOE REPORT: Frank Stafford is looking volunteers to help with Tahoe committees. He was asked if any thought had been
given to staying somewhere else. Allen & David spoke to that. Janie spoke about being moved from a room where we were going to
have dinner at the last minute by a casino because we were not staying there. Room cost is ½ of the Mont Blu. Frank requested
approval of his budget, David Cavanaugh seconded and motion passed.
David Cavanaugh asked if anyone was interested in a wine run in June. Answer was yes.
Christmas Party is December 9, 2011 at Pardini’s.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Newsletter was discussed again. Now it will be printed in Black & White on lighter paper to reduce
printing costs and postage costs for our sponsor.
NEW BUSINESS: Next board meeting will be postponed to 5/10 due to Laughlin Run. Denny’s at Blackstone & Herndon 7pm.
Next Tahoe meeting 4/26 at Denny’s
Jim Kell made a donation for the “Goofy Award” it was presented to Steve Profera.
It was asked to have the U-Turn Trophy returned to be awarded to Allen Teixeira at the next meeting.
The next general meeting will be held at The American Legion at 7:00 pm on May 24, 2011. The address is 3509 N. First Street, Fresno,
CA 93726 (north of Shields on the SW corner of First Street at Dayton).
NAME TAG DRAWING: Janie Stafford’s name was drawn and she was there and did have her name tag on.. Next month’s
drawing will be $10.
RAFFLE: was held.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: a donation bowl was passed for the Relay 4 Life and a total of $100 was collected from our members in
attendance.
Frank Stafford mentioned again the Tahoe meeting on 4/26.
The meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Terri Cavanaugh - Secretary
TERRI
CAVANAUGH
SECRETARY

May 15 th Sunday North County corvette Club in San Diego Ca. will be having there PLASTIC FANTASTIC
ALL CORVETTE CAR SHOW the largest and oldest all corvette show in the southwest see flyer on web
site for all information and registration forms.
June 24-25-26 Fri-Sat.-Sun Lake Tahoe Corvette Club, 9 th Annual car show, slot touney, poker run, corvette
time trials, vendor booths, sounds like a bunch of corvette owners having a great time together.
July 7-8-9-10 Thurs to Sunday Oregon Run, sponsored by the Southern Oregon Corvette Assoc.
Lloyd Cox is the chairman for this fun run to Oregon, rooms are filling up fast , you can reserve a room by going
to their Web Site. Southern Oregon Corvette Club website, also there is all the information on events and
shows for this event. Contact Lloyd Cox @ 559-896-8595 for leave times from Fresno, or any other info needed.
Lloyd has been on this run several times, he has the answer for questions as needed.
July 17 - 20 WSCC Convention in Minden, nv. (see website for more details)
September 8-9-10 2011 Yes it is a early notice on Tahoe 43. This years chairpersons are
Frank & Janie Stafford. Post the date in your calendars, starts Thurs. Sept. 8 th 2011. More info to follow
This car was spotted in a junk yard here in Fresno. On the
windshield it claims to be the managers special for only 1,499.
ATTENTION ALL COF MEMBERS
NICK
DILIDDO
V.P.
ACTIVITIES
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE RUN PICTURES OR REQUIRE MORE
INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR UPCOMING RUNS & EVENTS PLEASE
CHECK OUR WEBSITE @ www.corvettesoffresno.com
THE WEBSITE CONTAINS A MUCH LARGER NEWSLETTER & LOTS MORE
PICTURES & INFO THAN YOU WILL FIND IN OUR PRINTED VERSION

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY JONATHAN BAKER

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY JIM KOZERA & JONATHAN BAKER

Ray Battaglini
(2004 Induction)
On June 1, 1987, Ray Battaglini wrote to Terry McManmon, the chairman of the recently
formed NCRS Library, Archives and Museum Committee, volunteering his services to help
‗develop plans and strategies‘ for a museum. Seven years later, the National Corvette Museum
was a reality, thanks in no small measure to Battaglini himself.
Battaglini was a teenage hot-rodder cruising the streets of San Leandro, California when he fell
in love with the Corvette. In 1963 he bought a brand-new Split-Window Coupe. Once a wife and
kids moved into the picture, though, the Corvette moved out. Now working in fund-raising and
development for the American Heart Association, Battaglini had moved his family to Las Vegas
when one day he saw on the street a ‗63 Corvette just like the one he had owned years before.
"I put a business card on the window that said, If you‘re interested in selling, give me a call,"
said Battaglini. Soon he had his ‗63 Vette and a membership in the Las Vegas Corvette
Association‘s North Chapter. Before long he would be serving as its president. When the family
relocated to Albuquerque, Battaglini joined the New Mexico Corvette Association, became
involved with the National Council of Corvette Clubs and the National Corvette Restorers
Society. When the NCRS adopted the recommendation of the Library, Archives and Museum
Committee to form an independent foundation to establish a Corvette museum, Battaglini was its
first chairman.
Under Battaglini‘s leadership, articles of incorporation for
the new foundation were filed in New Mexico on November
3, 1988. An organizational structure was set up that same
month at a two-day meeting at the Auburn Cord
Duesenberg Museum in Indiana and major fund-raising
efforts began. A formal logo designed by Larry Shinoda
was adopted. Bowling Green was selected as the future
home of the museum and a Museum Annex was opened on
November 2, 1990.
When Dan Gale was elected president of the NCM
Foundation Board of Directors in 1991, Battaglini
continued to serve on the board. Whatever role he was
asked to fill, Ray Battaglini brought to it grace, enthusiasm,
and a talent for organization. He sought to unite the
sometimes fractious founders and the Corvette world at large behind the goal of a National
Corvette Museum — and he succeeded.

C6: As with the C5, when the C6 Corvette is in stationary mode, the roll switches only
transmit once per hour in order to save battery life.
At 20mph, the sensor roll switches activate to initiate full time monitoring. Actual tire
pressures of greater than 42 PSI or less than 25 PSI will activate the ―LOW TIRE
PRESSURE‖ warning message. If actual tire pressure is less than 5 PSI, a ―FLAT TIRE‖
warning message is displayed, 2 chimes sound, followed by ―MAX SPEED 55 MPH‖ and
―REDUCED HANDLING‖. Note that the car will not default to a reduced power, or
―limp‖, mode under these conditions.
If the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) detects malfunctions in the TPMS, it
will display a ―SERVICE TIRE MONITOR‖ message.
The C6 Corvette requires a TPMS reset tool. Excluding some very early production 2005
models, magnets will not work on the C6′s. The TPMS tool is expensive to purchase, but
you may order them through a Chevrolet dealer or the Tire Rack. Instructions for use are
similar to the C5:
1. Turn the key to the Accessory position but do not start the car.
2. With the key fob, press and hold the Lock and Unlock buttons simultaneously until an
audible chirp is heard from the horn.
3. Hold the TPMS tool over the valve stem on left front wheel. You may have to move it
around the valve stem to hit the right spot. Press the ―learn‖ (or similar) button on the
TPMS tool.
4. When the horn beeps (about 3 seconds later), programming is complete for THAT
wheel.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the other 3 wheels. The sequence is as follows: Left Front,
Right Front, Right Rear, Left Rear.
After resetting the left rear wheel, an audible double-chirp is heard from the horn. This
completes the sequence.

Corvette Racing Qualifies Second and Ninth for Sebring 12-Hour Race
SEBRING, Fla., March 18, 2011 – On a glorious
day in central Florida, Corvette Racing celebrated
the rites of spring by qualifying second and ninth
for Saturday‟s Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring
at Sebring International Raceway. Oliver Gavin
posted the second quickest time in the GT class at
2:01.743 (109.411 mph) in the No. 04 Compuware
Corvette C6.R. Olivier Beretta was ninth in the
No. 03 Compuware Corvette C6.R at 2:02.633
(108.617 mph).
The top eight cars in the production-based GT
category qualified within a second of the polewinning
time set by Gianmaria Bruni at 2:01.561 (109.575 mph) in a Ferrari 430 GT. With 85-degree air
temperature and 96-degree track temperature, the qualifying times were slightly slower than last year‟s
2:01.150 record on the historic 3.7-mile circuit that hosts the opening round of the 2011 American Le
Mans Series.
“I‟m pleased with second in such a competitive class, and very happy for the entire Corvette Racing team
because everybody has worked so hard this week,” said Gavin, who missed the pole by a scant .182 seconds.
“It would have been great to have taken the top spot to start off Chevrolet‟s 100th anniversary, but we‟ll wait
for the race tomorrow to do that. I‟m very proud to be part of the Chevy team.”
Gavin‟s third timed lap was his quickest on the bumpy 17-turn course on the site of a World War II
bomber base.
“The car is still yellow, and the only things that have changed are the number on the door and the color of
my teammate‟s helmet,” Beretta said with a laugh. “Johnny has been very cool, and we work well together.
We‟ve raced hard against each in the past, and now we are together in the same car. We like the same feel in
the car, and the change has given me a new perspective.”
Magnussen has rejoined Gavin, his former endurance-racing co-driver. “We‟re getting along great, and
I‟m getting comfortable in the car,” Magnussen said. “There is the usual stuff we have to sort out with
the seat and practicing driver changes. So far so good.
“Everyone was spaced out nicely at the start of the session, and the tires were taking some time to come in,”
he said. “By the time they were really hooking up, I caught a Ferrari on his cool-down lap and I had to pass
him off the line. I then had to go through the sand that had been dragged onto Turn 10, got some understeer,
and lost what probably would have been my best lap.”
Beretta posted his best time on his sixth and final lap at speed.
“I started well and the car was good,” Beretta reported. “Then after I caught some traffic, I slowed a little
and never got back up to maximum speed.
“It‟s a long race tomorrow, and it will be hot for sure,” Beretta noted. “We will try to stay out of trouble and
get to the finish in the position that we want.”

Gavin agreed with his teammate‟s prediction: “These are the warmest conditions we‟ve seen this week,
and we‟ve got some solutions for that in the race, whether with the Michelin tires or the chassis setup,”
said the Briton. “It‟s very edgy out there, there‟s a lot of sand on the track and a mix of different rubber
from all the series that are running at Sebring. I think we‟ll see a different situation tomorrow, and we‟ll
be able to fight with the best.”
Corvette Racing introduced two new Corvette C6.R race cars for this event, along with new paddle
shifters, a new engine management system, updated aerodynamics, and other innovations.
“The week we had here was probably the most challenging week we‟ve ever had at Sebring,” said Corvette
Racing program manager Doug Fehan. “The team really answered the bell today, turning in the second
quickest time and putting both cars in the top 10 in an intensely competitive class. When you see qualifying
this close, that promises a great race. I‟m very proud of the engineers, the crew, and the GM Powertrain
engine group – they all pulled together as a team today.”
Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring GT Qualifying (Top 10):
Pos./Drivers/Car/Time
1. Fisichella/Bruni/Kaffer, Ferrari F430 GT, 2:01.561
2. Gavin/Magnussen/Westbrook, Corvette C6.R, 2:01.743
3. Farfus/Auberlen/Werner, BMW M3 GT, 2:01.841
4. Priaulx/Mueller/Hand, BMW M3 GT, 2:02.139
5. Melo/Vilander/Salo, Ferrari F458 Italia, 2:02.290
6. Bergmeister/Long/Leib, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 2:02.334
7. Brown/Cosmo/Bell, Ferrari F458 Italia, 2:02.405
8. Ortelli/Makowiecki/Deletraz, Farrari F458 Italia, 2:02.524
9. Beretta/Garcia/Milner, Corvette C6.R, 2:02.633
10. Sharp/van Overbeek/Farnbacher, Ferrari F458 Italia, 2:02.877
Corvette Racing at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring
Corvette Racing Finishes Third and Fourth in Season-Opening Sebring Race
Corvettes Overcome Incidents and Accidents in 12-Hour Endurance Test
SEBRING, Fla., March 19, 2011 – Corvette
Racing raced around the clock to finish third
and fourth in the GT class in the Mobil 1
Twelve Hours of Sebring, the season-opening
round of the 2011 American Le Mans Series.
The No. 03 Compuware Corvette C6.R
driven by Tommy Milner, Olivier Beretta,
and Antonio Garcia completed 312 laps and
finished third, 49.294 seconds behind the
class-winning BMW. The No. 04
Compuware Corvette C6.R of Oliver Gavin,
Jan Magnussen, and Richard Westbrook
was fourth across the finish line with 311 laps.

The Sebring 12-hour was a test of determination for the Chevrolet team. The No 3 Corvette C6.R started
ninth on the grid and finished on the podium; the No. 4 Corvette C6.R overcame a three-lap deficit after
an accident at the two-hour mark.
“Today‟s result was absolutely a team effort,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. Vice President for
Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “In endurance racing you have to work as a team every minute, and
Corvette Racing did that. We have more work to do, but this team never gives up.”
The No. 04 Corvette C6.R made a fast start as Oliver Gavin started second on the GT grid and passed the
pole-winning Ferrari 430GT on the first lap.
“The Ferrari went wide and I got by him,” Gavin said. “Once the Ferrari‟s tires came in, he started to catch
me – any amount of dust on the track and our performance started to suffer. Then with new Michelins after
the first pit stop, we were back in the hunt and could race anybody.”
Gavin handed off to Jan Magnussen at 1:48 under a full-course caution, but the Dane encountered
misfortune as soon as racing resumed. Running third at the restart, contact in Turn 17 with Patrick
Long‟s Porsche caused both cars to spin. The following Ferrari F458 of Johannes van Overbeek then
spun, colliding with the Corvette and damaging its right rear suspension. The Ferrari subsequently
retired, while Magnussen manhandled the Corvette to the pits for repairs. Six minutes later, the Corvette
crew had him back on track, albeit two laps down to the GT leader.
“I got a better run going onto the straight, and Long moved to the right to block me,” Magnussen said. “No
big deal, I went around him on the outside. I think he was bouncing over the bumps, and bounced into the
side of my car. I can‟t be upset with him, but I was upset at the situation.”
Long was subsequently penalized for avoidable contact, and the Corvette was penalized for
crewmembers working on the car while the pits were closed, losing yet another lap.
Meanwhile the No. 03 Corvette methodically moved up from its ninth starting spot. Olivier Beretta
handed off to Tommy Milner, who showed his stuff in his first stint as a Corvette Racing driver. The 25year-old
raced former Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella hard, and took the yellow Corvette from
seventh to third in GT.
“Most of my teammates have driven Formula 1 cars, and it makes the race that much more fun when you
have the best drivers in the world,” said Milner. “I was able to settle into a rhythm, find the balance, and
push from there. Maybe I was a little too racy for my first stint, but I wanted to settle in and get the nerves
out.”
Richard Westbrook also showed his mettle in his first start with Corvette Racing in the No. 04 Corvette
C6.R. “Everyone at Corvette Racing wants to do so well – it‟s Chevrolet‟s 100th anniversary, and we
really want to put in a great performance,” Westbrook said. “Unfortunately Jan had contact in the
second stint, but we kept pushing – there was nothing else we could do.”
The race settled down in the middle stages as the six Corvette drivers cycled through their rotations. The
No. 03 Corvette maintained its pace with the frontrunners on the lead lap, while savvy pit stop strategy
and speed brought the No. 04 Corvette to within a lap of the leaders.
Shortly after seven hours, Milner pitted the 03 Corvette for a new windshield after the tearoffs had blown
off, leaving a layer of sticky adhesive. After falling back to sixth, he charged back through the GT field to
third at the end of his stint.

“That was probably the hardest I‟ve had to work in a race car to see out of the windshield,” Milner reported.
“The crew changed the entire window in nothing flat, and that was great because the car was really, really
good. When the sun went down, it definitely picked up grip.”
As the sun set at Sebring, the race pace quickened. Antonio Garcia turned in a strong performance to
pull the No. 03 Corvette as high as third on the cooling track.
“The car was getting better and better throughout the race,” said the Spaniard. “I was racing with a Porsche
in the first half of my stint and worked the tires hard getting by him, but at the end I ran decent lap times
with worn tires. We were in the fight, running as close as we could to the front, and we had to be able to fight
for a good position at the finish.”
After 10 hours of racing, Beretta had the No. 03 Corvette in second, and Gavin was back on the lead lap
in the No. 04 Corvette when the class leader pitted.
“The traffic was very bad sometimes,” said Beretta. “If you were in a good spot you could go quick, if not
you just tried to survive, not make a mistake, and use your brain.”
Gavin drove a double stint in the late hours before handing the No. 04 Corvette off to Magnussen for the
final run to the checkered flag.
“Today was a real uphill battle after the accident took us out of contention for the victory,” Gavin said.
“After we changed tire compounds I thought we‟d have a shot at the podium, but it was perhaps a bit too
early. This was one of the wildest 12 hours I‟ve ever raced. I‟m proud to be part of the Chevy team, and
proud to bring the car back to within a lap of the leader. Jan and Richard drove brilliantly today, with a bit
more luck we might have won.”
“We didn‟t have the ultimate speed to match the BMWs and Ferraris today, but we did have execution and
we did have strategy,” said Corvette Racing program manager Doug Fehan. “When you combine those in an
endurance race, it‟s going to show, and that‟s what this team did. This is a solid foundation for the season,
and a result we can be proud of.”
Corvette Racing‟s next event is the American Le Mans at Long Beach in Long Beach, Calif., on Saturday,
April 16.
Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring GT Results (Top 10):
Pos./Drivers/Car/Laps
1. Priaulx/Mueller/Hand, BMW M3 GT, 312
2. Farfus/Auberlen/Werner, BMW M3 GT, 312
3. Beretta/Garcia/Milner, Corvette C6.R, 312
4. Gavin/Magnussen/Westbrook, Corvette C6.R, 311
5. Fisichella/Bruni/Kaffer, Ferrari F458 Italia, 311
6. Bergmeister/Long/Leib, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 310
7. Law/Neiman/Holzer, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 306
8. Robertson/Robertson/Said, Doran Ford GT, 294
9. Ortelli/Makowiecki/Deletraz, Farrari F458 Italia, 292
10. Brown/Cosmo/Bell, Ferrari F458 Italia, 268

Corvette Airs New TV Commercial During ABC‟s 12 Hours of Sebring Broadcast
As Corvette is the title sponsor of Sunday
Afternoon‟s ABC Sport‟s broadcast of the
Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, it only makes
sense to educate viewers how closely related the
production cars are to the ALMS GT racers. To
do so, GM showcases the Corvette ZR1 while
spokesman Tim Allen tells viewers that when
they decided to take 638-horsepower Corvette
racing, they had to dial back the power just to
be fair to Porsche, Ferrari and BMW. For
Corvette‟s competition on the track and in the
showrooms, sometimes the truth hurts.
GM Discusses C6 and C7 Corvette at Sebring
Becoming an annual tradition, Corvette Product Marketing Manager
Harlan Charles and Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter made the trip
down to Sebring Florida last weekend to show off some cool Corvette
concepts and several 2011 regular production cars as well as give a
couple seminars with Corvette owners. The first seminar was held
Friday afternoon and the topics were the latest updates on the 2011
Corvette as well as some non-specific C7 Corvette news.
Regarding the C7 Corvette, Tadge and Harlan have become quite
adept at dodging the C7 “future product” questions and this
presentation was no different. Tadge took some time to make sure
Corvette owners are again aware that car magazines are in the
business to sell magazines and held up the latest Car and Driver
which showed a red illustrated C7 prototype on the cover as well as
rendering inside of a C7 with a rear end similar to that on the Corvette Stingray Concept. He assured us that both
designs missed the mark and that there are no employees of any magazines walking around the design studio
checking out the next-gen Corvette.
Another magazine article that Tadge discussed was the April 2011 Consumer Reports that listed the Corvette Z06
as a “recommended buy”. Consumer Reports hasn‟t been a friend to Corvette in the past but as Tadge stated, they
could no longer overlook the data and customer surveys.
Tadge did take an informal customer surveys to gauge what Corvette owners are looking for in the new C7
Corvette. Questions were in the vein of “revolutionary vs. evolutionary”, “Front Engine vs. Mid-Engined” and “V8
vs. Turbo V6″. As you may have guessed, most voted for an evolutionary designed front-engined V8 Corvette.
When it was Harlan‟s turn on the microphone, he talked about the latest 2011 news including the new blue
convertible top and color stitching options and the open ordering for the 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon limited
edition. He also spent some time talking about several of the concepts that were at Sebring including the 2011
Grand Sport Jake Edition and the 2011 Corvette Z06X track concept that were both displayed at the SEMA show
last November.
The team spent nearly twenty minutes or so doing a Q&A with owners and overall it was another informative
session. For those of you interested in 2012 Corvette news, Tadge says they‟ll roll that information out at the
Museum‟s C5/C6 Bash in April.

1984 to 1996
A total of 43 - 1983 model Corvettes were built, but there were so many quality problems with them it
was decided to halt production until they could be corrected. By the time the problems were corrected, it
was so late into the model year that the car was brought out as a 1984 model which was run for a year
and a half. The 1983,s were never sold to the public and the only one that is known to still exist is in the
National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY
The 1984 Corvette was the first American production car to have a 64% windshield angle.
A single transverse plastic front and rear spring first made it's appearance on the 1984 Corvette.
Twenty 1986 Corvettes were sent to Lotus in England to be converted into LT5 powered prototypes for
the ZR1 project.
In 1986, Corvette offered the "Malcolm Konner Commemorative Edition" with two transmissions. A
manual 4-speed and an automatic. Only 20 4-speed manual transmissions were installed at the factory.
In 1987 you could buy a Corvette without an engine installed by the factory.
A total of 30,632 Corvettes were produced in 1987. 184 of these Corvettes were Callaways, and 121 of the
Callaway's were coupes.
1982 and 1987 Corvettes had something in common, 16 exterior colors were available.
The last year a CB radio was offered as a Corvette option was 1985.
In 1988 a thirty-fifth anniversary edition Corvette package was available for coupes only. It featured a
two tone exterior of white with black roof bow, white leather seats, steering wheel, special interior and
exterior accents, a console-mounted anniversary plaque, special emblems and other special features.
Sales totals 2,050 cars.
In 1988, Corvette started using a unidirectional 17" wheel as an option with RP0 Z51 and Z52. New six
slot 16x8.5 were standard with P255/50ZR16 Tires.
In 1989, the ZR1 was produced to approximately 80 cars, however, none were sold to the public. The last
of these ZR1s were shipped out of the factory on Dec. 22, 1988.
1991 was the 10th anniversary of Corvette production at the Bowling Green, KY plant
The LT4 exhaust system has a distinguishing feature from the LT1 system. It has a balance tube
incorporated into it!
96 Grand Sports: There is a small area behind the hatch roof and in front of the panel that attaches to
the rear window that is taped, not painted. It is 1" long and the tape is about 18" wide. This change was
early in production. The purpose is to eliminate a problem area in the paint booth during manufacturing.
96 Grand Sports: The Grand Sport's stripe is not the same width all the way back. It gets wider as it goes
up the hood, and the top is narrower, and then it gets somewhat wider in the back end.

1997 to 2004
The first 200 production C5 Corvettes were painted Red, not the traditional color for the first production
run.
The 1997 Corvette C5 is the first Corvette designed from the ground up to be a Corvette.. Not borrowing
parts from other cars. One of the few "Off the Shelf" parts - the exterior door handles, same ones used on
the Oldsmobile Aurora.
The first use of a transaxle in a production Corvette occurred in the '97. However, the first plans for one
were in the Q-Corvette in 1958, planned for the 1960 model. Transaxles showed up in Corvette
prototypes in the mid '60s in running models.
The first 4 speed in a Corvette was built by Borg Warner in 1957. The first transaxle in a production
Corvette was also built by Borg Warner, forty years later in 1997. Both were introduced late in the model
year.
Borg Warner has produced a transmission for each generation of Corvette: C1 - 1957 to 1962, C2 - 1963,
C3 - 1980 to 1981, C4 - 1984 to 1988, and C5 - 1997 to 2004.
The 1997 Corvette is the first Corvette to have windshield wipers that sweep in the same direction instead
of opposing directions.
November 4, 1997 - The 9752nd 1998 Corvette rolled down the assembly matching the total 1997 Model
production run.
The last "Fairway Green" C5 a 1998 Model came down the assembly line November 10, 1997. The color
was discontinued.
It takes 55 hours to build the new C5 Corvette, down from 70 hours for the previous C4 model.

1983 CORVETTE
Officially, There were no 1983 Corvettes. There were forty seven 1983 Corvettes made but none
were ever sold. The National Corvette Museum has the only 1983 known at this time.
The new Corvette plant in Bowling Green, KY closed in October of 1982 to begin retooling for
the 1984 Corvette. Production began in January of 1983 and the press received their first view of
the 1984 Corvette in January of 1983. In February, the first production 1984 Corvettes were sold
to the public. In March of 1983, the 1984 Corvette officially went on sale in the United States,
except for California and a month later, in April, the 1984 Corvette went on sale in California.
By October of 1983, the plant was in full speed production.
Trivia: Pop music singer "Prince" released the song, "Little Red Corvette".
The 1984 Corvette was the first American production car to have a 64% windshield angle.
A single transverse plastic front and rear spring first made it's appearance on the 1984 Corvette.
1984 Corvette Specifications
Total Production = 51,547 Coupes
The 4th Generation (C4) 1984 model (actually introduced in March 1983) was all
new except for the driveline. The new body, interior, chassis, 4+3 manual
transmission, disc brakes, etc, earned the new 4th generation Corvette high
praise from automotive journalists worldwide
The L98 engine with Tuned Port Injection is introduced as a replacement to the
Cross-Fire throttle body injection system.
Motor Trend magazine names the 1984 Corvette "Domestic Car of the Year" for
1984.
The 1984 Chevrolet Corvette was the first of the fourth generation (C4). It
featured a complete redesign with the exception of the driveline. It was wellreceived
by both consumers and press, and was highly praised for its tight
cornering, aerodynamic appearance, and overall performance.
The base engine remained a 350-ci V8 rated at 205 horsepower. Again, no other
choices were available. Buyers could choose a 4+3 transmission, an unusual
configuration which combined a 4-speed manual with an automatic overdrive on
the top three gears.

RATS ATE THROUGH THIS BATTERY AND OTHER CAR PARTS!!
UNBELIEVEABLE!!

How long do I need to let a wax dry before removing it?
CAR WAX Q & A
Under normal conditions, waxes and paint protectants take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to dry. To determine
whether the wax or paint protectant has cured enough to remove it, you can perform a "Swipe test".
To perform a Swipe Test, take your index finger and swipe it across the film of wax or paint protectant on your finish. If
your finger wipes away the dried residue and the surface below is shiny, then the wax, or paint protectant, is ready to be
removed.
If however, you swipe the finish and the product streaks or smears, you need to allow a little more time for it to fully
cure.
One popular misconception that we would like to address is the false idea that the thicker the layer of wax or paint
protectant you apply at one time, the more protection you will leave behind. This is not true. Only a small amount of
wax actually bonds to the finish during each application, while the rest is simply removed when you wipe the excess off
the surface. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.
I own a convertible, what should I use to clean and maintain the convertible top?
The answer to this question will depend upon what material your convertible top is made out of. Convertible tops are
either made using vinyl, a type of plastic, or canvas, a type of cotton.
Vinyl Convertible Tops
The frequency in which you treat your vinyl top will depend on how your car is used. A car that is driven daily is
exposed to greater wear and tear than a car that is only driven occasionally on sunny days with the top folded down and
away from exposure to UV rays, dirt and dust, air-airborne pollution and fallout, etc.
If your car is driven daily, then you'll want to use a vinyl protectant that contains a mild cleaner to clean the surface so
that dirt isn't trapped and sealed into the vinyl material like a pure protectant product tends to do. For best results,
follow the directions below.
Clean the surface using safe but effect mild cleaners
Condition the vinyl material with our trade secret conditioning oils, which keep your vinyl soft and flexible
Protect by leaving behind a synthetic polymer protectant as well as UV inhibitors
Tip: For extremely dirty or neglected vinyl tops, It is recommended using a dedicated vinyl cleaner to thoroughly clean
the vinyl at the beginning of the process.
Canvas Convertible Tops
Traditionally, canvas was a heavy woven cotton fabric also called "duck". Canvas tops have always been a little harder
to maintain because in its base form, cotton is quite absorbent. This is a negative characteristic of simple cotton canvas
materials because when cotton gets wet and stays wet, the moisture tends to harbor mold and mildew as well as
accelerate deterioration.
Modern canvas material incorporates polyester and other synthetic fibers as well as specialty
coatings to improve dirt, water, mold and mildew resistance. This is where you have to be
careful - using the wrong cleaner can potentially remove or degrade the performance of some of
the features of modern canvas requiring professional restoration work or re-application of
special coatings.

2011 Corvette Z06 Scores ‘Best’ Rating by Consumer Reports Magazine
Consumer Reports‟ April 2011 edition ranks
the Best and Worst of 2011 and the 2011
Corvette Z06 has earned a “best” rating with
a score of 92. A car‟s overall road-test score
is the result of more than 50 individual tests
and evaluations from Consumer Reports
subscribers. For years we‟ve derided
Consumer Reports for its negative reviews
on Corvette and what looks to be a bias
against American-made cars in general. But
it looks like the data is in and they can no
longer dispute the fact that GM makes a
very reliable car and that Corvette owners
love them and would buy a Corvette again.
Although it was the 2011 Corvette Z06 that earned the “Best” rating, the other models in the 2011
Corvette lineup were mentioned in the Rating‟s Snapshot which appears on MSN Autos. Here is what the
mag has to say about the 2011 Corvettes:
The Corvette offers impressive performance from its V8, with a relatively comfortable ride and very capable
handling. The automatic transmission has paddle shifters, and the manual versions have a launch-control
feature for smooth takeoffs. The interior is roomy for a sports car, though some found seat support lacking.
The Z06 is a bargain high-performance sports car, with a potent 505-hp V8 engine. It is available only as a
coupe with a six-speed manual transmission. The supercharged, 638-hp ZR1 is available in limited numbers
and delivers super car performance. Reliability has improved to average for the base Corvette, while the Z06
is above average.
Corvette‟s Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter cited the Magazine‟s new stance on the Corvette over the
weekend at the 2011 12 Hours of Sebring. Juechter said
“Corvette is now a recommended buy and if you look under the individual ratings, they just can‟t deny us
any more in terms of the quality improvements that have been made on the car.” He added, “Based on the
surveys they do get, we are now in the highest class, not just acceptable, but in the highest class, the highest
possible score for predictive reliability. And when you combine that with performance of the car and then the
surveys they do on owner satisfaction, which we know everyone loves the cars, so owner satisfaction we
always get top scores, but now they have to rate the Corvette and the Corvette Z06 as a recommended buy”.
Here are the 9 vehicles which scored a “Best” rating:
99 – Lexus LS 460L
97 – BMW 135i (manual)
96 – Porsche 911 Carrera S (manual)
95 – Infiniti G37 Journey
95 – Mazda5 Grand Touring
93 – Infiniti M37
93 – Nissan Altima 3.5 SR (V6)
92 – Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (manual)
92 – Hyundai Genesis 3.8

These vehicles scored a “Worst” rating:
17 – Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
25 – Ford Ranger XLT (V6)
27 – Jeep Liberty Sport
28 – Smart ForTwo Passion
31 – Chevrolet Aveo5 1LT (hatchback)
33 – Dodge Nitro SLT (3.7)
36 – Chevrolet Aveo LT (sedan)
36 – Toyota FJ Cruiser
It‟s good to see the magazine has finally come around, although I find their decision making still
somewhat questionable as the ConsumerReports.org Recommended Alternative to the Corvette is the
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. I can almost guarantee that most Corvette owners would disagree with that
assumption.
More Corvette Personalization: Choose Your Own VIN
Fans of Corvette and readers of this
blog are familiar with the extra
attention Corvette owners can receive
from the factory as well as some of
the advanced personalization options
when buying a new Corvette. If you
thought the ZR1/Z06 Engine Build
Experience was cool, wait until you
hear about the new PIN RPO. Yes,
Corvette owners can now choose your
own VIN. This is great for collectors
who want to match an older
Corvette‟s sequence number with a brand new Corvette. The special RPO does come with a hefty price of
$5,000 and like the Engine Build Program, you‟ll be working a Corvette concierge to coordinate the
special order.
I‟m sure many are asking why would you want to choose your own VIN sequence number? When the
Corvette turned 50 years old in 2003, We saw several collectors match their 2003 50th Anniversary
Editions to the same sequence of their 1953 Corvette. But you really had to be someone special to get this
done in the past.
Now, there are some conditions that must align for you to be able to get the VIN sequence of your choice.
After agreeing to the $5,000 fee, a Corvette Concierge will contact you to get the requested VIN. They
will then determine whether or not the request can be honored within the current production timing. You
won‟t be able to order out of sequence. It must fall within the natural assignment of VIN numbers.
Dealers are starting to promote the new option already and this morning we received a copy of this
official communication from GM to Corvette dealers:
Introducing Corvette Exclusive Customer‟s Selectable VIN Ending Option – RPO: PIN

As many of you already know, Corvette customers are unique automobile aficionados who seek to differentiate
and personalize their specific Corvette model. Chevrolet feels it is important to offer a wide variety of accessories
and personalization options for customers to accomplish this goal. Examples of this include the option to take
delivery through the National Corvette Museum, or the opportunity to produce their Corvette Z06 or ZR1 engine
through the Corvette Engine Build Experience.
These options have proven to be very popular, but some customers have expressed a desire to have a unique
ending number assigned to their Corvette‟s Vehicle Identification Number. For example, a customer may have a
classic 1963 Corvette with a VIN ending in 1400, and seeks a new Corvette with the same matching VIN ending
number. Up to this point, the VIN assignment for a customer‟s new Corvette would have been a random process;
but under a new program called Customer‟s Selectable VIN Ending Option, customer can request a specific VIN
ending number for their new production vehicle as long as the request falls within Corvette‟s natural production
sequence.
Similar to the Corvette Engine Build Experience (RPO: PBC), dealers who submit a customer sold order with
RPO: PIN will be contacted by the Corvette Concierge. The concierge will collect the customer information and
the requested VIN ending number. The concierge will then pass the information over to Chevrolet to determine
whether the request can be honored within the appropriate production timing. If it is determined the request can
be honored, the concierge will confirm the information with the dealer, and the order will proceed through
production. When the vehicle is produced, the invoice will include a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price
(MSRP) of $5000 for the Customer‟s Selectable VIN Ending Option (RPO: PIN).
If the request CANNOT be honored, the RPO: PIN will be removed from the order, and the dealer and customer
will have the option to cancel the order or proceed with the order‟s production with a naturally-selected
sequenced VIN ending assignment.
It is important to note that selecting the RPO: PIN will not cause an order to be expedited or produced out of the
normal production sequencing process. If the customer and dealer agree to the specific VIN ending, the vehicle
will incur the $5000 MSRP charge regardless of whether the transaction between the customer and dealer is
completed.
Obviously, this program is designed for the ultimate Corvette enthusiast who wishes to take personalization to
another level.
Corvette Racing at Sebring
Corvette Racing kicked off the 2011 American Le Mans Series with two
new cars and two new drivers at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.
After 12 hours of going pedal to the metal, the twin C6.Rs finished third
and fourth in GT. The No 03 Corvette C6.R with Olivier Beretta,
Tommy Milner and Antonio Garcia earned the podium and was the only
non-BMW to finish on the lead lap. The No 4 Corvette C6.R with Oliver
Gavin, Jan Magnussen and Richard Westbrook fought off several
potential setbacks and spent much of the race climbing out of a three-lap
deficit to end in fourth place.
The GT class showed again that anything can happen. The Corvettes
battled BMWs, Porsches and Ferrari throughout the day and into the
night. Leaders fell and challengers emerged. Sometimes lady luck is on your side and then the next
minute she‟s wiping your face in the dirt. But that is racing. I hope that these images we took captured
the “Take No Prisoners” mentality that drives the crew of Corvette Racing.

Why You Don‟t Drink and then Drive Your Corvette
Last month‟s “real-life lesson” was street racing, this month we get a reminder why you don‟t drink and
then drive your Corvette. Not only can you loose your car, but it could cost you your life or worse,
someone else‟s.
This crash happened Sunday afternoon in Bellevue, Washington. Witnesses say the 52 year old male was
driving at a high rate of speed down I-90 in a 1968 Corvette. He lost control, crashing into a barrier and
landing upside down, partially ejecting him from the Corvette. He survived the crash and was rushed to
Overlake Hospital in Bellevue with serious injuries.
He was later arrested for DUI after police found alcohol to be the likely factor in the crash.
Partially ejected means that he was partially still in the car when it came to a rest.
500K Mile „65 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe Drives On
Autoedit‟s Jason Lewis profiles a 1965 Corvette Sting
Ray Coupe that has nearly 500,000 miles on the
odometer. The silver Corvette has served as the daily
driver for the owner of the car for the last 46 years.
Although it has been maintained and freshened up over
the years, the Sting Ray still sports its original 327 Cubic
Inch V8. The 300 horse car is mated to a 4-speed, but
other than that, there are very little other options – no
power brakes, steering or air conditioning.
As Jason get‟s behind the wheel and engages the 4-speed
(which he calls happiness in your hand), his enthusiasm
for the car grows as he let‟s the Corvette loose on some twisty California roads.
What‟s really impressive though is the owner‟s dedication to driving the Corvette for all these years. He
could have parked the car at any time within the last 20-30 years, deeming it too valuable to serve as a
daily driver. 500,000 miles on any car is an achievement but it seems particularly more satisfying that all
those miles are on a classic „65 Corvette as opposed to a Volvo or Toyota.

Mecum Sells $1.2 Million in Corvettes at Kansas City Auction
Mecum‟s Kansas City Auction was held a couple of
weekends ago and it was definitely the place to be for
buying and selling Corvettes. 59 Corvettes crossed the
block and 42 of those found new homes. That‟s a 71% sales
success rate for the Corvettes in the auction. All together,
Mecum sold $1.2 million in Corvettes during the two-day
sale.
The top Corvette seller at the auction was one that we
previewed in early March – Lot #S65 – a 1965
Bloomington Gold Benchmark Roadster equipped with a
396/425 hp engine. The Corvette has been kept pretty much perfect during its life and the owner claims
its the only Red/Red L78 to obtain benchmark status. The selling price for this unique time capsule was
$188,888 and it was the only Corvette to break the $100,000 mark.
Rounding out the top sellers was a matching numbers Tuxedo Black 1963 Corvette Split Window Coupe
powered by a Fuel Injected 360 hp 327 V8 (Lot #F111.1) which sold for $78,000 and a Marina Blue 1967
Corvette Convertible (Lot #S64) which sold for $60,000.
Here are the Corvette Sales for Mecum‟s 2011 Kansas City Auction:
LOT
YEAR MODEL HIGH SOLD
F21 1981 T-Tops 350 CI, Auto $9,000
F25 1988 Convertible 350 CI, 4-Speed $8,200
F26 1972 C10 Pickup 350 CI, Auto $7,250
F45 1996 Convertible $11,000
F55 1996 LT4 330 HP, 6-Speed $13,500
F76.1 2006 Convertible 364 CI, 6-Speed $28,000
F81.1 1977 T-Tops 350 CI, Auto $7,500
F86 1987 Coupe Auto $7,500
F95.1 1976 Coupe Auto $8,250
F98 1970 Coupe 350/300 HP, 3-Speed Auto $16,500
F105 1988 350 CI, Auto $6,250
F111.1 1963 Coupe 360 HP, 4-Speed $78,000
F133 1993 Convertible 350/300 HP, Auto $15,000
F150 1981 T-Tops 350 CI $9,500
F152.1 1973 Convertible $16,750
F169 1969 Funny Car 426 CI, Auto $40,000
F178 1991 ZR1 375 HP, 6-Speed $17,000
F182 1993 Auto $9,250
F185 1964 Convertible 327 CI, 4-Speed $35,500
F190 1992 Convertible Auto $8,750
F221 1972 350 CI, Auto $13,500

F239 1960 Convertible 350 CI, 4-Speed $47,000
F240.1 1978 350 CI, 4-Speed $10,250
F244 2003 Auto No Info
F256 1990 ZR1 350/375 HP, 6-Speed $25,000
F264 1979 350 CI, Auto $12,000
F265 1995 350 CI, Auto $10,000
S9 1977 350/180 HP, Auto $10,250
S11 2000 Convertible 350/345 HP, 6-Speed $17,000
S16 1974 Anniversary Edition No Info
S18.1 1993 Convertible 350/300 HP, Auto $14,000
S31 1969 Convertible 350/300 HP, Auto $23,500
S31.1 1981 350 CI, Auto $9,000
S32 1968 Convertible 454 CI, 4-Speed $18,250
S33.1 2000 Convertible $17,500
S42.1 1987 Coupe Auto $6,500
S51 1966 Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed $51,000
S52 1966 Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed $43,500
S59.1 1970 Convertible 454/390 HP $39,000
S60 1967 Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed $50,000
S60.1 2007 Pace Car 6-Speed Auto $40,000
S61.1 1976 350 CI, 4-Speed $12,250
S64 1967 Convertible 327/350 HP, 4-Speed $60,000
S65 1965 Convertible BG Benchmark, 396/425 $188,000
S65.1 1972 Coupe 454 CI $22,000
S77 1963 327/340 HP, 4-Speed $61,500
S80 2001 Z06 6-Speed $22,000
S82 1965 Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed $53,000
S92 1962 Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed $47,500
S94 1973 454 CI $19,000
S95.1 1996 Convertible 6-Speed $31,000
S105.1 1967 Convertible 327/350 HP $46,000
S117 1993 Coupe 4-Speed Auto $10,000
S130 1966 Convertible 327300 HP, Auto $56,000
S141 1971 350/270 HP $18,000
S147 2003 Coupe Auto $20,500
S151.1 1969 427/390 HP, 4-Speed $21,500
S160 1991 ZR1 Coupe V8, Auto $18,000
S171 1973 Coupe 454 Big Block, Auto $32,000
Total Sales: $1,204,200

Ron Fellows Presentation to Corvette Owners at the 12 Hours of Sebring
Corvette Racing Ambassador Ron Fellows spoke to
Corvette owners in the Corvette corral at the 2011 Mobil
1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. He discussed some of the new
changes for the season including paddle shifts and he
even brought along the new steering wheel to show off all
the advanced controls.
Ron was asked if he would be doing some racing this
year. He said he was hoping to run some of the road
courses in NASCAR but some girl may have his ride this
year! He also mentioned the World Challenge but said
they [GM] probably wouldn‟t want a Corvette to beat
the new Cadillac CTS-V Coupes!
Cars 2 will feature Jeff Gordon and a Corvette C6.R as Jeff Gorvette
NASCAR star and Corvette owner Jeff Gordon will
be featured in the upcoming Cars 2 animated movie
from Pixar. Gordon will be voicing the character of
a Corvette C6.R named Jeff Gorvette, one of
greatest American racecars alive, according to the
bio found on the official Cars 2 website. Cars 2 will
hit theaters on June 24, 2011.
Jeff Gorvette‟s C6.R livery features the traditional
Velocity Yellow base color with an American Stars
and Stripes motif. He‟ll be wearing the #24 too as
that‟s the number Jeff Gordon wears on Chevrolet Impala NASCAR.
Gordon (and Gorvette‟s) role in the movie is expected to be more than just a cameo appearance. We
know he is in the Japanese World Grand Prix sequence but not sure where else he‟ll show up. We also
know that when he is on screen, he‟ll be “turning hoods wherever he competes”, as his official bio states
below:
Jeff Gorvette is one of the greatest American racecars alive today. Donning the stars and stripes of his
country‟s flag, the #24 Corvette C6.R has proven his ability to succeed on the big ovals and the road courses
of the Grand Touring Sports circuits. Having moved from his hometown of Vallejo, California to Indiana to
be closer to the racing world, Gorvette‟s ability to accelerate at such a young age has turned hoods wherever
he competes. His championships and number of victories are unmatched, making him a respected competitor
– and legitimate threat – at the World Grand Prix.
Some are making hay out of the fact that Gordon comes from the world of NASCAR and has nothing to
do with the Corvette C6.R. We think Gordon is fine for the part. As one of the most dominate racers in
the sport, he successfully represents Chevrolet (albeit in an Impala) and he personally owns several
Corvettes including a 2009 Cyber Gray Corvette ZR1 so his onscreen role as a Corvette C6.R is okay
with us.

Unholy Engine Swap: The Geo Tracker Powered by Corvette
Chevy guys will put an LS V8 in just about
anything. Case in point? Check out this
awesome Geo Tracker powered by a 350-hp
LS1 Corvette engine. The swap and
customization was the brainchild of LS1Blazer
who can be found on the LS1Tech.com forum.
Originally, the Geo Tracker came with a 1.6liter
four cylinder. To handle the power of the
LS1, the builder had to beef up the rear end
and transmission. We wondered if there was
too much power that the damn thing would
end up on it‟s back. but LS1Blazer
commented on the Jalopnik feature and say
the Tracker “handles like a go-cart with hardly any body roll. Traction is not an issue at all due to the
weight transfer and the 4 link suspension.”
Another thing we noticed is that several of the shots show what look to be a standard naturally-aspirated
LS1, but one of the photos has a supercharger mounted on it. That means this little Tracker probably has
close to 500 ponies on board. Good Grief!
Finally, we can also appreciate the exterior which was done in a low-gloss charcoal/black. Racing seats
with 5-point racing harnesses is about the only clue that this isn‟t your normal Geo Tracker although
we‟d like to think that it has that beautifully deep Corvette exhaust rumble too. Finally, the GS
hashmarks are a nice touch too!
Johnny O‟Connell‟s Debut in the Cadillac CTS-V Coupe Racer
It‟s not often that I‟ll talk up a car that‟s not a
Corvette, but after watching Cadillac‟s return to
the SCCA World Challenge with their CTS-V
Coupe Racers with Corvette Racing alumni
Andy Pilgrim and Johnny O‟Connell behind the
wheel, I became a fan real fast. After Round 1‟s
race on Saturday which resulted in a 4th place
finish for O‟Connell, we sat down with the
former C6.R driver to discuss his leaving
Corvette Racing for Cadillac, the Cadillac CTS-
V racer and his future racing plans.
There are a lot of similarities between the CTS-
V Coupe Racer and the Corvette Racing
program. Pratt and Miller fields both teams for General Motors so there was a very familiar feel when
down at the team‟s paddock. And of course there are the people too like Andy Pilgrim, Johnny
O‟Connell, crew chief Mike West and some others that we‟ve seen over the years working on the C6.Rs.

Twin-Turbo Corvette Flips at 230 mph at the Texas Mile
When you see the enormity of
this crash, its amazing that the
driver not only lived, but walked
away. With 1,400 awe-inspiring
horsepower on tap, the Hinson
Motorsports twin turbo Corvette
Z06 was on its way to breaking
speed records at the Texas Mile
this weekend when the car left
the runway at 230 mph, flipping
once and coming to rest on its
wheels in the grass.
The weekend started out well for
Hinson as they ran 224.5 MPH
on Friday in the Z06 on what they call “very low boost”. After crosswinds got high, they packed
it up for the evening and returned to the track on Saturday.
Hinson Motorsports posted the following statement regarding the crash:
“Our record breaking Corvette was well on the way to raising the bar again when it left the track at
over 230mph. The driver walked away and has been released from the hospital. The car rolled one
time and landed back on the wheels. This a testament to following safety guidelines and building a
safe car.”
Hinson Motorsports‟ Official Picture of the 230 MPH Crash at the Texas Mile
Definitely the most talked about story this week is the
huge crash of the 230 mph Corvette Z06 at the Texas
Mile. Hinson Motorsports was running the 1400 hp twinturbo
Corvette when it crashed spectacularly off the
runway. Posting on Facebook yesterday, Hinson
Motorsports promised to release their own footage and
they did so today.
Hinson Motorsports had set a world record on Friday for
a Standing Mile in a Corvette with a pass at 224 mph. As
they tried to best that number during Saturday‟s run, the
Z06 went airborne and rolled once before sliding to stop
on its wheels. Miraculously, the driver walked away from
the crash and the team has vowed to be back in another Corvette soon.

Corvette Ad Watch: The Genius of David E. Davis Jr
David E. Davis, Jr. passed away this
week at the age 80 years old. A
former ad man for Chevrolet, he
made his mark writing ad copy that
told a story instead of focusing on
the technical. After leaving
Chevrolet, Davis went on to be a
writer and later the editor for Car
and Driver. He founded Automobile
magazine in the mid-1980‟s and was
the editorial director of Motor
Trend in early 2000‟s. In 2006 he
designed the internet magazine
Winding Road and in 2009 was
back at Car and Driver as a
columnist.
BadBoyVettes reminds of some of
the work he did at the ad firm
Campbell-Ewald on behalf of the
Chevrolet Corvette. Art Director
Jim Bernardin talks much of David
E. Davis on his website Old Chevy
Ads where he tells the stories
behind the ads. Of Davis, Bernardin
says “It wasn‟t until I began
working with David E. Davis Jr.
that we were able to make ads that I
thought represented Corvette best.”
“Out-Of-This-World-Travel” is just
one example of a David E. Davis
Corvette ad that appeared in the
Feb 1962 issues of Car and Driver
and Road and Track magazine:
We can‟t understand all the hullabaloo about manned space vehicles. We‟ve had something out of this world
since 1953. It carries two people in royal-suite comfort and it can take the measure of any distance you‟d
care to name, always delivering its passengers amazed and excited. We call it the Corvette, and you‟ll call it
the greatest car you ever owned. A test drive in a Corvette with the Fuel Injection V8 and four-speed box
isn‟t a drive at all, it‟s an emotional experience. Pick your favorite bit of road, fasten your seatbelt, and place
your right foot on that long narrow pedal on the right. Three shifts and a quarter of a mile later you‟ve
cleared out all the cobwebs and left all your troubles, not to mention everything else on the road, behind you.
It‟s a good thing that all cars aren‟t this nice. Every good stretch of rod in the county would be jammed with
„em and we Corvette drivers would have to switch to sky diving or bird watching…

No More Cyber Gray or Crystal Red for 2011 Corvette
Well, it looks like you can write off Cyber Gray,
Crystal Red and Jetstream Blue as colors
available for the 2011 Corvette. Jetstream Blue
was already being phased out of this year‟s
remaining 2011 production, but the earthquake
and resulting tsunami in Japan has affected
several other colors that have automakers
scrambling. And now we are hearing that
customers with existing Corvette orders in the
system are being asked to choose new colors.
The decreased color choices for Corvette (as
well as other makes/models) is the result of
damage to a plant in the Japanese town of Onahama that makes a shiny pigment called Xirallic. The
pigment is used in metallic paints due to its shimmering appearance. The coastal town took damage in
the earthquake and tsunami and as its only 35 miles away from the stricken Fukashima nuclear power
plant, high levels of radiation are all but insuring that the shortage could last for some time.
The Wall Street Journal noted the affects on the automobile industry and provided the following:
A car paint shortage in Japan is causing new problems for the auto industry. A type of shiny pigment widely
used in car manufacturing is only produced at a single plant in Japan.
The pigment is called Xirallic and is only produced at an Onahama plant owned by Merck KGaA, a German
chemical company. Onahama is a town on the Japanese coast where citizens are still struggling to recover
from the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan earlier this month. In the wake of the
tsunami, the town has been exposed to the radiation leaking from the Fukashima nuclear reactor.
Many major auto makers, such as Ford Motor Co., Chrysler Group LLC, Volkswagen AG, BMW AG, Toyota
Motor Corp. and General Motors Co., employ Xirallic to give their metallic paints a sparkling appearance.
The troubles in Onahama have forced them into a desperate search to find some other type of paint they can
use. Last week Chrysler told dealers that the company plants to limit orders for vehicles in 10 different colors
that employ Xirallic pigment. Ford had already told dealers it could no longer take orders for F-150 trucks
and other models using “tuxedo black” and three shades of red.
Several Corvette dealers have confirmed that some cars that were ordered in Cyber Gray and Crystal
Red Metallic have been kicked back with the request to choose a different color. That‟s bad news as both
Cyber Gray and Crystal Red Metallic are two of the most requested colors on new Corvettes.
When you add the already planned discontinuation of Jetstream Blue Metallic, 2011 Corvette buyers are
now limited to seven color choices.
We brought up the specter of shortages of Japanese parts with members of GM‟s Corvette Team at the
12 Hours of Sebring Corvette seminar. At the time, Tadge and Harlan were non-committal as to any
specific shortages but they did say that the automobile business is global and that its possible that the
quake damage could have repercussions to the automobile industry here in the USA.
The shortages for these colors are expected to last through the end of the 2011 Corvette production which
is expected to come to a close in June.

March 2011 Corvette Sales
More good news from General Motors regarding Corvettes. Sales of America‟s sports car continue to
gain momentum as outlined in GM‟s monthly sales report for March 2011. 1,163 Corvettes were
delivered last month, a 17.3% increase over the 955 Corvettes delivered during March 2010. This was the
best sales month for Corvettes since July 2010 and the first 1,000+ selling month since October 2010. For
the calendar year, Corvette sales were 2,839, a 16.7% increase over last year‟s 2,433 Corvettes sold
January-March 2010.
The new numbers have us cautiously optimistic despite the fact that over one-third of all 2011 Corvettes
are sitting on dealer lots and showrooms. A total of 4,399 Corvettes are available including 368 ZR1s
Current offers from GM for 2010 Corvettes inclue a $4,000 cash allowance or 0% financing for 72
months for qualified buyers. 2011 Corvette buyers have a 1.9% for 60 months offer. You can also talk
with participating dealers about leasing a new 2011 Corvette.
Corvette Delivery Statistics for March 2011
Month Calendar Year-to-Date
Month 2011 2010 % Change Months 2011 2010 % Change
March 1,163 955 +17.3% Jan-Mar 2,839 2,433 +16.7%
Archived Monthly Corvette Delivery Statistics
Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total
2011 721 955 1,163
2010 854 624 955 1,089 1,428 1,405 1,199 1,135 1,109 1,011 836 979 12,624
2009 842 1,027 1,183 1,407 1,643 1,396 966 746 1,585 1,154 952 1,033 13,934
2008 2,015 2,071 2,692 3,190 2,904 2,082 1,870 4,242 2,318 1,170 1,093 1,324 26,971
2007 2,234 2,784 3,158 3,227 3,300 2,377 2,377 2,877 2,837 2,484 2,438 2,914 33,685
2006 2,579 3,058 3,655 3,516 3,317 2,938 2,794 2,990 3,056 2,761 2,773 3,081 36,518
Corvette Stock Report:
A check of Jeff Hardy‟s website shows a total of 4,399 Corvettes on the ground. Last month‟s total was
4,768 for a net change of -369 Corvettes. Here is the breakdown by years and models:
2011 Corvettes – 3,745
2010 Corvettes – 634
2009 Corvettes – 20
2011 Corvette Inventory Breakdown:
Corvette Coupes – 1,059
Corvette Convertibles – 241
Corvette GS Coupes – 1,393
Corvette GS Convertibles – 639
Corvette Z06 – 144
Corvette ZR1 – 269

2010 Corvette Inventory Breakdown:
Corvette Coupes – 236
Corvette Convertibles – 143
Corvette GS Coupes – 70
Corvette GS Convertibles – 66
Corvette Z06 – 25
Corvette ZR1 – 94
2009 Corvette Inventory Breakdown:
Corvette Coupes – 1
Corvette Convertibles – 4
Corvette Z06 – 10
Corvette ZR1 – 5
Bowling Green Production:
2011 Model Year Production in
March 2011: 1,469
2011 Model Year To Date Through March 2011: 10,442
2011 Calendar Year to Date through March 2011: 3,070
Corvette World Tribute to Showcase Famous Corvettes and Drivers at Road America
The weekend of August 18-21 will be a busy one for Corvette Racing fans. In addition to the American Le
Mans race that will be held at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, Chevrolet and Road America
are hosting a special salute to some of most significant Corvette race cars and the drivers that made them
famous. The Corvette World Tribute will feature special presentations and displays, vintage racing, a
vendor marketplace and more!
The Corvette World Tribute will be your chance to get up close and personal with some of the race cars
that helped Corvette build its legacy over the last 50+ years. Some of the special race cars that have been
invited include the 1968 SunRay DX L88, the 1963 Grady Davis Z06 Sebring Fuelie, Dale Earnhardt‟s
Daytona C5, the 1986 Callaway Supernatural Le Mans car as well as several noteworthy solid-axle race
cars.
Racing fans will be treated to autograph session featuring John Fitch, Dick Guldstrand, John Heinricy,
Reeves Callaway, Ron Fellows and Tony DeLorenzo.
As its also an ALMS weekend, the GT Corvette C6.R race cars will be on display and fans will be able to
interact with the team through autograph sessions and tech talks.
The Corvette World Tribute is part of Chevrolet‟s 100-year celebration. Helping to coordinate the event
is our friends from the Registry of Corvette Race Cars.
The Corvette World Tribute will be held on Sunday, August 21st. Registration opened March 1st so if
you are interested in attending the event or showcasing your Corvette race car, contact the Registry of
Corvette Race Cars.

Kentucky Approves Tax Incentives for New GM Project in Bowling Green
Since 1981, Bowling Green
has been the home of
Corvette production and it
looks like the Kentucky
assembly plant is on tap to
build the next generation
Corvette as well.
According to a report from
the Kentucky Economic
Development Finance
Authority, GM is
considering a possible
$131.1 million project at
the Bowling Green
Assembly Plant. To help
sway the manufacturer, the
board announced it was
offering the automaker
$7.5 million in incentives
for the new project.
Speculation that new product is the 2013 C7 Corvette comes from Eldon Renaud, president of United
Auto Workers Local 2164. “We‟ve been trying to work with (GM) in order to get the future product …,”
said Eldon Renaud, president of United Auto Workers Local 2164. “You never know from one
generation to another if you‟ll get the opportunity to build it.”
Local GM plant spokeswoman Andrea Hales said “At this time, the company is exploring what incentives
might be available for the potential project,” she said. “We are making no announcements at this time
and have no set time frame to make a decision.” Hales said that other plants are also being considered
and she declined to say whether or not the project involved the next generation Corvette.
he new project could mean the addition of 250 workers and an average hourly salary of $42. Currently
the plant employs around 500 workers.
The project is being characterized by GM as a plant refurbishment. Renauld says he‟s been told the plant
will need a new body shop in able to produce the C7 Corvette.
The Bowling Green Assembly plant has produced four generations of America‟s sports cars, but lower
production totals the last few years have led to speculation that the automaker may production of
Corvettes to other facilities. Last summer, one such rumor had Corvette assembly moving to Lansing,
Michigan.
While Corvettes have been turned out in Bowling Green, the plant was also the home to the Cadillac
XLR from 2003 to 2009. Prior to GM‟s bankruptcy in 2009, the automaker was planning on shifting
production of the kappa-based Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky to Bowling Green in 2012, but the
elimination of Pontiac and Saturn brands from General Motors effectively nixed that plan.
Regardless of the project, this is good news for the current workers at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant
who have seen their fair share of layoffs and factory shutdowns in recent years.

A Conversation with Corvette‟s Harlan Charles
We caught up with Corvette Product Marketing
Manager Harlan Charles at the 2011 12 Hours
of Sebring and he graciously gave us a few
minutes to talk about a variety of subjects
relating to Corvettes. Some of the topics we
discussed include the latest changes for the
current 2011 model year, the new Corvette
Z06X track concept car and the progress of the
C7 Corvette.
A couple of comments about the interview.
Regarding the C7, I‟m beginning to think the
next generation Corvette may not be quite as
close as a 2013 model (and 60th Anniversary) as has been discussed. But we remain hopeful as well as on
the lookout for a 2012 collectors/commemorative edition (a la 1982, 1996, 2004) that would signal the end
of the C6 generation.
And speaking of special cars, we did get a confirmation that “something special” would be unveiled later
this month at the Corvette Museum‟s C5/C6 Bash. What I found interesting was that Harlan compared it
to the unveiling of the 2010 Grand Sport, which was a much bigger deal than say last year‟s unveiling of
the 2011 Z06 Le Mans 50th Anniversary Edition. I guess we‟ll just have to wait see!
Barrett-Jackson to offer over 50 Corvettes at Palm Beach Sale
The Barrett-Jackson 40th
anniversary tour rolled into sunny
West Palm Beach, Florida for their
9th annual Palm Beach sale. The
vehicle sale portion of the event ran
Thursday April 7th through
Saturday April 9th at the South
Florida Fairgrounds. Various other
support events fill the remaining
days of the week. As usual Speed
provided live coverage of event on
all four days.
Adding to the intrigue will be the
option of reserve or no reserve sales
this time around. Included among
the hundreds of classics being offered this weekend are more than 50 Corvettes. Of those, 33 are
partaking in the traditional Barrett-Jackson no reserve format. The Corvette selection will include
examples from all 6 generations. Straight axle cars lead the pack with 18 being offered and C2‟s are next
with 15. C3 fans will have 12 flavors to choose from. Those looking for later model cars can big on their
choice of 4 C4‟s and 1 sample each from the 5th and 6th generations. Below are a few of our favorites
crossing the block this weekend in Florida.

Lot #88 2008 Hertz ZHZ Coupe: We‟re used to seeing these ZHZ‟s parked
in the ocean or crashed into various structures. This ZHZ, however, has led
a much less exciting life since it left Bowling Green. Offered with a reserve,
this one has travelled less than 100 since new. Finished in the traditi onal
yellow and black color scheme, this is one of only 500 ZHZ‟s assembled. The
drivetrain consists of the 6.2L LS3 and paddle shift automatic. Exhaust exits
through dual-mode exhaust. This is the lowest mile ZHZ we‟ve seen so far as
most spent their lives in the rental fleet racking up countless hard driven miles. There can‟t be too many
of these around in this condition so we expect this one to have several collectors interested.
Lot #649.2 1967 427/400, 4 speed, A/C, convertible: This red on black
roadster has all the big desirable options: 427/400, air conditioning, 4
speed, and side pipes. The option list also includes power brakes and
windows, leather, hardtop, AM/FM radio and the telescopic steering
wheel. We all know that these big block C2‟s can bring mega bucks when
options and condition are just right. This car has almost all the features
collectors are looking for. So what‟s the catch? The engine has been restamped
to match the VIN. We appreciate the seller‟s honesty, but wonder
if this car was born with this configuration. Will others think the same way? We‟ll have to wait and see
what happens when this crosses the block this weekend.
Lot #657.1 1957 Big Brake Fuelie Roadster: Very, very few 1957 Corvettes
were delivered with the big brake, heavy duty suspension, and fuel injection
options. In the item description the seller claims “vintage correct Big Brake
and Heavy (Duty) Suspension and Steering options…”, but doesn‟t any list
any documentation proving the car was born this way. The motor is
described as having “a correct casting number block, cast later than the car
was built.” The fantastic red / color beige combination make for a very
appealing package and true big brake fuelies bring huge money when they change hands. This is a very
attractive no reserve car which is sure to generate a lot of buzz before heading to its new home. We hope
the new owner will take us for a ride in this one.
Special Edition 2012 Chevy 100-Year Anniversary Corvette to be Auctioned at
Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach
This morning we were tipped about a “mystery” Corvette or
Camaro that will be auctioned this weekend at Barrett-Jackson
Palm Beach. After digging around the interwebs and firing off a
bunch of emails, it was our tweet to Corvette PR rep David
Caldwell who confirmed that the 2012 Chevrolet on Barrett-
Jackson‟s run list was indeed a special edition Corvette.
Scheduled to be sold on Saturday with No Reserve, the 2012
Corvette is described as a “special edition vehicle in celebration of
Chevrolet‟s 100th Anniversary.” Currently there is no picture or
description of the Corvette other then the following paragraph on
the Barrett-Jackson car list:

Have you ever wanted to own a piece of history? A special model will be revealed during the auction where
bidders will have the opportunity to take home a special edition vehicle. Proceeds to benefit the Austin
Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer.
At last year‟s Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction, the first retail 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition was
auctioned, although it had been unveiled the month prior at the Sebring Corvette Corral. The buyer was
NASCAR‟s Rick Hendrick who paid $297,000 total for the car.
Caldwell said more information about the Special Edition 2012 Corvette will be coming later this week,
which is where I assume we‟ll learn if this was a one-off or a planned production vehicle. Not that we
need additional motivation to watch a Barrett-Jackson auction, but it looks like we‟re canceling any
plans for Saturday as to get a glimpse of next year‟s Corvette.
Corvette Pic of the Day: Red White and Blue 4×4 Edition
See, you can have your
cake and eat it too. Or
something like that.
Racing Legend Tony DeLorenzo to be Reunited with His 1967 L88 Corvette
When one spends $1.25 million on a vintage
Corvette that has won Top Flight, Bloomington
Gold and most recently the Triple Diamond
award, the last thing any sane person would do is
turn it into a race car and take it to the race track.
But that‟s exactly what Pro Team Corvette
president Terry Michaelis and collector Chuck
Ungurean have planned to do with the Corvette
they purc hased last August at Mecum‟s
Monterey auction. And who better to drive the
race-prepped Hanley Dawson Chevrolet Corvette
in vintage „67 livery than the original driver and
Corvette Hall of Famer Tony DeLorenzo.

Pro Team Corvette and CMP Fabrication are returning the L88 Corvette to its race livery look when
DeLorenzo raced the car at the SCCA‟s National Championships at Daytona in November 1967. Plans
are to enter the Corvette in several vintage racing events and shows around the Midwest.
The L88 Corvette Convertible was delivered new to Hanley Dawson Chevrolet in early 1967. Black with
Black interior and a red stinger hood, it was the first of just 20 RPO L88 Corvettes built. The Corvette
was prepped throughout the spring of „67 and in May, Tony wins A-Production Class in an SCCA
National race at the car‟s first outing at Wilmot Hills, WI.
That summer, DeLorenzo runs the L88 Corvette in races at Road America, Watkins Glen, Nelson
Ledges, Grattan and Blackhawk Farms. At Waterford Hills, Tony wins the Detroit News Trophy in an
SCCA National Race. To close out the year, Tony races in the SCCA ARRC (American Road Race of
Champions) at Daytona International Speedway and finished 2nd in A-Production.
When Michaelis called DeLorenzo and told him he had purchased the Hanley Dawson Corvette, all Tony
could say was “wow!”. But a plan was hatched to reunite car with driver and the tentative schedule is to
have DeLorenzo and the L88 racing in vintage events at Waterford Hills July 29-31, Elkhart Lake for the
Corvette World Tribute on August 19-21 and back again to Road America on September 9-11.
“Corvettes that were race cars should be restored to that condition, adding to the Corvette legend and brand
identification.” said Pro Team‟s Michaelis. “I just knew that the value of this car was „as raced‟ and not asdelivered
by GM to Hanley Dawson Chevrolet as „a production car.‟ Besides that, the collector community is
tiring of static show-only cars and loves the excitement and dynamics of the Group 6 large bore vintage
racers, especially when at speed on the back stretch. The car just had to come home to the Midwest which is
Tony D.‟s backyard and convenient to the future scheme of things.”
Chevrolet Unveils 2012 Centennial Edition Corvette Package
Chevrolet is an automotive company
born from racing. Many of the iconic
images we see of founder Louis
Chevrolet are those of him at the track,
racing the cars he himself designed and
built. One hundred years later,
Corvette carries the racing banner of
its founding namesake and the 2012
Corvette Centennial Edition celebrates
that performance heritage. Due in the
summer of 2011, the Centennial Edition
will be a package that will be available
on all Corvette models including Grand
Sports, Z06 and ZR1.
The Centennial Edition Corvettes are exclusively done in the new Carbon Flash Metallic exterior with
satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black Wheels with red brake cal ipers. Red accents are
throughout the inside and outside of the car. All the Centennial Corvettes will be available with Magnetic
Selective Ride Control.

A special “100-Years” graphic showing Louis Chevrolet behind a steering wheel are located on the B-
Pillars, the center caps of the wheels and the center of the steering wheel. The graphics are designed to
blend with the car The Seats are also embossed with the centennial logo as well. A Small “100″ replaces
the fleur-de-lis symbol on the Corvette‟s crossed flags logo.
Inside you‟ll find an ebony leather wrapped dash and doors with complimentary red stitching. Suede
accents used first on the 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon are also found on the Centennial‟s seats, steering
wheel, shifter and armrests.
The RPO for the Centennial package is ZLC. Pricing will be released early this summer prior to
prodution.
“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said
Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100
years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”
“Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” Scheidt said. “Corvette is a
natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”
Chevrolet will be offering the VIN “100″ 2012 Corvette Centennial Edition Z06 at this weekend‟s
Barrett-Jackson auction in Palm Beach, Florida. The Z06 will be a 3LZ model with the Z07 performance
package, new Z06 carbon fiber hood and the CFZ carbon fiber package. The winning bidder will also
receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience which will allow them to assemble the very LS7 505horsepower
V8 engine at the Performance Build Center in Wixom, MI.
Here is the full press release from General Motors
2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Celebrates Racing Heritage
Z06 Centennial Edition to be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach sale
DETROIT – Chevrolet, founded by a racing pioneer 100 years ago, celebrates its performance heritage with
the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, which features a sleek black color scheme, unique design
elements and Corvette‟s trademark sports car technology.
The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models – including Grand Sport, Z06
and ZR1 – starting this summer.
The special package was inspired by Chevrolet‟s racing-bred foundation, which continues with Corvette‟s
international racing excellence and production sports car prominence.
“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said
Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100
years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”
Chevrolet will auction a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in
West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 9, with the proceeds to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric
Cancer. It will be the 100th 2012 Corvette off the assembly line, with a vehicle identification number ending
in “00100.”

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even
sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic,
with satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are
constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline around the perimeter of its
surface on the Z06. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for
Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1.
Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world‟s fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated
by Corvette, is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.
The Centennial Edition also features special badges that signify Chevrolet‟s racing history. A graphic logo
featuring an iconic image of Louis Chevrolet appears on the B-pillars, the center caps of the wheels, and the
center of the steering wheel. The seat headrests also carry an embossed centennial logo.
Aficionados will note one other small detail: The historic crossed flags badge contains a small adaptation,
with “100” in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol, only for the Centennial Edition.
The exterior color scheme is reinforced inside the car, with the Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and
doors complimented by red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter. Microfiber suede
accents on Centennial Edition seats, steering wheel, shifter and armrests were first used on the 2011 Z06
Carbon Limited Edition.
The Chevrolet Centennial Edition will be available on all Corvette models via order code ZLC. Pricing will
be released this summer prior to the start of availability.
“Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” Scheidt said. “Corvette is a
natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”
Barrett-Jackson auction details:
Chevrolet chose to debut the Centennial Edition Corvette at Barrett-Jackson to enable the auction proceeds
to go to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. The foundation supporting children and
families dealing with cancer is a key partner with the American Le Mans Series, in which Corvette Racing is
an integral participant.
The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 (VIN 100) to be auctioned is based on the production
3LZ model with the Z07 performance package, new Z06 carbon fiber hood and CFZ carbon fiber package,
which includes:
Bose premium sound system, with one-year XM subscription, navigation and USB
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
Power-adjustable and heated seats
Memory package, home remote, Head Up Display and power-telescoping steering wheel
The Custom Leather Wrapped Interior Package, with leather-wrapped upper instrument panels,
upper door trim panels and console storage cover and red contrasting stitching
Z07 performance package, including Brembo ceramic brakes, Magnetic Ride Control and 19inch/20-inch
wheels and Michelin tires
CFZ package includes carbon fiber rockers, front splitter and roof
New Carbon Fiber raised hood option for Z06, which was introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon
Edition.

The winning bidder will also receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience program – which allows Z06 or
ZR1 buyers to build their own engine alongside expert technicians – as well as the opportunity to take
delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.
GM’s Welburn Selects Two Corvettes in List of Top 10 Chevrolets
GM‟s VP of Global Design Ed Welburn
was asked to put together his list of the top
10 Chevrolet‟s ever produced as the
company celebrates the 100 years since the
founding of the brand. As head of the
General Motors design studios, Welburn
follows in the footsteps of legendary Chevy
designers Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell. As
such, Welburn picks are tightly focused on
the heritage of style and innovation that
resulted in some of the most iconic cars
and trucks produced by the automaker. In
his list of top 10 Chevys, two of Welburn‟s
picks are Corvettes.
The first Corvette on Welburn‟s list is the
first Corvette model produced by General Motors, the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette. Designed by Harley
Earl, the small two-seater captured the hearts of American‟s who saw it on display at the 1953 Motorama
in New York City. Based on demand from the public, GM rushed the car into production and 6 months
later, the first of 300 Corvettes would start rolling off the temporary assembly line in Flint, Michigan.
“It was the first Corvette,” says Ed of the Chevrolet
that grew into an automotive legend. Created by the
similarly legendary GM styling chief Harley Earl,
1953‟s Corvette two-seater sports car was intended
to shake up Chevrolet‟s image, as well as battle the
wave of sporty European imports flooding into the
U.S.A. One of its more novel features was its
fiberglass construction. Initially though, the car
wasn‟t a big hit, and it was only with the styling
tweaks of a few years later that it became a true
success. “It was a design for years that I didn‟t care
for that much,” admits Ed. “But now I absolutely
love it. I‟ll never forget the first one I saw. I must have been about seven, and walking down a tree-lined
street. One came around the corner, rumbled along through the fallen leaves and then was gone. And I was,
like, „Wow, that was cool!‟”
As one of only two Chevrolet‟s chosen by Ed from the Sixties, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray is a
no-brainer. Designed by Bill Mitchell, the „63 was the first Corvette to have a coupe body style and many
of its design elements are visible on today‟s Corvettes. Welburn has called on one of most famous design
elements for the 1963 Corvette – the split rear window – to make its return on the C7 Corvette.

“What an amazing car,” says Ed of the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray, the model that took the Corvette range to
new heights. Based on a show car penned by GM design chief Bill Mitchell, the angular and svelte Sting Ray
was more sophisticated and civilized than previous Corvettes, yet in maturing, it didn‟t forget that its main
purpose in life was to be exhilarating, both in how it looked and how it drove. Distinctive features of the car –
which continued to be built out of fiberglass – were the electrically-operated pop-up headlamps and, on the
coupe, a split rear window that would go on to become its main motif. “I‟ve lectured on this car many times,”
says Ed. “Everything was new; in fact it was so new, they had to give it a new name, Sting Ray. Every
Corvette since then has been influenced by it, even the current models. The dual cockpit interior is still part
of the Corvette and the Chevrolet interior design today.”
Here are the the Top 10 Chevrolet designs as selected by Ed Welburn:
1. 1912 Chevrolet Classic Six
2. 1932 Chevrolet Deluxe Sport Coupe
3. 1936 Chevrolet Suburban
4. 1948 Chevrolet Pick-Up
5. 1953 Chevrolet Corvette
6. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
7. 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray
8. 1967 Chevrolet Pick-Up
9. 1989 Chevrolet Pick-Up
10. 2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Over the past 100 years, Chevrolet has been responsible for some of the most significant and
groundbreaking designs in automotive history. From its utilitarian yet stylish pick-up trucks through to
the cutting edge looks of each generation of Corvette, via cars like the BelAir which helped define the era
they appeared in. The bowtie logo has adorned some of the most iconic shapes of motoring. Even some of
Chevrolet's designers, such as Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell, have gone on to become as legendary as
some of the cars they penned.
The very first Chevrolet – the Classic Six of 1912 – was highly regarded for its elegance and
sophistication and, a century later, the brand continues to turn heads, with cars like the Volt and
Camaro, among others, celebrated for their innovation and appearance. As Chevrolet embarks on its
second century, it remains a leader in coming up with advanced designs at affordable prices. Who knows
which cars will become automotive icons in the next 100 years?
The man with the enviable job of setting Chevrolet on this path is Ed Welburn, global vice president of
design at General Motors. He stepped into the shoes of his "absolute heroes", GM designers Harley Earl
and Bill Mitchell, back in September 2003, but despite the awe-inspiring responsibility of following those
who have become legends, he admits that "I'm having more fun now than at any other time during my
career at GM."
Born in Philadelphia in 1950, Ed's father co-owned a body shop. "In those early days, I was surrounded
by cars," he remembers. His intense interest in all things automotive meant that, at the age of 11, he even
wrote to GM to ask about a future job as a car designer. A helpful letter back suggested what he should
study at school, and gave details of the internship program. Ed paid attention to those details, and won a
place; after graduating from Howard University in Washington D.C., he was hired full-time by GM.
From the early 1970s onward, he worked at several GM design divisions.

One of his most important creations was the streamlined Aerotech, an out-and-out speed machine that
achieved a top speed of 417 km/h in 1987. It got him noticed both inside and outside of GM. "For me, it
was one of my most significant projects. I worked on the marketing and communications for it, not just
with the engineers, in a way I had never done before. I've had a passion for aerodynamics ever since."
Following the Aerotech, Ed's rise through the GM ranks was rapid and impressive, culminating in his
appointment as the corporation's chief designer a few years into the 21st century.
Here he looks back at what he regards as the ten most noteworthy and iconic designs from Chevrolet's
history...
1912 Chevrolet Classic Six
The Classic Six was the first car to bear the Chevrolet name after William Durant and Louis Chevrolet
came together to found a company building cars using the famous Swiss race driver's last name. It was a
large, luxurious and powerful machine, boasting the biggest capacity engine of any Chevrolet up until the
'big-block' V8 era of 1958. The imposing vehicle carried a price tag of $2150, which made it much more
expensive than most of its contemporaries. Very much Louis Chevrolet's dream car, it was designed in
collaboration with his friend, the French engineer Etienne Planche. Unveiled in 1911, it was launched in
1912, but lasted only until 1914 after the company's focus shifted towards more affordable machines,
something that prompted Louis Chevrolet to resign as he disagreed with Durant's policy. A total of 5,987
were constructed. "This was the first Chevrolet, so it's very significant," says Ed of the Classic Six.
"Louis Chevrolet used all his experience and background to create it and make history."
1932 Chevrolet Deluxe Sport Coupe
Adversity sometimes results in greatness, and that was truly the case with the 1932 Deluxe Sport Coupe.
Launched amid the Depression, in a year when Chevrolet sales had dropped 50 percent compared to the
previous year, the Sport was one of Chevrolet's prettiest pre-WWII cars, an attractive yet compact
vehicle with a curvaceous rear that lived up to its title with sporting looks and performance. The car was
a strict two-seater... well, inside at least. If you wanted to carry more passengers, they had to make do
with the rear rumble seat in the trunk. Lots of fun in the sun, rather less so in the rain. "It was a cool
design," believes Ed. "It says so much about Chevrolet: a lot of the words you can use to describe it also
relate to current cars. It had spirit, was affordable and contemporary. Customers felt they were getting a
lot of car for their money, something that still holds true today."
1936 Chevrolet Suburban
The Suburban wasn't just a significant model for Chevrolet, it was an important vehicle for the car
industry as a whole. Arguably it was the first Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), a tough, no-nonsense load
carrier featuring a station wagon body on the chassis of a small truck. Actually christened the Suburban
Carryall – for it could pretty much carry anything – its origins could be traced back to 1933 and a
wooden eight-seater body on half ton truck frame, intended for National Guard and Civilian
Conservation Corps units. When made available to the public, it gained an all-metal body fitted with
either rear panel doors or a tailgate. "They were doing a crossover between a car and a truck," says Ed
of the vehicle that gave birth to what is now the longest continuous name to be used on a car. "And it's
got a cool interior, too, a real neat one. One might consider it the first crossover, and it's very much
related to the Captiva."
1948 Chevrolet Pick-Up
Trucks (in the small commercial vehicle sense) and vans are as big a part of the Chevrolet story as its
cars. And the 1948 range was one of the most significant series the company produced. Arriving in
summer 1947, they were the first GM automobile products to have a completely post-war design, making
them among the most up-to-date vehicles anywhere. Not a bad claim to fame for something meant to be
utilitarian and hard-working! The mainstay of the range was the versatile and practical half-ton pick-up,
which saw service all around the world. "You just have to smile when you look at one," is Ed's opinion of

the friendly looking load-lugger. "It's a real workhorse of a truck. The shape was just beautiful, but it
still did its job well. It was clean, basic and affordable."
1953 Chevrolet Corvette
"It was the first Corvette," says Ed of the Chevrolet that grew into an automotive legend. Created by the
similarly legendary GM styling chief Harley Earl, 1953's Corvette two-seater sports car was intended to
shake up Chevrolet's image, as well as battle the wave of sporty European imports flooding into the
U.S.A. One of its more novel features was its fiberglass construction. Initially though, the car wasn't a big
hit, and it was only with the styling tweaks of a few years later that it became a true success. "It was a
design for years that I didn't care for that much," admits Ed. "But now I absolutely love it. I'll never
forget the first one I saw. I must have been about seven, and walking down a tree-lined street. One came
around the corner, rumbled along through the fallen leaves and then was gone. And I was, like, 'Wow,
that was cool!'"
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
Chevrolet completely revamped its cars for 1955, with what it dubbed the 'Motoramic' look for the topof-the-range
Bel Air plus the introduction of the fabled 'small-block' V8 engine. Exhilarating
performance and a flamboyant, confident and colorful style were what made the 1955 Bel Airs – coupes,
convertibles and station wagons - stand out from the crowd. Such was the distinctiveness of General
Motors cars from the period 1955 to 1957 that they received their own nickname, 'Tri5'. "In my opinion,
the '55 Bel Air is the best of the Tri5s," asserts Ed. "It was such a departure from 1955, so fresh, so
contemporary. This was a car that looked more expensive than it actually was, something that could also
be said about the Cruze today."
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray
"What an amazing car," says Ed of the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray, the model that took the Corvette range
to new heights. Based on a show car penned by GM design chief Bill Mitchell, the angular and svelte
Sting Ray was more sophisticated and civilized than previous Corvettes, yet in maturing, it didn't forget
that its main purpose in life was to be exhilarating, both in how it looked and how it drove. Distinctive
features of the car – which continued to be built out of fiberglass – were the electrically-operated pop-up
headlamps and, on the coupe, a split rear window that would go on to become its main motif. "I've
lectured on this car many times," says Ed. "Everything was new; in fact it was so new, they had to give it
a new name, Sting Ray. Every Corvette since then has been influenced by it, even the current models. The
dual cockpit interior is still part of the Corvette and the Chevrolet interior design today."
1967 Chevrolet Pick-Up
Big, brusque and purposeful, Chevrolet's new generation of pick-up trucks for 1967 were tough machines
designed to get the job done. Powerful and practical, with no-nonsense styling, they were marketed as
general transportation as well as work vehicles, something that extended their appeal and profile into the
mass market. "It's a very iconic American design," believes Ed. "You see that pick-up, and you also see a
guy with blue jeans and a toolbox in the back! Many of the words I've used to describe the earlier pickup
also relate here."
1989 Chevrolet Pick-Up
The importance of pick-up trucks within the Chevrolet portfolio was still high at the end of the 20th
century, and the fourth generation of the C/K series – with stacked headlamps and square-cut, rugged
appearance - were almost a celebration of this significance. Naturally, their main reason for being was to
work and be useful, carrying loads. However, a growing use as pure 'lifestyle' machines meant that
Chevrolet also offered a Sports package, something which contributed to impressive sales for these
vehicles. Perfect for express deliveries, even better for just looking great on the roads. "It's a very clean
design and still looks contemporary today," says Ed. "It sold in incredible numbers. We're working on
future Chevrolet pick-ups and the guys have photos of this one on the wall for inspiration."

2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Ed is a big enthusiast of all Camaros and even owns a classic 1969 example himself. "But I decided to put
the 2010 Camaro on this list before the '69. It connected with people worldwide. When we introduced the
car as a concept, there were grown men and women with tears in their eyes. It's valued all round the
world." When Ed and his team were working on the new Camaro, "I brought my one into the studio to
inspire them. I told them, I want you to beat this!" Although there are echoes of the first 1967-1969
Camaros in the current car's muscular styling – such as the kick-up in the flanks beneath the rear side
windows – Ed is keen to stress that the 2010 incarnation is "not a throw-back design, but very forwardlooking.
I'm always thinking of the future, but you have a great heritage with Chevrolet. You need to
build on that; I wouldn't want to build a retro Camaro." He cites the confident and optimistic thrusting
design of the new Camaro as "a positive sign to GM employees and customers. It lit a fire within the
company."
About Chevrolet
Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual
sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 120 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuelefficient,
safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and
value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro;
dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning
passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also
offers “gas-friendly to gas-free" solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg
highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of
extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies
including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown.
Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 #100 Sells at Barrett-Jackson for $175,000
Over the last few years, Chevrolet has utilized
Barrett-Jackson to preview upcoming Camaro
and Corvette production models by auctioning off
one the cars before they are built. One of the most
prolific buyers of these low VIN cars is Chevy
dealer and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick.
Last year at Barrett-Jackson‟s Palm Beach
auction, Hendrick purchased the first retail 2011
Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition. Although he could
not be at this year‟s auction in person, he was
there in spirit, phoning in the winning bid of
$175,000 to purchase VIN 100 of the upcoming
2012 Corvette Centennial Edition Z06. Proceeds
from the sale will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer.
The Corvette Z06 that was sold will be VIN 100 once 2012 Corvette production gets underway this
summer. The Z06 will be a 3LZ model with the Z07 performance package, the new Z06 carbon fiber
hood, and the CFZ carbon fiber page. Hendrick will also receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience
with will allow him to assemble the LS7 505-horsepower engine at Wixom‟s Performance Build Center,
as well as the opportunity to take delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green,
Ky. As an added perk, Hendrick will get the VIP treatment with the ALMS Corvette Racing team at Petit
Le Mans later this year.

The new appearance package celebrates the performance heritage of founder Louis Chevrolet and the
100-year anniversary of the company founded by the early automotive racing pioneer. The Centennial
Edition comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, a black color with metallic flake. Satin Black
graphics of Louis Chevrolet and the “100″ are displayed throughout the car. The black wheels are
lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red line around the perimeter. Magnetic Selective
Ride Control is included on all Centennial Edition Corvettes.
Inside the Corvette Centennial Editions, you‟ll see an Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and
doors with complimentary red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter. Microfiber suede
accents are on the seating surfaces, steering wheel, shifter and armrests. The crossed-flags logo also sees a
change with “100″ in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol.
1965 396 L78 Corvette – The First Big-Block Corvette
Were it not for NASCAR Chevys trailing behind nearly
everyone in the early ‟60s, there may never have been a
big-block Corvette. Fuelie Corvettes were doing very sell
in SCCA sports car racing, but the NASCAR Chevys
where in trouble. While GM was officially not racing in
the late ‟50s and early ‟60s, Duntov and a few other
Chevy engineers kept select Chevy racers supplied
heavy-duty specialty parts for field testing. Engineers
tried to help with the Z11 Impala option that made a 427
out of the 409 truck motor. The car performed well as a
drag racer, but wasn‟t a competitive stock car racer.
In the Summer of ‟62, Chevy engineer Dick Keinath was
tasked to design the next generation big-block Chevy engine. Since the 348/409 was called the Mark I, the
new engine was named, Mark II. The new block was based on the thick bottom end design of the 348/409
for low end strength, and new free-breathing heads.
Over in the Corvette camp, Duntov was making jaws drop at the GM test track with his CERV I and in
June got approval from Chevy general manager, Bunkie Knudsen for the CERV II. A few days later,
GM‟s president, Frederick Donner ordered the project stopped. Days later, Knudsen approving Duntov‟s
Grand Sport proposal. By the end of the year, Donner had had it! On January 21, 1963, lightning bolts
fell from upon high. “Thou shall not race GM cars!” Thus ended Chevrolet‟s direct involvement with the
racing.
Meanwhile, the Mark II was ready for some NASCAR field testing, so Smokey Yunick, the perfect backdoor
privateer racer, was called upon. With Johnny Rutherford at the wheel of Yunick‟s 427 ‟63 Impala,
the car set the fastest speed of the month and a world‟s record for a closed-course at a then-blistering
165.183-MPH! Yunick guestimated that the Mark II was pulling at least 500-HP and everyone could tell
that was no ordinary Chevy and Also, Duntov loaned a Mark II prototype to Micket Thompson to install
into a ;63 Z06 for some road racing field testing. The legend of the “Chevy Mystery Motor” was born
Aware of the GM ban on racing, the press was left to speculate the fate of the Mystery Motor. The
following March at a press conference, Donner was asked about that fast Chevy that was raced at
Daytona the month before. Donner replied that he didn‟t know anything about it. Seriously embarrassed,
Donner was determined to forbid GM‟s direct involvement in racing.

But all was not lost. In early ‟64 Zora Duntov was charged to form a team of engineers to make the Mark
II into a production engine. Duntov and his Corvette team had worked very hard with the new Sting Ray
to achieve a 50/50 weight balance, so adding front end weight was against his design sense. But the team
got seriously motivated when it was learned that Carroll Shelby was putting the big 427 Ford NASCAR
engine into his Cobras.
The word, “simple” describes the Mark IV engine. GM
engineer, “Boss” Kettering‟s slogan was, “Parts left out cost
nothing and cause few service problems.” The team made
sure that there was plenty of extra meat for bore enlarging.
Cast in high-chromiun content iron, the completed engine
weighed 680-pounds. The genius of the design is in its buildin
strength and the head design. The modified wedge
combustion chamber, with a large quench area for cooling,
allowed the intake and exhaust valves to be angled towards
their ports, providing vastly improved breathing and
increased volume of fuel mixture for each cylinder. The
heavy bottom end with 4-bolt main bearing caps keep the
crankshaft alive. A single Holley four-barrel carb sat atop of
an aluminum intake manifold and an open-element air filter.
Solid-lifters, forged pistons, free-flow cast-iron exhaust
manifolds, a transistorized ignition, and a 17-inch diameter
viscous-drive fan finished off the package. The new 396 L78
was underrated at 425-HP and 415-ft/lbs of torque, the real numbers were closer to 450-HP, nearly 100
more than the L84 Fuelie.
Stuffing the new big-block into the Sting Ray required the front frame cross-member to be modified for
extra clearance and a special hood dome with air vents for air cleaner clearance. To handle the extra 200pounds
of front end weight, stiffer front springs were used with the standard Corvette front shocks, the
stabilized bar was increased to 1-9/16-inches diameter, and the radiator was 2-inches wider. All three
drive shafts were made from stronger SAE 4240 steel with shot-peened universal joints.
The overall package was spectacular when released in January ‟65. With the optional side-exhausts,
great-looking domed hood, and “Turbo Jet 396” badge of the front fenders, the new big-block Corvette
had a commanding appearance and sound. But best of all was the price. Thanks to making the new
engine available in all Chevy cars (except for the Corvair), the bean counters were able to keep the L78
price to just $292. The L84 Fuelie cost $538, an expensive way to buy 50 less horsepower. A loaded 396
Coupe with the optional F40 suspension, M20 four-speed transmission, side-exhausts, leather seats, and
various creature comforts cost close to $6,500. Of the 23,564 Corvettes built in ‟65, only 2,157 were L79
optioned.
Over the next three years, the L78 evolved in to the L72 427, the L71 427/435, with the L88 reaching
legend status. It‟s ironic that an engine first conceived as a solution for Chevy NASCAR racers, never
saw success in that arena. Instead, big-block Chevys became a force to be reckoned with in drag racing,
Can-Am, and SCCA racing. The powerplant that Mr. Duntov wasn‟t initially happy about, put more
Corvette racers in the winner‟s circle than Zora ever dreamed.

1963 Split-Window Coupe Corvette – Minus the Split-Window?
The context of the story was the following. The “splitwindow”
design was one of GM chief of design, Bill
Mitchell‟s pet design elements. Mitchell‟s sense of
design was legendary and in fact, many of his designs,
including the Sting Ray, the Mako Shark II, and the
early Buick Riviera, are today considered classic
automotive art. However, Bill was notoriously
difficult to work with. He was a hot-tempered
Irishman that was quick to anger, but at least he
would get over it just as fast. Mitchell was also
famous for his statement, “I‟m the only one that
designs CORVETTES around here!”
In a recent conversation I had with retired, 31 year car designer David North, Mitchell‟s design
philosophy was explained to me. Bill was famous for his flamboyant style and fancy suits. He was known
as a “sharp dresser.” North explained that to Mitchell‟s way of thinking, you can always tell a successful
man by the way he dresses. “Successful” men wear tailored, fitted cloths, with sharp, pressed creases.
Their jacket, pants, and shirts were always pressed with sharp crease lines. Bill took that look and
integrated it into his car designs in the „60s. That‟s why so many GM cars in the „60s had bold horizontal
crease beltlines, such as the Sting Ray, the Riviera, Impala, etc.
When it came to the Sting Ray, Bill wanted the center crease line that starts at the leading edge of the
car‟s nose and runs over the hood, roof, and rear deck, to be an uninterrupted line, like press trousers.
Hence, he wanted the line to continue in the split bar that runs through the rear window.
Meanwhile, over in engineering, the ever practical Zora Arkus-Duntov had a fit when he saw the coupe‟s
split rear window. From Zora‟s perspective of wanting to make the Corvette a driver-friendly racer, the
coupe already had a big blind spot at the B-pillar and the rear window split only made things worse. Both
men were very passionate about their ideas. So Duntov went into Mitchell‟s inner sanctum and let Bill
know how little he thought of Bill‟s “pet design element.”
Mitchell was totally infuriated! How DARE a lowly engineer working on a low volume car come into his
turf and criticize HIS design! As Larry Shinoda put it, “It was a real pissing contest.” The rest was
history. Mitchell won, Duntov lost. The final compromise was that the first year of the new Sting Ray
coupe would HAVE the split-window, then it would go away.
The automotive press sided with Duntov. They all complained about the rear window split because from
the driver‟s rear view mirror perspective, the bar in the middle of the rear window was large enough for
a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to get lost behind.
Now, here‟s the possible urban legend part…
I‟m certain that I read that when the „64 Sting Ray was released without the split-window, some „63
owners took their coupe either to their Chevy dealer or to a body shop and had the split CUT OUT and
the 2-piece rear window assembly replaced with the „64 coupe‟s rear window and trim. While from
today‟s perspective that sounds like one of the Top Five Corvette Sacrileges of all time, back then, it
seemed like something that improved the car.

1988 Corvette Coupe, VIN
#1G1YY2184J5121XXX. 1-owner, 42K
Miles. Matching numbers 350/245 hp V8,
4-speed manual transmission. Bright Red
with Saddle interior. Options include
Power seat, auto climate control,
defogger, heavy duty cooling/radiator
and auxiliary blue roof panel.
Documentation includes owner history
and original window sticker.
Corvette Values: 1988 Corvette Coupe
1988 Corvette Coupe, VIN
#1G1YY2184J5121XXX. The VIN
number indicated this Corvette was built near the end of the 1988 Corvette Production for 1988. This late
date is an indication that any mechanical and/or engineering changes in the Vette production made on a
„rolling‟ basis would have been included on this Corvette.
The odometer shows 42,979 miles that are reported to be accurate.
This Corvette is powered by the correct matching numbers 350-245 motor. The standard motor for most
1988 Corvettes was the 350-240 motor. Coupes for the 1988 production year with the optional 3:07:1 axle
ratio were rated at 245. The additional 5 HP came from less restrictive exhaust mufflers.
The engine is mated with a 4-speed manual transmission. Only 19% of the buyers selected the 4-speed
manual transmission which was the last year it was available. A new 6-speed manual transmission was
offered the following model year, 1989.
The engine compartment is clean in appearance, an indication that this has been a well-cared for
Corvette.
The 1988 Corvette is Bright Red in color, the top color selection for the 1988 model year. The paint is
rated in good condition with no notable body damage. The interior is Saddle leather and in excellent
condition. The contrasting Saddle interior adds to the curb appeal of this Corvette.
Options include the power seat, electronic air conditioning control, rear window and side mirror defog,
heavy duty radiator and removable blue tint roof panel.
No exterior or interior modifications have been made to this Corvette, it is completely original.
The tires appear to be relatively new and are mounted on the correct wheels.
Documentation for this 1988 Corvette Coupe is excellent and consists of the original bill of sale, window
sticker, all work invoices and, of course, owner history.
We place a value of $12,000 on this very nice original 1988 Corvette Coupe.

Corvette Racing’s Tommy Milner: The Long and Short of Long Beach
LONG BEACH, Calif., April 11, 2011 –
Sebring and Long Beach are the yin and
yang of the American Le Mans Series.
Last month‟s season-opening Mobil 1
Twelve Hours of Sebring is the longest
event on the ALMS schedule; the
upcoming two-hour American Le Mans
Series at Long Beach on April 16 is the
shortest. The distance between the
former bomber base in central Florida
that hosts the Sebring enduro and the
glittering bayside circuit in Southern
California is measured not only in miles
but also in culture and style. Long Beach
is a street race, a beach party, and a
celebration of spring.
With only a single two-hour practice session before qualifying and the race, the Long Beach schedule is
as compressed as a beachfront condo. The ALMS drivers will be first out on the green track on Friday
morning, and will end the day with qualifying. They won‟t see the 1.968-mile, 11-turn temporary course
again until they take the green flag at 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday.
So does Corvette Racing new guy Tommy Milner feel any pressure going into his second race with the
series‟ most successful sports car team? Hardly.
“I‟m excited about going to Long Beach and getting back in the Corvette,” said Milner, who will share the
No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R with co-driver Olivier Beretta, a two-time winner in the GT1 class at Long
Beach. “Sure it‟s a short weekend, but Corvette Racing was strong there last year and I‟m looking forward to
seeing how the C6.R works for me.”
Milner had an up-close view of the Corvette C6.R‟s performance last year on the Long Beach circuit. His
former team elected not to change tires during his pit stop, a move that vaulted Milner from fifth to first.
But as his used tires lost their grip, Milner lost his grasp on victory. First he was passed by eventual race
winner Patrick Long, and then by Corvette driver Jan Magnussen, who was on fresh rubber. Magnussen
was also on a mission as he moved up from sixth to second in the closing laps, and Milner had to settle for
his second consecutive third-place finish in Long Beach.
“Long Beach is all about track position,” Milner explained. “Obviously pace is important, but track position
is crucial because it‟s so difficult to pass there. By not changing tires, I ended up in front for quite a few laps.
Pat Long gave me a little push and moved me out of the way, and by the time Jan got to me, I was done. Jan
still had a hard time getting by me in a car that was a lot faster than mine. This time I think I‟ll have the
faster car and I won‟t have to be defending!”
Although Milner professes his love for high-speed tracks, he appreciates the charms of America‟s most
celebrated street course. “There is something about really hustling a car in the narrow confines of a street
track and pushing the envelope right up to the wall that is a lot of fun,” said the 25-year-old racer from
Lake Mary, Fla. “One of my favorite corners in Long Beach is the Fountain Turn because you can almost
trim the hedge around the fountain with the right fender.”

The scarcity of track time in Long Beach doesn‟t daunt the determined young driver. “At Sebring you
have all the time in the world to practice, and when you get to the race you still wish you had one more
practice session,” he laughed. “It‟s the same at Long Beach – I always wish I had another session, but I‟ll
go into the race feeling confident that I have a good car. That comes down to working with your team and
engineers to get exactly what you want out of the car.
“Since I joined Corvette Racing, we‟ve always been able to get a car that‟s comfortable to drive and quick
early on, so I don‟t have any concerns about the short schedule in Long Beach,” Milner noted. “The first
hour is almost a throwaway because there‟s not much grip and the way the car behaves changes dramatically
throughout the session. We have to be methodical about how we make changes, and not get too carried away
with how the car is handling initially. The track will come to us.”
While many of his contemporaries will be partying in Long Beach, Milner is going to be all business in
his first street race with Corvette Racing.
The 2012 Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 at Barrett-Jackson‟s Palm Beach Auction
The 2012 Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 made its
public debut last weekend at the Chevrolet display at
Barrett-Jackson‟s Palm Beach collector car auction.
Here are a few pictures of the upcoming appearance
package which really highlight the new Carbon Flash
Metallic paint. I bet this bad boy really shines in the
sunlight!
During Saturday afternoon‟s auction in Palm Beach,
Chevy dealer and NASCAR team owner Rick
Hendrick purchased the right to buy the 100th 2012
Corvette Centennial Edition Z06 when production gets
underway this summer. Hendrick paid $175,000 which
was donated to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for
Pediatric Cancer.
C3 Corvettes to be Featured on SPEED’s CAR WARRIORS
The premise behind SPEED‟s CAR WARRIORS is pretty
simple. Give two teams identical cars and 72 hours to turn it
into a custom ride. At the end of each show, a panel of
celebrity judges evaluates the cars and selects the winner.
The latest show airs this Wednesday at 9pm EST and
surprise, the two teams are each given a 1976 Corvette to
work their magic on.
When you have only 72 hours to turn around a project that
would normally take a year, fireworks are certain as sleepdeprived
“Type A” personalities work to make their designs
into reality. Luckily, the teams are working in a huge stateof-the-art
speed shop featuring just about any tool or part
needed to get the job done.
When the two teams have completed their builds, the three celebrity judges, „Mad Mike‟ Martin of Pimp My Ride,
So-Cal Speed Shop‟s Jimmy Shine and legendary Hollywood car builder George „King of the Kustomizers‟ Barris,
evaluate the cars based on their expert fields to proclaim one of the cars as the show‟s winner.

Barrett-Jackson’s Corvette Sales Total $2.47 Million at 2011 Palm Beach Auction
Barrett Jackson held their annual Palm Beach
collector car auction last weekend. The three-day
auction featured something for everyone as 50+
Corvettes ranging from 1954 through 2012 were
offered. The biggest surprise was the inclusion of
Chevy‟s new 2012 Centennial Edition which was the
second-highest sale of the entire auction.
The Palm Beach auction was a bit different than
Barrett-Jackson‟s traditional “No Reserve” auctions
as they allowed cars to be listed with a “Reserve”,
which means the owner set‟s the minimum amount
he would sell the car for. Of the 52 Corvettes that
went up on the block, 18 had a reserve listed and of
those, only 4 sold. Corvette sales for the three day auction totaled $2.47 million. That‟s about equal to 2010‟s
Palm Beach results of $2.9 million from the sale of 48 Corvettes (and 1 boat).
Topping the list of Corvettes was the auction for the new 2012 Centennial Corvette Z06 which sold to Chevy
dealer and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick for $175,000. The sale was for the 100th 2012 Z06 in the new
Centennial Edition appearance package. Representing Chevy was Performance Cars Marketing Manager
John Fitzpatrick who rattled off a nice list of goodies that came with the auction which included the Engine
Build Experience and a VIP weekend at Petit Le Mans.
Coming in second in Corvette sales with a selling price of $99,000 was one of the three Corvettes we previewed
last week. Lot #649.2 was a 1967 Corvette Roadster powered by a 427/400 hp with factory air. This sale was
interesting for a number of reasons, mostly because the owner indicated that the L68 was restamped to match
the VIN. This was also one of the 4 Corvettes sold with a reserve price.
Rounding out our top 3 for Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach was Lot #650, a 1966 Corvette Roadster powered by
a numbers matching 427/390 L36 V8 and factory air. The Nassau Blue roadster was highly optioned with
factory air conditioning, knock-off wheels, side pipes, tilt/telescopic column with teak wheel, head rests,
hardtop, power steering, power brakes and power antenna. Documentation includes copy of original MSO,
Bill of Sale and Protect-O-Plate.
Here are the total Corvette Results for the 2011 Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction:
LOT
YEAR DESCRIPTION PRICE
14.2 1974 2 DOOR COUPE $15,620.00
21 1991 CONVERTIBLE $17,325.00
34 1974 2 DOOR COUPE $22,000.00
47 1991 COUPE $22,000.00
59 1969 2 DOOR COUPE $30,250.00
65.2 1970 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
73.1 1973 COUPE $18,150.00
88 2008 ZHZ COUPE $53,900.00
92 1968 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $24,750.00
330.1 1990 ZR-1 COUPE $22,000.00
348 1968 2 DOOR COUPE $30,800.00
348.2 2002 Z06 COUPE NO SALE
352.2 1968 CONVERTIBLE $31,350.00

353 1963 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $48,950.00
354.2 1996 GRAND SPORT CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
361 1961 CONVERTIBLE $88,000.00
364 1967 CONVERTIBLE $42,900.00
365.2 1965 CONVERTIBLE $53,900.00
368.2 1969 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
369 1965 CONVERTIBLE $46,750.00
371.1 1962 CONVERTIBLE $77,000.00
372.1 1968 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
631 1962 CONVERTIBLE $79,200.00
635 1962 CONVERTIBLE $91,300.00
637.2 1968 CONVERTIBLE $43,450.00
642 1962 CONVERTIBLE $58,300.00
645.1 1961 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $57,200.00
646 1956 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $85,800.00
648.2 1954 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
649.2 1967 CONVERTIBLE $99,000.00
650 1966 CONVERTIBLE $96,800.00
650.2 1956 CONVERTIBLE 91,300.00
652 1958 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $89,100.00
652.2 1963 CUSTOM COUPE NO SALE
654.1 2012 CENTENNIAL EDITION Z06 $175,000.00
655 1955 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
656.1 1957 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
657.1 1957 CONVERTIBLE $95,700.00
658.2 1966 CONVERTIBLE $85,800.00
659.7 1966 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
660 1959 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $113,300
662.1 1967 COUPE $73,700.00
665.1 1966 ROADSTER $83,600.00
665.2 1962 CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
665.3 1955 CONVERTIBLE $85,800.00
668.1 1967 CONVERTIBLE NO SALE
672 1959 CONVERTIBLE $85,800.00
675.1 1965 CONVERTIBLE $56,100.00
678.2 1969 COUPE ZL1 RE-CREATION NO SALE
679 1966 2 DOOR COUPE $61,600.00
682 1963 COUPE NO SALE
689.4 1958 CONVERTIBLE $93,500.00
TOTAL SALES $2,478,345.00

Man Gets Locked Inside a Corvette ZR1, Calls 911 for Help
Lee Adams of Central Florida loves his sports cars. In addition to a
2009 Corvette ZR1, Adams owns a Ferrari, Mosler and an Ariel
Atom, so you can tell he is a real car guy. Unfortunately, Adams
recently endured the harrowing and life-changing experience of
being locked in the ZR1 when his battery died. In a panic, he calls
911 for help.
Adams retold his experience of being locked in Chevy‟s supercar
on the FerrariChat forums:
I closed the door and the door locked and would not open. The car
would not start. I was trapped!
I called 911 and the police came quickly thankfully. Once the officer assured himself that ilt was a car problem
and not a idiot driver problem. He nor I could not figure out what to do.
He called the chevy dealership. They recommended I get out of the seat and crawl to the back of the ZR1 and pull
the emergency tag. It is not a pretty sight to see a fat, 65 yr old man crawling to the back of the car. Well I did and
the trunk opened.
That was this morning and the ZR1 is sold, gone out of my life. Took it to the dealer that helped me and sold it
cold and flat. It is still in my garage I am not going near it. They will have to come to my home and get it out of
my garage.
Thank god for the police and the chevy dealer. Boo for GM.
What a stupid system to put onto a car. Just think , if my garage door was closed not open and I did not have a
cell phone and my wife just left for Vermont It could have been alot worse.
No more cars for me with automatic door lock systems. FYI the officer said his captain had the same problem
with his Corvette.
The electronic door locks are one of the features on the Corvette that seem to flummox many, especially when
the battery runs down. Guys like Adams that have multiple cars run into this issue as if they are rarely
driven, a drained battery can be the result. Still, Chevy built in some safe guards to the system by providing a
manual release on each of the doors (located on the bottom of the door by the seats) as well as the trunk. And
let‟s not forget that blue OnStar button on the rear-view mirror. (Hasn‟t he seen or heard the commercials of
freaked out mom‟s who lock their kids in the car?)
There are several losers in this story, the biggest being Lee Adams who should have his Man Card pulled for
calling 911. The unnamed Chevy dealer also loses points for not knowing about the manual door releases and
sending “a fat, 65 yr old man” squirming to the rear to manually open the rear hatch.
The good news and happy ending to the story is that with the help of the members on FerrariChat (who seem
to know a lot about some of the Corvette‟s “hidden features”), Adams has decided to keep the ZR1: “I love
the ZR1 and will keep the car now that I know the door opening trick.” That‟s probably a good idea
considering he thinks he owns the first one. Adams said in a later post: “I was lucky to get the first ZR1. I had
to get my friends at GM who is director of the performance division find one and lock it in for me.”
FYI, my working title for this blog post was “Man Gets Locked Inside a Corvette ZR1, Lives to Tell the Tale”.
Seriously, just think what would have happened to that that ZR1 if his garage door was closed and he didn‟t
have his phone. Dead men tell no tales…

A Walk Around the 2011 Corvette Z06X Track-Ready Concept
When Chevrolet introduced the 2011
Corvette Z06X at last fall‟s SEMA
show, we said at the time that Chevy
had created one of the most exciting
concepts to date. After seeing and
hearing the Z06X Concept up close
and personal at last month‟s Twelve
Hours of Sebring, it reaffirmed our
call for Chevrolet to build it.
Chevy created the track ready
concept to show what can be done utilizing GM Performance Parts. Teaming up with Corvette Racing
partner Pratt & Miller, a 1LZ Z06 was stripped down and then optioned up with the Z07 performance
package and the CFZ carbon fiber package. Other carbon fiber parts include the ZR1‟s roof and bpillars
and the Z06 Carbon Edition‟s raised hood. The radio, carpeting and sound-deadening materials
were removed, along with the passenger seat.
Competition-themed parts were then added to create the Z06X: An adjustable carbon fiber rear wing,
polycarbonate rear window, racing seat with safety harness and a full roll cage with camera mount.
Other enhancements included Pfadt‟s adjustable coil-over struts and stabilizer bars, racing wheels and
Genuine Corvette Accessories (GCA) racing pedals.
Finally, a low gloss Icy White Metallic paint covers the concept and one of our favorite appearance
features, the black tail, completes the look.
1976 Corvettes Customized on SPEED‟s Car Warriors
On SPEED’s Car Warriors, the Challengers (red team) took on the All Stars
(blue team) in the customizing build-off of two 1976 Corvettes and walked
away with the win (as well as both cars). The All Stars vision for their
Corvette was much more over the top then the Challengers, but it was the
road test that probably sealed the win as the All Stars car was deemed
“unsafe” to drive by all three judges.

The Race To Win a New Corvette Contest is Now Open
For the second straight year, GM
is holding a Corvette sweepstakes
where the winner will receive a
new 2012 Corvette Grand Sport
Convertible plus a trip for 2 to the
2012 24 Hours of Le Mans in
France. To enter, you just have to
answer 3 simple questions about
how the Corvette Grand Sport is
better than the Porsche 911
Carrera S Cabriolet. Don‟t worry,
the answers a pretty obvious.
The link for the sweepstakes is:
RaceToWinCorvette.Com. According to the rules, the entry periord runs from April 15th to June 30th
and the winner will be drawn on or around July 1st, 2011.
After you have registered for the Race To Win Corvette Sweepstakes, check out the other offerings on the
site including a gallery of Corvette videos profiled on Corvette.com which include the Building Rockets
commercial, Tadge Juechter explaining Launch Control and Corvette Racing‟s win at Petit Le Mans in
2010.
You can also request more information on the Corvette as well as other Chevrolet vehicles too. If you‟re
in the market for another car, especially another Chevrolet, registering on sites like
RaceToWinCorvette.com or at any of the auto shows and ALMS races is important as they track the
leads and sales are credited to Corvette marketing. At least that‟s what Fehan always says.
Corvette Racing Qualifies Second and Ninth for Long Beach Street Race
LONG BEACH, Calif., April 15, 2011 –
Corvette Racing driver Jan Magnussen
finished second in last year‟s American Le
Mans Series race on the Long Beach street
circuit, and that is where he will start
Saturday‟s two-hour race on the bayside
circuit. Magnussen posted the second quickest
time in the GT class at 1:19.137 (89.526 mph)
in the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6.R, just
.047 seconds behind the pole-winning BMW of
Joey Hand. Tommy Milner qualified the No. 3
Compuware Corvette C6.R ninth in the 14-car
GT field at 1:20.724 (87.766 mph).
Corvette Racing rebounded from a troubled practice this morning that saw the No. 4 Corvette lose nearly
half of the two-hour session to a drivetrain problem and the No. 3 Corvette have a close encounter with
the tire barrier in Turn 8. With minimal track time, the Corvettes went into qualifying on a split strategy.

The decision to use different tire compounds as the track cooled in the late afternoon was a key element
in Magnussen‟s run to the front. The Dane dueled for the pole with his BMW rival as the drivers traded
fastest times over a series of laps on the 1.968-mile, 11-turn temporary course. Magnussen ultimately
posted his quickest time on his fourth flying lap, and his time bettered the 1:19.581 qualifying record set
last year.
“I get so much enjoyment from qualifying here at Long Beach, I absolutely love it,” Magnussen said. “It
seemed we would go fast and they would go just a little bit faster. After the problems we encountered this
morning, to have a car that‟s good enough to be on the front row is fantastic.
“We split the strategy with the tires,” Magnussen explained. “Maybe one car will benefit early in the race
and the other will be better later. With two strong cars we can try different approaches and hopefully by
the end of the race we‟ll know what works best for the final stint. I‟m really looking forward to
tomorrow. It‟s a short race, but at Long Beach it‟s always absolutely full attack.”
“It could have easily worked out that I was on the better tires for the conditions,” Milner said. “Corvette
Racing is a team, and sometimes you have to split the strategies. I would have liked a better result in my
first time qualifying the Corvette, but it was the right decision for the team and I‟m all for it.
“There are a lot of different scenarios for tomorrow, so we‟ll see how it plays out,” he noted. “Long
Beach is tough, it‟s hard to pass here, but I know our Corvette is better than a ninth place car. The fun
part for me is that I‟ll start the race and get to pass some cars. I‟m confident we can move up.”
Qualifying took place during a transitional time on the track, as will the race tomorrow,” said Corvette
Racing program manager Doug Fehan. “The temperature goes from hot to cold in a hurry, so we weren‟t
sure how the cars would react. The engineers and drivers looked at the data we got this morning,
compared it with the information from last year, and together they made a great choice on chassis setup.”
The two-hour American Le Mans Series at Long Beach will be shown live on ESPN3.com starting at 7:15
p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. local time on Saturday, April 16. ESPN2 will provide television coverage from 5 to 7
p.m. ET on Sunday, April 17.
American Le Mans Series at Long Beach GT Qualifying (Top 10):
Pos./Drivers/Car/Time
1. Mueller/Hand, BMW M3 GT, 1:19.090
2. Gavin/Magnussen, Corvette C6.R, 1:19.137
3. Auberlen/Werner, BMW M3 GT, 1:19.447
4. Bergmeister/Long, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 1:19.463
5. Henzler/Sellers, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 1:20.065
6. Sharp/van Overbeek, Ferrari F458 Italia, 1:20.167
7. Brown/Cosmo, Ferrari F458 Italia, 1:20.176
8. Miller/Maasen, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 1:20.646
9. Beretta/Milner, Corvette C6.R, 1:20.724
10. Junqueira/Da Matta, Jaguar RSR, 1:20.924

Hennessey‟s ZR750 Gives Boost to Corvette ZR1
Texas tuner Hennessey Performance Engineering
is known for their performance packages that
substantially increase the power of GM and other
American-built cars and trucks. Right after the
initial introduction of the Corvette ZR1, HPE
came out with their ZR700 package which
boosted the ZR1‟s horsepower to 705. Hennessey
also offers the ZR750 package which brings the
power on tap to 755-ponies, a ground-pounding
728 pounds-feet of torque and a top speed in
excess of 224 mph! If those kind of numbers
appeal to your inner racer, we encourage you to
read on.
Hennessey‟s ZR750 boosts the already impressive 638-horsepower from the ZR1 by swapping out the
stock supercharger pulley to a smaller pulley which increases boost from 9 to 13 psi. A new air intake,
custom ported cylinder heads, hotter camshafts, a high-flow exhaust and tuning the ECM are also added.
With the new parts in place and Michelin‟s Pilot Sport Cup tires bolted on, the ZR750‟s 0-60 time is 2.8
seconds and the car runs the quarter mile in 10.3 seconds at 139 mph. Top speed of the tuned ZR1 is in
excess of 224 mph.
Corvette Racing at the ALMS Long Beach Street Race]
The American Le Mans Series at Long Beach
proved to be another tough battle in the GT
class. Long Beach is often referred to as a street
fight and that description was apt for describing
the multiple lead changes and some shocking
mistakes made by drivers during the two hour
race.
Corvette Racing Takes Second and Fifth in
Streets of Long Beach
Gavin and Magnussen Finish on GT Podium,
Milner and Beretta Charge from Back of the Grid
LONG BEACH, Calif., April 16, 2011 – Corvette Racing survived two hours of close combat to finish
second and fifth in the American Le Mans Series at Long Beach. Jan Magnussen and Oliver Gavin took
the second spot on the GT podium in the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6.R when the race finished under
caution. Tommy Milner and Olivier Beretta fought their way from the back of the grid at the start to
fifth at the finish in the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R. The BMW of Dirk Mueller and Joey Hand was
first across the stripe under the yellow flag.
Not even Los Angeles‟ notorious rush hour could rival the traffic on the historic 1.968-mile, 11-turn
temporary course. With 29 starters on the concrete-lined circuit, close calls and contact were
commonplace, although only two full-course cautions slowed the race. Gavin started the No. 4 Corvette
second on the GT grid and held that position through the opening segment, which was interrupted by a
lengthy full-course caution. When racing resumed he took the lead with an opportunistic move.

“I had a very eventful stint with lots of bumping and banging and cars spinning in strange places,” Gavin
said. “The start was pretty standard, everyone got a bit strung out, and then the LMPC cars were getting in
the way. It all started when the BMW behind me disappeared. On the next lap he was turned around at the
fountain turn! The race leader went the wrong way, I went the right way, and I got myself into the lead.”
Hand‟s BMW and Patrick Long‟s Porsche subsequently got around the Corvette, but Long soon
encountered the wall and the Porsche eventually retired. As green-flag pit stops began shortly after the
one-hour mark, Gavin handed off the No. 4 Corvette to Magnussen.
“I was pushing absolutely as hard as I could, and I was cutting the margin,” said Magnussen, who ran the
fastest lap of the race in GT and trimmed the BMW‟s lead to six seconds before the race-ending caution
period. “There was a lot of traffic, and in a race like this you have to take so many chances. After the race I
had a walk around the car and looked at all the places where I‟d tapped the walls. It‟s a shame we weren‟t
closer at the finish, we could have had a good fight.”
Milner was on a mission when the race began, moving from 14th in class to fourth before the pit stop
sequence put Beretta behind the wheel of the No. 3 Corvette. The car was moved to the back of the grid
at the start after a post-qualifying change of tires.
“I got lucky with the first yellow flag because we‟d just cleared all of the Challenge cars and LMPC cars,”
Milner said. “The car was great, and although it was a little banged up, it was still quick. That‟s just street
racing – everyone gets bunched up.”
Beretta brought the No. 3 home in fifth after a relatively uneventful run. “I‟m happy for the team – we
got our second podium in two races which is really important,” Beretta said. “Tommy did a good stint, he
was very clever, and the car was quite fast. Then it was just using my brain to keep the position and put
the points in the pocket.”
Gavin and Magnussen are now second in the unofficial GT class points standings with 36 markers, and
Beretta and Milner are third with 31. Mueller and Hand lead with 50 points.
“When you can leave Long Beach with two cars intact, you‟ve accomplished something,” said Corvette
Racing program manager Doug Fehan. “The fact that we were able to finish second and fifth make this a
very satisfying day. Now it‟s on to Le Mans!”
American Le Mans Series at Long Beach GT Results (Top 10):
Pos./Drivers/Car/Laps
1. Mueller/Hand, BMW M3 GT, 81
2. Gavin/Magnussen, Corvette C6.R, 81
3. Melo/Vilander, Ferrari F458 Italia, 81
4. Henzler/Sellers, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 80
5. Beretta/Milner, Corvette C6.R, 80
6. Junqueira/Da Matta, Jaguar RSR, 79
7. Auberlen/Werner, BMW M3 GT, 79
8. Law/Neiman, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 78
9. Brown/Cosmo, Ferrari F458 Italia, 77
10. Pastorelli/Schwager, Lamborghini Gallardo LP, 75

Coachbuilt Corvette Soleil Anadi from Ugur Sahin Design Makes Debut at Monaco
Last week‟s Top Marques car show in Monaco
saw the introduction of the Soleil Anadi, a
coachbuilt Corvette designed and built through a
partnership with Ugur Sahin and Spada
Concepts. We‟ve featured Sahin‟s wonderfully
radical designs here in the past, namely the Z03
that was to be a joint partnership with US tuner
Mallet Cars. But this is the first prototype we‟ve
seen from him that has made the jump from
vaporware to the real deal.
The company opened a showroom in Milan, Italy
and that‟s where the transformation of the
Corvette to the Soleil Anadi takes place. Custom aluminum and carbon fiber bodywork gives the
Corvette a new look while the standard 6.2 liter Corvette powerplant is supercharged and tuned to
around 650 horsepower. The Soleil Anadi can also be built on the Z06 or ZR1 platforms.
Although the interior has also been fully customized, the windows of the prototype at Monaco were tinted
and pictures are expected in the near future.
The Corvette was chosen for its relatively low cost which makes the Soleil Anadi more affordable, as well
for its track records in motorsports according to Ugur Sahin Design co-founder Axel van Mourik.
The Soleil Anandi is available for ordering at a price of $299,995 with production limited to 300 vehicles.
Driving the Fast Five 1963 Corvette Grand Sport
When Fast Five opens in theaters later this
month, fans of the Fast & Furious
franchise will be treated to another round
of beautiful cars doing some of the most
outrageous stunts conceived. One of the
hero cars used in the opening sequence is a
1963 Corvette Grand Sport replica that we
first caught a glimpse of in the trailer that
aired during this year‟s Super Bowl.
Edmunds get‟s their hands on the very car
driven by Vin Diesel and brings us a cool
video showcasing the car and how it was
used in the filming of Fast Five.
The „63 Grand Sport featured in Fast Five comes from Mongoose Motors of Ravenna, Ohio. Yes, the
same Mongoose Motors that was sued for Copyright infringement by GM last year. Movie car builder
Dennis McCarthy and his crew actually purchased enough components from Mongoose to build a total of
12 Grand Sport Replicas for various uses in the film.
McCarthy goes on to explain that some were built on off-road VW chassis for jumping and stunt use, one
for the green-screen and a couple of shells were built to be thrown off a cliff. Of the 12 that were
constructed, nine were destroyed during filming.

New Color ‘Carlisle Blue’ to Make Debut on 2012 Corvettes
The retirement of Jetstream Blue Metallic in 2011 leaves the door open for GM to offer a new color for
the 2012 Corvette and today we are pleased to bring you its replacement: Carlisle Blue Metallic. The new
color is an existing Chevy color called “Ice Blue Metallic” and can be seen on the 2011 Cruze. We think
the color reminds us of the 1982 color called Silver Blue Metallic or the Light Blue Metallic offered in
1984-85.
The 2012 Chevrolet Color chart shows the following colors:
Arctic White
Blade Silver
Inferno Orange
Velocity Yellow
Cyber Gray
Torch Red
Crystal Red
Supersonic Blue
Carbon Flash
Carlisle Blue
LIFE IS GOOD! When I first found out about the new “Carlisle Blue” offered for the 2012 Corvette I was
blown away. It was a true honor to have Chevrolet recognize Carlisle Events and of course Corvettes at
Carlisle through a color, we’ve always appreciated the working relationship we’ve had with Chevrolet and
we certainly appreciate the name behind the new color. Now that it’s public knowledge I’m even more
excited than ever… not only is it a cool color, but it’s a beautiful color. I’m eager to see a real live sample on
a Corvette – hmmm… possibly on display during Corvettes at Carlisle – August 26-28, 2011?! Time will
tell… Everyone on the Carlisle team is excited about the new color, I let them know earlier today and the
excitement spread quickly!
Regarding colors for 2012, one of the questions we have for the Corvette Team members when we see
them at Bowling Green in a couple weeks is in regards to the new Carbon Flash Black Metallic. Our
current understanding is that the Carbon Flash will only be available on the Centennial Package and is
not available for ordering separately. I also noticed that “Black” is not a listed color as well. As soon as
we clear this up, we’ll let you know.
Dragstrip Shootout: 1973 Corvette Stingray vs a Corvette Z06
It’s new versus old of an Atomic Orange
C6 Corvette Z06 racing a 1973 Corvette
Coupe down the strip. Obviously
modified, the C3 Corvette gets the
slightest of jumps on the Z06 at the start
but that 505-horsepower LS7 kicks in
and it’s neck and neck down the
straightaway. Who wins is anyone’s
guess.

From Long Beach to Le Mans: Corvette Racing’s Overseas Odyssey
LE MANS, France, April 20, 2011 – This is only a test –
but it’s an important one. Corvette Racing will
participate in the Le Mans Test Day on Easter Sunday,
April 24. This one-day outing on the legendary French
circuit will play a key role in the team’s preparations
for the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 11-12, 2011.
“Every lap at Le Mans is valuable,” said Corvette
Racing program manager Doug Fehan. “It’s impossible
to test there outside of the race environment because
the course uses several miles of public highway. When
you have even one day to gather information it’s
extremely beneficial, especially when your competition is going to be there. Corvette Racing’s objective is
to maximize the value of our time on the Le Mans track and then apply that when we return for the race
in June.”
Once a fixture in the run-up to the 24-hour race, the stand-alone test day had been suspended for several
years. Its return to the calendar in 2011 posed a logistical problem for teams competing in the American
Le Mans Series, which hosted its second round in Long Beach, Calif., last Saturday.
“The schedule makes it difficult, expensive, and risky to get the cars and equipment from Long Beach to
Le Mans in time for the test,” said Corvette Racing team manager Gary Pratt. “Everything would have
to be crated up and flown from LAX on Sunday morning after the ALMS race. Even a short delay in
customs or air transport could mean that the shipment wouldn’t arrive in time for the test.
“Fortunately one of our customers, Larbre Competition, has a Corvette C6.R that is available for the Le
Mans test,” Pratt explained. “This is a chassis that we ran last year in Le Mans, and that Larbre raced at
Sebring last month. It’s the same spec as our current cars and the Larbre team will compete with it in the
GTE-Am class at Le Mans. Combining our resources for the test day and sharing the information that we
gather will be a win-win for both organizations.”
Corvette Racing’s four full-season drivers – Tommy Milner, Olivier Beretta, Oliver Gavin, and Jan
Magnussen – will attend the Le Mans test, along with key Corvette Racing personnel. At the top of the todo
list is the requirement to qualify Milner to race at Le Mans after a three-year absence. He went to the
24-hour classic in 2006 and 2007 with the Panoz team.
“I’m 25 years old, I’ve been to Le Mans twice, and yet it’s been so long since I’ve raced there that I have
to do 10 laps to qualify again to drive,” Milner said with a laugh. “I’m looking at the test as a briefing on
what it’s like to drive at Le Mans in a Corvette C6.R. It will be a great opportunity to get comfortable in
the car and to get seat time without the pressure of the race week.”
Olivier Beretta, Milner’s full-season teammate, agreed: “It is very important to go to Le Mans when you
have the rare opportunity to drive on the same track that you will race on,” he said. “The only difference
will be the weather, but Europe has been very warm recently and I hope the good weather will stay for
another week. Then after the test we will have more time to think about and get ready for race week.”
Driver Jan Magnussen will be reunited with an old friend at the Le Mans test day. “We’ll be using my
car from last year, so I should know it well,” said the Dane. “The weather during April may not be

epresentative of the conditions during the race, but the test is a opportunity for the drivers to get back
into the rhythm of Le Mans. It is a different track to drive because you have to attack in certain places
and not in other places, so it’s helpful to get a few laps and work on the setup. Corvette Racing has
always done a very good job of looking at all of the data and being right on when the race is there.”
Oliver Gavin will be teamed with Magnussen at Le Mans this year, a combination that scored three
consecutive GT1 class wins in 2004-06. “It’s fantastic to be going to Le Mans because any time running
on that track is precious,” Gavin noted. “You’ve got to make the most of it because it’s such a unique
circuit and such a unique environment. It’s great for Larbre Competition to work together with Corvette
Racing. You think you’ve got loads of time with a full day to test, but it whizzes by so quickly. Each
driver is keen to get as many laps as possible, and you’ve got to make the most of it. I’m sure the
engineers will have a very detailed plan for every second of the test day.”
Maximizing Performance: New Packages and Upgrades for the 2012
Chevrolet Corvette
Next weekend’s C5/C6 Bash at the
National Corvette Museum is the
annual confab where GM and the
Corvette Team introduce the changes
on the new model-year Corvette.
However, that presentation appears to
have been somewhat preempted by
the release of information from a
Chevy dealer on the Corvette Forum
which details the changes and
upgrades coming on the 2012
Corvette.
Where 2011 was about
personalization, you can say that 2012
is all about maximizing performance, especially at the higher end of the model lineup. ZR1 gets a new
performance package while Z06 gets some more of ZR1’s tech. New wheels, R-Compound Michelin cup
tires and a new 9-speaker stereo are just some of the option boxes that buyers will be checking off
starting this summer.
There’s a lot to go through so we’re going to list the options and then we’ll come back around to analyze
and discuss with you. As the t-shirt says, “Sit down, shut up and hang on” as we take you through the list
of upgrades and changes for the 2012 Corvette.
Packages and Special Editions
(ZLC) Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition
Commemorates Chevrolet’s 100th anniversary. Available on 3LT, 4LT, 3LZ and 3ZR. Includes (58U)
Carbon Flash Metallic exterior color, special Chevrolet Centennial Black wheels (specific to model) with
special center cap logos, Satin Black graphics, Magnetic Selective Ride Control, Red brake calipers,
special badging, Ebony seating surfaces with suede accents and Red stitching, Custom Leather wrapped
instrument panel and doors (except 3LT), seat embossment, steering wheel badge and special interior
trim plate.

(PDE) ZR1 High Performance Package
Includes (RUV) Black cup style lightweight 19″ front and 20″ rear wheels, (XFH) Michelin PS Cup tires
and (MH3) 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission.
(Z07) Z06 Ultimate Performance Package
Upgraded from its initial 2011 release and renamed the “Ultimate Performance Package”, the Z07
package now includes Performance Traction Management (PTM) which was previously exclusive to the
ZR1. In addition to Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, Z07 includes (XFH) Michelin PS Cup tires
(optimized for warm, dry weather performance with reduced tread wear rating), (RUV) Black cup style
lightweight aluminum wheels and (F55) Magnetic Selective Ride Control.
(F55) Magnetic Selective Ride Control for Z06
(F55) Magnetic Selective Ride Control is now available with Z06 and includes Performance Traction
Management (PTM), (RUV) Black cup style lightweight aluminum wheels and (XFG) Michelin PS2 tires.
Exterior Colors
My question about (41U) Black not being on the list was answered as the top selling color for every year
since 2004 has been deleted for 2012. The only way you can get a black Corvette in 2012 is to order the
(ZLC) Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition which only comes in (58U) Carbon Flash Metallic. The other
new color of course is (GLF) Carlisle Blue Metallic which replaces (85U) Jetstream Blue.
Wheels and Tires
Each of the Corvette models have their own special wheels for the (ZLC) Chevrolet Centennial Special
Edition. Why the Grand Sport wheels don’t have the red line is a question we’ll be asking the Corvette
Team in Bowling Green:
(RUL) 5-spoke, Chevrolet Centennial Black with Red stripe aluminum, 18″ front and 19″ rear
wheels (Coupe and Convertible with [ZLC] Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition)
(RUM) Grand Sport Chevrolet Centennial Black aluminum, 18″ front and 19″ rear wheels
(Grand Sport with [ZLC] Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition)
(RUR) Chevrolet Centennial Black with Red stripe, cup style aluminum, 19″ front and 20″ rear
wheels (Z06 and ZR1 with [ZLC] Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition)
Corvette Z06 and ZR1 are also getting cup style aluminum wheels in Black or Machined-Face:
(RUV) Black cup style lightweight aluminum, 19″ front and 20″ rear wheels (included and only
available on Z06 with [F55] Magnetic Selective Ride Control or [Z07] Z06 Ultimate Performance
Package; also included and only available on ZR1 with [PDE] ZR1 High Performance Package)
(Q5V) Machined-face, cup style aluminum, 19″ front and 20″ rear wheels, available on Z06 (with
F55 or Z07) and ZR1
(XFH) Michelin PS Cup Tires will also make their debut on Z06’s with the (Z07) Z06 Ultimate
Performance Package or on ZR1’s with the (PDE) ZR1 High Performance Package. The Michelins are
optimized for warm, dry weather performance with reduced tread wear rating.
Other Options for 2012:
New 2LT Technology Package featuring Bluetooth for select phones, Head-Up Display, Bose,
navigation and USB port
(34T) Blue convertible top (interim introduction during 2011MY)
(B92) Carbon fiber hood available for Z06

Colored calipers available in (J6D) Dark Gray Metallic, (J6F) Red (standard on Z06), (J6C) Silver
(standard on Grand Sport) and (J6E) Yellow
(PIN) Customer selectable VIN (restrictions and approval required, available for SOLD orders
only)
Changes from 2011:
Front and rear tires are now represented with 1 RPO code
(MM6) is now the RPO code for the 6-speed manual transmission for Coupe, Convertible and Z06
(MZ6) is now the RPO code for the 6-speed manual transmission for Grand Sport
(ME2) is now the RPO code for the 6-speed manual transmission for ZR1
(MYC) is now the RPO code for the 6-speed automatic transmission
3LT, 4LT and 2LZ now include (U3U) navigation audio system and USB port
New steering wheel design
Suede seat inserts included on 4LT, 3LZ, 3ZR
Bose audio upgrade to 9 speakers with new subwoofers
(J55) Brake calipers painted Black
Deletions from 2012:
Exterior colors
(41U) Black
(85U) Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat
(US9) AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
So there you have it! The 2012 Corvette – America’s Favorite Sports Car – looks to be better than ever.
Kevin Mackay’s Drivable, See-Thru, ’69 L-88 Corvette
Kevin created a Corvette without about 98% of its body, that is not only DRIVABLE, but it passes
inspection in the State of New York. That’s right friends, Kevin occasionally takes his LEGAL, unbodied
427 L-88 for a spin. He confided with me that it’s kind of a pain in the neck taking the thing out because
it’s such COP BAIT. Every bored police officer that sees the car, just has to “PULLER OVER.” – just to
check it out. Kevin was recently told that he “could” get nabbed because the car has no mud flaps.
“But officer, that would ruin the whole educational presentation! L-88 Corvettes never had MUD FLAPS!”

JULY 8 – 10, 2011
Schedule Of Events
Friday July 8th – Registration, Meet & Greet (Hors D’oeuvres &
No Host Bar), Parking Lot Games.
Saturday July 9th – Late Registration, Show & Shine, Funkhana, Raffle Prize Drawings,
Scenic Drive. Jet Boat Dinner Cruise or Hors D’oeuvres Buffet At The Taprock Grill. And
An Evening At The BEAR HOTEL Including A Souvenir Photo Shoot With You &
Your Car.
Sunday July 10th – Full Breakfast Buffet, Awards, Farewells.
Jet Boat Heading Down The Rogue On The 4 Hour, 36 Mile Round-Trip Through Hellgate
Canyon, Then Back Up River To The OK Corral, For A Great BBQ Ribs & Chicken Dinner
With All The Trimmings. www.hellgate.com
All Events Centered Around The Taprock Event Center, Riverside Park, And
The “Bear Hotel” In Grants Pass, Oregon www.visitgrantspass.org/
Hotel Info
The Lodge At Riverside (541-955-0600 or 877-955-0600)
www.thelodgeatriverside.com/ (Adjacent To The Event Center)
Standard-$125 – Deluxe-$170 – Suites-$275 (Per Night Plus 10% Tax)
Total Of 33 Rooms Blocked Until 6/6/2011
Riverside Inn (541-476-6873 or 800-334-4567) www.riverside-inn.com/
(Two Hundred Yards West, Across Sixth Street, Next To Hellgate Jet Boats)
Standard-$110 – Deluxe-$120 – Suites-$135 (Per Night Plus 10%Tax)
Total Of 62 Rooms Blocked Until 6/6/2011
Redwood Motel (541-476-0878 or 888-535-8824) www.redwoodmotel.com
(One Mile North Of Convention Center)
All Rooms $108.90 (Per Night Includes Room Tax)
Total of 20 Rooms Blocked Until 6/6/2011
(Mention SOCA Corvette Weekend) (All Rates Include Continental Breakfast)
Total Of 115 Rooms Blocked – So Call Early

Registration Form
Registration Fee For One Car / Two People - $265.00 $_________
Economy Package = Hors D’oeuvres At Taprock Instead Of Jet Boat Cruise - $179.00 $_________
Registration Fee For One Car / One Person - $139.00 $_________
Economy Package = Hors D’oeuvres At Taprock Instead Of Jet Boat Cruise - $99.00 $_________
Registrations Must Be Postmarked No Later Than June 1, 2011
LIMIT OF 300 PEOPLE (About 150 Cars) Due To Event Center Occupancy Limit
First Fifty Registrations Received Will Be Entered In Special Prize Drawing
Registration Includes: Friday - Meet & Greet With Hors D’oeuvre Buffet & No Host Bar.
Saturday - Show & Shine, Lunch, Funkhana (After Car Show Judging), Jet Boat / Dinner Cruise,
Evening At The Bear Hotel
(Economy Package = Hors D’oeuvres At The Taprock Grill Instead Of Jet Boat / Dinner Cruise)
Sunday - Full Breakfast Buffet and Awards Presentation.
Car Show & Driving Events For One Car, (Second Car $30.00)
ONE Event T-Shirt Man’s OR Ladies’ Included (Additional Shirts $15 or $17)
1 Personal Information: (Please Print Clearly)
Driver____________________________ Navigator_____________________________
Address_________________________________________________________________
City_________________________________________ State______ Zip____________
Phone_(___)______________ E-Mail________________________________________
Corvette Club____________________________________________________________
Included T-Shirt Size: (Man’s) S___, M___, L___, XL___, XXL___, XXXL___
OR (Lady’s –Scoop Neck) S___, M___, L___, XL___, XXL___, XXXL___
Extra T-Shirts: (Man’s) Size____ Qty____ $15.00, (XL - XXXL $17.00) $_________
(Lady’s) Size____ Qty____ $15.00, (XL - XXXL $17.00) $_________
Event Logo Hats: Qty______ ($15.00) (One Size Fits All) $_________
Second Car Fee ($30.00) $__________
TOTAL ENCLOSED $_________

WESTERN STATES CORVETTE COUNCIL
FOUNDED - I JULY 1965 - THURSDAY INCORPORATED - 10 MAY 1968 - FRIDAY
COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
From: Bernie & Dick Realph – Discovery Bay Corvette Club
Convention Update: March 26, 2011
New update: WSCC Convention in Minden, Nevada ~ July 17-21, 2011
WHERE ARE YOUR REGISTRATIONS? We have close to 100 room reservations, now
we need your registrations - please get them to Kathy Pimentel now is the time.
ROOMS: For those of you who have not made your hotel reservations at the Carson Valley
Inn, Minden Nevada, By the time this is sent out there will probable not be any rooms in the
hotel, the remaining rooms will be in the motor lodge.
Phone: 800-321-6983 using attendee group # 502564
Hospitality Room Competition: We will be furnishing a room for ea. Club to put on their
hospitality room
These rooms will be in the motor lodge, so I need to know what clubs are doing hospitality I
know of only 3 clubs right now, and I need a name of the person who will be responsible for the
room. You will have the room from noon til the next day at noon to decorate and clean up.
AUTOCROSSERS: some of you are forgetting to put your class on the registration sheets
Schedule of events: July 17 to 20th
Sunday – registration 1-3pm & 5-7pm ( during this time will be the meet and greet)
Monday – Car show 10:00 AM - 2:00 (late reg. will be announced)
Black Jack tournament 1:00 PM (during car show) (in lieu of casino night)
Hospitality competition - 7:00 PM
Tuesday- Rallye/poker run 9:00 AM
Turn hands in approx. 5:00 PM
Wednesday - Autocross, 7:00 AM
Time for those who don’t autocross to do side trips
Awards Banquet 6:00 PM
We are trying to have things happen at both sites, motor lodge and hotel
Any questions please call: Dick and Bernie Realph, Discovery Bay Corvettes
(925) 634-0729 or vetbrat1@comcast.net

ATTENTION ALL COF MEMBERS
WE ARE IN NEED OF A NEW WEBMASTER!
AL HALL HAS RETIRED AND IS NOW
TRAVELING MUCH OF THE TIME
AL WILL PROVIDE ALL NECESSARY SOFTWARE
& TRAIN ANYONE WHO IS WILLING TO LEARN
FOR A NOMINAL FEE YOU
CAN ADVERTISE YOUR
BUSINESS IN FULL COLOR
ON OUR ADVERTISING PAGE,
AND ON OUR WEBSITE
CONTACT JIM AGAR AT:
newsletter@corvettesoffresno.com
OR
AL HALL AT:
webmaster@corvettesoffresno.com
ADVERTISING RATES:
COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS:
$80.00 PER YEAR OR $15.00
PER MONTH
CLUB MEMBERS:
$60.00 PER YEAR OR $10.00
PER MONTH
Sales: (559) 761-0801
Service: (559) 840-3186
Sadly we have learned that
Richard Wagner, our club
member since 1999 has passed
away. Our prayers and
condolences go out to his wife
Darlene and the Wagner family.
DRAG RACING TID-BITS
TODAY’S TOP FUEL CAR HAS ENOUGH TECHNOLOGICAL
EQUIPMENT BOLTED ON TO HAVE A NASA ROCKET SCIENTIST
SHAKING HIS HEAD IN BEWILDERMENT. CONSIDER THE
EQUIPMENT BOLTED TO A CURRENT T0P FUEL CHASSIS:
1. A FUEL SYSTEM ALMOST UNDECIPHERABLE WHICH INCLUDES A
PUMP CAPABLE OF DRAINING AN AVERAGE-SIZED SWIMMING
POOL IN 3 HOURS (18,000 GALLONS DIVIDED BY 100 GPM).
2. A 14-71 SUPERCHARGER THAT IS SO TOUCHY IT NEEDS A
SPECIALIST TO RE-STRIP IT EVERY RUN.
3. A $6,000 CARBON FIBER INJECTOR “HAT” THAT IS TOTALLY
DESTROYED IF THE ENGINE SO MUCH AS SNEEZES.
4. TWO 44-AMP MAGNETOS, ENOUGH POWER TO WELD STEEL
PLATE.
5. A 12-INCH RING GEAR REAR-END.
7. A SIX-DISC CLUTCH WITH ENOUGH MANAGEMENT TO CONTROL
ALL THE RAILROAD SWITCHING YARDS IN CHICAGO.
8. A DATA RECORDER WITH MORE INFO-GLEANING ABILITY THAN
NASA’S SHUTTLE.

Julie C. Oleson
Independent Consultant
m 559-940-0298
ryanandjulieoleson@gmail.com
arbonne.com
ARBONNE
BEST UNIFORMS
BILLIE TALLEY, OWNER
HEADQUARTERS FOR YOUR OFFICIAL
"CORVETTES OF FRESNO" APPAREL
LAW ENFORCEMENT - POSTAL - FIRE
INDUSTRIAL - TUXEDOS
CUSTOM EMBROIDERY
5091 N. FRESNO #112 (559) 226-4235
FRESNO, CA 93710 FAX (559) 226-4280
Dr. G. Randall Forrester, DC.
875 W. Ashlan, Suite 101
Clovis, CA 93612
(559) 292-6191 * Fax 292-6193

P.O. BOX 26223
FRESNO, CA. 93729-6223
www.corvettesoffresno.com