The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Launch Edition has been confirmed for Great Britain, Australia, Japan.
The price in the UK is the equivalent of $86,150 for the coupe, and $91,850 for the convertible. It is about the fully loaded right-hand-drive Launch Edition with the 3LT top-level trim and the Z51 performance pack.
The equipment includes upgraded Brembo brakes, Michelin Sport 4S tires, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, a performance exhaust system, enhanced Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers.
Cheaper versions will be available later, but the mid-level 2LT trim will be the base version for Europe.
For comparison: the 2020 Corvette Stingray Coupe 3LT starts at $59,995, the convertible 3LT is $67,495 in the USA; the Porsche 911 Carrera’s current cost is £82,795 ($104,930) incl. VAT in the UK.
GM will sell the new Corvette in the European market at a limited dealer network and alongside a limited range of Cadillac models.
The success of the Ford Mustang in right-hand-drive versions influenced General Motors’ decision to offer the RHD Corvette overseas, despite the company’s retreat from volume operations in Europe and Australia in recent years.
Besides, the C8’s mid-engine layout and lack of a manual-transmission option makes the car better fitted to have its driving position moved.