Even the most affordable C8 Corvette is capable of reaching 200 MPH now.

      Chris Szczypala

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      Once upon a time, achieving a top speed of 200 mph truly signified something exceptional. It represented a benchmark for genuine hypercars, a threshold reached only by the most extraordinary machines ever created. Although more vehicles today can surpass this speed, it remains an impressive number. Many electric vehicles can accelerate to 60 mph in just three seconds, yet the capability to exceed 200 mph remains uncommon. Beginning with the 2027 model year, the most affordable Corvette from Chevy will accomplish this milestone.

      Today, the car manufacturer announced that the 2027 Stingray, the entry-level version priced at $73,495 including freight, will be able to exceed 200 mph thanks to its new 6.7-liter LS6 V8 engine, which offers 535 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque. (By the way, the torque figure sets a record for naturally aspirated V8s in production.) The LS6 generates 40 more horsepower than the previous 6.2-liter LT2, which helps the Stingray achieve an additional 6 mph to reach 200.

      "That’s all power. The record truly demonstrates the capabilities of the LS6, an engine that was designed to carve out a distinctive niche in the Corvette lineup," stated Small Block Assistant Chief Engineer Mike Kociba in a GM News blog.

      Interesting tidbit: The Corvette Z06 shown here cannot reach 200 mph because it doesn’t possess the Stingray’s narrow, low-drag body. General Motors

      However, this doesn’t imply that all C8 Corvettes will hit a minimum of 200 mph; once you consider the Z06, you step into the realm of widebody vehicles with enhanced aerodynamics. Of course, aerodynamics are typically the adversary of straight-line speed. The Z06 is officially recorded at a maximum speed of 195 mph, whereas the ZR1 can effortlessly achieve up to 233 mph with its over 1,000 horsepower.

      It's also important to mention that a Stingray fitted with the optional Z51 Performance Package, which was not included in GM’s latest test vehicle, might not have the same top speed due to changes in gearing and added spoilers at both the front and rear.

      All this gives the Stingray a notable distinction as the base model. While it may not excel on the track, it can outpace its siblings given enough distance. And at $73,500, that’s worth noting. I wouldn’t label it as the deal of the century, but it certainly offers good value, especially considering the average new car costs around $22,000 less.

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