The Corvette Body Style C4 is a true testament to the artistry and vision of Chevrolet's automotive engineers. From its sleek and aerodynamic lines to its bold and aggressive stance, this legendary model redefines what it means to be visually captivating. The C4's distinct sculpted body contours create a synergy between aesthetics and performance, ensuring you turn heads on every street corner. 

With its robust engine and cutting-edge technology, this masterpiece boasts unparalleled acceleration and thrilling speed. Each curve and turn you encounter becomes an opportunity to feel the supremacy of the Corvette Body Style C4—a harmonious blend of power, control, and comfort. Every detail, from the meticulously crafted dashboard to the ergonomic controls, ensures that your driving experience is not only exhilarating but also tailored to your utmost convenience. 

A Little History of the Corvette C4 

The fourth generation Corvette began production in March 1983 as a 1984 model and ended in 1996. The 1983 model year was skipped due to production problems, although 44 prototype cars were completed. The 23rd produced is displayed at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY.  

This first-year model of the C4 carried over the L83 engine from the previous, 3rd generation Corvette. The L83 engine had a unique fuel delivery method dubbed "Crossfire," a dual throttle-body injection system. With the first major body, chassis, and suspension change since 1963, the new C4 coupe incorporated a rear glass hatch for much-improved cargo access, all new brakes with aluminum calipers, an all-aluminum suspension for weight savings and rigidity, and the first one-piece Targa top with no center reinforcement.  

The Corvette Body Style C4 came standard with an electronic dashboard with digital liquid crystal displays for the speedometer and tachometer. The 1984 C4 was a complete and total redesign except for its engine, and the emphasis was on handling with the introduction of the front transverse composite leaf spring (still used today on new Corvettes). This handling focus came with the penalty of a harsh, uncompromising ride in the 1984 model. 

Between 1984 and 1988, the Corvette utilized an unusual "4+3" transmission—a 4-speed manual coupled to an automatic overdrive on the top three gears. It was designed to help the Corvette meet U.S. fuel economy standards. The transmission was problematic and was eventually replaced by a much more modern and satisfactory ZF 6-speed manual gearbox in 1989. This new transmission was also the first to feature Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS), which used a solenoid to lock out 2nd gear during low-speed/low-throttle driving conditions. This allowed the Corvette to maintain EPA fuel economy ratings high enough to avoid the "gas guzzler" tax. Beginning in 1985, the 230 horsepower (hp)(170 kW) L98 engine with tuned port fuel injection was the standard engine. 

Timeline 

The Corvette Body Style C4's handling characteristics and cornering ability allowed it to dominate SCCA events and races during the 1980s and 1990s. Despite Porsche's best efforts, it was undefeated in the SCCA Showroom Stock competition from 1985 through 1987. Porsche reportedly even obtained a Corvette C4 for teardown and examination. 

Notable Attributes 

The C4 had plenty of firsts: EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), composite transverse leaf springs, antilock brakes, airbags, traction control, an aluminum frame and suspension components, digital gauges, overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder in the superb ZR-1, a computer-controlled, six-speed manual transmission, climate control, and a digital instrument panel.  

Conversely, C4 Corvettes were the last generation to utilize a centrally located fuel filler (1963), opposing windshield wipers (1953), a cast iron engine block (1953), 4 round taillights (1961), fiberglass body panels (1953), and distributor ignition (1953). 

B2K Callaway "Sledgehammer" Twin-Turbo 

In 1987, the B2K option became available from the factory. The Callaway Corvette was a Regular Production Option (RPO B2K), the only time in Chevrolet's history a specialist manufacturer was entrusted with a technically advanced high-performance RPO. The B2K option coexisted from 1990 to 1991 with the ZR-1 option, which then replaced it. 

Early B2Ks produced 345 hp (257 kW) and 450 ft·lbf (610 N·m) of torque, while later versions boasted 450 hp (336 kW) and 613 ft·lbf (831 N·m). 

ZR-1 (1990–1995) 

1995 Corvette ZR-1 

In 1986, the Corvette team approached Lotus, then a GM subsidiary, to develop an ultra-high-performance vehicle based on the Corvette Body Style C4. With input from GM's "Corvette Team" of engineers and designers, Lotus designed a new engine to replace the traditional pushrod L98 V-8 that powered the standard C4. The result was the LT5, an aluminum-block V-8 with the same bore centers as the L98 but with four overhead camshafts and 32 valves.  

Lotus designed a unique air management system for the engine to provide a wider power band by shutting off 8 of the 16 intake runners and fuel injectors when the engine was at part-throttle while still giving the ZR-1 375 hp when at wide open throttle. As Chevrolet had no facility available to manufacture the new LT5, the construction of the engines was subcontracted to Mercury Marine, a company in Stillwater, OK, which normally specialized in high-performance marine engines. 

Collector Edition (1996) 

To commemorate the final year of the Corvette Body Style C4, Chevrolet reissued a Collector Edition (CE). Also produced in low numbers, all CEs were painted Sebring Silver, a color reminiscent of the 1963 Sting Ray and later retained for the C-5 color lineup. A near mirror image of the Grand Sport, if properly equipped, also has the five-spoke "A mold" wheels in matching silver, bigger ZR-1 brakes, and a myriad of standard features.  

Like all production 1996 Corvettes, the LT4 received the ZF 6-speed gearbox, thought by many to be the strongest GM transmission ever. Automatics were an option, and still retained the LT-1. CEs were also available in a convertible with three interior color choices: red, silver, and black. On all four sides of the car, a special set of "Collector Edition" flags were appointed and also embroidered on the seatbacks. 

Earlier Models 

Owning a Corvette C1, C2, or C3 Body Style means embracing a rich heritage of unmatched style, performance, and exhilarating drives. Whether cruising down the open road or flaunting its beauty at a gathering of auto enthusiasts, these early models evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration that is truly timeless.  

Each turn of the ignition brings you closer to experiencing the raw power, masterful engineering, and unbridled joy that define these classic American legends. Discover the magic of these iconic models, and join us in celebrating the timeless elegance and thrilling performance of Corvette’s body styles.