Our Review of the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette Base
Those in the market for a car who buy a Chevrolet Corvette are often enthusiastic about their purchase. Since its launch the Corvette has been one of the flagships of the Chevrolet brand. This has always been a meaningful car, and the 1997 model is no different. A hatchback for everyone in the family is what the Chevrolet Corvette provides.
1997 Chevrolet Corvette Base Specs
The restyled Corvette Base is equipped with a 5.7-liter eight-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Chevrolet engine is mated to a General Motors four-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 1996 version.
Steering control is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Corvette comes equipped with power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. The car uses leaf front springs and leaf in the rear.
The fuel system for the 1997 Corvette is a SFI design, using gasoline fuel. The fuel flow is controlled by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The fuel capacity of the fuel tank is 19.10 gallons.
Statistics
104.50 of wheelbase allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers. It sits 47.70 inches off the ground. It seats a standard two passengers, with 2 doors. The dimensions of the Corvette Base are 179.70 inches long by 73.60 inches wide.
The standard warranty period for the Corvette is 36 months, or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. There is also a warranty on the powertrain for 36 months or 36,000 miles respectively. This is standard in the hatchback market.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $37,495 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $32,808. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Hatchback.
MPG Ratings
The Corvette Base received a miles-per-gallon rating of 17 – 18 in-city driving and 25 – 28 when it came to highway driving. Being a gas-powered non-hybrid car, this was within normal parameters.
In 1997 the Corvette Base was availble in the exterior colors of several colors. Additional options were made available by the manufacturer.
In Summary
The 1996 model began the promise of the Chevrolet Corvette. The 1997 expanded on this success and has proven to be a strong seller in most markets. Even with strong competition from other manufacturers Chevrolet hopes that the Corvette Base will continue to be a profitable vehicle.