Chevrolet Corvette C3

The Chevrolet Corvette C3 is the third generation of the sports car by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. The C3 was introduced for the 1968 model year and lasted through 1982. Corvette chief Zora Arkus-Duntov wanted a striking new Corvette. Engines and chassis components were mostly carried over from the previous generation, but its body and interior were new. Though intially flawed, the '68 like the '58, would improve and mature into a car precisely right for its time.[1]The so-called Shark was introduced during one of the most troubled periods in America. Against all odds the C3 carried on through war, civil unrest, burgeoning federal guidelines, fuel economy and pollution regulations, oil embargoes, rising fuel and insurance costs, runaway inflation, and a lingering recession. To the credit of its corporate caretakers, the Corvette prospered through these uncertain times despite remaining in its basic form for 15 years. Regardless of the mixed motoring press reviews, America sure loved the Shark.[2]

The Corvette C3 was patterned after the Mako Shark II designed by Larry Shinoda. Executed under Bill Mitchell's direction, the Mako II had been initiated in early 1964. Once the mid-engined format was abandoned the Shinoda/Mitchell car was sent to Chevrolet Styling under David Holls, where Harry Haga's studio adopted it for production on the existing Sting Ray chassis. The result was much like the Mako II from the beltline down, except for the softer contours. The concept car's name was later changed to Manta Ray. The C3 also adopted the "sugar scoop" roof treatment with vertical back window from the mid-engined concept models designed by the Duntov group. It was intended from the beginning that the rear window and that portion of the roof above the seats–be removable.[3]

The "Shark" has the distinction of being introduced to the motoring public in an unorthodox — and unintended — fashion. GM had tried their best to keep the appearance of the upcoming car a secret, but the release of Mattel's die-cast Hot Wheels line several weeks before the C3's unveiling had a certain version of particular interest to Corvette fans: the "Custom Corvette", a GM-authorized model of the 1968 Corvette.

1968 engines were carried over from the previous generation. The optional automatic transmission was the new 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic. Coupes had removable T-tops and rear window. Side vent windows were eliminated from all models. Sting Ray nameplates were absent on the new 1968 body, but Chevrolet still advertised the car as a Sting Ray. Rare options: L88 engine (80), J56 heavy-duty brakes (81), UA6 alarm system (388), L89 aluminum heads (624).