|
Entry level Corvette Coupe to be unveiled next week?
Lots of speculation about the new iteration of the C7 to be unveiled at the NY auto show on 4/15. Motor Trend is speculating that the car will be a lower-priced entry level Corvette Coupe, slotted below the Stingray. It's said the car will have a fixed roof, smaller engine, and no carbon fiber, in addition to fewer features inside.
Has anyone heard about this? I'm not in the market, already owning a C7, but curious in that the current cost of the 'base' C7 is already a bargain, so if GM intends on offering an 'entry level' Corvette, I wonder if it means the prices of the Stingrays will increase to create a true gap between the models?:flag: |
Originally Posted by Jimbob26
(Post 1586599256)
Lots of speculation about the new iteration of the C7 to be unveiled at the NY auto show on 4/15. Motor Trend is speculating that the car will be a lower-priced entry level Corvette Coupe, slotted below the Stingray. It's said the car will have a fixed roof, smaller engine, and no carbon fiber, in addition to fewer features inside.
Has anyone heard about this? I'm not in the market, already owning a C7, but curious in that the current cost of the 'base' C7 is already a bargain, so if GM intends on offering an 'entry level' Corvette, I wonder if it means the prices of the Stingrays will increase to create a true gap between the models?:flag: I hope they don't come out with a cheaper Corvette, its like the Mustang with the C6, even though this is rumored to be a 5.3L V8. I think it would really hurts the Corvette name, not as bad as a V6 Mustang but... |
Interesting perspective. I doubt it, but you never know!
|
I think it'll be the 2015 model car... based on the mules it wouldn't surprise me if the Z06 grill w/o the bar becomes standard.
|
I don't think it will happen...
BUT, a true track version would be nice. |
Nope!! I know many of y'all think GM is stupid but they have already tried this and it didn't work. The FRC C5! The economies of scale just aren't there to merit doing this and the FRC proved it. They had to come out with the ZO6 to save the FRC. Anyway...gonna be interesting either way.
|
Hope that is not true,Will lower the status of the C-7's.Just when GM is trying to up the status to buyers like Porsche,MB.What they need to do is make a mini Corvette V6 $30,000 to$40000.This would get the kids started on Corvettes.GM please do not make a cheap Corvette that looks like the C-7.
|
With production at full capacity I'd think they'd want to build higher - not lower - margin cars....
|
If Motor Trend says it, then that's exactly what it will NOT be.
|
My guess is, if anything, it's going to be the the C7 Grandsport, N/A LT1 with Z06 body panels, CCB brakes, Z07 option, and maybe an available 8 speed auto.
Or it will be a Z06 vert. One of these two. If they were going to go with an "entry' level, which I highly doubt, I don't think it would be the 5.3L. I would think that they may be looking to expand the line up of the TTV6, and I really don't see Corvette being a candidate just yet. |
Originally Posted by Jimbob26
(Post 1586599256)
Lots of speculation about the new iteration of the C7 to be unveiled at the NY auto show on 4/15. Motor Trend is speculating that the car will be a lower-priced entry level Corvette Coupe, slotted below the Stingray. It's said the car will have a fixed roof, smaller engine, and no carbon fiber, in addition to fewer features inside.
Has anyone heard about this? I'm not in the market, already owning a C7, but curious in that the current cost of the 'base' C7 is already a bargain, so if GM intends on offering an 'entry level' Corvette, I wonder if it means the prices of the Stingrays will increase to create a true gap between the models?:flag: WHAT? an entry level C7 to compete with what? The C7 does not need a cheap version of it i hope this is not true. |
IMHO this will cheapen the Corvette brand.
|
I wouldn't want a smaller motor, but if they de-contented the interior and reduced price accordingly, that would be the one in my sights.
As far as a "new model", if it is truly something new, my money would be on GS version; they could get 10k in additional margin no problem. |
Originally Posted by ny32182
(Post 1586599716)
I wouldn't want a smaller motor, but if they de-contented the interior and reduced price accordingly, that would be the one in my sights.
As far as a "new model", if it is truly something new, my money would be on GS version; they could get 10k in additional margin no problem. |
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
Originally Posted by Mr Snappy!
(Post 1586599969)
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
Originally Posted by FLYNLO
(Post 1586599375)
Nope!! I know many of y'all think GM is stupid but they have already tried this and it didn't work. The FRC C5! The economies of scale just aren't there to merit doing this and the FRC proved it. They had to come out with the ZO6 to save the FRC. .... .
Those of us who have been around remember this marketing flop. I don't see them trying this at all. :cheers: |
I hope you are all correct - I also see this as cheapening the Corvette brand, when they have spent all this time to strengthen it. I would be nice to see the new iteration as a Z06 vert.
|
"Fatmaro" has nothing in common with a Corvette except sometimes the motor. Some of us simply want a sports car with lots of power. Sports car means light weight, good handling, preferably 2 seats. The 1LT already has way more gizmos than I will ever use. I agree it won't happen, but, make it $45k without their attempt at a high dollar interior, and I bet I wouldn't be the only buyer. Camaros haven't interested me at all since the end of the F body.
|
Originally Posted by HolyRoller
(Post 1586599489)
If Motor Trend says it, then that's exactly what it will NOT be.
They also said the C7 was gonna come with a V6, didn't they? |
As other people have said, and it's my opinion too, Z06 vert.
|
Originally Posted by Yamatr3
(Post 1586600376)
As other people have said, and it's my opinion too, Z06 vert.
The only "Trend" in Motor Trend is getting Corvette predictions WRONG. |
Originally Posted by Mr Snappy!
(Post 1586599969)
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
The thing that makes the most sense is a Z06 vert. A Z06X may appeal to a very small segment of hard core track junkies, but most are not interested in a car like that. Seems a little early for a GS. A watered down C7 is a stupid idea IMHO. If one can't afford a vette, buy a Camaro.
|
I would said that my guess is either the GS or the Z06X since it was mentioned that the Vette team was giving good consideration to a lightweight version of the Z.
It would be fascinating what numbers can a 100 to 200 lbs lighter Z could put. A Z with 200 lbs less would put its power to weight ratio in the ball park of Mclaren 650. |
They are announcing the 2017 ZR1.
|
Personally I think a no frills Corvette that is visably distinguishable from the Stingray would be great by providing an entry point for new members to the club...a high performance V6, 18" wheels, fixed roof, no hood or side vents, etc. It will only make Stingrays more desireable now that the Z06 has taken the high ground. :thumbs:
|
The entry level Corvette is already here. It is the Stingray.
|
http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f...rtrain-116657/
I'm not sure it's going to happen, but I do believe there could be a market for it if the price difference is large enough, even more so than the FRC which eventually became the C5Z06 and it'd still be faster than a Camaro SS even with only a 5.3 that has DI/VCT...not sure there's enough cost savings and improvement in MPG to warrant, but time will tell soon enough |
Originally Posted by Mr Snappy!
(Post 1586599969)
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
Originally Posted by Yamatr3
(Post 1586600376)
As other people have said, and it's my opinion too, Z06 vert.
Remember the plans for our now defunct car was suppose to be on a new platform at the BG plant starting in 2012. It is possible they brought it back and this is it. |
Originally Posted by rsl2715
(Post 1586599386)
Hope that is not true,Will lower the status of the C-7's.Just when GM is trying to up the status to buyers like Porsche,MB.What they need to do is make a mini Corvette V6 $30,000 to$40000.This would get the kids started on Corvettes.GM please do not make a cheap Corvette that looks like the C-7.
|
One of the first times in recent history that GM makes a car so good that it demands a price increase.......and what might they do.......make it cheeeeeeaaaaper .
dumb and dumber |
Didn't they do a MINI VETTE in the 70's?
1 Attachment(s)
With a 4 cylinder too!
|
Originally Posted by St!ngray
(Post 1586601508)
Or a shorter wheel base of the Stingray like the KAPPA you and me own but with the C7 Stingray looks.
Remember the plans for our now defunct car was suppose to be on a new platform at the BG plant starting in 2012. It is possible they brought it back and this is it. Needs a little more work IMO http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/8...ayfront800.jpg |
A car with the Camaro V6 would be pretty nice, but I don't think it would be a Corvette, but a mistake. (Also, a V6 or smaller V8 would require re-certification for emissions, a needless expense.)
A coupe with cloth seats, manually adjustable, and a fixed roof would be fine for those looking for max performance, but as others have mentioned they did this in the past to no great enthusiasm from the market. |
Sounds exactly like what GM did with the C-5 FRC (Fixed Roof Coupe) which lasted only a year or two. The FRC later became the design for the C-5 Z-06. The C-7 FRC will be an interesting concept if it happens. :toetap:
|
Originally Posted by cmonkey713
(Post 1586601782)
Sounds exactly like what GM did with the C-5 FRC (Fixed Roof Coupe) which lasted only a year or two. The FRC later became the design for the C-5 Z-06. The C-7 FRC will be an interesting concept if it happens. :toetap:
|
You are forgetting GM used to sell a lot of decontented Corvettes. The cheapest you used to be able to get was a 300 horse/327 or 350, roadster (cheaper than a coupe), with a 4 speed and a radio. You had no PW, PDLs or leather seats. There was a huge cost difference between that and an all out fire breathing big engine car. At the time they were the most common Corvettes as most people couldn't afford the performance versions. Fully optioned or high performance cars from that era were rare and that is one of the reasons they bring big money at the auctions. With GM trying to bring in a newer younger Customer base for the Vette they have to have something at a good price point that beats whatever else might be on the market. That means something that is attractive to the young college graduate, has a performance level higher than cars in the same price range and can be afforded on a beginning salary.
Bill |
I'm not sure it's needed at this time.
|
The CorVolt.. the Volt's underworks with the Saturn Sky body works.
|
Originally Posted by longboy4
(Post 1586601616)
With a 4 cylinder too!
|
Originally Posted by Bill Dearborn
(Post 1586601901)
You are forgetting GM used to sell a lot of decontented Corvettes. The cheapest you used to be able to get was a 300 horse/327 or 350, roadster (cheaper than a coupe), with a 4 speed and a radio. You had no PW, PDLs or leather seats. There was a huge cost difference between that and an all out fire breathing big engine car. At the time they were the most common Corvettes as most people couldn't afford the performance versions. Fully optioned or high performance cars from that era were rare and that is one of the reasons they bring big money at the auctions. With GM trying to bring in a newer younger Customer base for the Vette they have to have something at a good price point that beats whatever else might be on the market. That means something that is attractive to the young college graduate, has a performance level higher than cars in the same price range and can be afforded on a beginning salary.
Bill |
My guess, it will be a wide body Stingray, LT1, steel rotors & brakes.
Options will include but not be limited to; A8, tires 19" in the front 20's in the rear, coupe or convertible. :thumbs: |
Originally Posted by Mr Snappy!
(Post 1586599969)
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
Originally Posted by Bill Dearborn
(Post 1586601901)
You are forgetting GM used to sell a lot of decontented Corvettes. The cheapest you used to be able to get was a 300 horse/327 or 350, roadster (cheaper than a coupe), with a 4 speed and a radio. You had no PW, PDLs or leather seats. There was a huge cost difference between that and an all out fire breathing big engine car. At the time they were the most common Corvettes as most people couldn't afford the performance versions. Fully optioned or high performance cars from that era were rare and that is one of the reasons they bring big money at the auctions. With GM trying to bring in a newer younger Customer base for the Vette they have to have something at a good price point that beats whatever else might be on the market. That means something that is attractive to the young college graduate, has a performance level higher than cars in the same price range and can be afforded on a beginning salary.
Bill |
Originally Posted by CRABBYJ
(Post 1586601649)
You mean something like this? That Wilmington, DE assembly plant is still idle.:flag:
Needs a little more work IMO http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/8...ayfront800.jpg |
Originally Posted by CRABBYJ
(Post 1586601649)
You mean something like this? That Wilmington, DE assembly plant is still idle.:flag:
Needs a little more work IMO http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/8...ayfront800.jpg |
The Corvette is already inexpensive enough!!! If they come out with a cheaper model it will really hurt the brand and will lose some customers (possibly myself) forever!!!
|
Entry level Corvette Coupe to be unveiled next week?
Ain't gonna happen...because there just isn't any need to them to do so. GM is going to steer buyers to some version of the Camaro or the SS instead for the lower-price model.
|
At 57 years old, I figure I've been wrong about 7,583,825 times (5 per day).
BUT: I am sure there will be no "de-contented" "value" C7. It makes NO sense plus it would be literally impossible to pull enough out to make the car that much cheaper. How much does the 5.3L V8 save over the LT1? How much does a SMC roof and hood save? And lest we forget, here was Motor Trend's "rendering" of the C7 in September 2013, 4 months before the intro of the C7 and 11 months after Jalopnik got the car about 80% correct. http://wot.motortrend.com/begin-coun...-profile-02-2/ Jimmy PS. My guess is a convertible Z06, BTW |
I sure hope nothing is done to cheapen or diminish the brand in any way.
|
Originally Posted by DaveFerrari458
(Post 1586602978)
The Corvette is already inexpensive enough!!! If they come out with a cheaper model it will really hurt the brand and will lose some customers (possibly myself) forever!!!
GM may have figured this out too. Now upon reflection, I might go for a decontented lower-powered lower-priced convertible with great handling, since I remember my S2000s so fondly. But few will agree with me, and I'd rather pay the price difference for a Z06 vert anyway, and there's no future in antagonizing the Corvette cult while trying to compete with the Subaru BRZ or Scion FR-S for big fun in a small car at a small price. And another thing--we have seen spy shots of what looks like a widebody C7 vert test mule with the same wheels as a C7 Z06, but none of a bargain-basement FRC, and by now we should have. Let's hope against hope that GM is about to do the right thing instead of the boneheaded thing. |
Originally Posted by FLYNLO
(Post 1586599375)
Nope!! I know many of y'all think GM is stupid but they have already tried this and it didn't work. The FRC C5! The economies of scale just aren't there to merit doing this and the FRC proved it. They had to come out with the ZO6 to save the FRC. Anyway...gonna be interesting either way.
If they followed this same formula on the C7, it would be a good thing. If they can make a cheaper C7 with the same LT1, drop 50-100lbs and remove some of the tech gizmos the purist don't want, I bet it would sell. Now if they put a 5.3 in it, probably not a good idea. |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586603063)
And lest we forget, here was Motor Trend's "rendering" of the C7 in September 2013, 4 months before the intro of the C7 and 11 months after Jalopnik got the car about 80% correct.
http://wot.motortrend.com/begin-coun...-profile-02-2/ |
I hate the idea… brutal!
|
Recently a saleman mentioned GM was coming out with a $47,000 base C7. I passed it off as "talk". We'll have to see.
|
Originally Posted by rsl2715
(Post 1586599386)
Hope that is not true,Will lower the status of the C-7's.Just when GM is trying to up the status to buyers like Porsche,MB.What they need to do is make a mini Corvette V6 $30,000 to$40000.This would get the kids started on Corvettes.GM please do not make a cheap Corvette that looks like the C-7.
|
I'll play the guessing game too! My guesses in order:
- Z06 vert - Base car (not called Stingray) - Z06X - Grand Sport - ZR1 (CorvetteBlogger mentioned that as a possibility today) But what do I know?! I'll be at media day next Wednesday, so I'll get some pics! |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586603063)
At 57 years old, I figure I've been wrong about 7,583,825 times (5 per day). ....
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586603063)
... I am sure there will be no "de-contented" "value" C7. It makes NO sense plus it would be literally impossible to pull enough out to make the car that much cheaper. How much does the 5.3L V8 save over the LT1? How much does a SMC roof and hood save? ....
Jimmy |
Originally Posted by ck9887
(Post 1586603212)
The FRC had the same LS1, was only available in a 6spd and was the lightest model made at several thousand dollars cheaper than the C5 coupe. .....
|
5.3 be fine with me. Have enough power for everyday driving but would want a 3lt
with it. |
Originally Posted by texvette2
(Post 1586603806)
5.3 be fine with me. Have enough power for everyday driving but would want a 3lt
with it. Wouldn't a V6 Camaro work just as well? S. |
Originally Posted by jackhall99
(Post 1586603699)
Wrong! It was $400 less than the coupe.
|
Some of you guys are hilarious. ..
"Cheapen" the brand? I hate to burst bubbles. .. but chevy is a discount cheap brand, and Corvette's brand is cheap performance.... An entry level 5.3l 400hp fixed roof stripped vette makes perfect sense to preserve market share. The 2015 mustang is going to bury the fatmaro, which is long over do for an overhaul and an all new platform. A 35k entry level C7 would seriously steal Ford's thunder. |
Originally Posted by Gadfly
(Post 1586604013)
Some of you guys are hilarious. ..
"Cheapen" the brand? I hate to burst bubbles. .. but chevy is a discount cheap brand, and Corvette's brand is cheap performance.... An entry level 5.3l 400hp fixed roof stripped vette makes perfect sense to preserve market share. The 2015 mustang is going to bury the fatmaro, which is long over do for an overhaul and an all new platform. A 35k entry level C7 would seriously steal Ford's thunder. Here's all the ways I can think of to save some money and all of them put together times 2 won't get you a $35K C7 1. Frame. Replace the aluminum frame with steel. OK, steel's cheaper but the C7 aluminum frame is built at Bowling Green (the C6 frames were not). So, you need new fixtures/molds/etc to do a separate frame. These fixtures/molds cost money and you need space for them. Plus you now have to validate (crash) the new frame to make sure it meets the standard (there goes the savings, more than likely) 2. Engine. All the GenV small blocks share MANY components. So, the only real savings that could happen would be to lose VVT/DI/AFM. Not much money there. 3. Interior. Redesigning the dash wouldn't save anything, so now you're left with going with cheaper materials/manual seats/less sound deadening....again, how much does that save? Why no new "cheap" dash. Because you have to validate (crash) test the new dash to make sure airbags meet standards. There's a reason the C6 dash NEVER changed during the entire run. 4. Hood/Roof: Go to SMC over Carbon Fiber. 5. Put C6 brakes on it. 6. Put C6 floor pans (balsa composite) on it 7. Put the Tremec T6060 transmission in it. I'm sure there's more stuff, but even if everything I listed saved $1,000 per line item (which it doesn't), you're still NOT EVEN CLOSE to $35K selling price. Jimmy PS. I have no doubt a $35K Corvette would get Ford's attention....steal their thunder, no way. Two TOTALLY different cars/market/customers, starting with the most obvious thing, 2 seats verses 4 seats. No back seat eliminates a pile of customers....single car family, married with a kid/dog/parakeet/whatever, Mustang works great for them, Corvette (even at this mythical $35K) doesn't. |
While I agree with most that this rumor is prob related a 'vert Z06 (rather than a stripped down C7)... a smaller C7-like pontiac solstice sized two seater roadster would sell like hotcakes given the success of the C7 with the younger crowd... And would be a seriously smart marketing ploy... (release the C7, sell to all who can afford, or in some case can stretch to afford one, while making all the youngsters' who cannot afford salivate, wish, hope, and dream... then bam... release something smaller and cheaper... GM would sell the absolute crap out of them!)
The below was one of the Solstice 2's concepts, and I imagine GM could use the chassis and adapt the body to better resemble the Stingray's contours, curves, and corners... :yesnod: http://www.yankodesign.com/images/de...04/pontiac.jpg |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586604080)
No problem. Tell me how to do a $35K C7. Because you sure can't do it based on a C7 Stingray.
Here's all the ways I can think of to save some money and all of them put together times 2 won't get you a $35K C7 1. Frame. Replace the aluminum frame with steel. OK, steel's cheaper but the C7 aluminum frame is built at Bowling Green (the C6 frames were not). So, you need new fixtures/molds/etc to do a separate frame. These fixtures/molds cost money and you need space for them. Plus you now have to validate (crash) the new frame to make sure it meets the standard (there goes the savings, more than likely) 2. Engine. All the GenV small blocks share MANY components. So, the only real savings that could happen would be to lose VVT/DI/AFM. Not much money there. 3. Interior. Redesigning the dash wouldn't save anything, so now you're left with going with cheaper materials/manual seats/less sound deadening....again, how much does that save? Why no new "cheap" dash. Because you have to validate (crash) test the new dash to make sure airbags meet standards. There's a reason the C6 dash NEVER changed during the entire run. 4. Hood/Roof: Go to SMC over Carbon Fiber. 5. Put C6 brakes on it. 6. Put C6 floor pans (balsa composite) on it 7. Put the Tremec T6060 transmission in it. I'm sure there's more stuff, but even if everything I listed saved $1,000 per line item (which it doesn't), you're still NOT EVEN CLOSE to $35K selling price. Jimmy PS. I have no doubt a $35K Corvette would get Ford's attention....steal their thunder, no way. Two TOTALLY different cars/market/customers, starting with the most obvious thing, 2 seats verses 4 seats. No back seat eliminates a pile of customers....single car family, married with a kid/dog/parakeet/whatever, Mustang works great for them, Corvette (even at this mythical $35K) doesn't. however your list of parts would be a great way to cut costs if you goal was to make changes that wouldn't cut costs... The obvious answer it to remove/swap things that cost money, without changing the production process. 1.) simple non-heated, non-cooled, non-power cloth seats. 2.) cheaper interior materials 3.) analog gauges 4.) no or only a very basic stereo (no infotainment / nav.) 5.) SMC body panels etc. etc. There is absolutely nothing that prevents a 35k c7, as it really only has a very items on it that would cost more money than 35k mustang GT. The engine and transmission is not on that list; in fact I would bet the DOHC V8 in the Mustang costs more to build than the LT1, I serious doubt even the aluminum frame costs more given how much less frame there is Vs. a uni-body, not to mention that SMC panels are a hell of a lot cheaper than steel... suspension? No, Brakes? No, which just leaves the appointments, and exotic materials. A fixed roof SMC bodied, stripped out C7 vette could very easily be sold for 35k. That said, I seriously doubt that is what we are going to see tomorrow, my guess is a Z06 Vert, or a C7 Grand Sport; I seriously hope it is a Grand Sport... |
Originally Posted by Gadfly
(Post 1586604198)
absolutely it is mythical... pure speculation in fact...
however your list of parts would be a great way to cut costs if you goal was to make changes that wouldn't cut costs... The obvious answer it to remove/swap things that cost money, without changing the production process. 1.) simple non-heated, non-cooled, non-power cloth seats. 2.) cheaper interior materials 3.) analog gauges 4.) no or only a very basic stereo (no infotainment / nav.) 5.) SMC body panels etc. etc. There is absolutely nothing that prevents a 35k c7, as it really only has a very items on it that would cost more money than 35k mustang GT. The engine and transmission is not on that list; in fact I would bet the DOHC V8 in the Mustang costs more to build than the LT1, I serious doubt even the aluminum frame costs more given how much less frame there is Vs. a uni-body, not to mention that SMC panels are a hell of a lot cheaper than steel... suspension? No, Brakes? No, which just leaves the appointments, and exotic materials. A fixed roof SMC bodied, stripped out C7 vette could very easily be sold for 35k. That said, I seriously doubt that is what we are going to see tomorrow, my guess is a Z06 Vert, or a C7 Grand Sport; I seriously hope it is a Grand Sport... 1. Seats: Lose the power/heat/cool/leather (1LT doesn't have the cooled/heated seats anyway). What did we just save? My best guess....$300 - $500 2. Cheaper interior materials (that should go over well). Cloth seats, cheap carpet, crappy radio, analog gauges, no nav. I'm feeling generous, let's say $2,000 savings. 3. SMC body panels: There are only 2 CF panels on the C7 now....savings maybe $500. I'm not really sure why you're bringing up other cars....cars that share platforms with other cars. We're talking about how to do a $35K Corvette, not a cost comparison between the LT1 and DOHC Ford V8. If GM sold 100,000 Corvettes a year, absolutely a $35K Corvette could be done. In fact, it would HAVE to be done to sell 100,000 cars. I do not believe it can be done in the current form of the C7, and more importantly, GM would have to be insane to attempt it. Jimmy |
no point
There is no sportscar the C7 competes with that even comes close to the value in this car ...making a less expensive model after you raise the price on this one makes zero sense
|
I immediately thought it would be a Z06 vert
I don't expect to see a different engine since all of GM's current naturally-aspirated OHV V8s and DOHC V6s should cost quite similar amounts of money, making such an investment pretty counterproductive. We shall see shortly, though; I know I'm looking forward to it :thumbs: |
HAR!
gonna be a twin turbo diesel, awd, dct, titanium frame, carbon fiber body. zr1 spyder, 160k. heard it here first.... |
Originally Posted by kozmic
(Post 1586604094)
While I agree with most that this rumor is prob related a 'vert Z06 (rather than a stripped down C7)... a smaller C7-like pontiac solstice sized two seater roadster would sell like hotcakes given the success of the C7 with the younger crowd... And would be a seriously smart marketing ploy... (release the C7, sell to all who can afford, or in some case can stretch to afford one, while making all the youngsters' who cannot afford salivate, wish, hope, and dream... then bam... release something smaller and cheaper... GM would sell the absolute crap out of them!)
The below was one of the Solstice 2's concepts, and I imagine GM could use the chassis and adapt the body to better resemble the Stingray's contours, curves, and corners... :yesnod: http://www.yankodesign.com/images/de...04/pontiac.jpg |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586604242)
OK, I'll do your list:
1. Seats: Lose the power/heat/cool/leather (1LT doesn't have the cooled/heated seats anyway). What did we just save? My best guess....$300 - $500 2. Cheaper interior materials (that should go over well). Cloth seats, cheap carpet, crappy radio, analog gauges, no nav. I'm feeling generous, let's say $2,000 savings. 3. SMC body panels: There are only 2 CF panels on the C7 now....savings maybe $500. I'm not really sure why you're bringing up other cars....cars that share platforms with other cars. We're talking about how to do a $35K Corvette, not a cost comparison between the LT1 and DOHC Ford V8. If GM sold 100,000 Corvettes a year, absolutely a $35K Corvette could be done. In fact, it would HAVE to be done to sell 100,000 cars. I do not believe it can be done in the current form of the C7, and more importantly, GM would have to be insane to attempt it. Jimmy According to you everything is just a few hundred dollars.... |
GM seems to follow the Porsche in many ways. The latest is Porsche’s 918 Spyder.
Maybe Corvette is coming out with their Spyder Corvette. With a 0-60 time of say 2 seconds. I think they would sell a few of them. Or maybe it's the equivalent to the Porsche Cayman. Smaller V8 or 6 that has outstanding handling but not the "grunt". We will know soon. |
Originally Posted by Mr Snappy!
(Post 1586599969)
Entry-level Corvette? They already have that, its called a CAMARO :toetap:
|
I don't believe they will announce a cheaper Corvette, but a more expensive Corvette. Either a Z06 convertible(more expensive than the Z06 coupe) or a GS wide body(more expensive than the narrow body Stingray).
Just like with the C6, the existing base Stingray coupe will be the "cheaper" entry level Corvette. |
Originally Posted by HolyRoller
(Post 1586605563)
ugh ... looks more like the Aztek 2.
|
Originally Posted by Gadfly
(Post 1586605684)
Then where is the money being spent?
According to you everything is just a few hundred dollars.... If you want to argue my points, then make some of your own, don't just question mine. You are talking like taking a $53,000 car down to $35,000 is easy The ONLY way to knock $18,000 out of the car is to find/build MUCH cheaper MAJOR components, nickel and diming interior materials, seat heaters, gauges will NOT get you close to a $35K C7. Jimmy |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586606666)
I can take a car to any upholstery place RIGHT now and have seat heaters BOUGHT AND INSTALLED for $300. They have to take the seat apart, install the heater, wire it, put it all back together, and it's done for $300. So what do YOU think it costs GM to do this on a production line? Hell of a lot less than $300, I assure you.
If you want to argue my points, then make some of your own, don't just question mine. You are talking like taking a $53,000 car down to $35,000 is easy The ONLY way to knock $18,000 out of the car is to find/build MUCH cheaper MAJOR components, nickel and diming interior materials, seat heaters, gauges will NOT get you close to a $35K C7. Jimmy |
If we knew the actual per unit manufacturing cost of the Corvette I bet we'd all be shocked by how cheap it really is. Perceived value can drive pricing... a lot.
Why do you think the push higher optioned models so much? Because it doesn't cost GM anywhere NEAR 8k bucks to put on a 3LT interior. It is likely near 100% profit margin. |
My wild guess: they are going to put the 3.6L Twin Turbo caddy motor in it with 425hp. To bump gas mileage and lure in more Millennials especially if they can lower the base price. Does anyone know the weight of this engine vs the LT-1. I searched but could not find it.
Not sure if sources are reliable: LS3 = 403lb LT1 = 425lb LF3 = 485lb http://gmauthority.com/blog/2013/06/...y-the-numbers/ More realistic: Z06 Convert |
Corvette's brand is performance and value and the 2014 C7 is a huge hit as all versions of the C7 hit those goals.
An entry level C7 makes no sense and GM does not need it for market share. |
Originally Posted by FLYNLO
(Post 1586599375)
Nope!! I know many of y'all think GM is stupid but they have already tried this and it didn't work. The FRC C5! The economies of scale just aren't there to merit doing this and the FRC proved it. They had to come out with the ZO6 to save the FRC. Anyway...gonna be interesting either way.
My wife owned a 2001 Z06, and it was a hell of a car compared to my 2000 coupe. |
Originally Posted by Rob Willis
(Post 1586599319)
I don't think it will happen...
BUT, a true track version would be nice. What we need is a de-contented, N/A, full cooling, three pump dry-sump, top quality iron brake, built-in cage (by that I mean hidden, but built into the chassis), street-legal track car. Yes, that is what we need. :cheers: Also, homologated customer race cars for several US and global road racing series would be a nice touch, too--Porsche sells a bunch of them. |
It's a light weight street legal track model. Comp seats, no frills dash, no carpet and one speaker radio. Might be a little cheaper.
|
Originally Posted by Gadfly
(Post 1586605684)
Then where is the money being spent?
According to you everything is just a few hundred dollars.... |
I'm betting that it's a Z06 convertible.
|
I have nothing to go on but my gut feeling.
Remember how all of Corvette management said they wanted to make the C7 available to the younger generations. Start pulling away from the "Baby Boomers"...and build Corvette followers for the next 40 years. Well, they missed the mark and really "screwed the pooch" :eek: when they bumped the price of the base C7 up to 60k. Many were already stretching their budgets. It has nothing to do with the value of the car for the amount of $$$'s paid. It's about having enough discretionary spending available to afford a 60k car....and most (not all) 25-40 yr olds have families, kids getting ready to go to college, etc., and cannot afford to spend the big $$$'s on the Corvette. GM's only recourse is to make a less expensive Corvette so they can appeal to a larger group of 25-40 somethings. Me thinks MT might be right on this one..... JMHO..... |
Originally Posted by jackhall99
(Post 1586606780)
Jimmy, you understand what goes into a C7, and that a $35,000 version of that car is impossible. Gadfly does not! :cheers:
|
Originally Posted by WesC5
(Post 1586624358)
I have nothing to go on but my gut feeling.
Remember how all of Corvette management said they wanted to make the C7 available to the younger generations. Start pulling away from the "Baby Boomers"...and build Corvette followers for the next 40 years. Well, they missed the mark and really "screwed the pooch" :eek: when they bumped the price of the base C7 up to 60k. Many were already stretching their budgets. It has nothing to do with the value of the car for the amount of $$$'s paid. It's about having enough discretionary spending available to afford a 60k car....and most (not all) 25-40 yr olds have families, kids getting ready to go to college, etc., and cannot afford to spend the big $$$'s on the Corvette. GM's only recourse is to make a less expensive Corvette so they can appeal to a larger group of 25-40 somethings. Me thinks MT might be right on this one..... JMHO..... There are PLENTY of 25 - 40 somethings with the money to buy a Corvette (take a gander at the BMW 3/4 series business). Lowering the price/de-contenting a Corvette will not bring that group in, it will chase them away even faster. Also, lowering the price doesn't address the BIGGEST issue. The Corvette is still a 2 seat car. So, this "family" has to invest in, essentially, a toy. If all it took was a "low" price to get all these 25 - 40 somethings, then one of the truly fun sports cars, the Mazda Miata, would be selling a LOT better than this: http://www.goodcarbadcar.net/2011/01...s-figures.html Jimmy |
Originally Posted by JoesC5
(Post 1586624369)
Maybe that's why GM raised the prices on the 2014, so they would have additional wiggle room to produce a "Billy Bob" version without cutting into their profit margin that much. But it wouldn't be a $35,000 Billy Bob, more like a $45,000 version.
GM and the Corvette team have worked long and hard to gain the respect of most auto enthusiasts around the word. They have built a car that performs with most cars (as they have for some time), but more important , the C7's interiors is no longer laughed at by most writers and enthusiasts. No matter the potential cost savings, going backwards in performance or unless the car is a track-only car (can you say more expensive) on interior appointments would be a dumb move on GM's part. I guess we'll all see soon enough. :cheers: |
Originally Posted by WesC5
(Post 1586624358)
.... Remember how all of Corvette management said they wanted to make the C7 available to the younger generations. .... Well, they missed the mark and really "screwed the pooch" ... when they bumped the price of the base C7 up to 60k. .... .
|
Originally Posted by mpuzach
(Post 1586623659)
I'm betting that it's a Z06 convertible.
|
Well, I am back after some time on the rock for bad behavior.
Most of you are clueless to the fact of what is coming next… There is no way it will be a model below the existing 1LT. There is no market there. All that paper that hangs on my office wall reminds me of what I am supposed to do for a living…and part of that is actual market research. There is actually NOT a relevant pool of untapped buyers that will react favorably to a $40k price point on a two-seat limited use vehicle, regardless of the manufacturer or model. As a whole, they are the same market that is worried about paying student loans, paying mortgages and making babies. I know... there is the screwball here and there that is 27 and on his 19th Corvette, but that individual will not keep the grass mowed at the factory, nor is that someone a manufacturer targets. Trust me, while most of you think the market research is done at the local show and shine, it is not. They did all they could to launch at the $50k price point benchmark, and let us add options as we could and wanted. The Walmart theory of lowering the price to sell more works for your Depends purchases, but does not apply here. It, unfortunately is just not that simple. This market will continue to be prompted & sustained by added optional features and added upmarket models. Like it or not, we as a group, are really NOT motivated by price when it comes to purchasing what we want with discretionary income…I guess we are all growed up and the wizards at GM know it. Period. |
Originally Posted by jimmyb
(Post 1586625348)
The fly in this ointment is that this group of 25 - 40 somethings are not going to accept a stripped down, no electronic gadgets car JUST to buy a Corvette.
There are PLENTY of 25 - 40 somethings with the money to buy a Corvette (take a gander at the BMW 3/4 series business). Lowering the price/de-contenting a Corvette will not bring that group in, it will chase them away even faster. Also, lowering the price doesn't address the BIGGEST issue. The Corvette is still a 2 seat car. So, this "family" has to invest in, essentially, a toy. If all it took was a "low" price to get all these 25 - 40 somethings, then one of the truly fun sports cars, the Mazda Miata, would be selling a LOT better than this: http://www.goodcarbadcar.net/2011/01...s-figures.html Jimmy Just not sure what GM was thinking or how they expected to attract the younger generations. A price point of 60k---I don't think will give them the numbers their marketing department was expecting. Most Beamer owners probably need the back seat for family members...thus are out of play for the C7. I would like to know what the marketing department was thinking when all the talk was about the C7 appealing to the younger generations.....and getting them on board the Corvette train....
Originally Posted by Glenmcp
(Post 1586625466)
My guess as well. A lower cost Vette just does not seem right.
|
Originally Posted by WesC5
(Post 1586625834)
Good point about the Miata. But if I had a choice between a Miata and a Corvette (even if it was a very basic C7) at approximately the same price, it would be a slam dunk for the Corvette. No comparison.
Just not sure what GM was thinking or how they expected to attract the younger generations. A price point of 60k---I don't think will give them the numbers their marketing department was expecting. Most Beamer owners probably need the back seat for family members...thus are out of play for the C7. I would like to know what the marketing department was thinking when all the talk was about the C7 appealing to the younger generations.....and getting them on board the Corvette train.... Hope you're right. I'm with 98% of the forum members here....Certainly don't want to see a 40-45k stripped down C7. On the other hand, getting a very basic C7 leaves lots of room for mods..... :D |
Originally Posted by asphaltrecycler
(Post 1586625625)
Well, I am back after some time on the rock for bad behavior.
Most of you are clueless to the fact of what is coming next… There is no way it will be a model below the existing 1LT. There is no market there. All that paper that hangs on my office wall reminds me of what I am supposed to do for a living…and part of that is actual market research. There is actually NOT a relevant pool of untapped buyers that will react favorably to a $40k price point on a two-seat limited use vehicle, regardless of the manufacturer or model. As a whole, they are the same market that is worried about paying student loans, paying mortgages and making babies. I know... there is the screwball here and there that is 27 and on his 19th Corvette, but that individual will not keep the grass mowed at the factory, nor is that someone a manufacturer targets. Trust me, while most of you think the market research is done at the local show and shine, it is not. They did all they could to launch at the $50k price point benchmark, and let us add options as we could and wanted. The Walmart theory of lowering the price to sell more works for your Depends purchases, but does not apply here. It, unfortunately is just not that simple. This market will continue to be prompted & sustained by added optional features and added upmarket models. Like it or not, we as a group, are really NOT motivated by price when it comes to purchasing what we want with discretionary income…I guess we are all growed up and the wizards at GM know it. Period. A lower priced base C7 coupe is an interesting topic, but I agree a likely non-starter. As for getting the C7 into younger people's garages - I think the best way to it is by making a great product at an affordable price, which I think GM has already done. The cost of the base C7 1LT is favorable to the BMW 3/4 series and I see a lot of young folks tooling around in those cars. I have boys who are car nuts and are potential target customers for the C7. THe kids nowadays seem to marry later in life than my generation (I'm early 50 year old), make more money than I did at their age, and seemingly have more disposable income because of the combination. No kids like I had at that age. The big thing is convincing the younger population and even the 40-somethings that the C7 is BETTER than the competition, that it is the real deal, every bit as good as the Porsche and better than past generations of the Corvette. When I bought my C7 my oldest son (who is in the auto broker business) tried to talk me out of the C7 and into another Porsche. He said I'd be sorry, because of all the rattles, squeaks, lack of sophistication, and on and on. I bought the C7 anyway and love it. Once he drove it with me he ate his words. THat's what will sell more C7s - get the prospective buyers in the car. Once they experience it they'll be converts. The price is good as is and we don't need a cheaper version. As for the new model next week - my $$ is on the Z06 vert. |
The way for Chevy to attract more young upscale customers, (and older ones too), would be to provide outstanding, knowledgeable, considerate service in a pristine environment.. So many of today's Chevy service centers still operate with boneheads in charge that have "shade tree mechanic" DNA.
When I visit these places I worry about my car! Not Good! A Chevy dealership recently took 2 1/2 hours to change the oil and 7 1/2 hours on a separate appointment to put on a set of new tires. (7:30 appointments in both cases) What would they do if I had mechanical problems? Like I say I really worry about Mr. Greaseywrench Service! :smash: |
They sell all they can make at BG. The answer is simple, build a plant south of the border and hire non union workers and sell them for $35K and make more money. Strike I don't think so. Quality and safety no worry.
|
| All times are GMT -4. The time now is 08:02 PM. |
© 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands