The 2014 Corvette Stingray marked a revolutionary return for an iconic nameplate, redefining modern sports car performance. Chevrolet unleashed a vehicle that masterfully blended cutting-edge technology, breathtaking design, and exhilarating power, all while bearing the legendary Stingray designation. This wasn’t just an evolution; it was a transformation.
The 2014 Corvette Stingray emerged as the most potent standard Corvette ever produced at the time. Boasting an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and a formidable 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm), it delivered breathtaking acceleration, surging from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds. Cornering prowess was equally impressive, achieving over 1g of grip. Surprisingly, this powerhouse was also projected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette to date, surpassing the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of its predecessor. Sharing only two parts with the previous generation, the Stingray was essentially a clean-sheet design, featuring an all-new frame, chassis, powertrain, and completely redesigned exterior and interior.
Key highlights of the 2014 Corvette Stingray Specifications include:
- Luxurious Interior: A cabin crafted with real carbon fiber, aluminum, and hand-wrapped leather, offering two new seat designs with lightweight magnesium frames for exceptional support. Dual eight-inch configurable driver and infotainment screens provided a high-tech command center.
- Advanced Driving Technology: A five-position Drive Mode Selector allowed drivers to customize 12 vehicle attributes to suit various driving conditions. The new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching ensured seamless gear changes.
- Revolutionary LT1 V-8 Engine: The all-new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine incorporated direct injection, Active Fuel Management, and continuously variable valve timing for enhanced power and fuel efficiency.
- Lightweight Construction: Extensive use of lightweight materials, including a carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel, composite body panels, and a new aluminum frame, contributed to an optimal 50/50 weight balance and a world-class power-to-weight ratio.
- Aerodynamic Exterior: A sculpted exterior with advanced HID and LED lighting, combined with racing-derived aerodynamics, balanced low drag for efficiency with performance elements for superior stability and track capability.
- Track-Ready Z51 Performance Package: An optional Z51 Performance Package elevated track capabilities with features like an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling, and enhanced cooling systems.
The 2014 Corvette Stingray was assembled at GM’s Bowling Green, Kentucky plant, which underwent a significant $131 million upgrade to accommodate its advanced construction, including a new body shop dedicated to manufacturing the aluminum frame in-house. The coupe model launched in the third quarter of 2013, heralding a new era for the Corvette.
Handcrafted, High-Tech Interior Specifications
The interior of the 2014 Corvette Stingray was a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and advanced technology, designed to create a more connected and engaging driving experience. Helen Emsley, Interior Design Director, emphasized the blend of fine materials and technology, stating it aimed for a “more connected and more engaging driving experience.”
Premium materials were evident throughout the cabin, including genuine aluminum trim and available carbon fiber accents. A smaller diameter, 14.1-inch (360 mm) steering wheel provided a more direct and responsive feel. Attention to detail extended to the smallest elements, like the precise, flat stitching on the steering wheel, ensuring a smooth and consistent tactile experience.
Two newly designed seat options catered to different driving preferences: the GT seat, prioritizing all-around comfort, and the Competition Sport seat, offering more aggressive side bolstering for enhanced support during track driving. Both seat frames were constructed from magnesium, providing greater strength and reduced weight compared to traditional steel frames. This rigidity contributed to the enhanced sense of support during performance driving.
Designers undertook “field trips” to GM’s Proving Ground in Milford, Michigan, to observe high-performance driving scenarios. These experiences directly influenced interior features such as a steel-reinforced grab bar on the center console for the passenger and soft-touch materials on the console’s edge, where the driver naturally braces during high-load cornering.
The configurable display screens and available head-up display were also influenced by high-performance driving needs. These displays adapted based on the selected driving mode, with the Track display drawing inspiration from the C6.R race car, complete with a lap timer.
The interior showcased unprecedented attention to detail and build quality. A sweeping arch motif flowed over the driver cockpit trim, seamlessly connecting the instrument panel to the door. Every surface within the cabin was fully wrapped in premium, soft-touch materials. Depending on the trim level, available materials included Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber, and micro-suede.
The cabin ambiance was designed to be first-rate, achieved through a combination of hand craftsmanship and machined precision. The leather-wrapped instrument panel, for instance, featured hand-selected and hand-stretched materials with stitching executed by robots for perfect seams. A subtle micro-LED screen was even incorporated for the passenger’s climate control, positioned discreetly below the vent on the dash, away from the driver-centric performance features.
Driver-Oriented Technologies: Specifications for Control and Customization
The 2014 Corvette Stingray’s technologies were centered around the driver, providing intuitive control and extensive customization. The cockpit-mounted Driver Mode Selector was the core of this system, allowing drivers to optimize the car’s behavior for their preferred driving style and road conditions. Five distinct modes were available: Weather, Eco, Tour, Sport, and Track.
Operating the Driver Mode Selector was straightforward, using a rotary knob conveniently located near the shifter. Tour mode served as the default setting for everyday driving. Weather mode enhanced confidence in rain and snow. Eco mode prioritized fuel efficiency. Sport mode sharpened responses for spirited road driving, and Track mode configured the car for optimal track performance.
Selecting a mode adjusted twelve key performance parameters:
- Gauge Cluster Configuration: Displayed different information depending on the mode. Tour, Eco, and Weather modes showed trip data, audio, and navigation. Sport mode presented classic sports car gauges. Track mode adopted a gauge design inspired by the Corvette Racing C6.R, including a lap timer.
- ETC (Electronic Throttle Control): Adjusted the throttle input curve for enhanced responsiveness in the selected mode.
- Paddle-Shift Automatic Transmission: Modified shift comfort and shift points for the automatic transmission.
- Active Fuel Management: In normal modes, the LT1 engine switched between V-8 power during acceleration and V-4 power when cruising. Eco mode prioritized V-4 operation for maximum fuel economy.
- Exhaust (Active Exhaust System): Adjusted the timing of electronically controlled exhaust valves to modulate the V-8’s audible feedback based on the drive mode.
- Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (Z51): Regulated the engagement rate of the limited-slip differential, balancing steering response and stability across different driving conditions, with more aggressive performance in Sport and Track modes.
- Steering: Adjusted power steering assist to provide appropriate steering feel for each driving condition.
- Magnetic Ride Control: (If equipped) Adjusted shock damping in real-time based on road conditions, ranging from optimized comfort to performance handling.
- Launch Control: Activated in Track mode for both manual and automatic transmissions, maximizing off-the-line acceleration.
- Active Handling (StabiliTrak Stability Control): Offered a “competitive” setting in Sport and Track modes for track use, and could be fully disabled for complete driver control.
- Traction Control: Weather mode tailored traction control and engine torque for driving in adverse conditions.
- Performance Traction Management: Available in Track mode, offering five levels of torque reduction and brake intervention for track driving optimization.
Three configurable displays provided personalized information: dual eight-inch screens and an available color head-up display. These displays visually communicated the different performance parameters associated with each drive mode. The eight-inch screens were designed for excellent visibility, even in direct sunlight, boasting high brightness levels. The center stack screen also incorporated touch-screen control with gesture recognition and could be lowered to reveal a hidden storage compartment with a USB input.
The Corvette Stingray featured an advanced infotainment system with Chevrolet MyLink, high-definition radio, and enhanced OnStar with 3D navigation maps. Additional connectivity was provided by a USB port in the center console, a stand-alone audio input jack, and an SD card slot. An optional premium 10-speaker audio system with a bass box and subwoofers, utilizing rare-earth magnet speakers for enhanced sound quality with reduced weight and size, was also available.
Functionally Elegant Exterior: Aerodynamic Specifications
The exterior design of the 2014 Corvette Stingray prioritized both aesthetic appeal and functional aerodynamics. Every line, vent, inlet, and surface was meticulously optimized to enhance the car’s overall performance. Drawing inspiration from Corvette racing, the aerodynamic design integrated track-proven strategies.
Signature lighting played a crucial role in the Stingray’s visual identity. Distinctive frosted LED daytime running lights, high-intensity discharge headlamps, and indirect LED taillamps contributed to its modern and high-tech aesthetic. At the front, indirect white LED lamps formed a unique daytime styling cue, set within black-chrome lamp housings alongside standard HID projector headlamps. Edge-lit amber LED lighting was used for the turn signals.
The all-new dual-element taillamps represented a significant departure from Corvette tradition. The sculpted, three-dimensional lenses housed innovative indirect LED lighting. Hidden LED lamps projected light upwards into a reverse reflector, creating a smooth, even glow. LED lamps were also used for the white backup lights. Functionally, the taillamps integrated aircraft-style air outlets for the available differential and transmission coolers.
Aerodynamic performance was a key focus. Advanced computer-aided modeling predicted airflow patterns around the Corvette’s body. Engineers also leveraged data from the Corvette Racing program, a highly successful team in the American Le Mans Series, to optimize front and rear grip for high-speed stability. Extensive wind tunnel testing refined surfaces for both aesthetics and performance.
Functional exterior elements included:
- Grille and Hood Vents: All models featured a new grille/radiator arrangement and hood vents. Hood vents reduced front-end lift, improving steering response at high speeds.
- Front Fender Side Coves: These vents also helped vent underhood air pressure, reducing aerodynamic drag.
- Transmission and Differential Cooling Vents: Models with automatic transmissions or the Z51 Performance Package incorporated functional vents on both sides to direct air over heat exchangers for transmission fluid and the electronic limited-slip differential.
- Taillamp Vents and Lower-Rear Fascia Outlets: Airflow from the differential and transmission heat exchangers exited through the aircraft-inspired taillamp vents and lower-rear fascia air outlets.
- Z51 Aero Package: The Z51 Performance Package included brake-cooling ducts, a unique rear spoiler, and additional air deflectors for enhanced track capability.
Engineered to Race, Built for the Road: Structural and Mechanical Specifications
The 2014 Corvette Stingray’s engineering prioritized a race-bred foundation suitable for everyday driving. Lightweight materials, advanced manufacturing, and technology transfer from Corvette Racing resulted in a near-perfect 50/50 weight balance and exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
At its core was an all-new aluminum frame structure, 57 percent stiffer and 99 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the previous steel frame. Increased torsional rigidity minimized unwanted noise and improved both ride quality and handling precision.
The frame utilized customized aluminum segments, varying in thickness from 2mm to 11mm, optimizing strength and weight in different areas. Assembly took place in a new welding shop at the Bowling Green plant using a precise laser welding process.
Chassis components further enhanced strength and reduced weight, including hollow-cast aluminum front and rear cradles, lighter and stiffer than the previous solid cradles. Innovative material use extended to the body, with a standard carbon fiber hood and roof panel, carbon-nano composite underbody panels, and lighter-density Sheet Molded Compound for fenders, doors, and rear quarter panels. These materials collectively reduced body weight by approximately 37 pounds (17 kg).
The lightweight design contributed to the ideal 50/50 weight distribution. Combined with its estimated 450 horsepower, the new Corvette boasted a superior power-to-weight ratio compared to competitors like the Porsche 911 Carrera and Audi R8.
Power came from the all-new LT1 6.2L Small Block V-8 engine, producing an estimated 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). Significantly, it generated 50 lb.-ft. more low-end torque than its predecessor, matching the 7.0L LS7 engine from the 2013 Corvette Z06 in the 1,000 to 4,000 rpm range. Advanced technologies like direct injection, Active Fuel Management, and continuously variable valve timing were key to the engine’s performance and efficiency.
The LT1 engine was paired with a choice of active exhaust systems, both less restrictive than previous designs. The standard system offered a 13-percent airflow improvement. An available dual-mode active exhaust system increased airflow by 27 percent and incorporated additional valves for enhanced performance and a more aggressive exhaust note.
Transmission options included a six-speed paddle-shift automatic and an industry-exclusive TREMEC TR6070 seven-speed manual with Active Rev Matching. The Corvette retained its rear transaxle layout for optimal weight balance. The seven-speed manual featured rev-matching technology for seamless shifts, while the automatic was optimized for Active Fuel Management.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics: Chassis and Handling Specifications
The chassis and suspension of the 2014 Corvette Stingray were engineered to capitalize on the lighter, stiffer structure, resulting in a more direct and connected driving experience. Reduced structural flex allowed for more precise suspension and steering tuning, enhancing agility and responsiveness.
While retaining the racing-proven short/long-arm suspension design, both front and rear suspension components were entirely new. Hollow lower control arms reduced weight, and new aluminum rear toe links further contributed to weight savings.
The Corvette Stingray rode on new 18 x 8.5-inch front and 19 x 10-inch rear wheels. Z51 Performance Package models upgraded to 19 x 8.5-inch front and 20 x 10-inch rear forged aluminum wheels. New Michelin Pilot Super Sport run-flat tires, specifically developed for the C7 Corvette, provided comparable grip to wider tires of previous models, but with reduced rolling resistance, steering effort, and road noise.
The wheelbase was approximately an inch longer, and front and rear tracks were nearly an inch wider than the previous generation, enhancing stability, particularly at high speeds. The turning radius was also reduced for improved maneuverability.
Standard Bilstein monotube shocks connected to dual-path aluminum shock mounts. The Z51 Performance Package included 45mm-piston Bilstein dampers for more aggressive body control. Third-generation Magnetic Ride Control, available with Z51, offered faster response for improved ride comfort and body control.
The new electric power steering system featured variable ratios and variable effort, tailoring steering response and feel to driving conditions. Steering column and intermediate shaft stiffness were significantly increased, resulting in a steering system five times stiffer than the previous generation, providing more precise control and feedback.
An electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), included with the Z51 Performance Package, continuously optimized torque distribution between the rear wheels. It integrated with StabiliTrak and Performance Traction Management systems and offered different calibration modes based on the Drive Mode Selector setting.
Standard Brembo brakes, with racing-derived four-piston fixed calipers, delivered exceptional stopping power. Standard rotors were 12.6-inch front and 13.3-inch rear. The Z51 Performance Package upgraded to dual-cast, slotted rotors with increased swept area and improved cooling for enhanced track capability.
2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Preliminary Specifications Table
| Overview | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model: | 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray |
| Body styles / driveline: | 2-door hatchback coupe with removable roof panel; rear-wheel drive |
| Construction: | composite and carbon-fiber body panels, hydroformed aluminum frame |
| Manufacturing location: | Bowling Green, Ky. |
| Engine | LT1 6.2L V-8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement (cu in / cc): | 376 / 6162 |
| Bore & stroke (in / mm): | 4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92 |
| Block material: | cast aluminum |
| Cylinder head material: | cast aluminum |
| Valvetrain: | overhead valve, two valves per cylinder |
| Fuel delivery: | direct injection |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Horsepower / kW: | 450 / 335 (est.) |
| Torque (lb-ft / Nm): | 450 / 610 (est.) |
| Transmissions | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type: | seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match / six-speed paddle-shift automatic |
| Chassis / Suspension | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front: | short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum control arms |
| Rear: | short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum control arms |
| Active handling: | Magnetic Selective Ride Control (avail. with Z51) |
| Traction control: | StabiliTrak, electronic stability control |
| Brakes | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type: | power-assisted discs, four-piston fixed calipers (slotted rotors w/ Z51) |
| Rotor diameter (in / mm): | front: 12.6 / 320 (13.6 / 345 with Z51) rear: 13.3 / 338 |
| Wheels / Tires | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheel size: | front: 18-inch x 8.5-inch (Stingray) / 19-inch x 8.5-inch (Z51) |
| rear: 19-inch x 10-inch (Stingray) / 20-inch x 10-inch (Z51) | |
| Tires: | Michelin Pilot Super Sport run-flat |
| front: P245/40R18 (Stingray) / P245/35R19 (Z51) | |
| rear: P285/35R19 (Stingray) / P285/30R20 (Z51) |
| Dimensions Exterior | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase (in / mm): | 106.7 / 2710 |
| Overall length (in / mm): | 177 / 4495 |
| Overall width (in / mm): | 73.9 / 1877 |
| Overall height (in / mm): | 48.6 / 1235 |
| Weight distribution (% F/R): | 50 / 50 |
Conclusion: The Definitive 2014 Corvette Stingray Specifications
The 2014 Corvette Stingray was more than just a new car; it was a statement. Its specifications showcased a vehicle meticulously engineered for peak performance, luxurious comfort, and cutting-edge technology. From its powerful LT1 V-8 engine and advanced driving dynamics to its handcrafted interior and aerodynamically sculpted exterior, every detail was designed to elevate the driving experience. The return of the Stingray badge was not just nostalgic; it signified a new benchmark in Corvette’s illustrious history, offering a compelling blend of power, precision, and refinement that solidified its place as a world-class sports car. For enthusiasts and drivers seeking a detailed understanding of what made the C7 Stingray so exceptional, these specifications provide a comprehensive overview of its groundbreaking capabilities and design.
