The Chevrolet Corvette, an iconic symbol of American automotive engineering and design, has captivated enthusiasts for generations. From its inception in 1953 to the cutting-edge models of today, each year of Corvette production has brought unique advancements and styling, contributing to its legendary status. Enthusiasts often categorize and appreciate Corvettes By Year and generation, recognizing the distinct characteristics of each era. Recently, the Corvette community came together to celebrate the finest examples from the past year in the annual Corvette of the Year competition hosted by CorvetteForum. This event shines a spotlight on exceptional Corvettes, both in their original glory and creatively modified forms.
The CorvetteForum community’s annual Corvette of the Year contest is a highly anticipated event where members nominate and vote for the best Corvettes within their ranks. This celebration of Corvette excellence begins with nominations across different generations, from the early C1 models to the latest C8s. Members showcase their prized possessions, and through a series of voting rounds, the community selects standout Corvettes in both unmodified and modified categories for each generation. Ultimately, two grand champions are crowned: Corvette of the Year in both the unmodified and modified categories, representing the pinnacle of Corvette ownership and passion within the forum.
For the 2023 competition, CorvetteForum introduced a slight variation to the format, starting the judging process with the newest Corvette models and progressing backward through the generations. This approach built anticipation and excitement as each generation’s winners were announced. Reflecting the engaged and passionate nature of the CorvetteForum members, some generations saw the creation of additional subcategories, often based on specific colors or model years, further highlighting the incredible diversity and detail within the Corvette community. The 2023 Corvette of the Year contest culminated in the selection of winners across every Corvette generation (C1 to C8), and the recognition of two overall champions, representing the best of the best for the year.
2023 Corvette of the Year Grand Champions
The ultimate accolades in the Corvette of the Year 2023 competition went to two exceptional vehicles, representing the pinnacle of Corvette ownership in both stock and customized forms.
Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified & C1 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified
The winner in the Unmodified category, also claiming the title for the C1 generation, is Blueyeangel. This Corvette exemplifies the timeless beauty and original design of the first-generation Corvettes.
Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified & C3 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified
In the Modified category, Bluesting70‘s C3 Corvette took home the grand prize, as well as the C3 generation award. This Corvette showcases the creativity and personalization possible while maintaining the iconic Corvette spirit.
Bluesting70‘s winning modified C3 boasts a powerful 383 crate motor, a TKX 5-speed transmission, and custom paint. Originally a 350/350 car, it now features 18×12 rear and 18×10 front Rocket Racing rims, Hooker headers, side pipes, and modified egg crate side vents molded into the body, demonstrating a blend of performance and aesthetic upgrades.
2023 Corvette of the Year Winners by Generation
Beyond the grand champions, the Corvette of the Year 2023 competition recognized outstanding Corvettes across all eight generations. Each generation represents a significant era in Corvette history, with distinct styling, engineering, and performance characteristics. Here’s a look at the winning Corvettes by year and generation:
C1 Corvettes of the Year (1953-1962)
The C1 generation marked the birth of the Corvette, evolving from a roadster to a performance icon throughout its production years.
C1 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified: Blueyeangel (Previously featured as Grand Champion)
C1 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: 66BBCoupe
Corvette of the Year 2023, Restomod: Chevynut52 (All Generations)
New for 2023, the Restomod category celebrated Corvettes blending classic styling with modern performance and technology from any generation. Chevynut52 took the inaugural award.
C2 Corvettes of the Year (1963-1967)
The C2 generation, known as the Sting Ray, introduced independent rear suspension and dramatic styling, becoming highly sought after by collectors. Due to numerous entries, judging was split into early (1963-1965) and late (1966-1967) C2 unmodified models.
C2 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified ’63-’65: JMills
C2 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified ’66-’67: ddlanes
C2 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: Dave64
C3 Corvettes of the Year (1968-1982)
The C3 generation, with its “Coke bottle” styling, was the longest-running Corvette generation, spanning various engine options and evolving designs.
C3 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified: ChiefBoats
C3 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: Bluesting70 (Previously featured as Grand Champion)
C4 Corvettes of the Year (1984-1996)
The C4 Corvette brought modern technology and a redesigned chassis, updating the Corvette for a new era of performance.
C4 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified: RPO JOE
C4 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: Not Red Rob
C5 Corvettes of the Year (1997-2004)
The C5 generation introduced the LS1 engine and further refined the Corvette’s handling and performance capabilities.
C5 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified: Vader C5
C5 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: DNAST1
C6 Corvettes of the Year (2005-2013)
The C6 generation featured exposed headlights and enhanced performance, including the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 models.
C6 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified: rkj427
C6 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: StayinStock
C7 Corvettes of the Year (2014-2019)
The C7 generation marked the return of the Stingray name and brought advanced technology and aggressive styling to the Corvette lineup. Unmodified C7s were judged in color categories.
C7 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified (Maroon/Orange/Silver/Gray/Black): duckvett
C7 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified (All Other Colors): Rky Mtn C6
C7 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: Factoid
C8 Corvettes of the Year (2020-Present)
The C8 generation represents a revolutionary shift for Corvette, with its mid-engine configuration delivering supercar performance. Unmodified C8s were also judged in color categories.
C8 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified (Red or Blue): Marcho Polo
C8 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Unmodified (All Other Colors): IdRatherBGolfing
C8 Corvette of the Year 2023 – Modified: JoeB3
The Corvette of the Year competition not only celebrates the exceptional vehicles within the CorvetteForum community but also highlights the enduring appeal and evolution of Corvettes by year. From classic C1s to the groundbreaking C8s, each generation represents a chapter in the ongoing Corvette story, a story driven by passion, innovation, and a dedicated community of enthusiasts. Congratulations to all the winners of the 2023 Corvette of the Year awards, showcasing the best of Corvettes across every year and style.
