The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette stands as a testament to American automotive excellence, a year that marked a significant evolution for the iconic sports car. This model year saw the introduction of new styling cues, powerful engine options, and innovative features that solidified the Corvette’s place as a performance legend.
From its sleek exterior to its luxurious interior, the 1968 Corvette offered a driving experience that was both exhilarating and refined.
The 1968 Corvette was offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, each boasting a distinctive design that captured the spirit of the era. Under the hood, a range of powerful V8 engines provided ample performance, while a choice of transmissions allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
The 1968 Corvette also featured a number of innovative safety features, including a padded dashboard and a telescopic steering column, which helped to set a new standard for safety in sports cars.
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette: A Year of Refinement and Evolution
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, the third year of the C3 generation, marked a significant step forward in the iconic sports car’s evolution. While retaining the sleek and modern design introduced in 1968, the 1968 model year brought refinements to the Corvette’s performance, handling, and interior.
These improvements solidified the Corvette’s position as a true performance machine and a coveted American icon.
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, a classic American sports car, was known for its sleek design and powerful engine. While the Corvette focused on performance, Chevrolet also offered a more luxurious and family-friendly option with the 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
This stylish coupe, with its distinctive roofline and plush interior, appealed to a different segment of the market. The Corvette, however, continued to be a legend, representing the spirit of American muscle cars.
Notable Design Features and Refinements
The 1968 Corvette continued to feature the distinctive “Coke bottle” styling that defined the C3 generation. However, several notable design refinements enhanced the car’s aesthetic appeal and practicality.
- The front end received a subtle update with a revised grille and headlights, giving the Corvette a more aggressive and modern look.
- The rear end featured a new taillight design, with individual round taillights replacing the previous rectangular units, further contributing to the Corvette’s distinctive appearance.
- The interior received a refresh with new upholstery options and a redesigned instrument panel. The dashboard was simplified, incorporating a more user-friendly layout and a more contemporary look.
Design and Styling
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, a symbol of American automotive excellence, showcased a refined and evolved design that further solidified its position as a sports car icon. This model year marked a subtle yet significant departure from its predecessors, introducing a series of enhancements that emphasized both elegance and performance.
Exterior Design, 1968 Chevrolet Corvette
The 1968 Corvette retained the iconic Sting Ray body style, characterized by its sleek, low-slung profile and distinctive rear-engine layout. However, the design team made several key changes to enhance its visual appeal and aerodynamic efficiency. The front end featured a new, more aggressive grille with a horizontal chrome bar that extended across the entire width of the car.
The headlights were also redesigned, with the iconic quad-headlamp setup now enclosed within a single, integrated unit. This design element not only improved the car’s aesthetics but also contributed to a more streamlined appearance.The rear end of the 1968 Corvette received a significant makeover, with the most notable change being the introduction of a new, wraparound taillight design.
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, with its iconic Sting Ray design, was a symbol of American muscle car prowess. While the Corvette represented a sleek and powerful sports car, Chevrolet also offered a more utilitarian option in the form of the 1978 Chevrolet Pickup.
This pickup, known for its durability and versatility, provided a different kind of driving experience, appealing to those who valued functionality over speed. Both vehicles, however, embody the spirit of Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering reliable and iconic automobiles.
This new taillight setup, consisting of four circular units, added a touch of modernism to the car’s rear profile. Additionally, the rear bumper was redesigned to incorporate a more integrated look with the bodywork.Other notable exterior features of the 1968 Corvette included:
- Newly designed side marker lights, which were integrated into the bodywork for a more seamless appearance.
- A redesigned rear window that was slightly larger than the previous year’s model, providing improved visibility.
- Optional chrome wheel covers that added a touch of elegance to the car’s overall appearance.
Interior Design
The interior of the 1968 Corvette underwent a significant transformation, focusing on comfort, functionality, and a more refined ambiance. The dashboard was completely redesigned, featuring a more driver-centric layout with a central instrument cluster that housed the speedometer, tachometer, and other gauges.
The steering wheel was also redesigned, with a more contoured shape and a smaller diameter for improved grip and control.The seats in the 1968 Corvette were also redesigned for improved comfort and support. The standard seats were upholstered in vinyl, while optional leather upholstery was available.
The overall cabin layout was designed to provide a sense of spaciousness and luxury, with a focus on providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
Comparison to Previous and Subsequent Model Years
The 1968 Corvette represented a significant evolution in design compared to its predecessors. The introduction of a new, more aggressive front end, a redesigned rear end with wraparound taillights, and a completely revamped interior highlighted the car’s continuous development and refinement.
This model year marked a departure from the more conservative styling of the early 1960s Corvettes, embracing a more modern and sophisticated design language.Compared to subsequent model years, the 1968 Corvette’s design retained a certain classic charm, particularly in its subtle yet effective styling cues.
The more angular and aggressive design elements that became prevalent in the late 1960s and early 1970s were not yet fully integrated into the Corvette’s aesthetic. However, the 1968 Corvette’s design laid the foundation for the bold and innovative styling that would characterize future generations of this iconic sports car.
Engine and Performance: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette was known for its powerful engine options and impressive performance. Chevrolet offered a range of V8 engines, each providing a unique driving experience. The engine options were designed to cater to a diverse range of driving preferences, from everyday cruising to high-performance track driving.
Engine Options
The 1968 Corvette was available with three different V8 engine options:
- 327-cubic-inch (5.4L) Small Block V8:This was the base engine option, producing 300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. It was a reliable and efficient engine that provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
- 350-cubic-inch (5.7L) Small Block V8:This engine was a more powerful option, generating 350 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It offered a significant increase in performance over the base engine, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
- 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) Big Block V8:This was the top-of-the-line engine option, delivering an impressive 435 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine was designed for maximum performance and was capable of reaching speeds of over 150 mph.
Transmission Options
The 1968 Corvette offered a choice of two transmissions:
- Three-speed manual transmission:This was the standard transmission option, providing a classic driving experience. It was a durable and reliable transmission that was well-suited for everyday driving.
- Four-speed manual transmission:This was an optional transmission that offered greater control and performance. It allowed drivers to shift through gears more quickly, providing a more engaging driving experience.
Performance Figures
The 1968 Corvette was a true performance car, capable of delivering impressive acceleration and handling. The performance figures varied depending on the engine and transmission chosen. However, all models were known for their quick acceleration and responsive handling.
- 0-60 mph:The 1968 Corvette with the 327-cubic-inch engine could reach 60 mph in around 8 seconds. The 350-cubic-inch engine could achieve this in around 7 seconds, while the 427-cubic-inch engine could reach 60 mph in just over 6 seconds.
- Top speed:The top speed of the 1968 Corvette also varied depending on the engine. The 327-cubic-inch engine had a top speed of around 120 mph. The 350-cubic-inch engine could reach a top speed of around 130 mph, while the 427-cubic-inch engine could achieve a top speed of over 150 mph.
Notable Features
The 1968 Corvette, while maintaining its classic sports car appeal, introduced several notable features that enhanced its performance, comfort, and safety. These features reflected the evolving automotive landscape and the growing demand for more sophisticated and refined sports cars.
Optional Equipment
The 1968 Corvette offered a wide array of optional equipment, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles according to their preferences and needs. This customization extended to various aspects of the car, including its performance, comfort, and aesthetics.
- Performance Enhancements:Options such as the L71 427 cubic-inch V8 engine, the Turbo-Jet 427, and the M22 “Rock Crusher” four-speed manual transmission allowed enthusiasts to push the Corvette’s performance to new limits. The L71 engine, for instance, produced a formidable 435 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production cars of its time.
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, a symbol of American muscle car prowess, was a far cry from its humble beginnings. In 1918, Chevrolet, still a young company, was focused on utilitarian vehicles like the 1918 Chevrolet Pickup , a workhorse designed for hauling and transport.
The Corvette, born decades later, embodied a different kind of American spirit – one of speed, style, and performance.
- Comfort and Convenience:Features like power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio were available, enhancing the Corvette’s driving experience and making it more comfortable for long journeys.
- Aesthetics:A variety of exterior and interior options were offered, including different wheel choices, color combinations, and interior trim materials, allowing buyers to express their personal style.
Safety Features
The 1968 Corvette, though a performance-oriented vehicle, incorporated several safety features that were becoming increasingly important in the automotive industry.
- Safety Belts:All 1968 Corvettes were equipped with lap belts as standard, with optional shoulder belts available. This was a significant step towards enhancing occupant safety in the event of an accident.
- Impact-Absorbing Steering Column:The Corvette featured a steering column designed to collapse in a controlled manner during an impact, reducing the risk of serious injuries to the driver.
- Safety Glass:The windshield and windows were made of safety glass, which shattered into small, blunt pieces upon impact, minimizing the risk of serious injuries from flying shards.
Key Features and Specifications
The 1968 Corvette offered a unique blend of performance, style, and technology, making it a highly desirable sports car.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 327 cubic-inch V8 (300 hp), 350 cubic-inch V8 (350 hp), 427 cubic-inch V8 (390 hp), 427 cubic-inch V8 (435 hp) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic, 4-speed manual |
| Suspension | Independent front suspension, live rear axle with leaf springs |
| Brakes | Power disc brakes front, power drum brakes rear |
| Length | 179.3 inches |
| Width | 72.3 inches |
| Height | 51.1 inches |
| Wheelbase | 102 inches |
| Curb Weight | 3,200-3,400 lbs (depending on engine and options) |
Legacy and Impact
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, a model year that saw significant refinement and evolution, left a lasting mark on the automotive industry and popular culture. Its design, performance, and features helped shape the future of the Corvette model line and cemented its position as an iconic American sports car.
Cultural Significance
The 1968 Corvette’s impact extended beyond the automotive world. Its sleek design and powerful engine made it a symbol of American muscle and luxury, capturing the spirit of the late 1960s. The car appeared in numerous films, television shows, and popular music, further solidifying its cultural status.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its distinctive styling, powerful engine options, and iconic status make it a highly sought-after classic car. Restoring a 1968 Corvette can be a rewarding experience, requiring a blend of passion, knowledge, and dedication.
Value and Desirability
The value of a 1968 Corvette varies significantly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and overall desirability. The most valuable examples are those that are original, well-maintained, and have low mileage. Certain models, such as the L88 and the 427, are particularly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and performance capabilities.
The desirability of a 1968 Corvette also depends on its overall condition. A well-preserved, original car will command a higher price than a car that has been modified or restored.
Restoration Process
Restoring a 1968 Corvette is a complex process that involves several steps. The first step is to assess the condition of the car. This involves a thorough inspection of the body, chassis, engine, and interior. Once the condition of the car is determined, a restoration plan can be developed.
This plan should Artikel the scope of the restoration, the budget, and the timeline.The restoration process typically involves the following steps:
- Disassembly: The car is disassembled into its individual components. This allows for a thorough cleaning and inspection of each part.
- Bodywork: The body is repaired and repainted to its original specifications. This may involve removing rust, straightening dents, and applying multiple coats of paint.
- Engine and Drivetrain: The engine and drivetrain are rebuilt or refurbished to factory specifications. This may involve replacing worn parts, cleaning components, and tuning the engine.
- Interior: The interior is restored or reupholstered to its original condition. This may involve replacing worn upholstery, carpets, and trim pieces.
- Assembly: The car is reassembled and tested to ensure that all systems are working properly.
Identifying Original Parts
Identifying original parts for a 1968 Corvette restoration is crucial for preserving its authenticity and value. Here are some tips for identifying original parts:
- Check for casting numbers: Original parts will have casting numbers that are specific to the year and model of the Corvette. These numbers can be found on the engine block, transmission case, and other components. These numbers are also often listed in parts catalogs and online databases.
- Look for date codes: Original parts will often have date codes that indicate when they were manufactured. These codes are usually stamped on the part itself.
- Inspect for wear and tear: Original parts will show signs of wear and tear that are consistent with their age. This is especially true for parts that are made of metal. Parts that are too clean or have no signs of wear may be reproductions.
- Consult with experts: If you are unsure about the authenticity of a part, consult with a Corvette expert or a reputable restoration shop. They can help you identify original parts and avoid purchasing reproductions.
Last Point
The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette remains a highly sought-after classic car, revered for its performance, style, and historical significance. Its impact on the automotive industry is undeniable, as it helped to shape the evolution of the sports car genre and continue the Corvette’s legacy as an American icon.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply an admirer of automotive history, the 1968 Corvette is a car that will surely captivate your imagination.