Base C8 Corvette Stingray Production Limited by Supply Chain Issues

GM is having difficulties obtaining the mechanical limited-slip differential used in the base C8 Corvette.

While the fact that the C8 Corvette was finally introducing a mid-engine layout to the long-running model was huge news when the car launched for the 2020 model year, the other big news was the fact that you could buy one for just under $60k. That instantly made the base C8 Corvette the bargain of the century, a true exotic car killer that people flocked to like bees to a honeypot. However, in a world ripe with supply chain problems, it now seems that the (no longer sub-$60k) base C8 Corvette Stingray is much more difficult to get your hands on, according to GM Authority.

Now, opting for the popular Z51 Performance Package not only speeds up the C8 on the road, but it will also speed up deliveries of that car, as the base model is currently supply-constrained due to GM’s difficulties obtaining the base Stingray’s mechanical limited-slip differential. Upgrading to the Z51 package adds an electronic limited-slip differential, so it mitigates that little problem in this particular case. Currently, GM is only reportedly able to produce 375 non-Z51 Corvettes per week.

While the C8 in general has faced limited production capacity essentially since its launch, this latest change is just another reason to opt for the Z51 package, as if buyers really needed one. The popular package retails for $6,345 and adds a list of desirable upgrades, in addition to the electronic limited-slip differential, an item that has become all the rage on modern sports cars in general.

That list includes upgraded Brembo brake pads, a specially-tuned suspension, performance exhaust, performance rear-axle ratio, a Z51-specific front splitter and rear spoiler, a heavy-duty cooling system, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 245/35ZR19 front and 305/30ZR20 rear, high performance, run-flat, summer-only tires. The addition of the performance exhaust also adds a few horsepower to GM’s 6.2-liter LT2 V8, raising it from the base car’s output of 490 to 495.

Thus, it seems that those interested in taking delivery of a new Corvette would be well-served to dish out the extra cash for the Z51 package, which won’t be a hard sell for many. But if you’re one of the folks who wants to spend as little as possible on the car, be prepared to wait a little bit longer for the privilege of owning one.

Photos: Corvette Forum

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