European C8 Corvette Rumored to Produce Less Power Than American Version

A new report says European C8 Corvette buyers will pay more and get less, thanks to emissions requirements.

Corvette fans that live in places other than North America were undoubtedly thrilled to learn that the new mid-engine C8 was designed to be a truly global model and that GM is even producing a right-hand-drive version of its iconic sports car. However, European C8 Corvette buyers might not get quite the same experience as those in America, according to a user at the Mid-Engine Corvette Forum.

That user says that the European C8 Corvette will be down 27 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque from its American counterpart, which would peg its ratings at 468 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. The resulting loss in power would also make the C8 a bit slower, as it’ll reportedly take 3.5 seconds to accelerate to 60 miles-per-hour, rather than 3.0 for the U.S.-spec Stingray with the Z51 package.

The required installation of a gasoline particular filter can be blamed for this drop, which makes it compliant with the more strict European emissions standards. The user has reportedly confirmed this claim with more than one dealer in the region, though we have to receive official word from General Motors.

The European C8 Corvette is scheduled to launch in the region in the second half of 2021. Right-hand-drive models are already rolling off the assembly line in Bowling Green, though they’re designated for Japan. Other markets, including Australia and the UK, can expect to see the new Corvette arrive in early 2021.

Of course, exporting the C8 comes with a price, and a pretty lofty one at that. Despite their reported power deficiency, the new Corvette Launch Edition coupe will retail for 81,700 pounds ($113,609) in Europe, while the convertible will start out at 87,110 ($121,132). That’s significantly more than what the C8 sells for in the U.S., but it’s also worth noting that the Launch Edition models are fully loaded with 3LT trim, Magnetic Ride Control, and a host of other unique touches.

While the base 1LT trim won’t be available in Europe, buyers can opt for a cheaper 2LT with the Z51 Performance Package as well, though GM has not yet announced pricing for that model. Regardless, we can certainly expect it to cost a bit more than the American equivalent.

Photos: Chevrolet

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