Chevrolet Corvette Aerovette concept (1976)
Concept car · 1976 · Combustion
The mid-engine, gullwing Corvette that nearly reached production
The Aerovette began life as the mid-engine XP-882 and the four-rotor Wankel-powered concept shown at the 1973 Paris Auto Show. When GM ended its rotary program, Bill Mitchell had the car re-engineered in 1976 with a transverse 400 cu in (6.6 L) small-block V8 and renamed it Aerovette for its aerodynamic body. Fitted with dramatic gullwing doors and a clear engine cover, it was seriously considered for production as a mid-engine Corvette before the plan was cancelled. It now sits in GM's Heritage Collection.
Key facts
- Engine (Aerovette): 400 cu in (6.6 L) small-block V8, transverse mid-mounted
- Original powertrain: Four-rotor Wankel (twin Vega 2-rotors), approx. 420 hp, as XP-882/895
- Doors: Gullwing
- Layout: Mid-engine
- Design lead: Bill Mitchell / GM Design
- Status: Considered for production, cancelled; GM Heritage Collection
Production
- Status: Concept only
- 1976 mid-engine Corvette concept that was considered for production but ultimately shelved.
- Revealed at 1976 (evolved from XP-882 / Four-Rotor Corvette)
Source: Wikipedia - Chevrolet Aerovette