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2008
Chevrolet Corvette

Starts at:
$46,100
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Cpe
    Starts at
    $46,100
    15 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Conv
    Starts at
    $54,575
    15 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Cpe Z06
    Starts at
    $71,275
    15 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2008 Chevrolet Corvette

Notable features

430-hp, 6.2-liter V-8
Coupe and convertible body styles
Manual or paddle-shift automatic
Z06 coupe with 505-hp V-8
Available Z51 Performance Package

The good & the bad

The good

Performance
RWD handling
Heritage
Instrument layout and legibility
Appearance

The bad

Wet-pavement traction and control
Idling noise and vibration on some cars
Difficult entry and exit
Visibility in convertible

Expert 2008 Chevrolet Corvette review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Tom Strongman
Full article
our expert's take


In standard guise, the Chevrolet Corvette packs a serious wallop, but there’s always a small core of buyers who want more.

The 2009 ZR1 will have 638 horsepower, carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber body panels and a 205-mph top track speed. Only 2,000 will be made the first year. Its sticker price is $103,300, but the actual selling price will soar well above that.

Another option for die-hard enthusiasts is the Callaway Corvette, a special-order car that is available in small numbers through a handful of dealers nationwide. The Callaway has a low-profile Eaton/Magnuson supercharger perched atop its 6.2-liter V-8, and it pumps out 580 horsepower. That figure is less than the ZR1, but with horsepower approaching 600, the difference is academic unless you have a racetrack handy. The Callaway package adds $18,500 to the sticker price of a new Corvette. The test car was a coupe with the six-speed manual transmission and the Z51 suspension and brake package. The Callaway’s engine package, stainless steel exhaust and short-shift kit brought the sticker price to $70,365.

Superior Chevrolet in Merriam is the only Callaway dealer between Illinois, Texas and Colorado.

Unlike the ZR1, the Callaway is also offered with an automatic transmission and as a convertible.

Callaway Cars of Old Lyme, Conn., was founded by Reeves Callaway in 1976, and it has modified production cars for General Motors, Mazda, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin and Land Rover, among others. Callaway also has facilities in California and Germany.

Callaway is probably best known for its modified Corvettes, starting with the twin-turbo in 1987.

Creating a Callaway Corvette begins with the addition of a supercharged engine and new exhaust to the base model. Options include a short-throw shift linkage ($470), an adjustable suspension ($5,960), upgraded brakes ($7,620), lightweight wheels ($9,495), sports seats ($6,940) and an all-leather interior ($24,300).

The first thing I noticed about the Callaway was how much better it shifts with the short-throw linkage. The shift pattern is tight and direct, although the effort is higher and requires a distinct tug to engage fifth and sixth gears.

The second thing came when I leaned on the throttle. The supercharger whines, the scenery blurs, and you’re going fast quickly. The pavement was slightly wet during part of my test drive, and that meant instant wheel spin and intervention by the traction control. Later, when the pavement was dry, the monstrous rear tires grabbed the pavement and the acceleration was exhilarating. Sampling this car’s performance on the street is impossible, but it would be a blast for track-day driving, especially in the hands of an expert.

Even though the Callaway has nearly 600 horsepower, it is content being driven sedately. It never bucks or protests a modest pace. As you would expect, the ride is firm but not tooth-jarringly stiff.

Fuel mileage is rated at 16 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, and the test car’s onboard computer showed an average of 13.5 mpg.

Although this special Corvette has a host of electronic controls to help keep it securely on the road, its power is so explosive that it demands all of your attention all the time. The foolhardy need not apply.

The interior is standard Corvette, although the optional sports seats would be great for their additional support.

The test car was equipped with convenience items such as leather seating surfaces, dual-zone climate control, satellite radio and six-disc CD player.

Front and side airbags are standard, as are anti-lock brakes, traction control and a vehicle stability control system that has a competition-driving mode for track use.

Price

The test car’s base price was $49,395. The Callaway package and short-shift kit brought the sticker price to $70,365.

Warranty

Three years or 36,000 miles.

To get in touch with Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tstrongman@kc.rr.com.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette review: Our expert's take
By Tom Strongman


In standard guise, the Chevrolet Corvette packs a serious wallop, but there’s always a small core of buyers who want more.

The 2009 ZR1 will have 638 horsepower, carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber body panels and a 205-mph top track speed. Only 2,000 will be made the first year. Its sticker price is $103,300, but the actual selling price will soar well above that.

Another option for die-hard enthusiasts is the Callaway Corvette, a special-order car that is available in small numbers through a handful of dealers nationwide. The Callaway has a low-profile Eaton/Magnuson supercharger perched atop its 6.2-liter V-8, and it pumps out 580 horsepower. That figure is less than the ZR1, but with horsepower approaching 600, the difference is academic unless you have a racetrack handy. The Callaway package adds $18,500 to the sticker price of a new Corvette. The test car was a coupe with the six-speed manual transmission and the Z51 suspension and brake package. The Callaway’s engine package, stainless steel exhaust and short-shift kit brought the sticker price to $70,365.

Superior Chevrolet in Merriam is the only Callaway dealer between Illinois, Texas and Colorado.

Unlike the ZR1, the Callaway is also offered with an automatic transmission and as a convertible.

Callaway Cars of Old Lyme, Conn., was founded by Reeves Callaway in 1976, and it has modified production cars for General Motors, Mazda, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin and Land Rover, among others. Callaway also has facilities in California and Germany.

Callaway is probably best known for its modified Corvettes, starting with the twin-turbo in 1987.

Creating a Callaway Corvette begins with the addition of a supercharged engine and new exhaust to the base model. Options include a short-throw shift linkage ($470), an adjustable suspension ($5,960), upgraded brakes ($7,620), lightweight wheels ($9,495), sports seats ($6,940) and an all-leather interior ($24,300).

The first thing I noticed about the Callaway was how much better it shifts with the short-throw linkage. The shift pattern is tight and direct, although the effort is higher and requires a distinct tug to engage fifth and sixth gears.

The second thing came when I leaned on the throttle. The supercharger whines, the scenery blurs, and you’re going fast quickly. The pavement was slightly wet during part of my test drive, and that meant instant wheel spin and intervention by the traction control. Later, when the pavement was dry, the monstrous rear tires grabbed the pavement and the acceleration was exhilarating. Sampling this car’s performance on the street is impossible, but it would be a blast for track-day driving, especially in the hands of an expert.

Even though the Callaway has nearly 600 horsepower, it is content being driven sedately. It never bucks or protests a modest pace. As you would expect, the ride is firm but not tooth-jarringly stiff.

Fuel mileage is rated at 16 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, and the test car’s onboard computer showed an average of 13.5 mpg.

Although this special Corvette has a host of electronic controls to help keep it securely on the road, its power is so explosive that it demands all of your attention all the time. The foolhardy need not apply.

The interior is standard Corvette, although the optional sports seats would be great for their additional support.

The test car was equipped with convenience items such as leather seating surfaces, dual-zone climate control, satellite radio and six-disc CD player.

Front and side airbags are standard, as are anti-lock brakes, traction control and a vehicle stability control system that has a competition-driving mode for track use.

Price

The test car’s base price was $49,395. The Callaway package and short-shift kit brought the sticker price to $70,365.

Warranty

Three years or 36,000 miles.

To get in touch with Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tstrongman@kc.rr.com.

Available cars near you

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
5 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 100,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.8 / 5
Based on 120 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.3
Interior 4.3
Performance 4.9
Value 4.8
Exterior 4.9
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • My is machine silver with competition gray wheels 1lt

    My is machine silver with competition gray wheels 1lt nice car . Only problem I have had and a lot more people have had with the C6 is the automatic automatic shifter gets stuck in park. A recalled that never happened.
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    7 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Hooked on my Corvette.

    I own I 2008 C6 very similar to the one in the Ad . Same color Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat, convertible,Tan top, same two tone leather interior, Mine has 6 speed auto , heads-up display, 436 HP with dual note exhaust,Only 37000 miles, heated seats, I think they call this model the LT3 trim level with Z51 performance package . Love this car outstanding excellaration ,very dependable ,great bang for the buck. You get a lot of looks with top dropped. Only negatives would be that Corvette,s sit extremely low to the ground, not the easiest car to get into for a guy 66 and you have to be careful with steep driveways. Other than that a outstanding sports car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    23 people out of 23 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Amazing value for fun!

    What a monster! I picked up a yellow 2008 Z a few years ago. It had dark black interior with beautiful fake leather seats with a blood stain from where I beat Barb. This thing has more torque than my first girlfriend giving a handy. The 7.0 sings a sweet and muscled tune! Sadly it does blow more heads than a lady of the night.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    14 people out of 25 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Absolutely love this car

    My wife and I have wanted to own a Corvette since we were both in elementary school. We are 53 years old now and are finally able to afford to purchase a used one. Decided on the 2008 since it was the first year that GM offered the LS3. It's a convertible and has been very well cared for with 70k miles. Factory paint and finish are still PERFECT. Upgraded factory exhaust gives it 436 HP and it has the 6 speed manual trans. Performance is all I could have dreamed for and more. Handles incredibly, tons of leg room, and seats are surprisingly comfortable for a performance sports car. Driving it with the top down on a warm, sunny day....priceless. What a stress reliever!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    32 people out of 34 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love it so far!!!

    Traded in BMW Z3 that I enjoyed for 7 years, but stepped up to my Bucket List car with my 2008 corvette coupe. Only 20,000 carfax proven miles on it so is almost like a new car. I can wait for the salt to wash off these Ohio roads soI can start enjoying the car of my dreams
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    25 people out of 30 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great Touring Car!

    The Z51 with the LS3 engine gives outstanding performance and fuel economy for interstate touring. The rear deck with hatch back access gives plenty of room for luggage. In town it gets an average of 14 MPG and 27 MPG highway driving. While having a high performance car you don't sacrifice comfort. The leather 6 way memory, heated seats with lumbar support keeps the driver snug and supported while driving. Personally I prefer the combination automatic with the paddle shift option over manual transmissions for normal driver. The C6 Z51 model Corvette is a great bargain for those wanting a fun ride for touring the country.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    21 people out of 22 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 2008 Atomic Orange Callaway Z51 4LT Convertible

    I’m the 2nd owner of this Callaway screamer. This car is scary fast when you want it, tame when you don’t punch it. Atomic orange head turner that gets good gas mileage on highway. Get used to getting looks and being asked questions about the car daily The performance approaches super car status. Very easy and inexpensive to service and maintain at a Chevy dealership. You get so much performance for the buck, handling and acceleration are exceptional. I love this car, it is an absolute joy to drive, a total adrenaline rush. Buy an LS3 C6, you will not regret it, and if you find a Callaway, buy it immediately. You will not be disappointed.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    14 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • This is the car I have dreamed about for years!

    This has exceeded my wildest expectations. they thought of everything. It's style and comfort everyone that sees it turns turns their heads to watch it go by! All I can say is WOW!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best all around car that is made to date

    This car is everything that you could ask for in a car. Great performance and can be daily driven. Plenty of power. And one of the best styled cars around still for the price you cannot beat them
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love it, exactly what I was looking for

    Great price very low miles and just freaking beautiful, Tim was excellent to work with, took his time, did not rush me and no pressure!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Previous biker now a corvetter

    I had a Mustang now I have a Corvette. What an incredible ride awesome car. I highly recommend a Corvette sports car without the price
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • The best car I ever owned

    The best American sports car for the money,also the fastest. Very comfortable to drive has plenty of room. The power is beyond belief. It will never go out of style.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette is available in 2 trim levels:

  • (2 styles)
  • Z06 (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette offers up to 15 MPG in city driving and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette reliable?

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2008 Chevrolet Corvette owners.

Is the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette a good Coupe?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. 96.7% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.8 / 5
Based on 120 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.3
  • Interior: 4.3
  • Performance: 4.9
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 4.9
  • Reliability: 4.7

Chevrolet Corvette history

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