Bottom Line Up Front
Chevrolet’s first official factory‑backed Corvette race program began in 1995 with the launch of Corvette Racing and the C5.R car at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
When Did Chevy Start Factory Racing With A Corvette? History & Key Facts
Image: When Did Chevy Start Factory Racing With A Corvette? History & Key Facts – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Early Appearances – 1960 Le Mans
The Corvette’s racing debut was a one‑off effort in 1960 when a private team entered a C1 at Le Mans. It showed the car’s potential, but Chevrolet didn’t field its own team.
Why Chevrolet Waited
Several factors kept Chevrolet from sponsoring a factory team for decades:
- Marketing focus – The brand was busy building a mass‑market image.
- Technical limits – Early Corvettes lacked the durability needed for endurance racing.
- Cost concerns – Running a factory program is expensive, and the ROI was unclear.
Official Factory Racing Begins – 1995
In 1995 Chevrolet finally committed resources, creating Corvette Racing to run the new C5.R. The program entered the GT class at Le Mans and quickly became a contender, scoring its first overall win in 2001. Since then the team has amassed multiple class victories and helped shape the modern Corvette’s performance image.
Key Specs of the First Factory Car (C5.R)
| Engine | Mileage (EPA) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.0 L LS7 V8 | ≈12 mpg (track) | $250,000 (racing spec) |
|
FAQ
When did Chevrolet first race a Corvette at Le Mans?
The first Corvette appearance at Le Mans was in 1960, entered by a private team.
When did Chevrolet start a factory‑backed Corvette race program?
The official factory program, Corvette Racing, launched in 1995 with the C5.R.
Is Corvette Racing still active today?
Yes. The program has evolved through the C6.R, C7.R and C8.R, continuing to compete in GT classes worldwide.
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Source: Read Official News
