1968-1982 Pictures
Born of the Sting Ray in 1968 and plagued by teething troubles, the shark-inspired third-generation Corvette faced hazards unknown to its predecessors. But it soldiered on through a remarkable 15 years of tightening federal regulations and frustrating gas shortages. Along the way, Corvette matured into a well-balanced speed machine. Here are some of the highlights of the C3.

Delayed a year by development problems, the new 1968 Corvette topped its
predecessor's chassis with a swoopy new body that stretched seven inches longer.
![]() An anti-theft system became standard on the 1972 Corvette due to the car's high "collectibility" among thieves. |
![]() Sales set another new record for the 1977 model-year Corvette at 49,213 -- amazing for a decade-old design. |
![]() Exterior appearance was little-changed for the 1981 Corvette, but mechanical improvements included a new fuel-saving lockup for the automatic transmission. |
| 1968 Corvette | 1969 Corvette | 1970 Corvette |
| 1971 Corvette | 1972 Corvette | 1973 Corvette |
| 1974 Corvette | 1975 Corvette | 1976 Corvette |
| 1977 Corvette | 1978 Corvette | 1979 Corvette |
| 1980 Corvette | 1981 Corvette | 1982 Corvette |
Looking for more information on Corvettes and other cars? See:
- Corvettes: Learn about the history behind each model year and see Corvette photographs.
- Corvette Specifications: Get key specifications, engine and transmission types, prices, and production totals.
- Corvette Museum: The National Corvette Museum draws Corvette lovers from all over the world. Learn more about the museum.
- Corvette Pictures: Find pictures of the hottest classic and current-year Corvettes.
- Muscle Cars: Get information on more than 100 tough-guy rides.
- Consumer Guide Corvette Reviews: Considering a Corvette purchase? See what Consumer Guide has to say.




