Vehicle Description
1996 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Coupe
Chevrolet released the Grand Sport version in 1996 to mark the end
of production of the C4 Corvette and built just 810 coupes and 190
convertibles and the moniker was a nod to the original Grand Sport
model produced in 1963. A total of 1,000 GS Corvettes were
produced, 810 as coupes and 190 as convertibles, all equipped with
an LT4 V8 engine, producing 330hp and 340 lb�ft of torque. Along
with a unique exterior paint scheme, Grand Sports came with their
own unique Vehicle Identification Number sequence, distinct from
regular production 1996 Corvettes. The only other production
Corvette up to this time to have had a unique VIN sequence was the
1990-1995 ZR-1. See below for more VIN info.
For consignment, a 1996 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport showing
27,144 miles, but the true miles are unknown due to an exemption.
This is car #868 and part of the small but enthusiastic GS world
with several dedicated clubs and websites including the Grand Sport
Registry where your car will get a birthday shout out based on its
build date!
Exterior
The GS was available on one distinct exterior configuration which
combines Admiral Blue Metallic with a wide white stripe that
travels over the hood, over the roof, and onto the deck lid where
it cascades over the rear fascia where it is bisected by the
license plate and reverse light cove. This design is noteworthy
alone, but the added red hash marks on the left fender bring it to
the next level of cool. The stripes are a throwback to early racing
when stripes would indicate which side had the steering so drivers
from different countries would know. The final C4's were more
rounded compared to the original cars of the mid 80's, and it
creates a seamless, streamlined profile that is still fresh today,
nearly 30 years later. GS's also had fantastic 17-inch black wheels
for even more visual excitement and our car wears ZR rated tires
with a mid 2024 date code. There are some scrapes on the chin
spoiler and a scuff on the nosepiece and these are the only
exterior imperfections we could find on this blue beauty which has
been ceramic coated.
Interior
While there were no options on the exterior except for soft or
hardtop, the interior allowed for owner to pick black or Torch Red
and Black and this car comes with the red, which begins on the door
panels where red encircles a black panel and the layers of color
translate onto the dash, also split between black and red. The
Grand Sport name is embroidered into the red leather bucket seats
which are in great shape and passengers are secured with matching
red seat belts. From the steering wheel forward, it's standard fare
for the Corvette which means a speedometer and gauges that arch up
to an orange backlit digital readout, all behind black plastic
framing. There's a screen of idiot lights to the right and the
center stack contains the A/C panel and AM/FM/CD stereo which all
leads to the center console housing the shifter in a black leather
boot, plus ride and seat controls all at your fingertips and all in
very nice condition. The headliner, carpet, red rimmed mats, and
Grand Sport branded mat in the cargo are all in great shape.
Drivetrain
Under the hood is a red accented LT4 350ci V8 rated at 330
horsepower and the RPO Z16 powerplant was a one year only engine.
In the Grand Sport, it is always mated with a ZF 6-speed manual
transmission sending power to the back with a 3.45 geared, limited
slip differential. Nothing less than power disc brakes front and
rear would do for this American icon, and that's what we have
here.
Undercarriage
Based on the cleanliness of the topside, we're not surprised by the
clean condition underneath where there is minimal surface rust and
no road dirt or grease about. An updated exhaust system now
occupies the car, beginning with headers and stainless pipes that
travel down a center tunnel to meet stainless mufflers before
exiting via showy quad chrome tips. The race inspired suspension is
independent front and rear and comprises aluminum components, a
transverse monoleaf spring, stabilizers, and in the rear, U-jointed
aluminum driveshafts.
Drive-Ability
It's not just another Corvette in our eyes and according to common
lore, the 330 horsepower was a conservative rating by GM. We're not
about to put all those horses to the test but can confirm that this
car is indeed fast and in true Corvette fashion, handles as if on
rails. The exhaust note is stupendous, and the cabin is indeed a
comfortable place to be, the bright red keeps the blood pumping
along with the exhilaration of driving it! The A/C does not blow
cold and display panel is not fully functioning, but all other
operations work as they should, and we coast this special car back
to the showroom. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these
functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot
guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your
purchase.
Morgantown is not far from Carlisle where Corvettes at Carlisle
takes place each and where you'll find a group of these unique
Vettes, especially in anniversary years. Well, next year will mark
the 30thso what a perfect time to enter the world of the C4 GS with
a clean, collector grade version. Remember, he who hesitates,
mediates. So, snap out of the trance these photos put you in and
call the mall
1G1YY2257T5600868
1-USA
G-General Motors
1-Chevrolet
YY-Corvette
2-Coupe
2-Active Belts, Front Airbags
5-LT4 350ci V8 330hp
7-Check Digit
T-1996
5-Bowling Green, KY Assy Plant
600868-Sequential Unit Number
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
