The Chevrolet Corvette GTP was a significant player in the world of sports prototype racing during the 1980s. As part of the IMSA Camel GT series, this car represented General Motors' official factory team effort in the Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) class. From its inception in 1984 to its final race in 1989, the Corvette GTP underwent several developments and faced numerous challenges on the track. This article explores the car's evolution, its technical
specifications, and its racing history.
Development and Technical Specifications
The development of the Chevrolet Corvette GTP began in 1984 when General Motors decided to enter the IMSA GT Championship. Prior to this, Chevrolet's naturally aspirated V8s and Buick's turbocharged V6s were popular among privateer teams. GM partnered with Lola Cars International to build the Corvette GTP chassis, known as the T710. The first chassis was equipped with a 3.4-liter turbocharged V6 engine, a destroked version of the 4.3-liter Chevrolet V6.
A second chassis, the T711, featured a 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine derived from the Chevrolet Corvette C4, producing 800 horsepower. The car's design included bodywork similar to the Corvette C4 at the front, with a long pontoon-style tail and large side intakes to feed the radiators. Over the years, the car's bodywork evolved, including changes to the side intake and the addition of a short tail layout and dual-element rear wing.
Racing History and Achievements
The Corvette GTP made its racing debut in 1985, with Lee Racing fielding the first chassis at the 24 Hours of Daytona. Despite initial setbacks, including gearbox problems and several failures to finish, the car showed promise. In 1986, Hendrick Motorsports took over the factory-backed effort, securing the Corvette GTP's first victory at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Grand Prix with drivers Doc Bundy and Sarel van der Merwe.
Throughout its racing career, the Corvette GTP faced fierce competition from manufacturers like Porsche, Jaguar, and Nissan. Despite this, the car achieved notable successes, including a second victory at the Grand Prix of Palm Beach in 1986. However, the Corvette GTP struggled with consistency, often plagued by mechanical issues that hindered its performance.
Legacy and Conclusion
The Chevrolet Corvette GTP's racing career came to an end in 1989 when General Motors decided to cancel their funding for the project. Despite its challenges, the Corvette GTP left a lasting legacy in the world of sports prototype racing. It was a testament to GM's engineering prowess and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance.
Today, the Corvette GTP is remembered as a symbol of innovation and determination in the face of adversity. Its story serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of motorsport and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the track.
