1968–1972
Chrome Bumper
Original Mako Shark looks with big-block options up to 454 LS-6.
C3
Shark Era
The longest-running Corvette generation. Inspired by the Mako Shark II concept, the C3 stretched across fifteen model years and two energy crises.
1968 – 1982
The Story
Launched in 1968 with the same chassis as the C2 but a wildly different body, the C3 introduced removable T-tops, a chrome-bumper fastback, and 'Stingray' as a single word.
The early big-block years — LT-1, LS-5, LS-6 — gave way to emissions-strangled 1970s engines, but the design held strong: bumpers softened, paint got brighter, and the 25th Anniversary and 1982 Collector Edition closed out the era with style.
Fifteen model years and over 540,000 cars built — no other Corvette generation has lasted as long.
Specifications
- Layout
- Front engine, RWD
- Body styles
- T-top coupe / convertible
- Engine (LT-1)
- 5.7L 350 V8 · 370 hp (1970)
- Engine (LS-6)
- 7.4L 454 V8 · 425 hp (1971)
- Engine (1982)
- 5.7L Cross-Fire 350 V8 · 200 hp
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual / TH350 / TH400 auto
- Production
- 542,861 units
- Years
- 1968 – 1982
The Lineup
1973–1977
Soft Nose
Federally mandated 5-mph bumpers. T-tops became standard.
1978
Fastback
25th Anniversary model with new wraparound rear glass.
1982
Collector Edition
Silver-beige paint, glass hatch and Cross-Fire injection — a fitting farewell.
Member-Owned C3's
From early big-blocks to late-model anniversary cars
Mark Connors
1968 427 Coupe
Rick & Michele Miller
1976 Coupe
Murray Power & Janice Dibbin
1978 Coupe
Tyrone Nickerson
1978 35th Anniversary Coupe
Tylor Jennex
1979 Coupe
Own a C3 in Nova Scotia?
Bring it out to the next cruise — we'd love to meet you and your Corvette.
Join the Club