Corvette C8 1LT 30,000 mile long term review

I took delivery of my C8 Corvette, VIN 3085 on July 2, 2020. 2 years later it has 30,000 miles on it. This is the base model, a 1LT with no options at all, it is a $59,000 car. Do I still like it? Do I wish I had loaded it up with mag ride, lift, Z51 and spoilers? How has the car held up, any mechanical issues? Stay tuned.

[@JDONUMBER7]

Congratulations on hitting 30k miles in 2 years! 👏 🙌 These cars were MADE to be driven, not stored away in a climate controlled garage. Zora would be proud! 😎

[@izzycamaro]

This is one of the BEST C8 reviews I have ever seen, actually from a regular guy like me. Congratulations.

[@RobertSmith-bh5cv]

Right on, man! What a great honest review and good for you for getting the base car and not falling into the "keep up with the other guys" trap. I can't imagine how loading it up with crap would give you more enjoyment. Keep 'er going!

[@joycewartinbee7192]

Glad to hear/see a review by a real owner. Thanks. I went a little heavier on options but agree that the base car is pretty good. I have found mine to be great on trips from FL to Atlanta, city driving, Interstate, etc. I did not get Z51 because I knew how I'd be driving it not racing it. I wanted all weather tires because the summer tires wear out too soon. I still have my '66 which I ran many gymkhanas. This one, however, is for general driving. I like the extra goodies with the 2LT package. We got a convertible because we had a 2010 Grand Sport and my wife likes convertibles. The loud exhaust is still too quiet - maybe because the car is so quiet inside. The one option I might not get on the next one is the lift kit. My 2010 hit any curb or speed bump you would encounter. I had to "crab walk" the car out of the driveway but the new one is just high enough at the front so I don't hit anything. Thanks again for the review - this has been the best car/SUV/truck I have ever owned.

[@geraldthomas5915]

I got a 2021 with my “must” haves. 2LT because the ability to save places where front end lift is needed is a must. In Atlanta you NEED this. Also front cameras which will help you avoid cosmetic damage. The rear view mirror is a video display (none of the blind spots) = less likely to damage. The additional nice stuff is part of the package. I value the must haves enough to buy the package. There a few single item options on most cars. Z51 is also a package deal. I wanted the optional exhaust, there’s no downside to bigger brakes or heavy duty cooling. The lower top speed with the spoiler ( not the big wing) is tolerable. When will you be able to go that fast ? Overall I think the options will enhance the cars value long term.

[@MrPeng]

More package equals less resale value percentage wise. But you do get more value if you use that car long enough.

[@geraldthomas5915]

@@MrPeng that’s the plan. I still have my C6 it’s a 2007. With the C8 no compromise in options. Resale is what it is.

[@trobertson1825]

You've proved what I always thought when this car came out just the basic thanks for the great info have a nice drive

[@hecantcraft4936]

I agree with everything you have stated, including being a Ford guy who would love to have a GT. This car scratches that itch and then some. I just wish I had had the fortitude to go order one day one. Doesn't appear that you got stung with a "dealer markup" either. Thanks for the video.

[@E3kTheCat]

same here, no spoiler for me, no thank you.

[@oleabbaman]

1LT 2022. I love the adjustable suspension w/the mag ride option. Cushy for the streets, firm for the track. I had to pay for the red engine cover. Mist red tint coat was extra, but I love it. Same for the edge red calipers. I also opted for side rocker panels and splash guards. They protect the lower body from tar, rock chip, and other damage. In 2020, I would have skipped the spoiler, too. But new for 2022 was a low-profile spoiler with minimal drag and it looks cool. Couldn't resist. I may have to get aftermarket heated seat covers for the winter.

[@N0neofyourbusiness.]

45mpg 😂 from what ever owner on fuelly for the C8 NEVER came close to 45 mpg as their BEST mpg. The highest I’ve seen is 34mpg in 4 cylinder deactivation.

[@adrianleusink1970]

The Z51 front lip spoiler is a great 'bumper' for curbs if an ouch occurs. They are flexible and bounce back and can be easily sanded to new again. Plus the entire 3 pce lip is cheap to replace - around $400 Cdn

[@HonJazzz]

Thank you for making this video. I’m looking into C8 ownership and it’s nice to know that you’re enjoying the base model car. That’s probably the one I’ll go with too. Thanks!

[@tobygray497]

I'm totally with you on this. Same engine, same transmission, lighter, faster, less things to go wrong and way, way cheaper. Also prefer the look without the spoiler. You didn't waste your money on all the nonsense. Good job man..

[@usa1mac]

Nice video and perspective on options. I have a 2021 2LT and the extra cameras and alerts were mainly for my wife so she would be comfortable driving it. We are up to 19.6K miles after 14 months of ownership and three big road trips. I hope you enjoy yours for many years to come.

[@MGTOWmademeMillionaire777]

59 k, thats cheap, un Costa Rica it worths 170k

[@rmerrida]

I think there's one 'must have' I'd get for those deep curbed driveways. The front lift. The sound of the bottom scraping is not a sound I want to hear in that car. But I think you're right about the rest.

[@adrianleusink1970]

My front end lift is by far the most used option on my 2021 C8 HTC

[@nichaloslovely4992]

Z51 is a must. I'm upgrading the front splitter to carbon fiber. Titanium paragon exhaust, Corsa carbon fiber air intake, lowering springs and if they ever start building more prochargers I will be supercharged. 750hp is a good number to aim for to be a true Lamborghini killer

[@Grumpyskater]

My dream car, I really can’t wait, I’m hoping next year is the year.

[@SupercarRanch]

Great video. I am also a 2-time 1LIT C8 owner. I agree with everything you say about the "must haves". Funny reading some of these comments and people are STILL saying things are a "must have". Z51? no its not. I did without it on my second one, don't miss it. Lift? Nope never needed it on this car or any...and yes roads here are just as bad as roads where you are. Front parking camera? really? Well done!

[@jjcool7967]

A ford GT will be over $300,000. and it will take more then a year to order it . do the math a C8 base is $ 59,000 and I just order a 2023 c8 Base . it took me year . I always been a vett man not into fords . by the way nice car

[@pjcornell9691]

I have a Torch Red/ Black interior C8 Coupe I ordered and got for sticker price. $64,000. I do not regret getting the red painted calipers, performance adjustable exhaust, $995 red painted trim on side blades, front and rear grilles. $100 battery charger. I kinda wish I ordered the yellow painted calipers instead and the extra cost C ok competition sport seats. But that's life. For me the Magnetic ride control is not needed and I thought the rear spoiler on the expensive Z51 package looked cheap and gaudy.. Just my opinion. Here in Scottsdale Arizona the car runs cool in the 120° heat even with the standard cooling system. Glad I skipped the Z51.

[@pjcornell9691]

My 2021 Torch Red is obviously a 1Lt model. I dont miss all the extra cameras and air conditioned seats. Less stuff to break as the years pass by.

[@bena8238]

@@pjcornell9691 Wish I could have got the SEATS!!!

[@douglastaylor8039]

Options are so your car stays in the repair shop. Chevy must haves hated you.

[@paulengel4358]

Thank you for the debunking “you need the Z51” myth

[@marcusblackmon1080]

You don’t need the Z51 save you money

[@anandgarde13]

The thing about the spoiler reducing the top speed is wrong. Its the shorter gear ratio in the Z51 package that reduces the top speed by 10 miles an hour. Shorter gears allow you to launch harder, get faster 0-60 times, and reach your top speed quicker, but the trade off is your overall top speed goes down. If you like to race, switching to shorter gears will do way more for you than most "power" mods like full exhaust and intake. Take something like a stock 13' GT Mustang and switch the 3.15 gears for 4.10s and you'll be keeping up with Hellcats during rolls, and leaving most cars in the dust from a dig. For the gears alone, to me z51 is worth it.

[@rockcityfilms]

You are mistaken, the rear wing reduces the top speed by 10mph.

[@XMG3]

The base 1LT with no options now cost $92,326 MSRP in Canada... it's becoming unobtainable, I hope you'll hold on to yours and take great care of it 👍

[@ezpz4659]

Just bought a 2024 C8 Z07 1LZ, no options really. Kinda wish I would have bought one of these for 1/3 of the cost. lol

[@millionairemindset1136]

Finally someone who is honest. No need to get all those expensive options that just slow the car down. The car is definitely worth $59k and no more than that. People forget that it’s still a GM product lol. Great review man. Thanks

[@rockcityfilms]

This car will beat a $300,000 exotic away from a light, and it has given me 30000 miles with no mechanical issues. Would a Ferrari do that? GM has created an affordable supercar, worth way more than what I paid.

[@Forever.Remain.Nameless]

It's definitely worth more than tht, you clearly haven't looked at used C8 prices. He cld get $75k easily for his $59k C8 with 30,000 miles.....

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

@@Forever.Remain.Nameless idiots are paying $50k for civic type R and insert whatever else way over MSRP. Since covid checks the car market has been a clown world. Won't last forever though we'll see these C8's 40k in the next few years when people wake up

[@Luke-cb3ly]

59k? Lmfao

[@illiyakuryakin3092]

@@Luke-cb3lyYes - that is what he paid years ago. Now (1/23) the base is $66000.

[@hiramabiff885]

Forgive my addendum but you hit a nerve. I went to Sebring in '65 with the scouts at 11 years old. From that moment the Ford needle went in deep. I owned an AC Cobra for 21 years. Sadly Ford in my opinion lost a golden opportunity. After the first reissue of the Ford GT, which was magnificent, they had the the knowledge to build a GT in the same price point as the new Vette for the 50th anniversary of the Mustang and launch both. They knew very well what Chevy was up to. Instead they issued a bland Mustang, designed by committee. Even now the new edition with the Pachinko Parlor dash, which looks like a bad kit car saddens me. Chevy did it with with a stunning interior on the Vette. Then I walk into the garage, sit in my 1965 Mustang Fastback which I spent three years building as a new car and just smile.

[@081gagan]

Loved the video , I just ordered mine 1LT with few options but still under the budget hopefully I get it soon but still worth the wait, 1LT is all you need to have same amount of fun as 3LT with all the unnecessary options which will cost nearly a 100k out the door trust me it’s not worth it

[@markblaney1428]

You're obviously not a seasoned video photographer!! Your totally unsteady camera handling makes it unpleasant to view. I stopped a quarter way through. Maybe get some steady cam technology and redo.

[@TyChad]

Awesome review. Such a great price and amazing car. Thank you!

[@richardmorris7063]

The bad thing about options is they overcharge way over for the options. 2000$ for stick on stripes!

[@N0neofyourbusiness.]

Also the PURPOSE of the wing is downforce to have better stability when you’re cornering and advantages in slowing down quicker. Not many people care about top speed. People care which car handles better and which is the best overall performance car. Go to any curios track YOU’LL never reach the top speed. Stability is more important than top speed.

[@leeward6762]

The base C8 is still a mid engine 500hp supercar....ok 490 :)

[@stevenoliviero3652]

Funny out of all these C8 Corvettes the base coupes look the Best period 1 option for 1 grand is color key matching of trim & door handle, rear wing looks horrible your rite all the way 3LT waste of $

[@lasensaciondel3d568]

1:19 AGREED 200% bro I never like the spoiler (wing) on it

[@ebayseller6040]

why are people trying to sell for $80k tho? i saw a stock one with some millage and dude wants like 20k more than what he paid I guess..

[@steverector9670]

I've got the same car I love it the only options I have are optional exhaust and black wheels. I have 10 k on mine

[@johnphilips406]

i would of got the base model but in Australia you can only get the Z51

[@marksummers463]

Not a Ford GT Man , just a emsculated Ford GT Person.

[@lioneye101]

Only must have for me would be the rear view camera on the mirror and front camera. Maybe the front lift kit.

[@jaytucker4827]

Best gas mileage on mine was 29 with cruse and in Touring mode average speed 75 MPG

[@FindtheRightRoad]

I must disagree. You don't know what you are missing. Yes...most people don't track their car, so Z51 and Mag Ride are not really necessary. But the front lift is a god send. And 2LT gives you front cameras and cell phone charger. I can't imagine not having those. We love ours. 1 year and 12K miles so far. On our way to 100,000.

[@rockcityfilms]

Without the Z51 chin spoiler the clearance on a C8 is the same as a Honda Fit, which does not offer or need a lift

[@tigacub]

I agree with you sir

[@racecar6312]

Your drive proves that the base model lacks nothing. Good review. I understand your opinion about a rear wing, but to me the car looks like it is missing something. Looks bald. I like the look of a high wing. That looks more like a race car. You are right, a rear wing slows down top speed, but the wing creates downforce and that is way faster in the corners.

[@larrysmith6797]

You need bash bumpers on your Corvette?

[@TacoJoe]

Nice review / I liked the Ford GT pics too! I actually built a Cobra replica (and documented much of the build on KZbin also) - and - would truly love to build a GT40 - however - like you, I ordered a C8 instead (still waiting for delivery) - when you do the math, it was hard to justify the GT40 build investment when you can buy a new C8 for nearly the same price. Great video and thanks of sharing

[@theone4042]

Isn’t that the $495 red engine cover? I thought there were no options.

[@hank41652]

Very nice review. I have an 2LT and the extra cameras are very handy to keep from bumping into things. That said, I agree, the base car gives you a lot. Keep driving, Keep enjoying that beautiful car!

[@MrGarnettmiller]

I have a Vette for six months now and I only have 1500 miles on it.

[@jackd232]

Mag ride is a must, you only feel the difference if you drived both. Probably a rear camera mirror is good option for the massive blind spot, the rest just not really worth it.

[@vincentxtran]

Awesome video. Love the perspective that the base is enough 😁 and love that you’re recording on a camcorder. Gives it a different feeling

[@FFE-js2zp]

Hennessy speed tested it. It took 35 secs to go 150 to its top speed of 181. The man has balls of steel.

[@roger3958]

I always wanted a 1LT for 60k. What a bargain. I’m just not in that phase of my life yet. 5 more years. But it’s good to know the 1LT satisfies! I’m counting down the days til I can get one.

[@bena8238]

1lt c8 owner 13k miles - no options needed esp if you want to keep it best bang for buck. No other c8 had a front lift why start now. Z51 forget about it for 5k. Rear visibility is also just fine! can see everything if its not fogged up. I did however get the colored calipers but, I'm happy with that option.

[@bena8238]

Also the 120 oil changes came at a pleasant surprise as iv never owned a sports car before.

[@MrJoevolcano]

Great job very professional

[@ltproduction699]

Nice video I’m enjoying my LT1!

[@dmatrix3485]

Same here. The crazy thing about the LT1 base model is that it comes with more options than most actual supercars. At the dealership the manager tried to influence me to get all these options that I didn't need and I'm happy with the decision and the car has exceeded my expectations by alot..This thing feels like a fully loaded car to me.. I don't drive mine all that much but after having it for nearly two years I'm still learning things about the car. LT1 feels like an absolute bargain to me. Ppl usually can't tell the difference because it's so exotic looking inside and out.

[@hadleycontractor496]

the price jump to the lt2 is outrageous, and the lt3 is steering wheel wrap and diff seat material for what 7k ? its beyond ridiculous all I would want in the lt1 is the ventilated seats and the cross traffic

[@edmancuso]

And the great thing is you could sell it today for more than you paid!

[@NinjaDad724]

Omg thank you for this

[@timothywhalen9352]

Great review! A very reliable car!

[@MrGarnettmiller]

I get about 10 miles to the gallon.

[@billfleming8281]

Great review . Thank you !

[@mileshale9683]

Me Rockwell what is the address where you got your engine build plate. Thanks, Miles @ model railroading university this is my channel on KZbin.

[@rockcityfilms]

I'm sorry I don't have that written down, you'll have to Google it

[@YAHNewsNetwork]

I have the 21 , 1LT .. And like you I was anti add on's . I am at 6800 problem free miles including 4 rips down a drag strip and taking her to 167 mph on a parkway that was running out of road quickly ..

[@5x106]

I want a base with HUD

[@MrJoevolcano]

Didn't know that your no option car came with red engine covers

[@rockcityfilms]

I painted it. Red high heat spray paint from Home Depot, my wife painted the bow tie

[@billgill1093]

Love my 2024

[@reyesway]

I want to get a C8 and I want to use it as a daily driver. This review is helping to convince me that a 1LT will be just fine for me. My biggest question: Do you have problems scraping the front or rear end on driveways, speed bumps, crossing crowned roads, etc.?

[@rockcityfilms]

The base C8 has the same clearance as a Honda Fit, about 5 inches. The chin spoiler on the Z51 lowers clearance by an inch, thats when yoou need to consider the front lift option

[@reyesway]

@@rockcityfilms Thank you. Very helpful information for my decision process.

[@sstrey174]

Great review. I'm actually about to get a 2021 1LT with 8k miles. Has backup camera and android in it. I'm coming from a 2017 Jaguar F type with the v8. For me.persoonally, I just need a loud aftermarket exhaust and I will be good to go.

[@Xposthmous]

Damn, mine cost $119,000. Yes, I got every option you can possibly get. It's a 2020 and has 200 miles on it. Great review!

[@marcfield1234]

Fortunately the 2024 1LT base model dose come with the back up camera. It would be the only option you would possibly want because you cant see shit out that back window .

[@rockcityfilms]

@@marcfield1234 my 2020 has a backup camera

[@marcfield1234]

Oh really. Awsome.

[@Partylizard1]

Fucking sick!!!!! The Sebring photos were amazing!

[@Bobster986]

We no longer live in a world we’re idealizing material things are, or should ever be, that important, but I do appreciate your frugalness and your ability to restrain yourself from add unnecessary options that lead to more outstanding debt.

[@mikewatch1487]

C8 with a OHV 1955 Chevy V/8. Bring on the Z06 …The C8 base is just to refined and a bit boring. I have owned a few. There are tons of used ones to pick from. 1LT again tell me how you back out of a driveway with cross traffic. GM should make cross traffic warning and the rear view mirror camera standard on ALL C8’s. Your videos isn’t helpful to new buyers. You sound like a cheap non car guy trying to explain his purchase. I got absolutely nothing out of this video

[@nikosky4028]

The exhaust is loud for non z51. You got a deal I just bought a 2022 z51 2lt pretty much loaded for 100k total. They are actually going up if I waited a month more would be another 15k -20k more. I prefer the regular z51 spoiler I don't like the high wing besides on the zo6 zo6 package. No spoiler looks fine but my preference is regular z51 spoiler makes it look a bit more aggressive and nicer just my opinion tho.

[@killerkane1957]

I couldn’t agree with you more! I ordered a 3LT Z51. I did spend for orange, body color accents, and dual silver stripes. I went with front lift but no effing mag ride! I was buying a sports car not a Cadillac. I am a 66-year-old car guy. Own and have owned many. Always HATED corvettes. But this car is a sea change. I LOVE this car. Simply amazing. GM did their work very well. The hype? This car meets and exceeds it. Of all the silly crap out there, your presentation is the best!! Thanks and happy driving!

[@fermatslasttheorem6298]

I went to a dealership to place a custom order and I was told I would have to wait a year, so I said I'll think about it. No lie - I went to visit another dealership and found the EXACT fucking Corvette I was placing a custom order for right there on the show room. I immediately got a salesman and told them I want to buy it. It's 1LT but damn no way was the car with all the options I wanted was going to show up again any time soon.

[@gusm2752]

Jersey boy nice 👍 Greetings from California, former Jersey City boy here. Love the C8. You’re right 1 LT is just fine. Sucks it takes a year to get.

[@AntJetson]

Best review I've seen and I've watched tons of C8 vids on KZbin. Lots of people try to convince you to get all of these different options. Z06, Z51, spoilers, carbon, ceramic, flash, sport seats, etc. Running up a $60,000 sports car with specs that bring it to $85-$90k. I'm glad this guy was so honest. Finally! The 2023 1LT is now $62,400 MSRP. Not bad. Definitely a game changer! 🏎💨

[@Ob1Chosen1]

My 2023 1LT HTC Z51 with all the goodies came up to $87k, I saved ~$7k by not going with a 2LT which I plan on using for mods to get better track time. A lot of folks are surprised that my 1LT cost more than their 2LTs😂, it all comes down to preference and how you plan on using the car.

[@allanstephenson9336]

Thank you for the info. !!!!! AWSOME video. 😊😊

[@josephryan9088]

I really wish people would do this with trucks, everyone needs every option, the more the better, which leaves me in the dust wanting a crew cab 8' bed work truck. That's rarer then a '14 Z28 !!

[@JB54379]

Congrats man! It is all about what it means to you. This newer model Corvette is amazing IMO. Great review and I love them! Ferrari, McLaren, etc.... do not offer this style, power, features, etc.... for the Corvette price. Not even close. They think they are "special". lol If this same Corvette was made by Ferrari, etc..., it would cost at least $250K-$350K

[@huskytales9839]

I'm building my C8 (my first corvette) out now, and I have to say after watching dozens of videos, it's really nice to finally see one where it's not a 15 minute flex with every option and bell & whistle you can imagine. Thanks for posting.

[@rushmore8]

Thanks for this review. I have a deposit on a c8 and since I have at least a 12-24 month wait I have some time to decide. I like the idea of just a base car but I'd probably add the black wheels and the NPP exhaust. But yours still sounds pretty dang good in this video anyway.

[@rockcityfilms]

I like the black wheels too. I am thinking of having the wheels painted black when it's time for a tire change, in about 15000 miles

[@rcardona8]

Consider an aftermarket exhaust. I have the Paragon one, it's 45 lbs lighter, delivers more power, sounds and looks waaaay better.

[@tareks.8456]

@@rcardona8 How much are aftermarkets?

[@georgek719]

You are attracted to the base, stripped C8 Corvette for the same reason that other people are attracted to the C8 Corvette plus certain options. You could easily get by with a Ford Focus, but that just won't do. Don't be disparaging. Also, if you are a real car aficionado, never say VIN number.

[@yd5016]

Front lift maybe u regret no getting ?

[@rockcityfilms]

No

[@rodneydeflumeri1180]

I agree if you want “a plain C8”, to each and their own. However it really depends on your own intentions of maybe even tracking the car (then a Z51 package option is a no brainer). Obviously your (taste) 1LT, 2LT, 3LT interiors , Rim’s, Wheels, ground effects, Spoiler Whicker’s (adds downforce?). Don’t forget Rims, Tires, bigger Brakes, bigger Caliper’s, Stripes, Convertible option etc.. I do like that some people can get a cheaper price Base C8 model. I also like the fact that you can build a Supercar if you “don’t want a plain” base model… 🏎 💨 😉

[@shanerogers44]

Good review wish I would have ordered new when they came out the 23 lt1 almost 10k more. The used ones are more expensive you could probably sell yours for a profit.

[@BboyShakey]

Straight to the point. Black and white raw dry cut review. Love it!

[@truthinthemirror]

loving the work on the c8 will! keep it up!

[@wendycity99]

Great video Like your honesty I too grown up loving the GT40 I was hoping that they would do a manual transmission But no Hopefully I can get a 2023

[@jnagime]

$58k for a C8???? Wow that’s was a great deal today 2 years later they start at $80k

[@rockcityfilms]

That was the advertised introductory price. They assumed everyone would load on the options, I did not.

[@jnagime]

@@rockcityfilms I do understand what you’re saying but today’s the base model starts at $80k way up to $110k

[@jeffchabot4385]

Strongly prefer not having the weird wings attached

[@Ardentautosports]

Love honest videos like this. I’m purchasing one soon and this video helps my decision immensely.

[@votebluenomatterwho2532]

“In v4 mode, you can get 45mpg” Hahaha.

[@NewtonWashinton]

I do not like automatic shifting on any car so that is my only beef, no manual shiftinng.

[@federicomejia2929]

Great video!!!! Great car.......thank you for sharing!!!!

[@action76news]

If you track the car having the Z51 package will make life alot better