by Should Chevrolet follow European automakers?
Many European automakers have been actively turning to their own archives in recent years, and the results speak for themselves. For example, the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 and the truly wonderful Renault 5 E-Tech, which we recently tested, are two extremes of this spectrum. So the question begs itself: should Chevrolet do the same with the Corvette?
A Jaguar designer’s fantasy
Since the Corvette switched to a mid-engine layout with the C8 generation, it is unlikely that Chevrolet will return to a front-engine design and release a new model as a tribute to the C2 and C3 generations. Nevertheless, this did not stop Jaguar exterior manager Jason Battersby, who imagined what such a model might look like. This is a personal project done in his free time, which is not related to his work at Jaguar.
Similarity to the original C2 Corvette Stingray
The similarity between this render and the original C2 Corvette Stingray is obvious. Like the classic model, this one has a long hood with an aggressive bulge in the middle. It also uses thin pop-up headlights and features familiar front fenders and wheel arches.
Illustrations by JB Design/Instagram
The rear of this homage looks particularly striking. It does not have the same iconic split rear window as the C2, but it has two vents running from the roof down the similarly shaped trunk lid. Some elements of the rear resemble the Ferrari Roma, especially the simple horizontal LED taillights.
New meets old
Battersby, who first created this modernized blend of C2 and C3 back in 2023, shortly after leaving the Audi design team, also developed a complex carbon fiber diffuser and exhaust framing. Other key elements include large silver-black wheels, a carbon fiber front splitter, and carbon fiber wings located behind the front wheels.
Illustrations by JB Design/Instagram
While it would not make sense for Chevrolet to build a mass-market tribute to old Corvettes like this one, the company could justify it by releasing a limited series of models, which we are sure would attract both young and older Corvette buyers. The problem is cost. Development would be expensive, and the price tag that would follow could easily exceed the means of even the most dedicated enthusiasts and collectors.
Post by @jbdesign_ca
Post by @jbdesign_ca
Such a project, while remaining just a fantasy, demonstrates how strong the connection is between modern designers and classic cars. It also highlights that even in a world where technology and aerodynamics dictate form, nostalgia and the aesthetics of past eras remain a powerful source of inspiration. If Chevrolet decided to bring something like this to life, it could become not only a commercial success but also a true automotive event that would unite generations of brand fans. However, given modern production and economic realities, such a move would require an extremely bold decision from the company’s management.
