1996 Chevrolet Corvette

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 bef