The Chevrolet Corvette’s racing career began in 1955, just three years after its initial release. Inspired by the success of the Corvette, Zora Arkus-Duntov, often referred to as the “father of the Corvette,” announced the creation of a specialized sports car, the Corvette SS, which debuted in 1957. This model served as the foundation for the concept embodied in the Chevrolet Corvette StingRay Racer Concept XP-87. While the Corvette SS resembled the production model externally, its underlying structure was radically different.
Built on a shortened tubular frame, it was equipped with a 283 cubic inch fuel-injected engine, capable of reaching speeds of 292 km/h during testing. The model held great promise in the world of motorsport, but fate intervened.
The American Automobile Manufacturers Association imposed a ban on manufacturers of production cars participating in races. However, the story did not end there. The SS’s design formed the basis for the Stingray Racer concept car, also known as XP-87.
The front body and frame were borrowed from its predecessor and remained virtually unchanged. For the body design, GM’s head of design, Bill Mitchell, and designer Larry Shinoda utilized elements from a rejected prototype of the next generation. The Stingray Racer competed in numerous races as Bill Mitchell’s personal race car. It achieved consecutive victories in the SCCA C class in 1959 and 1960. After 1961, the car was displayed at exhibitions. Its design significantly influenced subsequent company developments.
Corvette StingRay XP-87 CONCEPT Specifications
- Power – 319 hp / 6200 rpm
- Torque – 399.7 Nm / 4700 rpm
- Drive / Boost – Rear (FR) / Naturally Aspirated (AC)
