Забудьте про C9: концепт Chevrolet Corvette повертає ретро славу

The Corvette has earned its place as one of the most iconic sports cars to ever come out of the States, inspiring countless designers worldwide. One such designer is Maitreya Dhanak from India, who’s put his own modern spin on the classic C2 and C3 generations of the Stingray.More: GM’s Corvette Concept Pushes C9 Into Radical New Territory Without A V8Chevrolet initially applied the Sting Ray name to the 1959 concept, and over the years, the moniker has been used for select Corvette models, specifically the C2, C3, C7, and C8 generations. While the latest version, with its mid-engine layout, might evoke supercar vibes, there’s a strong following for the proportions of the front-engine models that preceded it.A Tribute to the Front-Engined EraMaitreya Dhanak is a visualization designer at Mercedes-Benz in Mumbai and a big fan of the front-engine Corvettes. His digital-only concept, the Stingray Homage, pays tribute to the original design while offering a modern twist. With dramatic proportions, this concept has the feel of an ultra-expensive, coachbuilt special.At the front, the low-mounted quad round LED headlights create an aggressive shark-nose look, with chrome detailing outlining the sharp edge of the long hood. The sculpted fenders highlight the classic turbine-style wheels, while the lowered suspension enhances the car’s exotic stance. Other eye-catching details include side-mounted exhaust pipes and carbon-fiber side skirts.Modern Nostalgia with a TwistThe rear fenders curve sensually into a minimalist tail, housing quad oval-shaped taillights with a Bentley-esque graphic. The sleek, integrated diffuser ties it all together. The iconic split rear windshield, inspired by the 1963 Corvette Stingray, is retained, with air channels connecting the rear openings to the flying buttresses. The pronounced “spine” running along the roof, separating the removable glass panels, gives the car a Bugatti-like presence.More: Ex-Audi Designer Imagines New Age Corvette Inspired By C2 And We Can’t Stop Staring At ItInside, the renderings offer a peek into the two-seater cabin, which features saddle-colored upholstery and jewel-like instruments and switches that balance retro with sophistication.Form Meets FunctionDhanak told us that the project was driven by the desire to capture the car’s aesthetics, while still considering practical elements like packaging and dimensions. The designer imagines the Stingray Homage as a grand tourer, equipped with a V8 engine placed in a front-midship position, sending power to the rear wheels.Of course, like most independent concepts, the Stingray Homage isn’t expected to ever hit the streets. The necessary modifications to make it roadworthy would likely result in compromises that could undermine its striking design. That said, you can still enjoy the digital renderings in various specs, available on Dhanak’s social media.Thanks to Maitreya for sharing his project with us!