In the summer of 1967, Chevrolet unveiled a car that would redefine American sports car design for the next 15 years: the third-generation Corvette, known simply as the C3. Sleek, aggressive, and unmistakably futuristic, the C3 wasn’t just a new model — it was a bold statement of style, performance, and ambition.

A Radical New Look

The C3 Corvette drew heavy inspiration from the Mako Shark II concept car, a design study that had wowed audiences with its dramatic curves and pointed snout. When the production version hit the streets in 1968, it retained much of that concept’s DNA: a long, low hood, sharply flared fenders, and a fastback rear that gave it a sense of motion even at a standstill.

Gone were the split windows and rounded forms of the C2. In their place came a more sculpted, muscular body that looked like it belonged on a race track — or a sci-fi movie set. The new design wasn’t just for show: it improved aerodynamics and gave the car a more planted feel at high speeds.

Engineering Evolution

Underneath the fiberglass skin, the C3 was a mix of innovation and refinement. It retained the same basic chassis as the C2, but introduced new features like:

• T-top removable roof panels (a first for Corvette)
• Fiber-optic light monitoring system (briefly offered in early models)
• Improved interior ergonomics and driver-focused controls

Powertrain options ranged from the reliable 327 small-block V8 to the monstrous 427 big-block, with horsepower ratings that climbed well into the 400s. These engines gave the C3 serious street cred — and a reputation for tire-shredding performance.

A Corvette for the Times

The C3 Corvette arrived at a cultural crossroads. The late ’60s were a time of rebellion, experimentation, and bold self-expression — and the C3 fit right in. It became a symbol of freedom and flair, appearing in movies, music videos, and driveways across America.

But the C3’s journey wasn’t without challenges. As the ’70s progressed, tightening emissions regulations and oil crises forced Chevrolet to dial back performance. Horsepower dropped, and the Corvette’s raw edge softened. Still, the car remained a style icon, with each model year bringing subtle tweaks to keep it fresh.

Legacy and Impact

The C3 Corvette ran from 1968 to 1982 — the longest production span of any Corvette generation. Over those 15 years, it evolved from a muscle-bound street machine to a more refined grand tourer, adapting to the changing tastes and regulations of the era.

Today, the C3 is cherished by enthusiasts for its bold design, analog driving experience, and place in Corvette history. Whether it’s a chrome-bumper ’69 or a cross-fire injected ’82, every C3 tells a story of innovation, resilience, and American automotive passion.

C3 Vette Registry

Formed in 2001, C3 Vette Registry has helped many C3 owners enjoy and restore their beloved C3s.  C3VR has many tools, like the C3 Birthday Calculator, Corvette VIN Decoder, C3 Tips & Tricks and even a C3 Corvette Quiz!  Sign up today for a free membership.

Nice read - thanks!

There's no doubt about the fact that here in France most people think of the "C3" shape as the epitome of what a Corvette looks like.  They like the "C2" (or Mid-years as some of us old guys still call them!) but it's the "sharks" that are popular.

Interestingly, when we were getting ready to buy ours in 1990 I read Richard Langworth's book "Complete Corvette".  At that  time the "sharks" were considered by most people to be the 4th generation, the "C1" being split into two generations, the break-point being 1956, when the exterior received a significant up-dating.  My recollection is that it was only when Chevy designated the C5 as such that a re-think on the generations was needed!

The number designations started with the C4.  Up until then you had the solid axles, the Mid Years, and the Sharks.

We bought our '78 35 years ago and the C4 as we know it now was a relatively new car, and still in production of course.   In most articles etc I read at the time it was usually referred to as "the late model".   

Interestingly, I glanced through Richard Langworth's book yesterday and noticed that in fact he refers to the C4 as the 6th generation!   I confess I hadn't noticed that before.  Working back in the book he appears to split the solid axle cars into 3 generations; pre V8 '53-'54, '55 V8 models. then the '56 onwards cars.   That means he refers to the Mid-years as C4s and our beloved "Sharks" as the 5th generation!   

The first mention I have seen of the C5 actually being the C5 is in Jim Shefter's wonderful "All Corvettes Are Red".

I know we are members of the C3Vette Registry (and proud of it!) but I'll put my hand up and say that I don't really like the "C" designations when talking about pre 1984 Corvettes, but that's just me!😀