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1997 Callaway C12 Corvette Silver
Callaway has built a firm reputation for producing some of the most sophisticated and advanced Corvette-based automobiles. Introduced in 1998, Callaway’s C12 continued this proud legacy. Designed, developed and constructed by two top German engineering and development companies, Callaway and IVM, the C12 was intended as a bespoke, high-performance car that offered its occupants a civilized interior and relaxed ride. One of the most respected Corvette super-cars ever.
Offered from 1987 to 1991, the RPO-B2K upgrade was available from any Chevrolet dealer and also Callaway’s first major Corvette tuning program. Together, GM and Callaway made the upgrade package a Regular Production Order (RPO) which was the first time GM had outsourced such an option to a specialist manufacturer. It even had a factory back warranty. As the C4 updated, so did Callway’s program and by 1988, the B2K was pushing 382 bhp and 562 ft. lbs. of torque.
The Callaway C7 was a completely new, purpose-built car designed to embody the company’s motto: “Powerfully Engineered Automobiles”, carrying on the visual tradition of design by Paul Deutschman and offered in a limited production series. The C7 was the first complete, bespoke Callaway Automobile. This sportscar was equipped with a carbon chassis, front mid engine/rear transaxle design, 650 horsepower SuperNatural engine.
Chevrolet's introduction of the LT1 in 1992 as the base engine in the Corvette phased out the L98 based Callaway Twin Turbo. Previously, Callaway Corvettes made their increased power through positive manifold pressure; now they made it through increased displacement and finesse. Initially called the CL1 or CR1, they designated the chassis they were built upon. They were based on the pushrod LT1 cars (CL1) or the 32 valve DOHC LT5 ZR-1 cars (CR1).
For the 2014 model year, the Chevrolet team sculpted the seventh-generation Corvette into the most sophisticated, most feature-packed Corvette produced to date. Facing a daunting challenge, new technology enabled Callaway engineers to produce breathtaking power with seamless transition into and out of positive manifold pressure. Entirely new, Callaway’s patented GenThree supercharger design improved airflow quality and increased charge air cooling capacity.
The 25th Anniversary Edition is a hardened up version of Callaway's Corvette SC757, which in turn is based on a C7-generation Corvette Z06. It features a supercharged V8 that pumps out 757-horsepower and 777 pound-feet of torque. The supercharger is a GenThree Callaway unit with the company's TripleCooled intercooler system. A high-flow intake system feeds that beast. Callaway's Level Two HD Cooling System also helps it avoid the overheating issues that plagued C7 Z06s.
Reeves Callaway has always had a dream of competing a Corvette of his own at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, France. The idea begin with the body work for a street version, but one thing led to another, and a full race version was completed as well. The street version is almost identical to the race version because the hood, tail, rocker panels, and lower door halves, are all made of carbon fiber, just like the race version.