Sam Krahn 
After a tumultuous 2020 model year, the 2021 C8 Corvette is finally reaching customers hands, and represents the start of what is hopefully a smoother production cycle. The first example of every model year is always exciting, but given the 2020 Corvette’s rocky start, it feels like a new beginning. And now, thanks to images posted to the National Corvette Museum Facebook page, we know more about the very first 2021 Corvette Stingray, and it’s a great spec with a fascinating backstory.
The VIN 001 2021 Corvette Stingray in question is a Torch Red Stingray Coupe with lots of desirable options. It’s a top trim 3LT model with the Z51 Performance Package, the creme de la creme Corvette before more models are added to the lineup, like the Z06. It also has yellow brake calipers, Carbon Flash racing stripes and fender hash marks, plus the now-available high wing spoiler. Inside, the red and black theme continues with an Adrenaline Red and black two tone design, and Competition seats. It’s an aggressive look inside and out that fits the C8 nicely.
The owner has got to be happy, too. It was picked up by one Brian Bowling, who chose the National Corvette Museum delivery. But this wasn’t actually his first Corvette, or even his first C8 Corvette. Bowling actually owned a 2020 model, but it came to a fiery end when the sports car’s engine failed on the highway. It then began leaking oil and eventually caught fire, and Bowling’s new Corvette was gone with only 500 miles on the odometer. Given this wasn’t his fault, he got in line for a 2021 C8 Corvette Stingray with VIN 003, but about a month before delivery, GM have Bowling a call and offered to bump him up to VIN 001. Unsurprisingly, he chose the very first 2021 model year C8.
This hints that GM is hopefully allocating those first 2021 Corvette Stingray coupes and convertibles to customers whose 2020 build slots were pushed back a year, or customers whose cars were wrecked because of a defect. Congratulations to Mr. Bowling on his new 2021 Corvette, and we can’t wait for him to enjoy his new car for a whole lot longer than the last one.
