The
fourth generation Corvette is second to the C3 generation in length.
Although intended to be introduced in MY 1983, the first C4 debuted as MY 1984
in February 1983. This Corvette was the first to be designed, developed
and sold without any links to the 1953 produced by Harley Earl and Ed Cole.
Jerry Palmer, head of design, succeeded Harley Earl and chief engineer Dave McLellan
succeeded Zora Arkus-Duntov. Both were were hired during
the Mitchell/Duntov era and mentored by the two giants in the Corvette pantheon.
 Lasting through MY 1996, the notable and perhaps
legendary ZR-1 was produced during this era along with the rare Grand Sport
Vettes produced in MY 1996. (Dave's personal Vette is a ZR-1 with the vanity plate "Z REX.")
McLellan's characterization of the ZR-1? "It's Corvette, only more so."
During this time, Palmer and McLellan successfully fought a DeLorean (then general
manager of Chevrolet) idea to have Corvette downsized and share the
chassis and development of the F-body Camaro and Firebird.
John Cafaro, a young designer, produced a drawing with a Jaguar
XKE-like hood which similar to a clamshell when opened, would reveal
engine, front tires, suspension and chassis. (John would later
lead the design team for the C5 Corvette.) The clamshell hood
would become a symbol of the C4 generation.
Other noteworthy Corvettes and features in the C4 generation include
the
reintroduction of the convertible and fuel injection (missing since 1965).
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