WINNERS POST YOUR EMAIL PLEASE - ALSO IN THIS COMMENT Link to Soler Performance Discount USE RICK5 at checkout! WINNERS; MICHAELFRATHER6375 GJGRIFF1 C5RACER TODDSECRIST8263 LYLESUTTON2751 RCB614 JOHNNYBFROMPEORIA SCARLETTGIBSON6623 MARGARET CORTEZ LINK TO SOLER DEVICE FOR YOUR CORVETTE; www.solerengineering.com/generalmotors/se0525-tc CODE RICK5 at CHECKOUT FOR 5% OFF AS WELL! WE INSTALL THE SOLER THROTTLE CONTROLLER ruclips.net/video/8_mUXBbsUyw/видео.html BOOK A NCM CAR FOR KOREY'S DELIVERY EVENT - DEC 6th book.peek.com/s/bdf5867b-553c-4f63-af19-cdc4abedc880/RE8Ne
Hi Rick, how are you doing David here? Hey, I think a seven would be fantastic For the C8 I have a C7 I love the seven speed we can do a lot more with the car. It takes a real man to drive a stick. Most people can’t drive One they’re allergic to it. They rather drive a sissy mobile. Just thought I’d put that out there. Great idea best idea they’ve heard from C8 I want to 28 car shows this year everybody wants to have a stick in The C8
Hi Rick David here I think the idea of a seven speed in the C8 would be fantastic. I have a C7 I love the seven speed. We can do a lot more with the card then a automatic. I think it’s a great idea. Most people can’t drive a standard they’re allergic to automatic takes a real man to drive a stick, so good luck with that good idea thanks bye
The C8 with the 3rd Fun Pedal 7 Speed Manual Transmission is the only way I would buy one.., I can't live with the Automatic. Though, if it's the ZR1 C8.. I can't afford it and in 10 years i'll be a Collectors $1 Million, heck I can't even Afford $250,000 C7 ZR1
Absolutely.... I was very disappointed when Chevy didnt make a manual C8.... Would love to see Chevy bring back the manual transmission in a C8 corvette!
I can't imagine (as Mike suggested) Zora which is suspected to have an Eray front drive - aka hybrid - that would be almost impossible to program a manual rear drive coupled with electric front drive.
Would I love a manual C8 or Z06…absolutely!!! Will there be one…not a chance. It’s all about money and the take rate in the C7 was too low for Chevy to invest millions and millions of dollars to develop a manual transmission for the C8…not to mention the time and cost to certify it for the EPA etc. The subject makes for a great conversation but sadly not going to become a reality 😢
My C7 has a manual 7spd and I have a C8 HTC also. I would enjoy having a manual once again, knowing I cannot out-shift the DCT. I just feel more connected with the driving experience. And yes I drive my cars.
Thank you for commenting on Mike Brink of Speed, he is definitely one of the good guys. He said it was speculation, and many of us would definitely get a manual C8(if GM ever made it). But sometimes people looks for the negative stuff to get 15 minutes of fame. I really appreciate you, Rick. As a person that loves and sells 100s of these cars you always intentional with your information. Keep up the great work. Also the 75th Anniversary Edition (possible GRAND SPORT) will be my next C8, definitely want to get it from you.
Rick, great information. The DCT fits everything about the c8. it's the new era of corvette. The way it shifts is just unbelievable. Thanks again, my friend 👊
Recently the C8 series has been a topic of conversation IN GERMANY because it has DOMINATED the North American market so thoroughly that it converted MANY Porsche enthusiast to purchase one. Mathias Malmadie who is the top German automotive magazine presenter declared the series simply too hard to beat, with all that it offers for the price. It was same in Australia as well and France. We eventually have to admit that the C8 series is very possibly the greatest sports car series in automotive history which includes the the Ferrari 458 to TRIBUTO series.
I’m good with my DCT. You are right I have no desire to drive a manual all the time anymore. When I have that itch I just take my son’s BRZ out for a spin.
IMO! I like a manual, but any change on C9, please change the rear end. Needs to be smoother or less angular and sharp. Wouldn't mind going to rounder steering wheel to be more functional. In design school, it is taught to design shapes efficiently according to functions. IOW, a round wheel performs better than a square or angular one. Just my opinion being a art design graduate. Love everything else. Owner of C7.
I absolutely love the aesthetic, performance and price of the C8…However, the lack of a manual transmission kills something inside of me. This is a great channel, Rick. Your efforts & energy are appreciated.
I'm still not a fan of the mid engine, I just can't get past it . But that's me, and over all it is still a nice car. Also on RUclips I saw a video of what is called a C9.. is it still the same platform
I am more than happy with the automatic, it does everything I need. I have a standard in my 65. A stick and over 495 HP would be dangerous for me and I am sure many others.
I loved my 2105 C7 Z51 coupe with the 7 speed manual. First gear take up was very fussy. Set up for drag racing?? Loved the car, but the dual clutch in the C8 is way more fun. Way more versatile. Makes the relaxing drives so nice. Aggressive drives more exciting. C8 is amazing. C7 was VERY good.
If I was going to buy a Corvette which I have always wanted it would be C6 or C7 with manual transmission as it would add fun to driving. Come on Rick you are still young, I will be 74 in January and I'm not ready to leave yet!!!
I was diehard manual Corvette, literally walked pass great deals on automatics because I was that hell bent on all Corvettes should be manuals. Now owning a 24 Z06 I love the DCT transmission. It’s smooth and fast. The Z06 is so quick there is literally no time to push in a clutch. I will admit when I drive the C8 in manual mode my left foot still twitches on the dead pedal when I shift. It’s a syndrome!
I have a c6 auto trans…and at 77 years of age with two knee replacements…works great for me. Through the years all of my cars were manuals…but things change. A friend of my mine took me for a ride in his C8 HTC…I was pleasantly surprised with that DCT…it shifted much faster than I could have when I was 18 😂
I'm 51 years old and I daily drive my 2016 Stingray 7MT. I love to drive; not at the track, not street racing, just around town. I feel like you never actually drive a car with an automatic transmission, regardless of how good it is; you really just steer it. You're right: it's not about 0-60, quarter miles or lap times, because the new computer controlled transmissions are going to be faster than a human. But a stick shift makes driving fun. I understand the take rate is low and there is a certain R&D dollar amount associated with putting a different transmission in a car, and it probably won't happen. But it would be nice if they'd put it in the C8.
Every day it would be a treat!!! who drives Corvette for an every day car. You drive it to enjoy it every once in a while and a stick is what makes it everything.
Just today my wife was telling me she heard a C8 SUV might be coming and that she would want one. The C8 SUV appeals to the other half of the population.
The general public is hard to satisfy. Most don’t know are understand how a business works. I would love to have two Z06. One for tracking the other for traveling in. Then a ZR1 for street racing. Hell why not dream big.
Doesn’t seem like GM would want to build something slower like a seven speed manual, the six speed is actually stronger. Automatics much faster if you’re looking for real speed. Never SELL your C7’s. I never will. Been watching you, Rick for a while. Nice job. You always do a good job! hey Rick, I just want to tell you what it looks like from this side of the screen. You do a really good job better than you might know Corvette owners get the full experience of a Corvette by what you say and tell everybody about very thorough more thorough than anybody on the Internet along with drives. You explained it so well that people don’t even need to buy a Corvette to get the full feel of each Corvette the way you put it across. Never underestimate yourself señor. Being an owner like yourself you give everybody the jest of more than everything. Thank you, sir.
Thank-you Rick for ALL you do. I subscribe and look forward to your RUclips posts. I bought a C8 in August and took it on the Caravan. It is my 10th Corvette since 1992.
I could go either way on the manual. Can make an argument for each. I would love to see a Grand Sport C8. My C7 GS is amazing and I can imagine what a C8 GS would be like.
I would say that the manual transmission would be a good idea as it helps cement the commitment to being an enthusiast car. It probably doesn’t make companies like Porsche a ton of money , but it keeps the focus on the driving experience.
I like the connection with the manual gearbox. May provide reduced maintenance albeit a slower vehicle. Congrats on being top ten dealer through October.
Things to change for the C9. A remote trans, fill plus a larger remote trans filter that uses some sort of high quality, mass produced, commercial filter element. Larger rigidly mounted rearview camera screen built into the overhead console on both HTC and coupes. They could add cameras in each outside mirror and slit the overhead screen so it's panoramic, showing down each side and out the back, no more blind spots. For the C9 they could start mounding the radiators flat/horizontal, and duct the air up and through, reducing damage from rocks along with reducing the size of the openings and reducing the CD rating of the car. Loved the driving video Rick. I'm looking for a nice used C8, what year should I be looking for.
I loved my manual C6 Z06. But I also love my C8 auto. Would I go back to a manual? No, not unless the trans was bully for stout and gearing matched better to the power ranges. As for C-9, would love a passenger panic bar, and a highway cruiser that gets 30 mpg or better- like my big grunt 2009 C6 Z06 did on a regular basis! Of course, trunk storage has got to be more! Reengineer the heat sink in the rear to keep the storage area closer to ambient temp.
We also drive Corvettes as an enthusiast and that’s why GM should come back out with a manual transmission. It’s so nice to go through the gears when I take my C7 GS out on the weekends… you never get bored when you drive a powerful sports car like the C7 and C8’s … I sure hope GM comes back out with a manual transmission .
I frankly love the auto but love the discussion among enthusiasts especially you Rick. I still think, hope and would pray for you Rick driving a PACE car and GM should make it happen. Let’s work on it again. For me, I have only one dream and that is to get an ERay before the C8 run is over. Thanks Rick for all you do!
Way back in '77 my 1st corvette was an LT-1 car. More recently my second corvette in '05 was a '90 ZR-1. My '21 C8 is the first corvette I've owned that didn't have 3 pedals. The first two only came one way, 3 pedals. I haven't had my C8 long enough (I'm the second owner) to formulate an opinion except to say it is a very different driving experience and I'm still learning my car. FWIW, I only drive my C8 in track mode with the transmission in manual. Save the Wave!
I daily a 6MT ATS and I love it, I think the C8 is better with the DCT, more performance oriented. I get the weekend backroad / cruising crowd wants to row their own because its fun, but on track, the DCT will eat the MT 10 out of 10 times. Merits to both depending on use case. As for the C9, I hope they can drop 200-300lbs out of the car.
I just transitioned to a C8 HTC from a 6MT 370z Nismo. While I miss banging through the gears, my knee just couldn’t handle ATL traffic anymore. My C8 solved that issue for good! I don’t really miss the Z. That’s the past; the C8 is the future!
Rick - I love the DCT. The C8 is my 3rd Corvette. The previous ones were also automatic. Yes I learned to drive on a stick, three on the tree and I have had a few manuals over the years, but no thank you to a manual Corvette.
Rick, I have a 2018 Grand Sport with a manual transmission. I bought it brand new and it is the first corvette that I have owned (kids' college came first). I am 75 now and I agree with what you said about a manual transmission; you are never going to see a manual transmission in a corvette. It is fun to drive, but it is getting old, especially because I live in the Washington-Philadelphia corridor. I would love to buy a new corvette but what is holding me back is the transmission issues they had in the C7, and it appears they are still working out the bugs on C8 automatic transmission. I am hoping for a grand sport with a price point between the sting ray and e-ray, and getting rid of all the bugs in the transmission so there is no class action litigation like there is on the C7 corvette.
C8 Grand Sport - YES! The C8 GS is the only thing that I would give up my 19 GS for especially if the 2026 interior redesign gives me more room (head room and less bolstering in the seats). As far as the C9 - more interior room, better mileage and a better DCT that will not break.
You said it Rick, no one can out shift a DCT so a manual's out. The C9 Corvette need a sleeker body with active aero wing, butterfly doors, 4 wheel lowering, center lock wheels and an aggressive rear defuser with an F1 light.
I appreciate your videos. Always good content. BoS is the only other Corvette channel I watch on a regular basis. Your explanation of the difference between you and BoS is spot on. I have always enjoyed manual transmissions. I have found that arthritis and sciatica can limit one’s ability to use a manual. A manual would be fascinating in a C8 but I wonder what the true market is? I remember your conversations where you mentioned the possibility of a C8 GS. That was exciting. I was convinced that would be what I wanted. That is until this August when I got a call about a Z06 (non-Z07) that had arrived at the dealership. I no longer want a GS! Wow! As for the C9; what would I like to see? I have no clue what GM/Chevrolet have learned (and continue to learn) in their market research. But, as much as I like the LT2, I would like to see a detuned LT6 in the Stingray. It might help to put more focus on that engine as a more “practical” or “economical” engine for a touring car. I also have to say that since I have a Z06, I would want to stay with that It’s addicting! Thanks Rick!
Hey Rick, thank you for this great video with excellent insight and information! Also, thank you for being a true friend and having my back! You da man! 💪😊🇺🇸
Rick…you’re the best! Stay the course. Loved the stick shift story. “We wanna hear it…” 😂😂😂! This is why we come! Why to stand with Mike @BrinkOfSpeed ❗️
Good video, Rick. Thanks for the info. I’ve got a 7-spd manual 2018 Z06 and a 2024 HTC Z06. I’ve had a manual transmission as my daily since I was 17 y/o (I’m now 55). My 488 was my first DCT purchase, than my F8, and MC20 (same 8 spd DCT in this car as the Vettes). I will always keep my manual Z06, but really enjoying my DCT Z06. Surprisingly, I can honestly say, I don’t need a manual option (I know, heresy, right?).
They can do an 8-speed manual using the DCT. It is all a matter of how the DCT is controlled and the form factor of those controls. Even somewhat low dollar driving simulators have simulated clutch pedals and shifters. Back at the beginning of the C8 era, Tadge said there wasn't enough space to add a manual transmission along with the controls required to shift it. Making a simulated manual would provide the sense of a clutch while moving control of the gears from the paddles to a shifter mounted on console. The shifter doesn't have to be large as a lot of people have modified their previous model's shifters to short sticks that are smaller than their hands. The problem is doing that costs money and how many people would pay for the option? I doubt there wouldn't be enough to make the option profitable.
I may never get to buy a C8 from you, but greatly enjoy your videos. Could they do a manual yes, will they, only "they" know. C9, lighter. GS is Z body.
I don't see a manual transmission in Corvettes future paddle shifters are the way to go especially for younger drivers that did not learn to drive with a stick like myself. The C9 will probably see a restyling maybe address some design deficiencies like not being able to shift into neutral without the engine running. The problem with approaching the pinnacle of on street performance is that it gets tougher and tougher to top
Hell yes I'd get one with a stick shift. Not just a manual, but one with a shift rod. I'm old school with a modern touch. And I like modern with an old school touch.
I don’t think a manual would sell enough units to justify the expense to develop one. I think Mike and the other full time RUclipsrs want a manual so much that they grasp at straws and give credence to the rumor mill. My 14 z51 is a 7 speed and I don’t plan to ever get rid of it. When I get a C8, I will stick with the automatic, just because I don’t think there is any way I could shift better than the DCT. Thanks for helping me with these questions, I keep seeing videos of the C9 but I won’t watch them because I only trust information from you. And I fully agree with you about the Soler! Love it.
Nice video. Let me start by saying, I did comment on BOS video about the std transmission, I said there are 2 chances of that happening, slim and none, know manufacturers the way I do, they aren’t and can’t just randomly decide to put in a std transmission, possibly in the C9, when ever that is maybe that would be a possibility, I still think it’s highly unlikely, for one of the reasons you mentioned, is 99% of people under 40ish, can drive a stick, and generally manufacturers don’t go backwards in technology. On the topic of grand sport, there is no doubt that will happen. I think I might be a good example, I love my 2020 C8, but with only 7k miles on it why trade for a 2025, it’s the same car, however a Grand sport, wide body, with likely a couple other enticing things that make customers want to trade there stingrays, cause there is something different and at a lower price point than Z06. I have a 2023 Z06 and I really like the car, I am not as hooked on the sound as a lot of people, the traditional V8 6.2 sounds very good also, then if you want to mod it some, the Z06 really isn’t able to be modded, but the 6.2s the LMRs of the world can get you any performance level you want, at less money than the Z06, and still have the traditional V8 sound. It’s all about choices, we all want choices. Thanks for all you do, and give all us corvette owners a platform to talk and share ideas. experiences and make new friends. Take care everyone.
Rick, thanks for this video. I saw the BOS post and the thing that stood out to me was the picture show looked like the interior of a C7. So I was skeptical.
A C8 with a MT would be perfect (for me). I"ve always had manual transmissions in my sport cars and the DCT was a compromise I was willing to make to get everything else the C8 offers, but I'd sell it in a heartbeat to buy a C8 with a 7-speed MT if one ever existed. I realize I'm an anachronism in today's market.
Awesome stuff Rick! You certainly give us a lot to think about. I would definitely be interested in both a Grand Sport and an SUV! Keep up the good work.
Perhaps make the C8 Grand Sport a manual. Make it a car which the driver can be engaged. Not so much power, so you can fully exercise the engine. Manual transmission with good gear spacing. Good sound. I love the styling of the C7 Grand Sport and the fact it was available with a manual transmission. Pairing that with a rear mid-engine platform would be awesome. I do realize car production does involve economics. I prefer a sports car with a manual transmission, but GM does have to contend with the fact that, given the choice, only a small percentage of drivers, something like 6%, choose the manual. We’ll see what happens.
Maintenance on a manual would be so much easier. But there's going to be so much going on with the forecasted Zora, I just don't see it. Maybe ZR1 or Z06, but with the electric motors, just wow, talk about complex. I'm still loving my C7 Z06 M7.
If I was buying a C8, I'd definitely prefer a manual over an automatic, but it would have to be in my price range. I don't care about what's faster, I just enjoy the driving experience that a manual transmission provides. 3 of my last 4 vehicles were manuals. The only automatic I was sharing with my daughter! 😂
I would buy a c8 GS in a heart beat. ERay and Z06 are out of my budget but a c8 GS in between a Stingray and the Z/ERay…now we’re talking. If they made a manual option, I would take the manual but would be happy with a DCT.
As much as I love the looks of the C8 I personally wouldn’t buy one because I can’t get a manual transmission in one. It’s a great car, but driving a manual only adds to the driving experience. There is nothing like the connection of having a manual and interacting with it
Great Vic, top notch vidoe today on the 7 Speed C8 2025, you're an Honest with Respect & Honor & Knows the U.S.A. Corvette's you tell the truth & Dignity of what goes n updates today's world. We here in Central NJ Say Thank You . Hello to Great Tech C8 CHUCK METTS//\\ .
I have driven many of the high end cars at events. I’ve had manuals. I own C8. I got rid of my Miata for this C8. I love the C8. It’s for me a great middle of the road sports car. I love Porsche, BMW, Ferrari and Lambos, but was pragmatic with my C8 purchase. I love track days. I won the first auto cross that I accidentally entered and got GoPro for my efforts. I’m out every weekend carving the closest things to canyons in the Midwest. I’ve driven some of the best tracks in the United States and great tracks and high Alpine roads in Europe recently. C9 my desires… I feel the design needs to change. Or , GM drop down to a new Fiero, or similar smaller MRE coupe. Id like for them to tighten up the dimensions and again I love the 911s rear package seats. I’d buy a high output turbo four-cylinder. Toyota, and my son is in Toyota city right now as a Toyota engineer, they’re coming out with their replacement MR 2. I love the Boxster and I even like the Alfa 4C size cars as well. First thing that blew my mind was no power steering when I drove that! Again I just had a Miata, and the Corvette is gigantic.
C9 should have real active arrow! Battery option that was promised with the eray to drive atleast 35 miles on a charge but kick in like a hit of nitro when u press the pedal! Awb optional. And a real auto stick like the camaro 10 speed but in a 7 would be also a cool option!
I did a quick little bit of research and the 68 Corvette was about 82 % manuals . By 79 it was around 22% manuals . This trend has continued up to the C7 generation where automatic trasmission are the higher sales numbers . Not many young enthusiasts want a manual or even know how to drive one .
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LINK TO SOLER DEVICE FOR YOUR CORVETTE;
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WE INSTALL THE SOLER THROTTLE CONTROLLER
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Hi Rick, how are you doing David here? Hey, I think a seven would be fantastic For the C8 I have a C7 I love the seven speed we can do a lot more with the car. It takes a real man to drive a stick. Most people can’t drive One they’re allergic to it. They rather drive a sissy mobile. Just thought I’d put that out there. Great idea best idea they’ve heard from C8 I want to 28 car shows this year everybody wants to have a stick in The C8
Hi Rick David here I think the idea of a seven speed in the C8 would be fantastic. I have a C7 I love the seven speed. We can do a lot more with the card then a automatic. I think it’s a great idea. Most people can’t drive a standard they’re allergic to automatic takes a real man to drive a stick, so good luck with that good idea thanks bye
The C8 with the 3rd Fun Pedal 7 Speed Manual Transmission is the only way I would buy one.., I can't live with the Automatic. Though, if it's the ZR1 C8.. I can't afford it and in 10 years i'll be a Collectors $1 Million, heck I can't even Afford $250,000 C7 ZR1
My heart says manual, but my hips and knees say DCT
Absolutely.... I was very disappointed when Chevy didnt make a manual C8.... Would love to see Chevy bring back the manual transmission in a C8 corvette!
I am sticking with the DCT.
🤏
I can't imagine (as Mike suggested) Zora which is suspected to have an Eray front drive - aka hybrid - that would be almost impossible to program a manual rear drive coupled with electric front drive.
Would I love a manual C8 or Z06…absolutely!!! Will there be one…not a chance. It’s all about money and the take rate in the C7 was too low for Chevy to invest millions and millions of dollars to develop a manual transmission for the C8…not to mention the time and cost to certify it for the EPA etc. The subject makes for a great conversation but sadly not going to become a reality 😢
My C7 has a manual 7spd and I have a C8 HTC also. I would enjoy having a manual once again, knowing I cannot out-shift the DCT. I just feel more connected with the driving experience. And yes I drive my cars.
Meh 35k on 2019 C7 is nothing... I have 127k on my 2019 ZR1. My guess is I own the highest mileage C7 ZR1 on the planet.
Thank you for commenting on Mike Brink of Speed, he is definitely one of the good guys. He said it was speculation, and many of us would definitely get a manual C8(if GM ever made it). But sometimes people looks for the negative stuff to get 15 minutes of fame. I really appreciate you, Rick. As a person that loves and sells 100s of these cars you always intentional with your information. Keep up the great work. Also the 75th Anniversary Edition (possible GRAND SPORT) will be my next C8, definitely want to get it from you.
Rick, great information. The DCT fits everything about the c8. it's the new era of corvette. The way it shifts is just unbelievable. Thanks again, my friend 👊
I’m 56, I learned to drive manual on a shift on the column Chevy truck. No manual or Grand Sport C8 is a couple of reasons why I won’t get the C8.
Recently the C8 series has been a topic of conversation IN GERMANY because it has DOMINATED the North American market so thoroughly that it converted MANY Porsche enthusiast to purchase one. Mathias Malmadie who is the top German automotive magazine presenter declared the series simply too hard to beat, with all that it offers for the price. It was same in Australia as well and France. We eventually have to admit that the C8 series is very possibly the greatest sports car series in automotive history which includes the the Ferrari 458 to TRIBUTO series.
I’m good with my DCT. You are right I have no desire to drive a manual all the time anymore. When I have that itch I just take my son’s BRZ out for a spin.
IMO! I like a manual, but any change on C9, please change the rear end. Needs to be smoother or less angular and sharp. Wouldn't mind going to rounder steering wheel to be more functional. In design school, it is taught to design shapes efficiently according to functions. IOW, a round wheel performs better than a square or angular one. Just my opinion being a art design graduate. Love everything else. Owner of C7.
For the C9 let's get a V12 engine 😮
I absolutely love the aesthetic, performance and price of the C8…However, the lack of a manual transmission kills something inside of me.
This is a great channel, Rick.
Your efforts & energy are appreciated.
I'm still not a fan of the mid engine, I just can't get past it . But that's me, and over all it is still a nice car. Also on RUclips I saw a video of what is called a C9.. is it still the same platform
Would love to see a potential C9 show a serious weight reduction over the C8.
I am more than happy with the automatic, it does everything I need. I have a standard in my 65. A stick and over 495 HP would be dangerous for me and I am sure many others.
I loved my 2105 C7 Z51 coupe with the 7 speed manual. First gear take up was very fussy. Set up for drag racing?? Loved the car, but the dual clutch in the C8 is way more fun. Way more versatile. Makes the relaxing drives so nice. Aggressive drives more exciting. C8 is amazing. C7 was VERY good.
If I was going to buy a Corvette which I have always wanted it would be C6 or C7 with manual transmission as it would add fun to driving. Come on Rick you are still young, I will be 74 in January and I'm not ready to leave yet!!!
I was diehard manual Corvette, literally walked pass great deals on automatics because I was that hell bent on all Corvettes should be manuals.
Now owning a 24 Z06 I love the DCT transmission. It’s smooth and fast. The Z06 is so quick there is literally no time to push in a clutch.
I will admit when I drive the C8 in manual mode my left foot still twitches on the dead pedal when I shift. It’s a syndrome!
I have a c6 auto trans…and at 77 years of age with two knee replacements…works great for me. Through the years all of my cars were manuals…but things change. A friend of my mine took me for a ride in his C8 HTC…I was pleasantly surprised with that DCT…it shifted much faster than I could have when I was 18 😂
As a Stingray owner, the E-Ray and Z06 are out of my budget but I would be first in line for a GS.
Just installed the Soler throttle controller. Two words: holy crap! As always Rick…THANKS to you and Chuck for a very simple install video!
That is the only way that I would give up my C7 for my a C8.
Me too! If I wanted to win a light to light drag race I'd get a Tesla.
Completely agree!
Me 3 never get rid of my 19 Z06 M7 .. manual is more than half the fun of driving my car .. I wouldn't care about owning one if it was auto
I'm 51 years old and I daily drive my 2016 Stingray 7MT. I love to drive; not at the track, not street racing, just around town. I feel like you never actually drive a car with an automatic transmission, regardless of how good it is; you really just steer it. You're right: it's not about 0-60, quarter miles or lap times, because the new computer controlled transmissions are going to be faster than a human. But a stick shift makes driving fun.
I understand the take rate is low and there is a certain R&D dollar amount associated with putting a different transmission in a car, and it probably won't happen. But it would be nice if they'd put it in the C8.
Glad you keep your finger on the goings on with the cars. Appreciate all your efforts.
Every day it would be a treat!!! who drives Corvette for an every day car. You drive it to enjoy it every once in a while and a stick is what makes it everything.
RICK drives his Corvette EVERY DAY! If you have never dailyed a Corvette, you can't appreciate their versatility. 😊
@@johncarter9964 I would drive it every day if I could
RICK drives his Corvette EVERY DAY! If you have never dailyed a Corvette, you can't appreciate their versatility. 😊
@ There’s one guy. 🙂
Love hearing the age number of buyers for C8 buyers under 35, they grabbed this old millennials heart I love the C8. It’s amazing
The idea of a Corvette SUV is terrible! Leave that to the Cadillac division, where it's a good fit.
They would sell a Kazillion of them!
Just today my wife was telling me she heard a C8 SUV might be coming and that she would want one. The C8 SUV appeals to the other half of the population.
The general public is hard to satisfy. Most don’t know are understand how a business works. I would love to have two Z06. One for tracking the other for traveling in. Then a ZR1 for street racing. Hell why not dream big.
Doesn’t seem like GM would want to build something slower like a seven speed manual, the six speed is actually stronger. Automatics much faster if you’re looking for real speed. Never SELL your C7’s. I never will. Been watching you, Rick for a while. Nice job. You always do a good job! hey Rick, I just want to tell you what it looks like from this side of the screen. You do a really good job better than you might know Corvette owners get the full experience of a Corvette by what you say and tell everybody about very thorough more thorough than anybody on the Internet along with drives. You explained it so well that people don’t even need to buy a Corvette to get the full feel of each Corvette the way you put it across. Never underestimate yourself señor. Being an owner like yourself you give everybody the jest of more than everything. Thank you, sir.
Thank-you Rick for ALL you do. I subscribe and look forward to your RUclips posts.
I bought a C8 in August and took it on the Caravan. It is my 10th Corvette since 1992.
I could go either way on the manual. Can make an argument for each. I would love to see a Grand Sport C8. My C7 GS is amazing and I can imagine what a C8 GS would be like.
I do not believe GM puts the time and money into R&D for a manual. Love to see a Grand Sport 🏁
I would say that the manual transmission would be a good idea as it helps cement the commitment to being an enthusiast car. It probably doesn’t make companies like Porsche a ton of money , but it keeps the focus on the driving experience.
I like the connection with the manual gearbox. May provide reduced maintenance albeit a slower vehicle. Congrats on being top ten dealer through October.
Rick, waiting on the Black Rose C8 Grand Sport, that would be the ultimate package.
Things to change for the C9. A remote trans, fill plus a larger remote trans filter that uses some sort of high quality, mass produced, commercial filter element. Larger rigidly mounted rearview camera screen built into the overhead console on both HTC and coupes. They could add cameras in each outside mirror and slit the overhead screen so it's panoramic, showing down each side and out the back, no more blind spots. For the C9 they could start mounding the radiators flat/horizontal, and duct the air up and through, reducing damage from rocks along with reducing the size of the openings and reducing the CD rating of the car. Loved the driving video Rick. I'm looking for a nice used C8, what year should I be looking for.
I loved my manual C6 Z06. But I also love my C8 auto. Would I go back to a manual? No, not unless the trans was bully for stout and gearing matched better to the power ranges. As for C-9, would love a passenger panic bar, and a highway cruiser that gets 30 mpg or better- like my big grunt 2009 C6 Z06 did on a regular basis! Of course, trunk storage has got to be more! Reengineer the heat sink in the rear to keep the storage area closer to ambient temp.
I’d order a replacement for my 24MY stingray day one if they released a manual option.
We also drive Corvettes as an enthusiast and that’s why GM should come back out with a manual transmission. It’s so nice to go through the gears when I take my C7 GS out on the weekends… you never get bored when you drive a powerful sports car like the C7 and C8’s … I sure hope GM comes back out with a manual transmission .
I wish I could drive a manual! ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉😊😊😊
I will teach you, Maggie! 😊😊
When looking for info on current and future corvettes, I rely only on your content.
I frankly love the auto but love the discussion among enthusiasts especially you Rick. I still think, hope and would pray for you Rick driving a PACE car and GM should make it happen. Let’s work on it again. For me, I have only one dream and that is to get an ERay before the C8 run is over. Thanks Rick for all you do!
It is a manual.Press the "M" button,and shift manualy! Just no foot clutch! Much faster,much better!
@@WandaKetler yeah that’s right the paddle shifters are amazing
Way back in '77 my 1st corvette was an LT-1 car. More recently my second corvette in '05 was a '90 ZR-1. My '21 C8 is the first corvette I've owned that didn't have 3 pedals. The first two only came one way, 3 pedals. I haven't had my C8 long enough (I'm the second owner) to formulate an opinion except to say it is a very different driving experience and I'm still learning my car. FWIW, I only drive my C8 in track mode with the transmission in manual. Save the Wave!
Rick great vlog!! 7 speed manual transmission may not be a bad thing!! Life's a Dream, Drive it!!👍🏽
I daily a 6MT ATS and I love it, I think the C8 is better with the DCT, more performance oriented. I get the weekend backroad / cruising crowd wants to row their own because its fun, but on track, the DCT will eat the MT 10 out of 10 times. Merits to both depending on use case. As for the C9, I hope they can drop 200-300lbs out of the car.
Ricky dropping some teasers! Heck ya!
I just transitioned to a C8 HTC from a 6MT 370z Nismo. While I miss banging through the gears, my knee just couldn’t handle ATL traffic anymore.
My C8 solved that issue for good! I don’t really miss the Z. That’s the past; the C8 is the future!
Rick - I love the DCT. The C8 is my 3rd Corvette. The previous ones were also automatic. Yes I learned to drive on a stick, three on the tree and I have had a few manuals over the years, but no thank you to a manual Corvette.
Rick, I have a 2018 Grand Sport with a manual transmission. I bought it brand new and it is the first corvette that I have owned (kids' college came first). I am 75 now and I agree with what you said about a manual transmission; you are never going to see a manual transmission in a corvette. It is fun to drive, but it is getting old, especially because I live in the Washington-Philadelphia corridor. I would love to buy a new corvette but what is holding me back is the transmission issues they had in the C7, and it appears they are still working out the bugs on C8 automatic transmission. I am hoping for a grand sport with a price point between the sting ray and e-ray, and getting rid of all the bugs in the transmission so there is no class action litigation like there is on the C7 corvette.
C8 Grand Sport - YES! The C8 GS is the only thing that I would give up my 19 GS for especially if the 2026 interior redesign gives me more room (head room and less bolstering in the seats). As far as the C9 - more interior room, better mileage and a better DCT that will not break.
I honestly don’t think there is a market anymore for a manual corvette , paddles are the new age
you 🏳🌈
@@manuelpiston don’t get the flag bro ?
So wrong .. Corvette without a manual is just wrong and boring
You said it Rick, no one can out shift a DCT so a manual's out. The C9 Corvette need a sleeker body with active aero wing, butterfly doors, 4 wheel lowering, center lock wheels and an aggressive rear defuser with an F1 light.
I appreciate your videos. Always good content. BoS is the only other Corvette channel I watch on a regular basis. Your explanation of the difference between you and BoS is spot on.
I have always enjoyed manual transmissions. I have found that arthritis and sciatica can limit one’s ability to use a manual. A manual would be fascinating in a C8 but I wonder what the true market is?
I remember your conversations where you mentioned the possibility of a C8 GS. That was exciting. I was convinced that would be what I wanted. That is until this August when I got a call about a Z06 (non-Z07) that had arrived at the dealership. I no longer want a GS! Wow!
As for the C9; what would I like to see? I have no clue what GM/Chevrolet have learned (and continue to learn) in their market research. But, as much as I like the LT2, I would like to see a detuned LT6 in the Stingray. It might help to put more focus on that engine as a more “practical” or “economical” engine for a touring car. I also have to say that since I have a Z06, I would want to stay with that It’s addicting!
Thanks Rick!
Thumb Smash !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great content Rick......
Thank-you sir
Hey Rick, thank you for this great video with excellent insight and information! Also, thank you for being a true friend and having my back! You da man! 💪😊🇺🇸
I would absolutely trade in my C8 DCT for a 7SPD in a heart beat.
Rick I love your passion. That's why you'll be my guy when it's time to replace my 16 StingRay.
means a lot thank-you
Ready for the GS thats the one i want. And the SUV for the wife
Thanks Rick! We trust you!!
C9 STICK!!!
Rick, I really like how you had the rear camera facing forward during your presentation.
suction cup to back window and inside of windshield...two cams
Rick, you are the best .
C9- tear down the wall, change the headlights and tailights, grab handle for passenger
Some of that you are getting soon on C8
I unfollowed CGarnerSpeed over all his clickbait thumbnails IMO. Don’t waste my time.
Bro is lame and late.
Rick…you’re the best! Stay the course. Loved the stick shift story. “We wanna hear it…” 😂😂😂! This is why we come! Why to stand with Mike @BrinkOfSpeed ❗️
I just want to buy my FIRST corvette. Looking....I really like the C6, the ZO6 has me concerned about the LS7 problem...
Look me up directly when ready happy to help any way I can! rickconti@coughlincars.com
Good video, Rick. Thanks for the info. I’ve got a 7-spd manual 2018 Z06 and a 2024 HTC Z06. I’ve had a manual transmission as my daily since I was 17 y/o (I’m now 55). My 488 was my first DCT purchase, than my F8, and MC20 (same 8 spd DCT in this car as the Vettes). I will always keep my manual Z06, but really enjoying my DCT Z06. Surprisingly, I can honestly say, I don’t need a manual option (I know, heresy, right?).
I swear I saw a few years back GM patent a "virtual" manual, clutch and shifter. Maybe this is what they are testing. Best of both worlds.
Great video Rick! Love the drive and talk. Keep the content coming!👍😎
GS,GS,GS, Grand Sport.
They can do an 8-speed manual using the DCT. It is all a matter of how the DCT is controlled and the form factor of those controls. Even somewhat low dollar driving simulators have simulated clutch pedals and shifters. Back at the beginning of the C8 era, Tadge said there wasn't enough space to add a manual transmission along with the controls required to shift it. Making a simulated manual would provide the sense of a clutch while moving control of the gears from the paddles to a shifter mounted on console. The shifter doesn't have to be large as a lot of people have modified their previous model's shifters to short sticks that are smaller than their hands. The problem is doing that costs money and how many people would pay for the option? I doubt there wouldn't be enough to make the option profitable.
I may never get to buy a C8 from you, but greatly enjoy your videos. Could they do a manual yes, will they, only "they" know. C9, lighter. GS is Z body.
I don't see a manual transmission in Corvettes future paddle shifters are the way to go especially for younger drivers that did not learn to drive with a stick like myself. The C9 will probably see a restyling maybe address some design deficiencies like not being able to shift into neutral without the engine running. The problem with approaching the pinnacle of on street performance is that it gets tougher and tougher to top
Hell yes I'd get one with a stick shift. Not just a manual, but one with a shift rod. I'm old school with a modern touch. And I like modern with an old school touch.
I asked the kids who are just racing you Brody we found your channel
thanks so much!
For me no. I have a friend that passed on a c8 and bought a caddy. he loves the shifting.
Chev should offer a manual.
I don’t think a manual would sell enough units to justify the expense to develop one. I think Mike and the other full time RUclipsrs want a manual so much that they grasp at straws and give credence to the rumor mill. My 14 z51 is a 7 speed and I don’t plan to ever get rid of it. When I get a C8, I will stick with the automatic, just because I don’t think there is any way I could shift better than the DCT. Thanks for helping me with these questions, I keep seeing videos of the C9 but I won’t watch them because I only trust information from you. And I fully agree with you about the Soler! Love it.
Manual? YESSS!
Nice video. Let me start by saying, I did comment on BOS video about the std transmission, I said there are 2 chances of that happening, slim and none, know manufacturers the way I do, they aren’t and can’t just randomly decide to put in a std transmission, possibly in the C9, when ever that is maybe that would be a possibility, I still think it’s highly unlikely, for one of the reasons you mentioned, is 99% of people under 40ish, can drive a stick, and generally manufacturers don’t go backwards in technology. On the topic of grand sport, there is no doubt that will happen. I think I might be a good example, I love my 2020 C8, but with only 7k miles on it why trade for a 2025, it’s the same car, however a Grand sport, wide body, with likely a couple other enticing things that make customers want to trade there stingrays, cause there is something different and at a lower price point than Z06. I have a 2023 Z06 and I really like the car, I am not as hooked on the sound as a lot of people, the traditional V8 6.2 sounds very good also, then if you want to mod it some, the Z06 really isn’t able to be modded, but the 6.2s the LMRs of the world can get you any performance level you want, at less money than the Z06, and still have the traditional V8 sound. It’s all about choices, we all want choices. Thanks for all you do, and give all us corvette owners a platform to talk and share ideas. experiences and make new friends. Take care everyone.
Rick, thanks for this video. I saw the BOS post and the thing that stood out to me was the picture show looked like the interior of a C7. So I was skeptical.
A C8 with a MT would be perfect (for me). I"ve always had manual transmissions in my sport cars and the DCT was a compromise I was willing to make to get everything else the C8 offers, but I'd sell it in a heartbeat to buy a C8 with a 7-speed MT if one ever existed. I realize I'm an anachronism in today's market.
Awesome stuff Rick! You certainly give us a lot to think about. I would definitely be interested in both a Grand Sport and an SUV! Keep up the good work.
Perhaps make the C8 Grand Sport a manual. Make it a car which the driver can be engaged. Not so much power, so you can fully exercise the engine. Manual transmission with good gear spacing. Good sound.
I love the styling of the C7 Grand Sport and the fact it was available with a manual transmission. Pairing that with a rear mid-engine platform would be awesome.
I do realize car production does involve economics. I prefer a sports car with a manual transmission, but GM does have to contend with the fact that, given the choice, only a small percentage of drivers, something like 6%, choose the manual. We’ll see what happens.
Maintenance on a manual would be so much easier. But there's going to be so much going on with the forecasted Zora, I just don't see it. Maybe ZR1 or Z06, but with the electric motors, just wow, talk about complex. I'm still loving my C7 Z06 M7.
If I was buying a C8, I'd definitely prefer a manual over an automatic, but it would have to be in my price range. I don't care about what's faster, I just enjoy the driving experience that a manual transmission provides. 3 of my last 4 vehicles were manuals. The only automatic I was sharing with my daughter! 😂
It would have to be clutch by wire. When sales of C8’s slow, they just might do something to stimulate sales. Of course, the C9 is in design stage now
Yes, yes,yes! I will buy any C8 (Z06, ZR1) if the M7 is available.
No brainer. I would love a manual c8!
I love driving my C5 50th Anniversary Convertible Rick! I will miss driving her, but I will go visit her in Southern Illinois! ❤❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉😊😊😊
I would buy a c8 GS in a heart beat. ERay and Z06 are out of my budget but a c8 GS in between a Stingray and the Z/ERay…now we’re talking. If they made a manual option, I would take the manual but would be happy with a DCT.
As much as I love the looks of the C8 I personally wouldn’t buy one because I can’t get a manual transmission in one. It’s a great car, but driving a manual only adds to the driving experience. There is nothing like the connection of having a manual and interacting with it
Great Vic, top notch vidoe today on the 7 Speed C8 2025, you're an Honest with Respect & Honor & Knows the U.S.A. Corvette's you tell the truth & Dignity of what goes n updates today's world. We here in Central NJ Say Thank You . Hello to Great Tech C8 CHUCK METTS//\\ .
I have driven many of the high end cars at events. I’ve had manuals. I own C8. I got rid of my Miata for this C8.
I love the C8. It’s for me a great middle of the road sports car. I love Porsche, BMW, Ferrari and Lambos, but was pragmatic with my C8 purchase.
I love track days. I won the first auto cross that I accidentally entered and got GoPro for my efforts.
I’m out every weekend carving the closest things to canyons in the Midwest. I’ve driven some of the best tracks in the United States and great tracks and high Alpine roads in Europe recently.
C9 my desires…
I feel the design needs to change. Or , GM drop down to a new Fiero, or similar smaller MRE coupe.
Id like for them to tighten up the dimensions and again I love the 911s rear package seats. I’d buy a high output turbo four-cylinder.
Toyota, and my son is in Toyota city right now as a Toyota engineer, they’re coming out with their replacement MR 2. I love the Boxster and I even like the Alfa 4C size cars as well. First thing that blew my mind was no power steering when I drove that!
Again I just had a Miata, and the Corvette is gigantic.
My current ride was only available in a manual. I wish the C8 had one.
C9 should have real active arrow! Battery option that was promised with the eray to drive atleast 35 miles on a charge but kick in like a hit of nitro when u press the pedal! Awb optional. And a real auto stick like the camaro 10 speed but in a 7 would be also a cool option!
A manual Gran Sport just might do it for me!
I did a quick little bit of research and the 68 Corvette was about 82 % manuals . By 79 it was around 22% manuals . This trend has continued up to the C7 generation where automatic trasmission are the higher sales numbers . Not many young enthusiasts want a manual or even know how to drive one .
C8 needs more headroom please. Used to accommodate athletes, which many times are taller than average.