C5-R Corvette Ready for 24 Hours of Le Mans (2003)
In this article titled “C5-R Corvette Ready for 24 Hours of Le Mans (2003),” we learn that they returned with two all-new race cars to defend their GTS title. Read about the new Corvette C5-R’s #50 & #53 in this press release from 2003.
We are looking at the 2003 Corvette Press Kit for the 50th-anniversary Celebration in Nashville. This is one of the press releases that was included in the media kit. The event took place in Nashville, Tennessee on June 27 and 28, 2003. The kit included fourteen press releases. We will provide links at the bottom of the press releases for you to enjoy.
For Release: April 17, 2003, 9 a.m. ET
NEW C5-R Corvette Ready for 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003
The latest version of the American Icon Boasts a Patriotic Livery and Major Technological Advancements
DETROIT – Fresh from a dominating victory at The 12 Hours of Sebring in March, the General Motors Chevrolet Corvette Racing team returns to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June with two all-new race cars to defend their GTS title. Already the most successful Corvette in history, the C5-R is the two-time defending GTS class champion at the legendary Le Sarthe circuit and in the American Le Mans Series.
“We have worked hard to improve our Corvette C5-Rs and this latest version is our best yet,” said Doug Fehan, GM’s program manager for Corvette Racing. “First and foremost is our new engine intake system, which we found in our race at Sebring to be very good on power with improved driveability and fuel efficiency. We’re also running a new sequential gearbox and an updated transaxle, which will give us greater flexibility to tailor our driveline to Le Mans and other circuits throughout the year.”
A new red, white, and blue livery for both cars will provide a patriotic canvas for the team’s new car numbers, #50 and #53, which celebrate the marque’s reign of 50 years since 1953 as America’s sports car icon.
“There’s nothing like driving a Chevrolet to victory,” said Johnny O’Connell, driver of the #53 Corvette C5-R and winner of The 12 Hours of Sebring in March. “And there will be nothing sweeter than claiming a victory at Le Mans in our new red, white, and blue Corvette!”
With 24 straight hours of racing against tough competition from three Ferrari 550 Maranellos, two Saleen S7Rs, and others in the GTS class, Corvette Racing will rely on their time-tested machinery, efficient pit work, and an experienced driver lineup in hopes of capturing three Le Mans victories in a row. This year’s driver lineup:
#50 Corvette C5-R #53 Corvette C5-R (Chassis C5-R 008) (Chassis C5-R 009) Kelly Collins Ron Fellows Oliver Gavin Johnny O’Connell Andy Pilgrim Franck Freon
C5-R Corvette Ready for 24 Hours of Le Mans
The new C5-Rs will make their international debut at Le Mans Open Test weekend in early May, which is a precursor to the 24-hour race in June.
General Motors (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide, and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.
For a look at the 2003 Corvette Press Kit CLICK HERE
Here are the links to the press releases included in the 2003 Corvette 50th Anniversary Celebration (there were 14 press releases in all)
Corvette 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2003
Racer Andy Pilgrim Lead’s Corvette’s 50th Anniversary in 2003
C5-R Corvette Ready for 24 Hours of Le Mans (2003)
2004 Corvette Product Information
History of Corvette Design Engineering – 50s-90s
Corvette Powertrain History 50-Years of Development
Every month, Vette Vues Magazine covers Corvette owners and Corvette events. Subscriptions are mailed right to your home or office. Stay up to date with all the latest Corvette news by signing up today. SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
While you are here, check out our great selection of Corvette T-shirts, Corvette Hats / Caps for Sale, and assorted Corvette Totes, Coolers, and Bags for Sale, all offering Free United States Shipping.
