Digital artist Abimelec Arellano (@abimelecdesign), widely known for his imaginative automotive designs, recently unveiled a captivating concept that reimagines the 1987 Chevrolet Corvette C4 with elements borrowed from the iconic 1987 Buick GNX. Arellano’s creation, aptly named the “Turbo-Corvette from alternate universe 1987,” merges the sinister aesthetics of the GNX with the sleek silhouette of the Corvette, resulting in a striking and futuristic interpretation.
The Genesis of the Turbo-Corvette Concept –
In 1987, the Buick GNX hit the scene with an updated turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 276 horsepower and 360 lb.-ft. of torque. The GNX kicked the Corvette C4 to the side in straight-line acceleration and quarter-mile times despite the C4 producing 240 horsepower and 345 lb.-ft. of torque.
The 1987 GNX achieved a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and completed the quarter-mile sprint in 13.5 seconds at 102 mph. In comparison, the Corvette C4 lagged behind with a 0 to 60 mph time of around 5.7 seconds and a quarter-mile time of approximately 14.3 seconds at 96 mph.
In his exploration of automotive design, Arellano delved into the hypothetical scenario of General Motors deviating from tradition and transplanting the turbocharged V6 engine from the GNX into the Corvette C4. This imaginative exercise sparked the creation of the Turbo-Corvette, a vehicle that combines the raw power of the GNX with the timeless allure of the Corvette.
A Fusion of Style and Performance –
Arellano’s vision for the Turbo-Corvette encompasses a range of visual enhancements inspired by the GNX, including a subtle ground effects kit, a spoiler, extra foglights, and over-fenders to accommodate wider radials wrapped around mesh wheels. The interior, finished in gray reminiscent of the GNX, adds to the cohesive and sinister aesthetic of the concept. By seamlessly blending elements from both vehicles, Arellano has crafted a design that captivates the imagination and prompts reflection on what could have been for the Corvette.
Your Turbo Vette, Your Choice –
Arellano’s concept also invites viewers to ponder their ideal color scheme for the Turbo-Corvette. Whether it’s the iconic Darth Vader black, the crisp and clean “it’s-definitely-flour” white, or a daring color shift pink paint, the possibilities are as endless as the imagination.
With its fusion of GNX-inspired aesthetics and Corvette performance, this concept is a captivating tribute to both iconic vehicles. As we eagerly await the future of the Corvette with the upcoming 2025 C8 ZR1, Arellano’s creation reminds us of the boundless potential for imagination and creativity in the automotive world.
, widely known for his imaginative automotive designs, recently unveiled a captivating concept that reimagines the 1987 Chevrolet Corvette C4 with elements borrowed from the iconic 1987 Buick GNX. Arellano's creation, aptly named the "Turbo-Corvette from alternate universe 1987," merges the sinister aesthetics of the GNX with the sleek silhouette of the Corvette, resulting in a striking and futuristic interpretation.){kind=link}