Founding Fathers Pt 3: Bill Mitchell, Corvette Designer
Delve into the story of Bill Mitchell, the design force behind Corvette’s signature style. From sweeping lines to timeless aesthetics, learn how his vision defined the Corvette look.
Delve into the story of Bill Mitchell, the design force behind Corvette’s signature style. From sweeping lines to timeless aesthetics, learn how his vision defined the Corvette look.
With all the chitter-chatter in the C7 Corvette rumor mill about a possible mid-engine Corvette, we thought it would be fun to take a trip back to 1973 for a look at what many thought would be the replacement for the C3 Mako Shark-styled Corvette. Corvette chief of engineering, Zora Arkus-Duntov had been pitching the mid-engine layout since the 1960 CERV II car. Not only was the AeroVette a mid-engine layout, it was to be powered by a 420-horsepower, 4-rotor Wankel rotor-motor engine. GM had licensing rights to develop the radical rotary engine that seemed to have a lot of potential.
It was probably a hot July day in Detroit when William L. “Bill” Mitchell quietly retired from General Motors after 42 years of service! Volumes could be written about this man. Mitchell looms large in the Corvette world
The 1963 Split-Window Corvette is one of the most iconic designs in automotive history — but what happens when the split window is removed? This intriguing story explores a modified Sting Ray that challenges convention, examines design intent versus owner preference, and highlights how even Corvette legends evolve over time.