2017 Black Corvette Overview: Specifications, Performance, Trims, and Used Buyer Guide

The 2017 Chevrolet Corvette C7 in factory Black (color code GBA) represents a high point in modern, front-engine American sports car architecture. Available across Stingray, Grand Sport, and Z06 variants, this model combines a high-output V8 engine options, advanced chassis dynamics, aggressive widebody exterior options, and updated cabin electronics.

Understanding the 2017 C7 Corvette Generation

The 2017 model year holds a distinct position within the seventh-generation (C7) Chevrolet Corvette production run (2014–2019). Engineered under the direction of Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter, the C7 platform abandoned traditional frame rails in favor of a hydroformed aluminum space frame that was 99 pounds lighter and 57 percent stiffer than the preceding C6 generation's structure.

• 2017 C7 Corvette Platform (Hydroformed Aluminum Space Frame & Composite Panels)
  • Stingray / Z51
    • 6.2L LT1 NA V8
    • Standard Bodywork
  • Grand Sport
    • 6.2L LT1 NA V8
    • Widebody Chassis
  • Z06
    • 6.2L LT4 Supercharged
    • Widebody Chassis

For 2017, Chevrolet made several noteworthy refinements across the lineup:

• Introduction of the Grand Sport: The marquee addition for 2017 was the revival of the Grand Sport moniker. It combined the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT1 engine from the Stingray with the widebody architecture, upgraded cooling, magnetic suspension, and braking systems of the supercharged Z06.
• Supercharger Cooling Upgrades on Z06: Responding to thermal management concerns on early C7 Z06 models during sustained track use, Chevrolet revised the supercharger housing cover and raised the intercooler bricks inside the LT4 engine for 2017, increasing air volume to reduce heat soak.
• Infotainment Updates: The 2017 model year retained the Chevrolet MyLink 8-inch touchscreen interface with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alongside performance data logging software updates for the optional Performance Data Recorder (PDR).
• Cosmetic and Option Revisions: Chevrolet introduced new wheel designs, optional red or blue seatbelts, and distinct appearance packages, including the Satin Black Twilight Blue and Spice Red Design Packages.

Black Exterior Paint Codes, Finish Characteristics, and Styling Packages

Selecting a 2017 Corvette in black provides a sleek, aggressive aesthetic, but evaluating a pre-owned vehicle requires an understanding of GM's paint codes, accent finishes, and package variations.

Factory Paint Code GBA

The standard solid black paint offered on the 2017 Corvette carries General Motors color code GBA (commercial code WA8555). Unlike metallic or pearl finishes, GBA Black is a non-metallic, deep jet-black basecoat/clearcoat system.

• Visual Depth: When properly detailed, GBA Black delivers an exceptionally deep finish. However, solid non-metallic black reflects light directly without metallic flake to diffuse fine imperfections.
• Maintenance Profile: Solid black paint easily reveals swirl marks, wash marring, fine clearcoat scratches, and road dust. Buyers seeking a black C7 should inspect the paint condition under direct lighting or specialized detailing lights to distinguish between superficial clearcoat hazing and deeper paint defects.

Carbon Flash Metallic Accents

Chevrolet frequently paired GBA Black exteriors with accent pieces finished in Carbon Flash Metallic (paint code GAR). Carbon Flash is a metallic charcoal/black paint with fine glass-flake pigment used on specific trim elements:

• Exterior side mirrors and rear spoiler (when the option package is selected)
• Front grille crossbar and hood air extractor vent
• Fender vents and rear bumper diffuser panel
• Badging and emblems (if equipped with the Black Badge Package)

On a GBA Black car, Carbon Flash Metallic accents create a subtle contrast between the solid black body panels and the metallic sheen of the aerodynamic hardware.

Wheel Finishes and Dark Exterior Packages

Chevrolet offered multiple factory wheel choices that alter the visual presentation of a black 2017 Corvette:

• Gloss Black Aluminum Wheels: Standard design patterns finished in high-gloss black paint.
• Satin Black Wheels with Red Stripe: Available on select performance trim levels, offering a matte finish with a painted outer lip.
• Machined-Face Aluminum Wheels: Black-painted pockets with polished alloy outer spoke faces.

Buyers interested in a darker finish often look for cars equipped with the Black Suede Design Package or standalone black trim packages, which replaced chrome front grille strips and bright badging with dark-finished components from the factory.

Performance and Drivetrain: LT1 vs. Supercharged LT4

The 2017 Corvette powertrain lineup centers around two small-block V8 engines paired with either a 7-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

• 2017 Powertrain Configurations
  • LT1 Naturally Aspirated 6.2L V8
    • 455 HP / 460 HP (with NPP)
    • Active Fuel Management (V4 mode)
    • Wet or Dry Sump Oiling Systems
  • LT4 Supercharged 6.2L V8
    • 650 HP / 650 lb-ft Torque
    • Eaton R1740 TVS Supercharger
    • Standard Dry Sump Oiling System
  • Tremec TR-6070 7-Speed Manual
    • Active Rev Matching
    • Dual-Mass Flywheel
  • GM 8L90 8-Speed Automatic
    • Torque Converter w/ Paddles
    • Performance Algorithm Shift

6.2-Liter LT1 V8 (Stingray and Grand Sport)

The naturally aspirated LT1 engine powers both the standard Stingray and the widebody Grand Sport. Key technical specifications include:

• Displacement: 6.2 liters (376 cubic inches)
• Architecture: Overhead valve (OHV) pushrod layout, 16 valves, aluminum block and cylinder heads
• Fuel Delivery: Direct high-pressure fuel injection (up to 2,175 psi)
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT): Dual-equal cam phasing adjusting camshaft timing relative to the crankshaft
• Output: 455 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM and 460 lb-ft of torque @ 4,600 RPM in standard configuration
• NPP Dual-Mode Exhaust: Selecting the optional factory performance exhaust increases output to 460 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque by opening vacuum- or electronically-actuated valves under high load, reducing backpressure.

6.2-Liter Supercharged LT4 V8 (Z06)

The performance flagship of the 2017 range is the supercharged LT4 V8, exclusive to the Z06 model:

• Output: 650 horsepower @ 6,400 RPM and 650 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 RPM
• Forced Induction: Eaton R1740 TVS 1.7-liter positive-displacement roots-type supercharger capable of spinning up to 20,000 RPM, producing up to 9.5 psi of boost pressure.
• Internal Components: Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads, forged aluminum pistons, titanium intake valves, and a high-strength forged steel crankshaft.

Transmission Options

1. Tremec TR-6070 7-Speed Manual: Features driver-selectable Active Rev Matching, which automatically blips the throttle during downshifts by monitoring gear-lever position sensors. Includes a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch assembly.
2. GM 8L90 8-Speed Automatic: A paddle-shift automatic transmission incorporating a torque converter with lockup control. Features Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), which engages aggressive shift maps during hard braking and cornering.

Trim Hierarchy Breakdown: 1LT/1LZ through 3LT/3LZ

Chevrolet organized the 2017 Corvette range across three distinct chassis levels—Stingray, Grand Sport, and Z06—each subdivided into three interior equipment groups.

• 2017 Trim & Level Matrix
  • Stingray (Standard Track)
    • 1LT / 1LZ (Entry Interior)
    • 2LT / 2LZ (Mid-Tier Comfort)
    • 3LT / 3LZ (Full Leather/Tech)
  • Grand Sport (Widebody Chassis)
    • 1LT / 1LZ (Entry Interior)
    • 2LT / 2LZ (Mid-Tier Comfort)
    • 3LT / 3LZ (Full Leather/Tech)
  • Z06 (Supercharged WB)
    • 1LT / 1LZ (Entry Interior)
    • 2LT / 2LZ (Mid-Tier Comfort)
    • 3LT / 3LZ (Full Leather/Tech)

Package Options: Z51 and Z07

• Z51 Performance Package (Stingray Only): Upgrades the base Stingray with dry-sump engine oiling, larger 13.6-inch front brake rotors, dual-cast rotors, specific suspension tuning, differential and transmission fluid coolers, an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD), shorter gear ratios (manual transmission), and aerodynamic front splitters and rear spoilers.
• Z07 Ultimate Performance Package (Grand Sport & Z06): Adds Brembo carbon-ceramic matrix brake rotors (394mm front, 388mm rear), Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ultra-high-performance tires, aggressive adjustable aerodynamic components (transparent wickerbill rear spoiler extension), and unique calibration for the Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers.

Interior Equipment Tiers (1LT/1LZ, 2LT/2LZ, 3LT/3LZ)

• 1LT (Stingray/GS) / 1LZ (Z06): Includes keyless entry/ignition, GT bucket seats wrapped in Mulan leather, 8-way power seat adjustment, power tilt/telescoping steering column, 9-speaker Bose audio system, rear vision camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and standard 8-inch infotainment screen.
• 2LT / 2LZ: Adds driver seat memory settings, power bolster and lumbar adjustments, heated and ventilated seats, 10-speaker Bose premium audio system with bass box, Head-Up Display (HUD) with track telemetry displays, curb-view front parking cameras, auto-dimming mirrors, and side blind-zone alert.
• 3LT / 3LZ: The flagship luxury interior package. Expands seating upholstery to Nappa leather, adds full leather wrapping to the dashboard, instrument panel, door panel armrests, and center console, includes synthetic suede-microfiber upper trim pillars and headliner, and makes the factory navigation system standard.

Technical Specifications Comparison

The table below outlines verified factory performance data, mechanical specifications, and chassis dimensions across the three primary 2017 Corvette models:

Known Mechanical Considerations and Inspection Points

Evaluating a pre-owned 2017 Corvette requires targeting known technical trouble spots unique to the C7 platform and specific powertrain configurations.

Key Inspection Checklist for Used Buyers:

1. Transmission Fluid Status: Check for shudder (GM TSB 18-NA-355)
2. Factory Cast Alloy Wheels: Inspect inner barrels for bends/cracks
3. Dashboard Trim Condition: Check 3LT/3LZ leather along windshield
4. Magnetic Dampers: Check lower body tubes for oil leaks
5. Torque Tube Bearings: Listen for metallic rattles at idle
6. Solid Black Paint (GBA): Inspect clearcoat with detail lighting

1. 8-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder (GM TSB 18-NA-355)

The GM 8L90 8-speed automatic transmission is prone to torque converter clutch shudder caused by moisture absorption in the original factory automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

• Symptom: A shudder or sensation similar to driving over rumble strips under light acceleration at speeds between 25 and 65 MPH, along with erratic RPM fluctuations.
• Remedy: General Motors released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 18-NA-355, prescribing a full transmission fluid flush using Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP fluid. In severe cases where fluid flushing was delayed, torque converter replacement may be necessary. Prospective buyers should verify service records for this TSB execution.

2. Factory Cast Alloy Wheel Cracking and Bending (Grand Sport & Z06)

The wider 19x10 front and 20x12 rear wheels fitted to Grand Sport and Z06 models were manufactured using a low-pressure cast aluminum process. Due to their wide inner barrels and low-profile run-flat tire sidewalls, these wheels are susceptible to bending or hairline structural cracking along the inside lip after pothole impacts.

• Inspection Protocol: Raise the vehicle on a hoist and rotate each wheel while inspecting the inner rim edge for radial runout (wobble) or visible hairline cracks, particularly on vehicles showing high tire balance weights.

3. Dashboard Leather Shrinkage (3LT / 3LZ Trim Levels)

Vehicles equipped with the 3LT or 3LZ premium wrapped leather interior can experience dashboard upholstery separation. Solar heating and UV exposure cause the natural leather stretched over the passenger-side dashboard and defrost vent area to shrink, pulling away from the underlying adhesive and bubbling.

• Inspection Protocol: Run a hand along the top surface of the dashboard near the windshield base to feel for raised bubbles, pulled seams, or detached leather along the defroster vent trim. Replacing a damaged 3LT dashboard assembly requires complete instrument panel removal.

4. Torque Tube and Propeller Shaft Assembly Wear

The C7 uses a rear-mounted transaxle connected to the engine via a rigid aluminum torque tube housing a central drive shaft supported by internal rubber couplers (guibos) and bearings.

• Symptom: Metallic rattling, high-frequency driveline vibration, or ticking noises originating from the central tunnel area during engine idle or under load shifts.
• Remedy: Replacing worn torque tube bearings or internal rubber prop-shaft couplers requires removing the rear suspension subframe and transaxle assembly.

5. Magnetic Selective Ride Control Shock Seepage

Vehicles equipped with Magnetic Ride Control (standard on GS/Z06, optional on Z51) utilize fluid filled with iron particles controlled by electromagnetic coils within the damper body.

• Inspection Protocol: Inspect lower shock absorber bodies for heavy fluid leakage. While a light misting of dampness is deemed acceptable by GM service criteria, liquid drops or pooled fluid indicates internal seal failure, requiring damper unit replacement.

Maintenance, Running Costs, and Ownership Realities

Operating a 2017 Corvette involves specific maintenance procedures and consumable expenses that differ significantly from standard passenger cars.

Engine Oil and Dry-Sump Maintenance

• Oil Capacity and Specification:
  • Wet-sump LT1 engines (Base Stingray) require 7.0 quarts of Dexos1-approved synthetic oil (typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 ESP).
  • Dry-sump LT1 and LT4 engines (Stingray Z51, Grand Sport, and Z06) require 9.8 quarts of Mobil 1 synthetic oil.
• Dry-Sump Checking Procedure: Checking oil level on dry-sump engines requires running the engine until operating temperature reaches at least 175°F (80°C), shutting off the ignition, and waiting between 5 to 10 minutes before checking the dipstick located on the external oil reservoir tank. Checking the level immediately after engine shutdown or after standing cold yields inaccurate dipstick readings, leading to overfilling.

Tires and Alignment

The factory Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP (Zero Pressure) run-flat tires feature aggressive compound formulations.

• Tire Life Expectancy: Expect average tread life between 12,000 and 18,000 miles for standard Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires under normal street driving. The ultra-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires found on Z07-equipped models may wear out in under 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
• Replacement Costs: Replacing a full set of factory-sized 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tires for widebody Grand Sport or Z06 models requires a significant consumable budget.

Fuel Requirements

Both LT1 and LT4 engines require premium unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 Octane AKI; 93 Octane recommended for optimal performance). The LT1 features Active Fuel Management (AFM), which deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 under light throttle cruising conditions to improve highway fuel economy. However, the supercharged LT4 engine in the Z06 does not utilize cylinder deactivation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact paint code for a black 2017 Corvette?

The standard black factory exterior paint code for the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette is GBA (also referenced in GM service manuals as color code WA8555). Accent black metallic components use code GAR (Carbon Flash Metallic).

Is the 2017 Corvette Grand Sport better than the Stingray Z51?

The 2017 Grand Sport offers performance upgrades over the Stingray Z51 by combining the Z51's 460-hp LT1 engine with the wider chassis track, larger brakes, updated cooling, standard Magnetic Ride Control, and wider tires of the Z06. This gives the Grand Sport superior lateral grip (up to 1.05g standard) and high-speed stability without the higher thermal loads and fuel consumption of the supercharged Z06.

How do I fix the 8-speed automatic transmission shudder in a 2017 Corvette?

The initial step is completing GM TSB 18-NA-355, which involves a machine flush of the torque converter and transmission casing using Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP fluid. This replaces moisture-susceptible fluid with a revised synthetic formula. If shuddering persists post-flush, the torque converter must be mechanically inspected and replaced.

Why do leather dashboards bubble on 3LT and 3LZ models?

Leather dashboard lifting occurs because 3LT and 3LZ packages use genuine natural leather stretched over composite dashboard structures. Direct heat and ultraviolet (UV) light exposure pull moisture from the leather, causing it to shrink, weaken the factory adhesive, and pull away from windshield-adjacent channels. Parking with sunshades or applying quality UV-blocking window film reduces this risk.

What was updated on the 2017 Corvette Z06 engine compared to 2015–2016 models?

For 2017, GM updated the Z06's LT4 engine supercharger cover to elevate the internal intercooler bricks by approximately 20 millimeters and angled them slightly outward. This design improved air balance across the rear cylinders, reducing charge-air temperatures and lowering the risk of thermal throttling during open-track driving.

Final Recommendations for Buyers

When evaluating a pre-owned 2017 Black Corvette:

1. Prioritize Service History: Look for documented evidence of transmission fluid flushes (for automatic models) and routine oil service adhering to GM's dry-sump oil level procedures.
2. Perform a Wheel Inspection: Prioritize a visual and physical check of the inner rim barrels on Grand Sport and Z06 variants to ensure no cracked or bent wheels are present.
3. Assess Interior Condition: Inspect the upper instrument panel on 3LT/3LZ trim models for leather shrinkage before finalizing purchase terms.
4. Evaluate Paint Depth: When buying solid GBA Black, budget for paint correction (polishing) and a clear paint protection film (PPF) on the high-impact front fascia, hood, and rear quarter panels to maintain the finish and prevent road-debris chipping.

With proper maintenance and thorough pre-purchase verification, the 2017 Black Corvette remains one of the most capable performance sports cars available on the used market.