The One Millionth Corvette stands as one of the most important vehicles ever produced in American automotive history. More than a symbol of production success, it represents decades of innovation, performance, and cultural impact. While many people associate this historic car with the 2014 sinkhole incident at the National Corvette Museum, its story reaches far beyond that moment.

This article explores the full history of the One Millionth Corvette, from its creation on the assembly line to its restoration and continued role in preserving Corvette heritage.

What Is the One Millionth Corvette?

The One Millionth Corvette is a white 1992 Chevrolet Corvette convertible produced on June 25, 1992, at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky. It marked the one millionth Corvette built since production began in 1953.

This milestone vehicle is based on the fourth-generation Corvette, commonly known as the C4 generation, which was produced from 1984 through 1996. The fourth generation represented major advancements in engineering, aerodynamics, and performance, helping modernize the Corvette for a new generation of drivers.

Why the One Millionth Corvette Was Special

To commemorate the milestone, the One Millionth Corvette was built with distinctive features that set it apart from standard production models.

Key Features:

• Exterior color: Arctic White
• Interior: Red leather
• Roof: White convertible top
• Engine: 5.7-liter LT1 V8
• Transmission: Automatic
• Wheels: Factory aluminum ‘saw-blade’ style
• Interior accents: Custom embroidery and trim identifying it as the one millionth Corvette

Every design choice was intentional. The white exterior and red interior paid tribute to the 1953 Corvette, while the modern LT1 engine represented the performance standards of the early 1990s.

Presentation to the National Corvette Museum

After its completion, the One Millionth Corvette was presented to the National Corvette Museum, which had opened its doors in 1994 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The vehicle became a centerpiece of the Museum’s growing collection and a tangible symbol of Corvette’s production legacy.

The car has never been sold to a private owner. From the beginning, it was preserved as a historical artifact rather than a commercial product.

The Corvette Legacy Behind the Milestone

When the One Millionth Corvette rolled off the assembly line in 1992, it represented nearly four decades of continuous development by Chevrolet and its parent company, General Motors.

Since its debut in 1953, the Corvette evolved from a modest fiberglass roadster into a global performance icon. By the early 1990s, it had established itself as a true American sports car, capable of competing with European and Japanese rivals on both road and track.

Reaching one million units confirmed that Corvette was not just a niche vehicle but a long-term success story in automotive manufacturing.

The 2014 Sinkhole Incident

On February 12, 2014, a massive sinkhole opened beneath the Museum’s Skydome exhibit area. Eight Corvettes were damaged in the collapse, including the One Millionth Corvette.

The vehicle suffered significant structural and cosmetic damage, including:

• Crushed body panels
• Bent frame components
• Broken suspension parts
• Severe underbody damage

Images and videos of the incident quickly spread worldwide, making the One Millionth Corvette a symbol of the disaster. While dramatic, this event represents only one chapter in the vehicle’s history.

Restoration and Preservation

Following the sinkhole collapse, the Museum made a deliberate decision to restore the One Millionth Corvette rather than leave it permanently damaged. The restoration involved: careful documentation of all damage, frame and structural repairs, rebuilding suspension components, replacing damaged body panels, refinishing the exterior and interior, mechanical inspection and restoration. The goal was not to make the car appear brand new, but to preserve its historical authenticity while returning it to display condition. Some evidence of the sinkhole damage remains visible, serving as part of the car’s story and educational value.

Visiting the One Millionth Corvette Today

Visitors to the National Corvette Museum can see the One Millionth Corvette on display as part of the Museum’s permanent collection. Interpretive signage and exhibits provide context about its production, features, sinkhole damage, and restoration. Seeing the vehicle in person offers a deeper appreciation for its craftsmanship, historical value, and resilience.

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Sales started slowly. By late summer, dealers reported customer hesitation. The car had a fabric top that leaked, no roll-up windows, and no exterior door handles. Its Powerglide automatic transmission and 150-horsepower Blue Flame six-cylinder engine did not match the performance many buyers expected from a sports car. Unsold 1953 models sat on dealer lots into the fall. Chevrolet executives began to question the future of the program. Production plans for 1954 called for 1,000 units per month, yet fewer than 200 cars had sold in the first six months. Some inside General Motors suggested canceling the Corvette before heavier losses occurred.

Motor Trend magazine published its December 1953 issue during this uncertain period. Inside, a multi-page road test written by technical editor Don MacDonald appeared. MacDonald drove a Corvette from Los Angeles to Yosemite and back. He praised the car’s fiberglass body, low weight, and precise steering. He noted the independent suspension provided handling that European sports cars struggled to match on American roads. Acceleration times and cornering ability received detailed attention. MacDonald acknowledged the side curtains and lack of roll-up windows, yet he presented these as acceptable trade-offs for a pure sports car design. The article included photographs of the Corvette on mountain roads and at high speeds. Comparison charts placed the Corvette against MG, Jaguar, and Triumph models. In most performance categories, the Chevrolet equaled or surpassed its imported rivals, often at a lower price.

Dealers later reported that customers brought copies of the Motor Trend issue into showrooms. Many buyers cited the article as a key reason for their purchase. Orders increased in early 1954. Chevrolet raised 1954 production from the original 1,000-unit plan to meet demand. The December 1953 Motor Trend coverage provided third-party validation at a moment when Chevrolet needed it most. Positive press from a respected automotive publication helped shift public perception. Buyers saw the Corvette as a credible competitor to established European brands.

Without the timing and tone of Motor Trend’s December 1953 coverage, the Corvette story might have ended after a single model year. Instead, the magazine’s endorsement gave Chevrolet the confidence and customer interest needed to continue production into 1954 and beyond. The Corvette enters its eighth decade because a magazine road test arrived when the car needed support most.

About the Museum

The National Corvette Museum, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit foundation, is where Adrenaline Meets Tradition®. Located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the Museum is dedicated to educating audiences on the evolution of the Corvette—America’s Sports Car—through the collection, preservation, and celebration of its legacy.

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Pratt Miller is giving enthusiasts a chance to be part of Corvette Racing history with the launch of the Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective.

This groundbreaking initiative is set to redefine fan engagement in the world of racing and will be centered around the Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports team, starting from the 2024 season. The Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective will offer its members unparalleled access to the team, creating an immersive experience unlike anything seen before.

This groundbreaking initiative is set to redefine fan engagement in the world of racing and will be centered around the Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports team, starting from the 2024 season. The Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective will offer its members unparalleled access to the team, creating an immersive experience unlike anything seen before.

At the heart of the Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective is the objective to bring fans closer to Corvette Racing than ever before. Members of the Collective will have the unique opportunity to delve into the inner workings of the team, gaining exclusive insights and experiences that were once reserved for insiders and team sponsors.

“With the launch of the Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective, we are revolutionizing the fan experience and creating an unprecedented level of access to the team,” said Matt Carroll, CEO of Pratt Miller. “We are thrilled to offer fans an immersive journey, allowing them to become an integral part of the team and celebrate the rich legacy of Corvette Racing.”

Members will have access to a range of carefully crafted and exclusive merchandise. These collectibles will serve as a badge of honor for members, signifying their involvement in this exclusive community.

Furthermore, the Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective offers a host of interactive experiences to engage fans throughout the racing season. Members will have the privilege of participating in team debriefs via video conferencing, granting them access to real-time discussions between drivers, engineers, and other crucial team members. This unprecedented level of transparency allows fans to witness the strategies and decision-making processes behind the scenes.

In addition to the debriefs, Collective members will be provided with a private number that enables them to send text messages directly to the pit road during races. This direct line of communication with the team fosters a sense of connection, enabling fans to share their support, ask questions, or provide encouragement to their favorite drivers in real-time. As well as live texting during race weekends, for members that can’t make it to a race they can watch via the teams popular alternative broadcast live stream that will be broadcast through a private link.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the Pratt Miller Motorsports Collective is the opportunity for members to come to one of four pre-selected races during the 2024 IMSA season as a guest of the team and watch from a trackside suite, meet team executives and drivers. This level of access is usually only reserved for corporate team sponsors.

Learn More

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Known for their engineering and fine attention to detail in the craftsmanship of their products, Callaway has been on the top of the high-performance field for over four decades. Originating in the garage of his Old Lyme home in 1977, Reeves Callaway began with modifications upon BMW 3 Series cars. Out of that work came his first turbo system that received a rave report when reviewed by Car & Driver Magazine. With his first project deemed a success, Callaway continued to develop other products, often with major vehicle manufacturers, such as Alfa Romeo, constructing the twin turbo system for their GTV6.

It was the Alfa GTV6 Twin Turbo which sparked interest within the ranks of General Motors (GM) towards Callaway Cars and their engineering abilities. In the early 80s, GM was looking at high performance powertrain options for the Corvette, including turbocharging and multi-valve technologies. GM was aware of Callaway’s reputation and the cars it had produced. In fact, they had taken a Callaway Alfa Twin Turbo and examined the work closely. After GM’s own single and twin turbo V6 and V8 projects had run their course, Dave McLellan, then Chief Engineer for Corvette, gave the nod to Callaway, authorizing development of a prototype. The resulting powertrain option was introduced in June 1986 under Regular Production Option (RPO) B2K. With 345 hp and 465 lb. ft of torque, the Callaway Twin Turbo engine option was engineered to be the ultimate Corvette package, producing tremendous power while retaining its emissions controls and a warranty.

With Chevrolet’s blessing, the Callaway Twin Turbo was officially launched, available through select Chevrolet dealers. It continues to hold the distinction of being the only engine package for the Corvette produced outside of GM to hold a RPO code. Produced between 1987 and 1991, 510 of these special Corvettes were built in coupe, convertible, and at the close of production, in Speedster form. By ordering a Corvette through the dealer, checking the box for RPO B2K triggered a series of events, including special equipment and handling under SEO Z5G.

Throughout production, evolutionary changes were made. Optional cast magnesium Dymag wheels were available in 1987 in a 16-inch diameter and, later, a 17-inch size. In 1988, power levels increased to 382 and torque to 565 lb-ft. That year also saw the 17-inch Dymag wheels as standard equipment with other options such as an automatic transmission and full leather interior being offered. A new option for the 1989 B2K was the handsome AeroBody designed by Paul Deutschman and was first seen on the Callaway Sledgehammer Corvette, which achieved 254.76 MPH, a world-record that would stand for over 25 years. For 1990, horsepower rose to 390 and torque output was 562 lb-ft. However, the automatic transmission was discontinued. 1991 was the final year for this engine package and power was up again, to 403 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. In 1991, the breathtaking Speedster model was revealed; 10 Series I Speedsters were built, each a unique color combination.

In 1992, GM introduced the second-generation LT1 small block V8. Given inherent challenges to turbocharge, the Callaway SuperNatural Corvettes were born. Previously, Callaway Corvettes made their increased power through positive manifold pressure; now they made additional power through increased engine displacement or finesse. Initially called the CL1 (LT1) and CR1 (LT5), they designated the chassis from which they were built upon and were offered with a host of options: AeroBody, special paint colors, full leather interiors, special wheels, brakes, and exhaust systems. Cars could either be ordered and shipped directly to Callaway’s facility in Old Lyme or a select authorized installer. Existing Corvettes could also be sent for conversion. Available between 1992 and 1996, the series evolved from SuperNatural400, designating 400 horsepower, it grew to become the 425, 435, 440, and finally the 450 model for LT1 (and LT4) based cars. 475 or 490 hp being available for LT5-based cars. Callaway expanded the SuperNatural line to Camaro and Impala models. Callaway also constructed three special vehicles featuring bespoke twin-turbocharged LT5’s: Two Super Speedsters and a ZR1-based coupe.

In 1998, Callaway debuted their own new model called the C12, based on the chassis of the newly released C5 Corvette. With an entirely new body and suspension, this Callaway shared little with the Corvette upon which it was built. To comply with Le Mans GT rulebook, it was built to a maximum width of 2 meters; nearly 6 inches wider than the standard C5. Powered by a naturally aspirated Callaway LS engine, the C12 was beautiful to look at, and extremely powerful. The C12’s new skin was penned by Dr. Paul Deutschman and constructed from lightweight carbon fiber. The racing variant C12R took pole position at Le Mans in 2001. In addition to the C12, Callaway also offered a product line for fifth-generation Corvettes called “Power Groups”, which included Honker airboxes, top end packages, exhaust, brake, wheel, and interior enhancements.

In 2004, Callaway Cars elevated the performance of Corvettes with their SuperNatural offering for the newly introduced C6 model. Initially offering naturally aspirated packages, SuperNatural 490 and 550 (horsepower) packages were available through select Callaway Dealer. In 2006, Callaway returned to positive manifold pressure on Corvettes, supercharging the C6 with impressive results.

Initially introduced as the Callaway SC560 SuperCharged Corvette, an optional 616 horsepower package was soon available by combining the SuperCharged Corvette options and specific components from the SuperNatural series. With the introduction of the LS3 engine in 2008, power climbed to 580 on the Callaway Corvette and later to 606 with the advent of the TVS2300-series SuperCharged cars. For those who sought even more power, Callaway supercharged the venerable LS7 in the Z06 Corvette, as part of the SC652 model, delivering tremendous power in an extremely well-mannered package.

In 2007, Callaway launched project C16. Debuting their handcrafted version of their Corvette-based supercar at the Los Angeles Auto Show, it was fitted with a hand-trimmed full leather and Alcantara interior, along with options from the Callaway Corvette – Le Mans brakes, coilover suspension, carbon fiber/magnesium wheels and more. Each C16 was built to order and available as a coupe, cabrio or speedster.

For 2012, the 25^th Anniversary of working with the Corvette, Callaway was re-issued their original RPO (B2K) for use on a limited run of Corvettes. Featuring special paint and equipment from Chevrolet, twenty-six identical Corvettes (25 production and a pilot car) were drop-shipped to Callaway facilities for final conversion under this program. All were Cyber Gray, and as a coupe or convertible, automatic or manual, they delivered 620 supercharged horsepower and featured a full list of Callaway equipment.

In 2014, GM launched the 7^th Generation of Corvette and Callaway was ready with their new GenThree Triple-Cooled supercharger system, which raised horsepower to 627 on the Stingray and featured a through-hood design, allowing convective heat transfer from cooler ambient airflow. The following year, the C7 Z06 debuted, and Callaway applied their supercharger (32% larger than the o.e. unit) resulting in 757 hp/777 lb-ft.

The knowledge gained in supercharging thousands of Callaway Corvettes expanded to include Camaros, SportTrucks, SUV’s and even sedans.

With the introduction of the C8 Stingray, Callaway was again issued a RPO (PCY) to commemorate the milestone anniversary for the 35^th year of working with Corvette. Specific Callaway content is included in this anniversary model with Corvette order documents, build sheets and other paperwork identifying this significant milestone. Only 35 of these vehicles were built, available through authorized Callaway dealers now.

Callaway Corvettes: 35 Years of Making Fast Faster is NOW OPEN at the National Corvette Museum until late February 2023.

For information on these “Powerfully Engineered Automobiles”, visit Callaway Cars online at callawaycars.com, and check out callawayownersgroup.com for owner’s resources and more.

About the Author: Chris Chessnoe has had a love for automobiles for as long as he can remember, especially Corvettes. Currently, Chris owns three Corvettes, two of which are Callaways – It is his enthusiasm for these Callaway vehicles which led to the creation of the Callaway Owners Group, an organization that he started in 2002. They have continued to grow over the years and have become the premier resource for owners and enthusiasts alike. Chris has written or photographed for various print and digital media the past two decades and enjoys all things mechanical. Residing in Virginia, Chris is blessed with a wonderful family, as his wife and two daughters often accompany him to various events, proving that a Corvette is more than just a car, it is a lifestyle.

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Daniel Decker, National Corvette Museum’s Vehicle Maintenance and Preservation Tech, shared, “In order for Scot to break this record, someone had to certify the Corvette Burner was to drive was stock, and I was able to complete that step in the process.” In addition to the vehicle’s certification, Burner also had to have the NCM Motorsports Park track inspected by a land surveyor. The portion of track land used for the attempt had to be fairly flat since downhill slopes would have given Burner an unfair speed advantage. Dennis Smith of DDS Engineering said, “We worked the track backward in order to find Burner’s correct starting point to make sure that he wasn’t going downhill.” Smith added, “Although this was a routine job, it was the first time I have watched someone break a world record.”

Once the required protocols had been completed, it was time for Burner to step in. It’s important to note the current world record for the fastest mile driven in reverse was 97.02 seconds, set back in 2012.  On June 15, 2022, at the NCM Motorsports Park, and on his very first attempt, Scot Burner drove a stock C7 Corvette for one mile in reverse in just 83.19 seconds.  Burner tried a second time and ended with an even better time of 75.18 seconds, crushing the previous record by over 20 seconds, and will now hopefully be recorded in history as the world record time for the fastest mile in reverse!

After beating the previous record, Burner exclaimed “he chose the right car” and his “heart was still pumping” from the adrenaline of it all. He averaged about 45 miles per hour in reverse when he broke the record but hit a top speed of around 53 miles per hour.  Prior to June 15^th, the farthest Burner had driven in reverse was roughly a quarter mile. His mile at the NCM Motorsports Park was also the first time he has completed backward turns.

Burner chose to attempt to break the world record at the NCM Motorsports Park because it felt fitting not only because he was driving a C7 Corvette but also because the course worked perfectly in relation to the standards set by Guinness. “We at the NCM Motorsports Park are honored to have had Scot attempt the Guinness World Record for the fastest reverse mile at our track. There is no better place in the world to achieve that honor in a Corvette than at the home of the Corvette,” said Greg Waldron, NCM Motorsports Park Executive Director.

Scot and the team at the NCM and MSP waited patiently for the official confirmation from Guinness that he broke the world record.  After just a few weeks, the happy news was announced.  Scot now holds the world record for the “Fastest Mile Driven in Reverse!”

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Cheryl and Jesscia

Still owning that 2001 Magnetic Red Corvette Coupe that Jessica drives, Cheryl also has a C6 in her garage. Jessica still recalls the feeling she had when her mother came home from Bachman Chevrolet with her Corvette and is still glad that her mother “taught [her] how to save for [her] dream at such a young age.”

Fifteen years later, the proud female Corvette owners returned to the National Corvette Museum, where they have been Lifetime members since 2005, to take Museum delivery of a 2021 Arctic White Corvette. Jessica shared that, “getting to see my mom achieving her dream is something that I am so glad to be a part of.” Cheryl, a member of the River Cities Corvette Club, had never customized a new Corvette and is very excited to be adding it to her garage and doing R8C Museum Delivery for the first time.

The delivery date is special to Cheryl for another reason. Thirty-seven years ago, on September 15, she was involved in a mid-air collision with two Army Medi-Evac Helicopters. As a memorial to her two friends that paid the ultimate price for our country, she and Jessica will be making a stop on the way home at the Peace Memorial in Louisville, KY, where her two friends’ names are listed.

Congratulations to Cheryl on her 2021 Arctic White Corvette and thank you for service!

Read the original 2006 story here.

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