Chevrolet promised the all-new 2020 C8 Corvette would carry a starting price tag below $60,000. The automaker was true to its word. The cheapest Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will set you back $59,995. The chances of anyone spending that is quite slim because Corvette buyers always tack on options, such as the Z51 Performance Package. But still, considering the C8's impressive power output, handling capabilities, and advanced engineering with its first-ever mid-engine setup, the Corvette remains a bargain.
At least in America. Not so much for New Zealand.
The proof is this 2020 Corvette listed for sale from New Zealand dealer 4Guys Autobarn. The asking price is $259,800 Kiwi dollars, or around $160k US. While we've seen some C8 Vettes sell for this on the second-hand US market, this is the price excluding any dealer or first owner markups.
Indeed, but the dealership explained to Driven.co.nz how it came to that figure. First off, there's $36,000 USD worth of features, including the Z51 pack, carbon fiber ground effects, removable carbon fiber roof, upgraded wheels, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, and adjustable front lifter with a memory function. In other words, this C8 is nearly fully-loaded.
"It's company policy to try and purchase the newest/highest specification/lowest mileage vehicles," said a dealer employee. "We believe in offering the best option."
In America, this Corvette would total $96,000, but dealer margin and fees bring it to $104,000. State sales taxes further push things to over $112,000.
Where Kiwis really get hurt is the conversion to NZ dollars. Apparently, the exchange rate is less than 60 cents and this puts Vette over the $200k NZ mark. There's also the 15 percent import tax based on the purchase price, but the fees don't end there. Things like shipping, freight, compliance fees, and dealership margin increase that total to the aforementioned $259,800.
And yes, this left-hand-drive example will be the first C8 to arrive in New Zealand. It's currently in transit and scheduled to arrive early next month.