The Corvette generation produced from 1968 to 1982 was the C3.
The C3 was Chevrolet’s third-generation Corvette. It debuted for the 1968 model year with a dramatically reshaped body inspired by the Mako Shark II concept, while retaining much of the preceding C2’s chassis and engine technology. Its long production run made it one of the most recognizable Corvette generations.
C3 Corvettes were offered as coupes and convertibles. The coupe introduced removable T-top roof panels, and the model carried the Stingray name from 1969 through 1976. Over the years, engines and equipment changed substantially as Chevrolet responded to emissions rules, fuel-economy pressures, and changing safety requirements.
A common mix-up is confusing production dates with model years. Manufacturing began in 1967 for 1968-model-year cars and ended in 1982. The next generation, the C4, arrived as a 1984 model after Chevrolet skipped a regular 1983 model year.