Revving Up History: The Pratt & Whitney Turbine Engine in a '78 Corvette

ONE-OFF - Have you ever wondered what would happen if a car were powered by a jet turbine engine? Well, back in 1978, a Chevrolet Corvette C3 underwent a remarkable transformation when Vince Granatelli, the son of the legendary Andy "Mister 500" Granatelli, decided to install a Pratt & Whitney ST6B turbine engine beneath the sleek hood of this iconic American sports car.

One-off 1978 Corvette C3 jet turbine-powered custom by Vince Granatelli. (Picture from: Barret-Jackson)

The Granatelli family has a long history in Indy car racing, spanning several decades. So, what inspired the younger Granatelli to embark on such a complex and audacious project? The answer is simple: he believed the result would be nothing short of extraordinary.

A Pratt & Whitney ST6B turbine engine under the bonnet of 1978 Corvette C3 Custom. (Picture from: Barret-Jackson)

The turbine engine nestled within the Corvette packs an impressive punch, boasting a total power output of approximately 880 horsepower. According to a Motor Trend test, it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.2 seconds, although the car's creator claims it's capable of achieving this feat in just 2.5 seconds.

What's even more fascinating is that this unique car is entirely road-legal. To make this dream a reality, Granatelli had to perform a series of significant modifications. These included fabricating a new subframe, reinforcing the driveshaft, and incorporating a reduction gearbox to bring the engine's astounding 37,500 rpm down to a manageable 6,230 rpm.

Right side view of 1978 Corvette C3 jet turbine-powered custom. (Picture from: Barret-Jackson)

Furthermore, the entire electrical system of the car had to be rewired to accommodate the aircraft instrument panel. The braking system was upgraded with NASCAR-spec discs, and new fuel lines and an exhaust system were also added. Essentially, it became a Corvette C3 with a jet engine roaring beneath its hood.

Interior and dashboard view of 1978 Corvette C3 jet turbine-powered custom. (Picture from: Barret-Jackson)

What truly sets this project apart is its road legality. While it may seem like a wild experiment, Granatelli took the necessary steps to ensure that the car complied with highway regulations. This meant extensive modifications to the vehicle, including the creation of a new subframe and the reinforcement of critical components like the driveshaft.

Inside the car, the transformation was equally astonishing. The entire electrical system had to be rewired to accommodate the aircraft instrument panel. This level of attention to detail demonstrated Granatelli's commitment to making the car as functional as it was awe-inspiring.

Rear side view of 1978 Corvette C3 jet turbine-powered custom. (Picture from: Barret-Jackson)

In essence, what emerged from this ambitious project was a Chevrolet Corvette C3 that not only paid homage to the legacy of American muscle cars but also pushed the boundaries of what was possible in automotive engineering. It was a true fusion of raw power, cutting-edge technology, and classic design.

The 1978 Chevrolet Corvette C3 with a Pratt & Whitney ST6B turbine engine is a testament to the limitless potential of automotive customization. Vince Granatelli's audacious project combined the raw power of a jet engine with the iconic design of the Corvette, resulting in a truly exceptional and road-legal performance machine. *** [EKA [11052015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARRET-JACKSON | CARBUZZ]

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