Reeves Callaway & Callaway Cars Inc. Corvettes Special Collection XX

Corvettes Of Reeves CallawayPerformance Corvettes by Callaway began in 1987 with the GM option B2K. Using technology developed first on European cars, the Callaway imagination then led to the racers, tuners, and eventually custom Speedsters in vivid living colors.

This year, Special Collection XX salutes the Corvettes of Reeves Callaway and Callaway Cars Inc. We'll showcase 20 examples of Callaway performance, competition, and dramatic design. The Callaway touch to the Corvette has set many records and the highest standards throughout its nearly 20 years of production.

The Story Of Callaway CarsCallaway Cars, a company known for its engineering skills and fine attention to detail, has been at the top of the high-performance field for over two decades. Starting in the garage at his Old Lyme, Connecticut, home, Reeves Callaway began experimenting with BMW 3 series cars. Out of those experiments came his first turbo system that received rave reviews by Car and Driver magazine. With his first project deemed a success, he continued to develop other products, often with major vehicle manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo and their GTV6 Twin Turbo.

The Alfa Twin Turbo was the catalyst that sparked interest within the ranks of General Motors (GM). In the early '80s GM was looking at high-performance engine options such as turbocharging and multi-valve technologies. GM took a Callaway Alfa Twin Turbo and examined the work closely. After GM's own twin-turbo V6 and V8 projects had run their course, Dave McLellan gave the nod to Callaway, authorizing him to develop a prototype. The resulting prototype was introduced in June 1986 to GM and the media. With 345 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, the twin-turbo V8 was engineered to be the ultimate Corvette package, producing tremendous power while retaining its emissions controls and a complete warranty.

The Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette became known as Chevrolet option RPO B2K and was available through select Chevrolet dealers in the United States and abroad. It continues to hold the distinction of being the only engine package produced outside of GM to hold an RPO code, something that will probably never happen again. Produced between 1987 and 1991, over 500 of these special Corvettes were made in coupe, convertible and, at the close of production, Speedster form.

In 1988, power levels increased. Horsepower was rated at 382 and torque rose to 545 lb-ft. That year, the 17-inch Dymag wheels become standard equipment, and an automatic transmission and a full leather interior were also offered. Available for the 1989 B2K was the handsome Aerobody, designed by Paul Deutschman, which was first seen on the Callaway Sledgehammer Corvette. The following year brought even more power. Horsepower rose to 390 and torque output was 562 lb-ft; however, the automatic transmission was no longer available. 1991 was the final year for the B2K option, with power up again to 403 hp and 575 lb-ft. A subtle change to the hood included the installation of blisters to duct cold air to the intercoolers. The Aerobody continued to be an option, and the Speedster model was revealed late in the year.

In 1992, General Motors introduced the second-generation small-block V8, called the LT1. This engine would require a complete revision of the B2K option and, after review of the situation, it was decided to shift gears and change direction.

Changing direction introduced us to the Callaway Supernatural^TM Corvettes. Initially called the CL1 or CR1, they designated the chassis they were built upon-either LT1 cars (CL1) or LT5 cars (CR1)-and were available with a host of options. These included the familiar Aerobody, special paint colors, a full leather interior, special wheels, brakes, and exhausts. Available between 1992 and 1996, the Supernatural(tm) Series output constantly evolved. Introduced as a Supernatural(tm) 400, designating 400 horsepower, it grew to become the 425, 435, 440, and finally the 450 models for LT1-based cars; the 475 or 490 was offered for the LT5 models. The Supernatural^TM line was a great success, with Callaway expanding it to the Camaro and Impala lines with similar options. Three very special cars were also constructed during this time, based upon LT5 models. It seemed natural for Callaway to turbocharge the LT5, and on three occasions he did. Two Super Speedsters and one coupe were built.

The C5 Corvette was introduced in 1997, and the following year Callaway debuted their latest model called the C12 at the New York Auto Show. Measuring two meters wide and powered by various naturally aspirated engines, the C12 was beautiful and competitive. The C12's styling once again was handled by Deutschman and was molded in lightweight carbon fiber.

For almost 20 years, Callaway has been synonymous with powerful and well-engineered Corvettes. With the C6 coming, Callaway enthusiasts are waiting to see what Reeves Callaway has in store next.-Christopher Chesnoe

Hall Of FameInvited Guests Of Bloomington GoldThe Bloomington Gold Hall of Fame was established in 1997 with the induction of the first 33 Corvettes. Without question, this group of Corvettes created a new standard within the Corvette community. The Hall of Fame is expanded each year as new inductees are selected from prior Special Collection events. We're certain you'll find the six 2004 Hall of Fame Corvettes exciting and most worthy of this high honor.

See the new inductees to the Bloomington Gold Hall of Fame. To date, only 66 Corvettes have been inducted into this prestigious group of rare originals, racers, special production, and styling cars.

Inquiries: William Locke, (704) 948-8107 or wrlenzo@msn.com

Registration: By invitation only