The Astro II was designed in collaboration between GM Design and GM Research as a prototype for possible production mid-engine Corvette vehicles of the 1970’s. The test bed car had a welded steel backbone frame, a radiator mounted in the rear and a Mark IV V8 engine driving the rear wheels via a 2-speed transaxle.
The aft body section of the Astro II could be raised directly behind the passenger compartment to access engine and rear storage areas. The of the vehicle was but a mere 43.7 inches.
