This is common for all model Corvettes.
Mallett does this to Corvettes he added boost to.

I also did it this way for the C4 Snakeskinner ZR-1

Cold air from the ground is flowed through, best is also venting the hood above fans to help draw cold air through

Yes you should be able to convert for A/C


Attached Files sderaditor.jpg

Team ZR-1
True Custom Performance Tuning
Teamzr1.com