With the addition of the Grand Sport model last year, and the new Z06 Carbon Limited Edition for 2011, there are plenty of Corvettes to choose from. The base coupe and convertible have a 6.2-liter, 430-hp V8 engine, known as the LS3, and a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed paddle-shift automatic is optional. The paddle shifter includes a "push and hold" function to make it easier to transition back to automatic after you've had your fun through the chicane.
The sport-tuned Z06 comes with the larger LS7 engine, which is a 7-liter powerplant that makes 505 hp and is connected to a 6-speed manual. This combination is capable of 0?60 mph in 3.7 seconds--in first gear. The body is lightened by using an aluminum structure with bonded carbon fiber composites. It features a firmer suspension, 6-piston brake calipers and 18-inch front/19-inch rear aluminum wheels. New this year is a Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, which adds the Z06 Ultimate Performance Package and Z06 Carbon-Fiber Package, which are also available separately.
The ZR1 turns up the heat with the LS9 6.2-liter engine and Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, plus a Performance Traction Management system for improved on-track performance. It's built on the same chassis as the Z06, but with a specially tuned suspension and Michelin performance tires exclusive to the ZR1.With 638 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque on tap, the ZR1's top speed has been tested at over 200 mph, making it the fastest production Corvette ever.
The Grand Sport coupe and convertible share the LS3 engine with the base model coupe and convertible, and can be had with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Grand Sport comes standard with wider wheels and tires, a revised suspension, extra cooling, larger brakes, and specific manual gear ratios.
All Corvettes come with standard air conditioning, keyless entry, a stereo system with MP3 playback, cruise control, power accessories, dual-zone climate control, leather seating and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. Chevrolet provides its flagship sports car with plenty of standard safety features, too, like ABS, driver and passenger air bags, TPMS, traction control, and a limited-slip differential.
Chevrolet doesn't offer a wide array of optional equipment. Packages include heated seats, a Bose sound system, a navigation system, and Bluetooth. A custom leather-wrapped interior package adds 2-tone leather with crossed flags embroidered in the headrests and leather on the console, instrument panel, and door panels. The Z06 Ultimate Performance Package and Z06 Carbon-Fiber Package that comprise the Z06 Carbon Limited Edition can also be ordered piecemeal. Finally, you can prove you live in the 21st century with the available dot-matrix head-up display that shows speed, rpm, oil pressure and G-meter readings.
Classic American Sports Car
Excellent Performance Even In Base Trim
World-class Supercar Value
The Corvette gains a new model for 2011, the Z06 Carbon Limited Edition. The package slots between the regular Z06 and the ZR1 and includes upgraded packages and special appearance kit. Across the range, all manual transmissions get improved synchros for better shifting, while base models have new 5-spoke wheels, and Z06s get a retuned exhaust. Navigation systems now include a USB port and audio inputs. Supersonic Blue and Inferno Orange are new exterior colors.
The Corvette comes with no less than 430 horsepower, even in base trim. And while the Corvette will never be mistaken for an economy car, it does get a surprising 26 mpg on the highway when equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission. The Corvette's true value comes in its race-tuned engine and handling, its sexy curves, and in its grins per mile. All this comes at an entry price of just under $50,000--a terrific performance bargain.
