Functionally identical to the Corvette Stingray hardtop underneath its skin, the convertible features an LT1 6.2-liter V8Â engine that cranks out an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque. But not only will the convertible be fast off the line - a 0-60 sprint is estimated in the sub-four second range - its folding cloth top will stow away at up to 30 mph or from the remote key fob.
Structurally, the bowtie brand says that the hardtop and the convertible are again identical aside from some changes made to accommodate the folding roof and the seatbelts. The Corvette's top itself is composed of three-ply fabric with sound-absorbing padding sandwiched in between and it also includes a heated glass rear window.
Like its predecessor, the top stows under a tonneau cover with the brand's signature "waterfall" design that brings the exterior color into the cabin.
New to the Corvette is the Driver Mode Selector, which lets drivers optimize the sports car for any given driving situation. It offers five different modes: Tour mode is the default setting for day to day driving; Weather mode is intended to provide additional confidence in rain or snow; Eco mode helps achieve maximum fuel efficiency; Sport mode is for spirited road driving and Track mode is, as one would expect, for track use.
The Drive Mode Selector modifies 12 different vehicle settings, including steering assist effort, throttle responsiveness, launch control calibrations stability control settings, traction control parameters, exhaust noise levels, active fuel management settings, Performance Traction Management configurations, automatic transmission shift points, electronic limited-slip engagement and Magnetic Ride Control damper settings (the last two are Z51-exclusive features). Additionally, the gauge cluster changes to display information pertinent to the selected drive mode.
Â
As before, a Z51 performance package will be available to make the Corvette even more track-friendly. It includes dry-sump lubrication, closer manual-transmission gear ratios, an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential and additional cooling for the gearbox, differential and brakes. Also part of the package are upsized brakes and 19-by-8.5-inch front and 20-by-10-inch rear wheels and tires, compared with 18-by-8.5- and 19-by-10-inch as standard.
Â
Available as an option on Z51-equipped models is the third-generation of GM’s Magnetic Ride Control, which features a new twin-wire/dual-coil damper system that reacts 40 percent faster for improved ride comfort and body control.
Lightweight Components
For the first time, the base Corvette rides on an aluminum frame – a feature previously reserved for Z06 and Z51 models. The new setup is 99 pounds lighter and 57 percent stiffer than the C6’s steel unit. To save additional weight, the hood and roof are constructed from carbon fiber, and the underbody trays are said to be lighter than before.
Â
Despite those measures, the new Corvette’s higher content level will likely mean it ends up slightly heavier than the C6, which weighed in at 3208 pounds.
Â
Improved Interior
Inside, the two most highly criticized elements of the outgoing model’s cabin – cheap materials and seats unbefitting of a performance car – have been improved. Soft-touch materials abound, and premium trimmings such as Nappa leather, micro-suede, aluminum and carbon fiber can be spec’d as options.
Â
Two seating choices will be on offer: comfort-oriented “GT” seats and “Competition Sport” thrones that promise the lateral support for which track-going Corvette enthusiasts have long clamored.
Eight-inch configurable screens are mounted at the center of the instrument cluster and at the top of the center stack, which is canted towards the driver and fitted with Corvette-specific HVAC controls.
Â
Chevrolet says that the 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible will hit the market late in 2013; watch for fuel-economy and pricing details to be released in the coming months.
