With the Grand Sport, the Z06, the 427 and the ultra-high-performance ZR1, there are plenty of Corvettes to choose from. The base coupe and convertible have a 6.2L, 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 and Corvette 427 editions come with the larger LS7 engine, which is a 7.0L powerplant making 505 hp. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual, with no automatic option. In the Z06, this combination is capable of 0?60 mph in 3.7 seconds--in first gear. The bodies of both cars are lightened by ample use of aluminum and carbon fiber composites. Handling has also been beefed up in both cars with more aggressive suspension than on the base Corvette.
The Corvette ZR1 attempts world-supercar performance numbers with a LS9 6.2L 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 anti-lock brakes, driver and passenger air bags, tire pressure monitoring, traction control and a limited-slip differential.
Chevrolet doesn't offer a wide array of optional equipment, but a new Centennial Special Edition commemorates Chevrolet's 100 year anniversary, it includes magnetic ride control, red-painted calipers, ebony interior and special black and red wheels as well as Carbon Flash metallic paint. On the ZR1, a High Performance Package includes a special 6-speed close-ratio transmission and black spoiler and wheels.
Other options 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. 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 2013 Corvette gets a new option package, dubbed the 60th Anniversary package across all model lines, featuring unique badging and some high quality interior bits. Painted black wheels also make their return as an option across most Corvette models. The big news for 2013 though, is the 427 Edition Corvette. Similar to the Z06, the 427 Edition features Chevrolet's LS7 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Unlike the Z06, the 427 Edition is a convertible--the fastest soft top Corvette available.
The Corvette comes with an impressive 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.
