The new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible is not without its flaws, but on a winding stretch of road with the top down on a gloriously sunny afternoon, well, you could do worse.
At the heart of the eighth-generation ’Vette we drove is a 6.2-liter V8 pumping out 490 horsepower. Its new location behind the seats gives it the better-balanced handling that comes with such mid-engine sports car designs. The ride quality is not bad, but no one will mistake this for a luxury car.
This latest Corvette is full of cool tech, including a reconfigurable digital dash. By far the neatest feature, though, is the retractable hardtop that power-folds to store beneath the rear deck.
Drawbacks include smallish front and rear “trunks” and an interior noise level that will have you saying “Huh?” a lot. Even so, with exotic supercar looks the Corvette convertible is a classic road-trip machine that’s likely to start conversations every time you stop for gas.
STRENGTHS
- Acceleration galore
- Exotic styling, bargain price for a supercar
WEAKNESSES
- With its low m.p.g., it’s better suited to a joy ride rather than a long journey.
Entering and exiting with grace takes practice.
BOTTOM LINE
- Think of it as the relatively affordable American Ferrari.
PRICING
- Base Price: $66,400
- As Tested: $66,400
SAFETY
- NHTSA: Not yet tested.
M.P.G. (city/highway)
- 15/27 (6.2L V8/RWD)
