60 years of Corvette Performance.
Sixty years ago one of the most iconic sports cars in the world was introduced and has become a symbol for American performance throughout its production. Since its inception, the Chevrolet Corvette has spanned six different generations and made its mark in motorsports. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Chevrolet has introduced the Corvette 427 Convertible and 60th Anniversary Package.
As part of the final production year for the C6-generation Corvette, Chevrolet has introduced the fastest and most powerful convertible variant of the sports car to date. The new 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible features a 427-cu.in. (7.0-liter) engine, the same one used in the Corvette Z06, and is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.
The LS7 engine used in the Corvette 427 Convertible produces 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. It was co-developed alongside the Corvette GT1 engine that won Le Mans and is constructed using high-flow cylinder heads, titanium connecting rods and intake valves, and a dry-sump oil lubrication system. The entire engine is hand-assembled by a master technician. As an option, customers can take part in the Corvette Build Experience and assemble their own engine with guidance from a master technician.
Chevrolet installed a number of carbon fiber components on the Corvette 427 Convertible in order to keep weight to a minimum. The raised hood, ZO6 fenders, floor panels, and optional “CFZ” front splitter and rocker panels are made from the lightweight material and help bring weight down to 3,355 lbs. The low weight, coupled with the 505 horsepower LS7 engine, gives the Corvette 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64, putting it ahead of super car convertibles like the Porsche 911 Turbo S, Ferrari California, and Aston Martin DBS Volante.
The low power-to-weight ratio helps the Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible achieve impressive performance figures. The sprint to 60 mph takes a mere 3.8 seconds before the drop-top blasts through the quarter-mile in 11.8 ticks. Top speed is pegged at over 190 mph. Did we mention it can handle? The 427 Convertible is capable of achieving 1.04 G of lateral acceleration on the stock tires!
Many of the factory performance upgrades from the Z06, ZR-1, and Z07 come standard on the new 427 Convertible. The rear axle system and driveline from the Z06 model is standard along with the quick-thinking Magnetic Selective Ride Control and rear-mounted battery. The Corvette 427 Convertible is also light on its feet as it uses lightweight machine-face Cup wheels in a 19-inch front, 20-inch rear fitment with grey finished pockets and Michelin PS2 tires.
Chevrolet has also introduced a 60th Anniversary for all 2013 Corvette models including the 427 Convertible. Models equipped with the package feature an Arctic White exterior paint with Blue Diamond leather interior with suede accents. All convertible models will be equipped with a blue top to match the interior. Other features include a ZR-1 rear spoiler and 60th Anniversary badging on the interior and exterior. As an option, all of the cars can be equipped with Pearl Silver Blue stripes, with tonal stripes stitched into the convertible top.
The first 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible will be auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale on Saturday, January 21st. All of the money raised by the car will be donated to the Drive to End Hunger food relief program. The Corvette 427 Convertible will be available as a 2013-model year vehicle in 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT trims, and come standard with a unique vehicle number sequence. The 60th Anniversary Package will be available to all 2013-model year Corvette models as an option.
2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 7.0 liters (427 cu. in.)
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Bore x Stroke: 104.8 x 101.6 mm
Block and Cylinder Head Material: Cast aluminum
Valvetrain: Overhead valves; two valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
Maximum Horsepower: 505 (377 kW) at 6,300 RPM
Maximum Torque: 470 (637 Nm) at 4,800 RPM
Transmission:
Type: Six-speed manual
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 6.64 lbs. per hp
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds
Quarter Mile Acceleration: 11.8 seconds
Top Speed: > 190 mph
Lateral Acceleration: 1.04 G
Fuel Economy (Hwy/Cty): 15/24 (est.) No guzzler tax
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes:
Wheels: Lightweight aluminum, machine faced, Cup wheels with grey painted pockets
Front Wheels: 19 x 10
Rear Wheels: 20 x 12
Tires: Michelin PS2
Front Tires: 285/30 ZR 19
Rear Tires: 335/25 ZR 20
Brakes: Six-piston front, four-piston rear calipers with cross-drilled rotors
2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Gallery
[Source: General Motors]
Would you choose a Corvette 427 Convertible over a Corvette Z06 Coupe? Leave a comment and let us know!
