4.3.2004
Geneva World Premiere - 2005 Corvette C6 Convertible

Chevrolet's sixth generation roadster, the 2005 Corvette Convertible, adds performance and refinement to the fun of driving a roadster.

The sixth generation of the Corvette legacy begins with the 2005 edition, available in Coupe and Convertible models. Featuring dramatic upgrades throughout, a new 400-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8 engine, and dynamic new styling, the sixth generation Corvette brings more power, passion and precision to America's performance icon.

The sixth generation Corvette Convertible features an optional power-operated soft top, a feature that last appeared on the car in 1962. The power top features a single button control and completes its cycle in 18 seconds. An easy-to-operate manual top remains standard.

The convertible top for the sixth generation Corvette reflects great attention to detail to net improvements in aesthetics, aerodynamics and utility. In both its manual and power versions, the canvas soft top is available in three colors: Black, Beige and Grey. In its closed position, the canvas top has smoother, more contoured appearance that conceals the underlying structure better than traditional soft tops. In addition to being more pleasing to the eye, this also helps preserve the outstanding aerodynamic characteristics designed into the sixth generation Corvette.

Indexing side glass, a feature normally reserved for luxury cars, helps better seal the cabin from wind noise. The Corvette's new structure, including a new aluminum windshield frame, was designed using extensive computer air flow models to improve top-down quietness – especially for noise frequencies in the range of passenger conversations. The top material itself is made of Twillfast, constructed in five layers for strong durability and insulation.

In addition to the new power top several details combine to make the convertible that much more pleasing to drive, especially for long trips. A bulkhead has been added to better contain small items in the trunk, and enable the addition of a new storage area behind each seat. The power top occupies no more space than the manual version, preserving maximum trunk space in both versions. Rear visibility is improved with a glass backlight that is 18.5% larger than the 2004 version. Like its predecessor, the backlight has defogging capability.

In an era in which most vehicles seem to grow ever more bulky, the sixth generation Corvette achieves lower vehicle weight, even with the addition of numerous features new to the marque. The Convertible is no exception, with a base curb weight of 3199 lbs (1451 kg), significantly less than the 2004 model. The manual top mechanism utilizes thin-wall castings for a weight savings of 8.6 lbs. (3.9 kg.) The optional power top mechanism adds just 14 lbs. (6.4 kg.) to the car's weight.

The development of the C6 intends to not only replace the outgoing C5 Corvette (1997-2004), but to create a 21st century Corvette that both thrills the legions of traditional loyalists and captures the imagination of a new generation of performance enthusiasts. The formula from the C5 era remains: Extremely high performance capabilities in a car that offers great style, value and quality, with surprising comfort for daily driving. The C6 takes that foundation and reaches beyond with dramatic increases in performance and refinement, wrapped in a passionate new design.

Thanks to an all-new chassis, strong and lightweight body structure and the new 400-hp LS2 engine, the 2005 Corvette again raises the bar for performance, with outstanding handling and surprising ride quality. Equipped with the new Z51 Performance Package, the 2005 Corvette (in both Coupe and Convertible body styles) nearly matches the track performance of today's widely respected Corvette Z06 model.

The sixth generation Corvette blends technical sophistication with expressive style. Five inches shorter than the current car, the 2005 Corvette cuts a tighter, more taut profile – with virtually no loss of usable space. More than just visual, the new dimensions make the car more agile and "toss-able," with upgrades in handling, acceleration and braking. At 0.28 coefficient of drag, the C6 is the most aerodynamically efficient Corvette ever and has improved anti-lift characteristics that enable improved high-speed stability and confidence.

Production of the 2005 Corvette Convertible begins in the Fall of 2004, slightly after the Coupe hits the market in late Summer.