With the Grand Sport and the new Z06 and the ultra high-performance ZR1, there are plenty of Corvettes to choose from. The base coupe and convertible have a 6.2-liter, 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 comes with the larger LS7 engine, which is a 7.0L powerplant that makes 505 hp and is connected to a 6-speed manual. This combination is capable of 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds--in first gear. The body is lightened by using an aluminum structure with bonded carbon fiber composites. It features a firmer suspension, 6-piston brake calipers and 18-inch front/19-inch rear aluminum wheels.
The 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 2012 Corvette is mostly the same as 2011's model, but a few optional items changed. A series of colored brake rotors is now offered. A new ZR1-style spoiler is available on non-ZR1 Corvettes. The 2LT and 3LT packages now include navigation and Bose audio as well as a heads-up display.
A new Chevrolet Centennial Special Edition includes magnetic ride control, red calipers, ebony interior, special black and red wheels and a special Carbon Flash metallic paint. The Z06 lost the Carbon Special Edition, and on the ZR1, a new High Performance Package includes black cup-style wheels, 6-speed close-ratio transmission and black spoiler.
The Corvette comes with no less than 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.
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