The 2010 Corvette convertible drop-top matches the coupe in terms of performance while adding the exclusivity and charm of a roadster.
There is nothing quite like the confident growl of a powerful V8 engine, and the aural experience provided by so much horsepower can only be amplified by removing any obstructions that might be found between the ears and the exhaust system. When it comes to the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, putting the top down does so much more than just allow the wind to blow back your hair – it also gives you front-row tickets to one of the most impressive tailpipe concerts ever to leave the Chevrolet factory.
The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible (MSRP $53,580) is the direct spiritual descendent of the very first vehicles to hit dealer showrooms bearing the Corvette nameplate. These original 1950s roadsters were meant to offer the pleasures of open-top motoring in a package that was as responsive to driver commands as the era’s design specs allowed. Flash forward to 2010, and the most recent edition of the Corvette convertible finds itself still positioned at the cutting edge of what modern high-performance technology can offer.
The Corvette platform was initially planned out with a convertible version in mind, which means that the topless edition of this classic sportscar enjoys all the rigidity and suspension tautness of the coupe model. This becomes readily apparent when flogging the Corvette convertible through twisty canyon roads, especially if the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control is onboard. This system employs unique shock absorbers containing a magnetic fluid that can respond to an electrical charge in order to alter the stiffness of their response. You can choose the comfort-oriented “Tour” setting, or go all-out by turning the console-mounted rotary dial to “Sport” to enjoy a ride that makes the most of the Corvette’s extensive handling palette.
There are several other high-performance personality traits built directly into the Corvette convertible’s DNA. For buyers who elect to purchase the vehicle with its standard short-throw six-speed manual transmission, an all-new launch control feature is included as standard. When the vehicle’s electronic stability control system is set to “competitive” mode, launch control automatically engages once the clutch and accelerator are pushed down to the floor. The Corvette’s computer brain keeps the engine speed at the best rpm for balancing traction and acceleration. When the clutch is released, the system continuously monitor’s engine output to maintain this delicate power delivery dance. The end result is the ability of the Corvette convertible to consistently pounce forward from a dead stop, making it one of the most driver-friendly performance cars on the market and giving those who compete in their Corvettes a nice edge.
The next link in the Corvette convertible’s performance makeup is found under the fiberglass hood. All drop-top Corvettes are equipped with a fire-breathing, 430-hp V8 engine that delivers 424 lb/ft of torque from its 6.2 liters of displacement. Want a few more horses? Opting for the available dual mode exhaust ups that output number to 436 hp, thanks to the introduction of special outlet valves that open up under full throttle to increase exhaust flow while still providing a controlled sound experience at normal speeds. In addition to the vehicle’s manual transmission, it is also possible to outfit the Corvette with a six-speed automatic transmission that provides manual shift control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Despite offering such a staggering amount of horsepower, the Corvette convertible still achieves an incredible 26 mpg during highway driving, which places it head and shoulders above any other comparable sportscar.
Last, but certainly not least, it is possible to purchase the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible with either a standard manual top that operates via a simple, one-handed double latch or instead choose a power top that quickly and quietly stows the roof from the comfort of the driver’s seat. Either way, the Corvette is capable of going from buttoned-down and snug to wide-open sky in only a few seconds.
The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible is more than just a living legend – this phenomenal roadster is a world-class competitor that offers a Jekyll and Hyde street and track personality that is rarely found in the sportscar universe.
Source: IMN
