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2004 Auto Show: Geneva
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| Chevrolet takes wraps off the Corvette Convertible |
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| Updated |
Mar 17, 2005 19:41:50 |
| Rating |
 56 ( -10 -17.85% ) | | Author | Staff |
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Description:
Chevrolet Convertible
General Motors took the wraps off a 2005 Corvette Convertible at the Geneva Auto Show, to go with the coupe displayed at the 2004 North American International Auto Show. Production of the 2005 Corvette Convertible begins in fall 2004, slightly after the Coupe begins production in late summer. The 2005 Corvette will be available for sale in the U.S. in late summer.
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"We designed the Corvette from the outset as an open car, so there's no compromise in ride, handling and performance for the Convertible compared to the Coupe," said Dave Hill, chief engineer for the Corvette and vehicle line executive for GM Performance Cars. "This sixth-generation Convertible is a large step forward, featuring greatly improved function, appearance and quietness."
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, according to General Motors, completes its cycle in 18 seconds. The top is designed and manufactured in partnership between GM and Car Top Systems, Gmbh, experts who've contributed to some of the world's most celebrated open cars. An easy-to-operate manual top remains standard.
The convertible soft top is available in three colors: Black, Beige and Grey. In its closed position, the canvas top has a smooth and contoured appearance that conceals the underlying structure better than traditional soft tops. This also helps preserve the outstanding aerodynamic characteristics designed into the sixth-generation Corvette. Indexing side glass, a feature normally reserved for higher-priced 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 airflow models to improve top-down quietness - especially for noise frequencies in the range of passenger conversations. The top material itself is made of a thick fabric called Twillfast, constructed in five layers for strong durability and insulation.
In an era in which most vehicles seem to grow ever more bulky, the Corvette achieves lower vehicle weight. The Convertible is no exception, with a base curb weight of 3,199 pounds (1,451 kg), 49 pounds (22 kg) less than the 2004 model. The manual top mechanism utilizes thin-wall castings for a weight savings of 8.6 pounds (3.9 kg.) The optional power top mechanism adds just 14 pounds (6.4 kg.) to the car's weight.
Every option available on the Coupe can be had on the Convertible, including features new to the Corvette such as OnStar, XM Satellite Radio and DVD-Navigation. Likewise, all three suspension choices - Corvette Standard Suspension, Magnetic Selective Ride Control, and the new Z51 Performance Package - are available on the Convertible.
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