The current C6-generation Corvette has had a good, long run and as a fond farewell, Chevy has developed the Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition. The 2013 Corvette marks the 60th anniversary of the Corvette nameplate and the final model year of the current Corvette.
The 2013 Chevy Corvette 427 Convertible and 2013 Chevy Corvette 60th Anniversary Package models made their first official debuts at the Barrett Jackson auction in Arizona on January 21, and both will be on sale early this summer.
Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
Chevy claims the Corvette 427 Convertible is the fastest and most capable Corvette convertible ever made. The package starts with the 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V-8 also found under the hood of the Z06. The 505-hp V-8 produces 470 lb-ft of torque and is mated exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission. That LS7 engine is assembled by hand and, if desired, customers can even choose the Corvette Build Experience and help build the engine that will be used in their car. The automaker estimated 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds on to a quarter mile in 11.8 seconds and a top speed of more than 190 mph.
General Motors' Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard, as are 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels with Michelin PS2 tires. Other wheel options include black Cup or chrome ZR1-style wheels.
To help set apart your special-edition Corvette from the average Corvette convertible, Chevy includes carbon fiber elements such as a raised hood, Z06-like fenders, and floor panels.
Corvette 60th Anniversary Package
The 60th Anniversary Package is available on all 2013 Corvettes. The trim package features Arctic White paint complemented by a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents and a blue top for convertibles. While it’s no doubt an improvement on the base Corvette, don’t count on your 2013 Corvette 60th Anniversary Package comparing well in interior quality to the next-generation model. Plenty of extra badging and gray-painted brake calipers further distinguish the package. Speaking of badges, all 2013 Corvettes gain a few 60th Anniversary badges as well as 60th logos on the interior.
At this point, pricing and production numbers on the special-edition model and 60th anniversary package haven’t been announced. For 2011, Chevy sold 13,164 Corvettes, up 4.3 percent over 2010 and we think the 2013 Corvette updates should help keep sales well above 10,000 units for 2012. We’ve enjoyed the C6 Corvette and can’t think of a better way to let it go than with the Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition.