Chevrolet unveiled the sixth-generation Corvette offsite at the Detroit Opera House, with a fitting tribute to the car's legacy and solid introduction to the more powerful, more refined C6.
The heart of the beast is a Gen IV LS2 small-block producing 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. This 6.0-liter engine is backed by either a four-speed 4L65-E automatic or six-speed Tremec manual gearbox. The independent suspension is entirely new, though familiar options continue: including F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control and aggressive Z51 performance package.
Evolutionary styling sees the C6 measure five inches shorter and one inch narrower than the C5. Besides the notable body creases, the C6 is distinguished by the Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps -- the first fixed units since 1962. A fresh interior design addresses C5 criticisms for feeling cheap for a $50k car; smart application of premium materials and trim bits make a strong impression. The 2005 sees several available cabin technologies, such as a configurable heads-up display with lateral g readout, DVD-based navigation system with voice activation, and XM Satellite Radio. Both the coupe and convertible will be on sale fall 2004.
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