Chevrolet Corvette

Impressions: What more can you say about the sixth-generation Corvette? Moreover, how much more can you do to it? Not much, at least for 2007. Yes, the C6 is quite literally a Ferrari on a budget, at least in terms of sheer performance numbers, which is certainly what the top-of-the-line Corvette ZO6 model is all about. It's quite simply the quickest, fastest and most powerful production vehicle ever offered by General Motors. Bristling with technology developed on the race track, the Z06 has a 505-horsepower 7.0-liter V8 that's good for sub-four-second blasts to 60 m.p.h. and a top speed of close to 200 m.p.h. A six-speed manual transmission is part of the package as is extensive use of carbon fiber, aluminum (the entire chassis is made of it whereas lesser Corvettes have a steel substructure), magnesium — even balsa wood — that keeps the weight down. The Z06 comes in an attractive fixed-roof hatchback with no convertible offered. From the unique front fascia to the four-inch tailpipes at the business end, the Z06 has a style, sound, attitude and price all its own: now $25,000 more than the base Corvette, but still a bargain. It's also three-inches wider in the rear to make room for larger rubber circumnavigating special 19-inch wheels. For the rest of the Corvette lineup, it's also pretty much the same story as last year: 400 horsepower coming from 6.0 liters of displacement, two seats, a fixed or convertible roof and an available six-speed automatic transmission complete with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and three modes: drive; sport; and paddle shift. The optional Magnetic Selective Ride system evens out the ride with shock absorbers that are filled with what amounts to liquid metal. By varying electric current to them, which either increases or deceases viscosity, shock dampening is constantly adjusted based on the road and/or the performance level desired. Ordering the system this year gets you cross-drilled brake rotors for improved performance and a racy look. Other minor changes include a larger glovebox and the availability of OnStar for the ZO6, presumably to help drivers find the nearest race track. Base price: $44,200; $52,200 (convertible); $69,200 (Z06) Type: Two-door coupe/convertible Base engine (hp): 6.0-liter OHV V8 (400) Optional engine (hp): 7.0-liter OHV V8 (505) Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.) Mileage (city/hwy): 18/28 (base, MT) Safety: Front airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control Weight (lb.): 3,180 (coupe) Basic warranty: 3/36,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: chevrolet.com