2005 Chevrolet Corvette: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chevrolet revamps its 2-seat sports car for 2005 with revised styling, more power, and new features. Dubbed the C6 to denote Corvette's 6th design generation since 1953, the '05 comes as a hatchback coupe with lift-off roof panel or as a convertible with a fabric soft top and heated glass rear window. A power top is newly available.

Wheelbase grows 1.2 inches vs. the 1997-2004 C5, but overall length shrinks 5 inches. Fiberglass body panels again clothe a metal structure. The sole engine is a 6.0-liter V8 with 400 hp, up 50 hp from the C5's 5.7-liter V8. Transmission choices remain a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Also continued are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction control, and two suspension options. GM's Magnetic Selective Ride Control automatically adjusts firmness to match road surfaces within driver-selectable Touring and Sport modes. A Z51 package has a firmer nonadjustable suspension, larger brakes, and, with automatic transmission, acceleration-enhancing gearing. Standard run-flat tires return, but wheel diameter grows an inch to 18 front, 19 rear. Front side airbags are standard on the convertible, optional on the coupe. Xenon headlamps are newly standard, as is keyless access and ignition. New options include OnStar assistance, navigation system, and satellite radio. Heated seats and a head-up display that projects gauge readouts onto the windshield are optional.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.