2007 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (RHD)

Description

The C6 Corvette - only the sixth incarnation of America's most popular sports car since its introduction in 1953 - was launched to rave reviews in 2005 and featured an all-new body with fixed headlamps for the first time since 1962, the new Xenon high-intensity discharge units providing excellent lighting. Although slightly shorter than the previous C5 Vette, the new C6 had much shorter overhangs and revised suspension geometry that, combined with the rear transaxle, improved weight balance and provided incredibly surefooted handling. Perhaps the biggest change of all was the introduction of the cast-alloy LS2 V8, based on GM's new Gen IV small-block family of engines. Pumping out a massive 430hp at 6000rpm and 400lb/ft of torque at 4400rpm, the 6-litre Corvette was initially sold with either a six-speed manual or four-speed auto but in 2006 a new six-speed automatic was announced, complete with paddle shifts. Featuring three driving modes, Drive, Sport and Paddle Shift, the electronically-controlled gearbox could function as a manual. Other improvements over the 2005 model were the new three-spoke steering wheel and dual-stage front airbags. Continuing a long Corvette tradition, the C6 was offered both as a coupe and convertible and in 2006 just over 34,000 were sold in total. Big improvements in build quality and sharper styling have made the latest Corvette the most credible supercar contender yet, something backed up by the stupendous performance - the quarter-mile was dispatched in 12.7 seconds and 0-60 mph took just 4.2 seconds, making this one of the fastest cars on the road in 2006. The brakes were power-assisted discs with ABS (cross-drilled rotors were an option) and wheels 18 by 8.5-inch alloys at the front and 19 by 10-inches at the rear. Combined with the Active Handling system and traction control, the chassis of the sixth generation Corvette was certainly up there with the best supercars on the planet.