Chevrolet plans to say farewell to the sixth-generation of its iconic sports car in a big way, with the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition. Combining elements from the Z06 and ZR1 models, this open-air stormer will be the fastest and most-capable Corvette drop-top ever produced. Chevy also announced a special 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models. Both are set to make their first public appearances at the annual Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, later this month and appear in Chevy dealerships in early summer.
"The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation," said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. "We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine." Chevy will put the first of these cars offered to the public on the block at the Barrett-Jackson event with all proceeds going to benefit the "Drive to End Hunger" food relief program.
Available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trims, the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition is fitted with the same race-bred 7.0-liter LS7 V8 found in the Z06 model. Making an identical 505 horsepower and 470-lb-ft of torque, it’s the most potent engine ever fitted in a production Corvette convertible and will be matched with the rest of the Z06’s drivetrain elements, including the availability of the Z06’s six-speed manual transmission. That combo is expected to give it a 0-60 mph sprint time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed in excess of 190 mph.
On the handling front, the 427 Convertible Collector Edition also features standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control on its sport suspension, lightweight machine-faced 19-inch front/20-inch alloy Cup wheels wrapped in ZR1 spec Michelin PS2 ultra-performance tires and a rear-mounted battery to improve overall balance. To help trim weight, the car also gets a number of custom carbon-fiber body bits including the raised hood from the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition, Z06-style fenders and composite floor panels The "CFZ" carbon-fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional.
To complete the celebratory theme, the entire 2013 Corvette line – including the 427 Convertible Collector Edition – will be available with a unique 60th Anniversary Package that matches an Arctic White exterior with Blue Diamond leather upholstery and suede accents. All 60th Anniversary Convertibles will be fitted with blue top. Other dedicated design elements include the "CFZ" carbon-fiber front splitter and rocker panels, a ZR1-style rear spoiler, gray-painted brake calipers and special badging that nets a bounty of "60th" logos on the fascias, wheel center caps, sill plates, steering wheel, instrument panel and headrests. A special graphics package with full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue will be offered as an option.
