2005 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Preview

Amazingly, environmental issues aren't thrown out the window, or more precisely the open top, with Corvette's new performance upgrade. Due to reduced vehicle mass and aerodynamic optimization, plus the

Surprisingly, even with a 14.5 percent increase in horsepower, the new Corvette actually achieves the same fuel efficiency. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

efficiencies of the new 6.0-liter LS2 V8 engine, the 2005 Corvette delivers an estimated combined city/highway rating of about 10.7 to 10.2 L/100 km (22 or 23 mpg), which is virtually the same as the outgoing model despite the 14.5 percent improvement in horsepower.

When compared to leading sports car rivals the new Corvette comes out on top in output versus fuel economy specs. GM explains it this way: "When the LS2's 400 horsepower is multiplied by its combined city/highway mileage estimates, it yields an index of 9,040." How does the competition stack up? Porsche's 911 GT2, which features 477-hp and a 12.9 L/100 km (18.2 mpg) city/hwy rating, achieves an index of 8,681. The 500-hp Viper's thirsty 8.3-liter V10 results in 15.1 L/100 km (15.5 mpg) combined and a rating of 7,750. Ferrari is much worse at 6,541 for the 515-hp 575 Maranello, which achieves 18.5 L/100 km

Enthusiasts need not worry, although miserly on fuel the new Corvette reportedly still features the same ol' V8 growl. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

(12.7 mpg), while the Modena only manages the same 18.5 L/100 km (12.7 mpg) combined city/hwy fuel economy specs while producing 400-hp, for a last place 5,080. But of course the high-revving sound of its V8 engine, to some, is priceless.

But North American enthusiasts often prefer the rumble of large displacement V8s, an exhaust note the previous Corvette had down to perfection. No doubt the 2005 model will only improve on such nuances.

But you've read all about engine performance in previous C6 coupe reviews I'm sure. What about the new convertible?