According to GM, computer airflow models were used to improve aerodynamic characteristics even before the first designs hit the wind tunnel, which is how most new cars are made. The Corvette Convertible features a new aluminum windshield frame, designed with this method to promote conversation level quietness even when the top is down at highway speeds. When the top is up the car's thick, five-layer Twillfast fabric is said to enhance insulation while improving durability.
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| GM didn't want buyers to have to leave all their luggage behind, so even with the top down there is a decent 144 liters (5.1 cubic feet) of trunk space. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
GM designed in practicality to the new Corvette roadster too, with a fairly decent 295 liters (10.5 cubic feet) of cargo space available when the top is up and 144 liters (5.1 cubic feet) with the top down. This is achieved via a new rear bulkhead improving available space as well as an added cargo area behind the seats. Also, the addition of the power top mechanisms doesn't impinge on cargo space at all. In comparison the smaller Porsche Boxster uses front and rear compartments to deliver 260 liters (9.2 cubic feet) of trunk space, top up or down.
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| The new Convertible weighs less than the outgoing model, with a 22 kilo (49 pound) reduction, resulting in an overall weight of 1,451 kg (3,199 pounds). (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
Visibility is often compromised in convertibles, but Chevy at least made the rear view better by increasing the size of the back window by 18.5 percent over last year's car. A rear defogger continues to be standard.
When perusing the 2005 Corvette specs I was impressed that Chevy actually managed to reduce the cars curb weight when compared to the 2004 model. The Convertible continues this trend with a commendable 22 kilo (49 pound) reduction, resulting in an overall weight of 1,451 kg (3,199 pounds). The truly impressive part is that the optional power top brings only 6.4 kilos (14 pounds) to the table, which if included still weighs less than the outgoing car's manually actuated top.