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Pat Devereux22 January 2014
Top Gear Magazine
First drive: the C7 Corvette Convertible
It's the proper drop-top Stingray. But should you choose one over a regular targa-topped 'Vette?
Been waiting to hear more about the new convertible Stingray. What's the story?
Designed at the same time as the hardtop, you might think that the convertible was unnecessary as all ‘Vettes now have a targa-style removable roof panel. So you can get your fresh air on and have a solid roof over your head when you're finished. But then you drive the soft-topped version and it makes all the sense in the world. There are several reasons for this.
Such as?
Such as you naturally get a more expansive, unobstructed view of the outside. You can hear the rasping exhaust note more clearly. The airflow with the roof down and windows up is actually better, less buffeting, than in the hardtop with the roof section removed. And with the roof down, the roadster version almost looks better than the hardtop.
But there must be some issues - what about the lack of boot space?
True there isn't a huge amount of space back there, but the good news is that it is of a constant size. The roof mechanism is walled off from the boot so you don't cram a load of luggage in then hear a sickening graunch of a stallng roof mechanism when you try and tuck the hood away. It's not huge at 283 litres but then show me a competitor with more. Plus it's not like you buy one of these expecting to move house, is it?
Full Review: First drive: the C7 Corvette Convertible - BBC Top Gear
Top Gear Magazine
First drive: the C7 Corvette Convertible
It's the proper drop-top Stingray. But should you choose one over a regular targa-topped 'Vette?
Been waiting to hear more about the new convertible Stingray. What's the story?
Designed at the same time as the hardtop, you might think that the convertible was unnecessary as all ‘Vettes now have a targa-style removable roof panel. So you can get your fresh air on and have a solid roof over your head when you're finished. But then you drive the soft-topped version and it makes all the sense in the world. There are several reasons for this.
Such as?
Such as you naturally get a more expansive, unobstructed view of the outside. You can hear the rasping exhaust note more clearly. The airflow with the roof down and windows up is actually better, less buffeting, than in the hardtop with the roof section removed. And with the roof down, the roadster version almost looks better than the hardtop.
But there must be some issues - what about the lack of boot space?
True there isn't a huge amount of space back there, but the good news is that it is of a constant size. The roof mechanism is walled off from the boot so you don't cram a load of luggage in then hear a sickening graunch of a stallng roof mechanism when you try and tuck the hood away. It's not huge at 283 litres but then show me a competitor with more. Plus it's not like you buy one of these expecting to move house, is it?
Full Review: First drive: the C7 Corvette Convertible - BBC Top Gear
