The sixth generation of Chevrolet Corvettes. The new sixth-generation Corvette gets an overhaul of the suspension geometry, all new bodywork with exposed headlamps (first time since 1962), larger passenger compartment, larger 6.0 L engine, and a much higher level of refinement. Overall, it is 5.1 inches (13 cm) shorter than the C5, but its wheelbase has increased by 1.2 inches (3 cm). It is also one inch (2.5 cm) narrower, making for a smaller, sportier Corvette. The reduced dimensions were in response to criticism that the fifth-generation Corvette looked too wide—the new body gives the impression of a much sleeker, faster car.
Motor Specifications:
6.0 L LS2 V8
400 hp (298 kW) at 6000 rpm
400 lbf.ft (542 N·m) of torque at 4400 rpm
6500 rpm redline
The current Corvette retains its relatively high fuel economy, in part by upshifting to higher gears as soon as possible and in part by its relatively low drag coefficient. Equipped with an automatic transmission, the Corvette achieves 18/26 mpg (city/highway), and the manual transmission is slightly better at 18/28. However, some prospective Corvette buyers are surprised to find that the Corvette’s manual transmission is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Shifting (CAGS), obligating the driver to shift from 1st directly to 4th when operating at lower RPMs. While this boosts the EPA’s derived fuel economy, thus allowing the buyer to avoid paying the “gas guzzler” tax, it is an open secret that more than a few sixth-generation Corvette owners with manual transmissions simply have a $20 aftermarket part (CAGS eliminator) fitted to their vehicle to re-enable a normal 1-2-3-4-5-6 sequence at any RPM.
For 2008, the Corvette receives a range of updates - the heart of which is the new engine, the LS3. With displacement increased to 6.2 liters, power is increased to 430 hp (321 kW) and 424 ft·lbf (575 N·m) of torque. The manual transmission also has improved shift linkage, while the automatic is set up for quicker shifts giving the C6 Automatic a 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds, faster then any other production automatic Corvette. The wheels were also updated to a new five-spoke design.
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