Gee, I’m glad I didn’t buy a 2013 Corvette ZR1 (yeah right) because the much anticipated and rumored 2014 model has just debuted at the Detroit Auto Show. And what a roadster it is.
The 2014 Corvette Sting Ray is a drop dead, knock out, sexy beauty. And, would you believe, it’s more economical to run?
While the new Vette is reportedly new from the frame up, only the roof panel latch and cabin air filter were retained from the 2013 model.
In its 60-year existence, the 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever built with an estimated 450-hp and 450 lb/ft of torque. As is, it’s able to do 0-60 in less than four seconds and achieve, says Chevy, more than 1g in cornering grip. And get this. It’s expected to be the most fuel efficient Vette to date, exceeding the current models’ 26 EPA mpg.
Using an all new frame structure and chassis, the Stingray sports a new powertrain, new exterior and new interior.
For example, the interior includes real carbon fiber, aluminum and hand-wrapped leather materials, two new seat choices (each with a lightweight magnesium frame), dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to the driver’s environment, and a new 7-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts.
Perhaps the latter, in conjunction with an all-new 6.2L, LT1 V8, is what makes this the most economical Vette. The new powerplant with direct fuel injection, Active Fuel Management, CCV timing and an advanced combustion system, reportedly delivers more power while using less fuel.
A weight reduction also helps economy. A lightweight carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel, composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panel, carbon-nano composite underbody panels and aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for a 50/50 weight balance that also promotes a world-class power-to-weight ratio.
As for the exterior, Corvette designers used high-intensity discharge and light emitting diode lighting and the sleek bodylines produce low drag for efficiency.
With the Z51 Performance Package, buyers get an electronic limited-slip differential, dry sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling and a cool looking overall design.
Like other Vette’s, the Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green, KY plant that underwent a $131-million upgrade to includes a new body shop to manufacture the aluminum frame in-house for the first time.
The 2014 Stingray goes on sale in the third quarter 2013. Now if I can only win the lotto.
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