2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition: First Look
- Competes with: Audi R8, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Porsche 911 Turbo
- Looks like: A gussied-up Z06 convertible
- Drivetrain: 505-horsepower, 7.0-liter V-8 and six-speed manual transmission
- Hits dealerships: Early summer 2012
Chevrolet enjoys marking Corvette milestones with new packages commemorating its iconic sports car. Model-year 2013 is no different. The bow-tie brand is celebrating 60 years of Corvette heritage with the 427 Convertible Collector Edition. The model-year 2013 Corvette will also be the last one to use the C6 platform. An all-new C7 Corvette is due for 2014.
Chevrolet took elements from its high-performance Z06 and ZR1 models to build what it calls “the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette’s history.” Putting power to the pavement is Z06’s 427-cubic-inch LS7 engine: A 7.0-liter V-8 that makes 505 horsepower and 470 pounds-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available. Chevy claims a blistering zero to 60 mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed north of 190 mph.
Specific exterior styling cues include a lot of carbon fiber, including the raised hood, Z06-style fenders and floor panels. Optional are a “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels. The 427 convertible borrows the Z06’s driveline and rear axle system, as well as its rear- mounted battery and Magnetic Selective Ride Control. Unique ZR1-styled wheels are also standard. The 427 convertible will be offered in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels.
Those not willing to pony up for the separate collector edition model can opt for the newly available 60th Anniversary Package. Optional on both coupe and convertible body styles, the package includes an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather and suede interior. Convertible models will get a blue top. Other features unique to the package include a spoiler borrowed from ZR1, optional Pearl Silver Blue racing stripes and a slew of 60th anniversary badges on wheels, front end, steering wheel, instrument panel, sill plates and head restraints.
The new 427 convertible and anniversary package will be unveiled at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21. The first one will be sold to the highest bidder with the proceeds going to charity. Both the convertible and anniversary package will go on sale this summer. No word on pricing, but we do know a limited number of each will be made; Chevrolet has yet to release the numbers. The 427 convertible will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence that’s similar to the Corvette ZR1.
Clicking on any image below will launch a larger photo gallery; you can browse through them by hitting the right and left arrow keys.
