Chevrolet has unwrapped one of the three world premieres it has in store for us at the New York Auto Show next week, the all-new 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible, complete with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 pushing out at least 625 ponies and 635 lb-ft (861Nm) of torque – the other two cars are the refreshed Cruze and a new small car, if you’re wondering.
So, it’s a convertible version of Chevy’s new Corvette Z06 Stingray Coupe fitted with the same powerhouse that offers the option of a 7-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic, driver technologies, aerodynamic/styling enhancements, chassis setup and equipment options – correct? More or less, the answer is yes.
We all know that, typically, the removal of a fixed roof comes with added weight due to special reinforcements to retain structural rigidity, but Chevrolet claims that it made no such reinforcements to the C7 Z06 Convertible, as its aluminum structure is 20 percent stiffer than the previous, fixed-roof C6 Z06. As a result, the open-top model’s curb weight is claimed to be nearly identical to the C7 Z06 Coupe.
“Until recently it was not possible to create a lightweight, open-roof structure strong enough to cope with the braking, cornering, and acceleration of Corvette’s top performance models,” said Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter. “The frame for the Z06 Convertible leverages advancements in computer-aided engineering, metallurgy, and manufacturing techniques – many of which were not available just five years ago.”
Like the fixed-roof Z06 Coupe, the ragtop model will also be available with three different aero packages, which GM describes thusly:
- The standard Z06 features a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and rear spoiler
- An available carbon-fiber aero package delivers aerodynamic downforce four times greater than the standard Z06. It adds a carbon fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill – a small, vertical tab at the edge of the spoiler that significantly increases downforce. The package is available in black or a visible carbon-fiber finish
- The available Z07 package adds larger winglets to the front splitter, along with an adjustable, see-through center section on the rear spoiler enabling customers to tailor the aerodynamics to their preference.
GM has yet to announce performance figures for either Z06 model.
By John Halas
PHOTO GALLERY
