The Corvette is one of the most exciting cars in the market right now. A true American sports car icon, the demand for the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is so high that even Chevy is finding it hard to keep with it. Loved by many, hated by none, the new Vette keeps on adding minor improvements which makes it even more appealing. The Vette has come a long way and surely is one of the most sought out cars in the market right now.
Starting out at around $60,000; it won’t exactly break the bank of enthusiasts. Another huge reason why it is in such high demand. Offering a powerful engine capable of putting higher-priced sports cars to shame, the Vette’s styling eludes even the most obstinate. No wonder it snagged the Editor’s Choice list on Car And Driver and 2020 Poster Car of CarBuzz. But if you want to order a new, fresh Corvette, there are certain things you need to know.
Specs
Before we dive into the intricacies and the details about ordering a new Corvette, let’s take a look at the specs of the 2021 Chevy Corvette. The American car comes with a mid-engined 6.2L V8 that is capable of thumping out 490 horses and 470 lb-ft of torque. You can also configure it with the Z51 package, which will take the power to 495 horses.
Also, this is the first time that the Vette is added with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. You cannot choose any other transmission and there is no manual transmission either. Also, it comes with rear-wheel drive only, which would suit enthusiasts more. The Z51 package will also offer an electronic limited-slip differential, summer tires, and a more powerful braking system.
Talking about the fun part, the Vette can shoot from standstill to 60 MPH in a mere 2.8 seconds, as you feel the speed jolt you back. Also, it can pass the quarter-mile in an equally astonishing 11.2 seconds at 122 MPH. Now, talking about the handling, the Vette surely is fast; but it also handles exceptionally well. Moving the engine to the rear means the Vette’s handling has been altered from the last generation.
To counter the slight understeer, you can turn off the traction control to completely eliminate it. With amazing levels of grip and excellent behavior when pushed to corners, the American sports car can be made to have even better handling if you just choose the Z51 package. Braking is also not the best in business, especially with the pedal feel.
Fuel economy is also going to cost you quite some money, as you might already expect from a sports car. The EPA estimates are rated at 15/27/19 MPG for city/highway/combined driving. The gas tank is 18.5 gallons and it means that you get a combined mileage of 352 miles. Overall, the mileage is not too bad for a sports car, especially if you don’t push it hard enough.
Alright, let’s get to some common questions you might want to get answered before you order a new Corvette.
Which is the best trim level?
The Vette comes in three trims – 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT. The 1LT starts at $59,900. The 2LT is priced at $67,200, and the 3LT is priced at a much heftier $71,850. With the vast difference among each of the different trims, you might be asking yourself if it’s worth spending the extra money to get the 3LT.
The 2LT trim comes with a 14-speaker BOSE audio system, front and rear cameras, heads-up display, heated and ventilated seats, and also a heated steering wheel. While the 3LT sounds more exciting, it will not add much value to your purchase. The 3LT only comes with the GT2 bucket seats and adds more luxury by adding a few extra leather bits here and there. A suede headliner is also available. However, you can also add these upgrades to your 2LT trim, as these come as optional extras anyway.
So, to answer the question – which trim should you buy? We think you should just stick with the 2LT trim. There is no need to spend the extra $4,000 or so, especially since the 3LT won’t add a lot of value to your money. Stick with the 2LT trim.
Should you take the Z51 package?
The Z51 package costs $5,995. As we already mentioned, it offers performance suspension, electronic limited-slip differential, performance rear axle ratio, performance exhaust, front splitter and rear spoiler, Brembo brakes, heavy-duty cooling, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Also, it takes the total output from your engine to 490 horsepower. If you want the Magnetic Selective Ride Control, be ready to pay another $1,895. Performance exhausts can also be added for $1,195.
Coming to the question, it has a simple answer – if you want to race your Vette and dominate on the track, the Z51 package + Mag Ride + performance exhaust are completely indispensable options. If you only want to daily drive the Vette or take it out on weekends, the Z51 is still a very impressive option; but you don’t need the other two. Grab the package if you want to race.
Should you get the Coupe or the Convertible?
Now, here is something that we would mostly leave to personal preference; however, there are certain things to talk about. The 1LT Convertible starts at $67,400 and the prices keep rising. If you want the drop-top goodness of having the roof down and the wind hitting your face, then surely, go for the convertible.
However, if you are conscious about your budget, then you must get the Coupe. With the convertible, you do not get any added weight and you also do not suffer from any performance loss. So, do not worry about losing out on power, for both offer identically the same.
You should choose for yourself if you can afford the Convertible and enjoy the open-air goodness. If you can, then go for it; or else, the coupe.
How should you option the car?
If you are thinking about getting the Vette, consider the following choices:
Get the 2LT trim and save the money by getting a Coupe; not a Convertible. For $7,500; the Z51 package is a must-have, even though it is expensive. Also, grab the Magnetic Ride Control if you are an enthusiast driving on the race track. For regular day-to-day usage, you can skip it with no compromises. Get the front-lift system for $1,995 and the GT2 Bucket seats for $1,495.
Overall, this configuration can cost you south of $80,000. However, it is worth every penny and still cheaper than most sports cars. If you are an enthusiast, you would especially feel that your money is well-spent for the price.