Whether you choose 2008 Corvette Coupe, 2008 Corvette Convertible or the awesome 505 hp Corvette Z06, you'll be driving one of the world's great sports cars. The performance is amazing, with the new 430 hp LS3 small-block V8 that's standard on Coupe and Convertible this year. Which is the better sports car? It’s too close to call, but the Corvettes price advantage, which even at $70,000 is thousands less than a comparably equipped Porsche 911 continues to give it an edge to the uncommitted buyer. If all the 2008 Corvette Convertible offered was acceleration, braking and handling equal to high-dollar exotics, it would still be the darling of car buffs everywhere. But a surprising level of utility comes along for the ride, too.
Optional on ’08 Coupe and 2008 Corvette Convertible models is a new, two-mode performance exhaust system. Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. Exhaust-valve lift remains unchanged from the LS2. The camshaft timing was revised to optimize performance with the higher-lift intake cam profile.
Add a folding roof to the equation and the cool factor jumps up by a multiple of eight. Added to this power are subtle styling features that put this Victory Red Corvette convertible on an even faster track. Add on the Z06 inspired dual-mode exhaust, and the new engine delivers an even rosier 436 horsepower.
Sport mode features Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), which modifies gear change patterns during spirited driving holding each gear to a higher rpm, and delivering quicker shifts, for even better performance. In Paddle Shift mode, sequential gear changes are controlled by the driver manually, using paddles behind the steering wheel. Sports cars matching the 2008 Corvette convertible performance thresholds have generally emerged from manufacturers situated abroad and almost always at far greater expense.
A six-speed paddle shift with automatic modes is available with an automatic transmission. The 6.2L engine with manual transmission gives 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Even so, the Corvette's tyranny still lags behind the top sporting automatics out there. The LS3 with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic is the fastest automatic-equipped Corvette ever, with 0-60 mph capability of 4.3 seconds.
Sport mode features Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), which modifies gear change patterns during spirited driving holding each gear to a higher rpm, and delivering quicker shifts, for even better performance. In Paddle Shift mode, sequential gear changes are controlled by the driver manually, using paddles behind the steering wheel.
Perimeter rails are one-piece hydro formed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Other castings, stampings and extrusions are combined into the innovative structure with state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies. Also new beauty covers atop the engine shield the rocker covers and also feature a noise-reducing, acoustically tuned insert to provide a more refined engine sound. The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engines 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.
Specific vehicles may have dealer- or manufacturer-added options not shown here that also affect price. In addition, there may be regional marketing and advertising fees or other costs that are beyond a dealer’s control. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic optional. The navigation system with Bose audio, as well as OnStar, is standard. And in base or V trim, the XLR has an interior the Corvette's new-for-2008 optional interior package is only now beginning to approach for luxurious look and feel. Besides, the Caddy isn't alone here.
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