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ThomasM
[PuristS]
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Quick looks: 2013 Corvette 427 Collector Edition Convertible

Corvette 427 Collector Edition Convertible high performance sports car

I have to confess my biases - I lean towards European design sensitivities and am more captivated by the Euro-mystique. I also tend to prefer, in a world of compromise, the compromises chosen by European marques to those taken by American or Japanese makers.

But being conscious of my biases, I also try very hard to put them aside when looking at a new model, be it automobile, motorcycle, or watch.

I actually wanted to like the reborn Camaro and Challenger / Charger, for example, with their (to my eyes) successful modernized retro styling.

Yet in the seat and behind the wheel, I was sorely disappointed by both, even in their SRT and SS configurations. I'm tempted to get into specifics but since this write up is about the Corvette, I'll leave that discussion for another time and place.

The current Mustangs and Corvettes, if considered within their intended context, though, are not only satisfying, but in some cases, very impressive, and even tempting...the Laguna Seca Edition of the 'stang and even the plain jane C06 standard coupe come to mind.  Factoring in the price (something I like to do last, if at all) and you have some very compelling propositions if you are looking for a relatively affordable new track weapon that can also do double duty as daily transport. The combination of power, ride quality, and natural grip / traction, with minimally intrusive electronic nannies, make for some very nice enthusiasts cars, fit and trim quality complaints be damned.

The 427 Collector Edition Convertible is the run out edition of the C06 series, and in many ways is basically a Z06 convertible, though heavier and not quite, barely, as balanced, with the same 505hp 470 ft-lb 7 liter LS7 small block.

I'm a normally aspirated engine fan, just as I prefer analog chassis and suspension design and tuning with minimal electronic nannies; and so, as impressive as the specs of the ZR1, with its supercharged engine, are on paper, I'd personally choose the Z06 if I were to make such a choice.

(note: I realize the irony that the 427 has standard Magnetic Selectiive Ride Control; in this case, unlike most other electo-magnetic-hydraulic-moondust active suspension systems, this one just works. I've heard even Ferrari licenses some version of this technology...)

The specs of the 427 C.E. are nothing to sneeze at, of course -

 0-60 3,8 sec

top speed 190mph (I saw nearly 3/4 of that and it was never hairy or scary, just planted and felt eminently in control with steering wheel and throttle, unlike certain other vehicles that day...)

Pro:

Engine / drivetrain - 9 / 10: loud without being offensive; deep rumble, responsive, power and torque from low down and all the way through, it just pours on, smooth and predictable.

Chassis and suspension - 8/10: nice ride without being too soft or wallowy, no noticeable flex, squeaks or rattles. Handling was flat and planted, I always felt in control with the steering wheel and throttle, allowing me to explore and push with confidence. A great combination of ride and handling, possibly the nicest of the day! Maybe it wouldn't be as fast at the limits as the FF and 991 (maybe not, maybe it would) but I actually PREFERRED it to the Ferrari and Porsche, crazy as that might sound! Less lean, less roll, just PLANTED! 

Old Skool Pure - big engine, big power, all laid down to the ground in a traditional front engine rear drive minimally intrusive electronic nanny'd suspension. For a convertible, the chassis and frame are fairly stiff, with no noticeable flexing even around cambered and uneven tight roads with many turns of varying speeds and tightness.  Add to this the joys of top down motoring and you have a nearly irresistable enthusiast proposition.

Three pedal manual with very positive throw stick (the spring loading could use some slightly stronger springs) and nice linear clutch engagement, unlike the other Motor City product that tended to be on or off and lots of dead travel...

Cons: To be honest, I found nothing to dislike about this car. Seriously. and surprising. Not the (in)famous low quality interior trim - it wasn't Bentley or Aston Martin grade, or Ferrari / Maserati sensuous, but it didn't feel "cheap" either;

not the "plastic" body - the doors felt and sounded more solid than the A-M DB9!

If I had to nit pick on something, it would have to be the image of the Corvette, as the car of those in the middle of mid-life crisis, usually with a blond in the passenger seat with an IQ of slightly double her / his age...An ugly image, to be sure, and one I can almost overlook for the driving pleasure of this model, it's that good. (with all due respect to those in the middle of their mid-life crisis. I'm just quoting the ugly stereotype, not agreeing with it.)

Well, ok, maybe the electronic door release - what's up with that? stupid, stupid unnecessary technology for technology's sake...

General Comments: I don't like to put price into the consideration when evaluating watches, wines, or cars, as in, "forgiveable if one considers the price" and in this case, no excuses needed.

On the other hand, at just under $76,000 it ain't "cheap" but for the quality of the driving experience, it's a bargain, especially when considered against the competition.

Worth the upcharge from the base model or the Grand Sport? For me, yes, but marginal returns are highly subjective.

In this case it doesn't test the borders of the absurd lunatic fringes of the law of diminishing returns - 10x the price for 1% improvement - and can be rationally considered. Again, for me, yes, yes, yes, not only in quantitative terms, but more importantly, in clear, albeit subjective, qualitative terms - exterior details, overall driving experience.

Conc: Balanced, traditional and pure, fewer squeaks and rattles than several AMG's I've driven and know well... I LOVED this car, and am sorely tempted...