Chevrolet is set to bring the convertible version of the Z06 supercar to the 2014 New York Motor Show. The car is designed to face similar competitors from Europe, ranging from Porsche 911 Turbo Convertible, Audi R8 convertible and so on. Judging by its initial impressions, the super convertible from the land of Stars and Stripes does look irresistible compared to its European rivals.
Similar to the coupe, this beast will be powered by a supercharged, 6.2-litre V8 with transmission options including a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic. But the Corvette Z06 Convertible’s main secret weapon lies on its weight, which is usually the Achilles heel for convertibles, as the mechanical folding roof usually adds weight, which at times compromises the cars’ handling dynamics. Thanks to an ultra-stiff aluminum frame, the convertible weighs nearly as much as the 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.”
This true-blue convertible will have all the aerodynamic enhancements from the Z06 coupe, as well as suspension complete with a specially tuned version of Magnetic Ride Control, just like the coupe. So now with modern technology that allows convertible supercars to be as good as the coupe version, is it just a matter of time before coupe supercars are a thing of the past, especially if the folding roof is made of metal?
[Source: Autoblog]
