100 Years Counting

Written by Nicolas Bates

From 1966 to 1969, Chevrolet produced what would become one of the most coveted collector cars ever: The Corvette 427 Convertible. Now, 60 years later, and for a short time (until the new C7 Corvette is released), Chevrolet will be manufacturing the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition, which Chevrolet is calling the “the fastest and most capable convertible in Corvette’s history.” From its exterior to its monstrosity of a motor, this ‘Vette doesn’t look like it will give anyone a chance to be a “let down.”

Just to give you an idea of how the 427 Convertible is being deemed “the fastest and most capable convertible in Corvette’s history,” it must be made known that this Corvette will share design elements with Z06 and ZR1 ‘Vettes! Perhaps the most important shared element is the 7-liter LS7 motor out of the Z06 model. The LS7—assembled by hand and made with lightweight rods and intake valves and utilizing a dry sump system—will provide a hefty 505 hp at 470 ft.-lb. of torque. This motor is hand-built, which only adds one more element of prestige to this fine, modern-day muscle car. Other elements taken from the Z06 will be the driveline and rear axle system. Also a standard feature, will be Magnetic Selective Ride Control, which, according to Chevrolet, “provides increased wheel control by dramatically reducing heave, pitch and roll even on the roughest of roads or during difficult maneuvers at high speeds.” The 427 Convertible will also only come in a 6-speed transmission version. Really though, to the chagrin of very few, I am sure.

Horsepower-to-weight ratio is among one of the most important elements in a car designed for performance (especially a heavier convertible), and Chevrolet has not forgotten this. Among some of the weight saving components on the 427 Convertible will be: a carbon fiber hood, Z06-style carbon fiber fenders and carbon fiber floor panels. The car will have a curb weight of 3,355 lb., and thus, a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64. With this ratio, it is currently lower than the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, Audi R8 Spyder, Aston Martn DBS Volante Convertible and Ferrari’s California Convertible. The car is said to have a top speed of 190 mph, a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds and a quarter mile time of under 12 seconds.

The 427 Convertible will come in a variety of trim options, including: 2LT, 3LT and 4LT; each carrying a VIN number similar to that of the Corvette ZR1 models. Also available, will be the 60th Anniversary Package, featuring an “Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents,” and a blue top. Additionally, this model will also come equipped with a ZR1-style rear spoiler, grey brake calipers and a “60th” logo on its wheel’s center caps and steering wheel, as well as it stitched into its headrests.

Although the first 427 Convertible that rolled off the line fetched $600,000 at a Barrett-Jackson auction, proceeds went to charity. The production 427 Convertible is said to have a sticker price of less than $80,000.

Chevrolet has released anniversary editions and collector editions in past years; however, never at the same time and both available on the same car. The Chevrolet 427 Convertible Collector Edition and 60th Anniversary Editions will sure be sought after in the coming years, and, unlike many of the same cars in that category, you’re very likely to see one in a town near you.

For more info go to:
Chevrolet.com