2007 Chevrolet Corvette Review
The Corvette is the classic American sports car, produced since 1953 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The original Corvettes were six-cylinders and were handmade. A V8 was first offered in 1955. In 1997, the fifth generation debuted, with the performance-oriented Z06 coming along in 2001. The sixth generation debuted in 2005, and was the first in decades to have fixed headlights. However, it was also the first standard Corvette with 400 horsepower.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
For the money, the Chevrolet Corvette is one of the best sports car on the market. While it may not be as comfortable as a Mercedes or a Porsche, it can match them in speed for a fraction of the price. Offering a whopping 400 hp for just around $40,000, the Corvette is the most affordable sports car, with the exception of the hard to find Shelby Cobra. If you want performance that won’t break the bank, the Corvette is your best option.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Corvette 3.5 stars for mechanical quality and 5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the last generation include bending accessory belts, failing rear defrosters, engine knock and noise, and water leaks. It was recalled five times. Problems with the current generation include sticky clutches, inaccurate fuel gauges, failing power seats and turn signals, and vehicle noise. It’s been recalled three times for boiling brake fluid, cracking power steering hoses, and detaching roof panels. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control come standard. Side airbags are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ Relatively inexpensive
+ Surprisingly roomy
Cons
– Mediocre interior
– Unknown crashworthiness
– Lacks refinement
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Ford Shelby Cobra costs $500 less, has 100 more hp, and adds side airbags and a CD changer. However, availability is limited. The Corvette offers a larger engine and more horsepower than the Porsche 911 for $38,000 less, though it lacks side airbags and a moonroof. The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class 550 matches the Corvette in power, but costs $12,000 more.
What Others Are Saying:
“The Z06 variant of the all-new 2006 Chevrolet Corvette is the most potent production car GM has ever produced. It promises to shame exotic cars costing much more.” – Forbes
“With performance similar to an Ferrari F430 but less cabin luxury, the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 could be termed a poor man’s Ferrari–if a poor man had $77,230 to spend.” – C|Net
“It pins your shoulders to the bolstered leather bucket and pulls G-forces through your eyeballs in the first-gear dash, ultimately propelling 3245 pounds of a mechanical marvel to the mark of 60 mph in only 4.2 seconds and on to the quarter-mile post in 12.6 seconds at 114 mph. That’s the best zero-to-60 time yet for a stock short-block Corvette, but this one also promises the best potential with top speed climbing close to 190 mph.” – Road and Travel
Read more about the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.
