2008 Chevrolet Corvette Review

The Corvette is the classic American sports car, produced in Bowling Green, KY since 1953. Originally hand-built with V6 engines, a V8 became available in 1955. The sixth and current generation debuted in 2005, with the Z06 high-performance variant following in 2006. The Corvette is available as a coupe with a removable hard-top or a convertible. It’s won several awards and was nominated for “North American Car of the Year” in 2005.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

For over 50 years, the Chevrolet Corvette has been the common man’s exotic sports car. To this day, it still gives $100,000+ cruisers a run for their money. You won’t find many advanced features with the Corvette, but what you do get is a stylish, fast car at a (relatively) bargain basement price.

What’s New For 2008:

A new V8 engine is standard, capable of 430-hp. Shifting has been improved. New standard wheels and a revised interior round out the changes for 2008.

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 included squealing belts, failed rear defrosters, engine knock, engine noise and water leaks. It was recalled five times. The current generation has had issues with stuck clutch pedals, inaccurate fuel gauges, failing power seats, failing turn signals and vehicle noise. It’s been recalled three times for cracking power steering hoses, boiling brake fluid and weak glue. Expect below average to 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, traction control, and Active Handling (stability control) come standard. Side airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Exotic performance
+ A bargain in its class
+ Hey, it’s a Corvette

Cons
- Lacking side airbags
- Interior still lacking in areas
- Weak reliability record

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Viper SRT-10 has a V10 engine with 170 more horses, but costs far more and lacks traction control. The Porsche Boxster has a comparable starting price and more headroom, but 185 less hp. The BMW 6 Series 650i includes navigation, side airbags, and a moonroof, but costs far more and has 70 less hp.

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

“The most important lesson that the ‘Vette can teach GM: whatever the Corvette product development and management team is doing is EXACTLY what ALL their product teams should be doing. Inside GM, common sense is not so common.” – The Truth About Cars

“Through most of its 50-plus years, the Corvette has been at the forefront of sports-car performance with an amalgam of style and speed that’s made it an American icon. For 2008, the Corvette gets a more powerful 6.2-liter engine and a vastly improved, optional leather interior.” – Car and Driver

Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.