The Chevrolet Corvette gets more power for 2008. The new version of the standard aluminum-block V8 in the Corvette coupe and convertible models now displaces 6.2 liters and is rated at 430 horsepower--30 horsepower more than last year's 6.0-liter engine--and 424 ft-lbs of torque. The engine gets a number of design changes, including a new intake manifold that yields a more refined sound. It can be matched with either a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed automatic with paddle-shifters beside the steering wheel.

The automatic has quicker shift times; Chevy says that it makes this year's model the fastest automatic Corvette ever, with a 0 to 60 time of 4.3 seconds when equipped with the new Z51 package and 2.73 axle ratio. Top speed is now 190 mph.

A new two-mode exhaust system, similar to that which has been offered on the Z06, is now available on the standard Corvette models; it allows quiet operation during low-speed driving, but opens up to optimize performance (and provide a more aggressive sound) when needed. It also adds six horsepower.

The Corvette comes with three suspension choices, which allow it to be everything from a comfortable grand-tourer to an edgy, track-ready machine. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and performance. Next up is the Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension, which uses sophisticated electronics and magnetically reactive fluid-filled dampers to provide a comfortable ride but tighten its responses when needed. At the top is the Z51 Performance Package, which brings the most aggressive setup, including larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, cross-drilled brake rotors, and enhanced cooling. On all models, steering has also been revised for improved feel.

The more exclusive Z06 version stands at the top of the Corvette line, with performance that bests many exotics costing several times as much. Its 7.0L V8 makes 505 horsepower to propel a car that weighs only 3,132 pounds, bringing astounding acceleration, braking, and grip. The Z06 can accelerate to 60 mph in only 3.7 seconds, reach 198 mph, brake from 60 in only 111 feet, and draw a maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g--all very respectable figures.

The Z06 matches this performance with heavy-duty components--many of them developed from racing experience--built to stand up on the racetrack, including a dry-sump oil system, titanium connecting rods and intake valves, CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads, and hydroformed exhaust headers. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered.

A unique, aluminum body underpins the Z06, with perimeter rails and composites used for strengthening. The engine is mounted on a unique magnesium cradle; carbon-fiber front fenders also help cut weight.

Besides getting a firmer suspension and larger wheels, the Z06 gets a very distinctive brake setup, with red-painted six-piston calipers that actually use six brake pads each; a four-piston setup is used in back.

The Active Handling stability control system, which allows enthusiastic driving yet can aid safety, is also standard on all Corvettes; the Z06 brings a Competitive Driving Mode.

The Corvette convertible includes a power-folding soft top with five-layers of fabric for reduced noise and good isolation.

On all Corvettes, a CD audio system with audio input jack is standard; a Bose audio system with steering-wheel audio controls and a six-disc changer is optional.

Supercar-caliber Performance

Flashy Looks

Racing-derived Equipment (Z06).

The Chevy Corvette gets extensive mechanical changes for 2008, including more powerful engines for both the standard model and the top-performance Z06, plus improved transmission action and steering feel. Also, a new 2.73 performance axle ratio is available with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic or included with the Z51 package.

Several new wheel designs are offered--with an optional Competition Gray finish for the standard ones--while inside Cyber-pattern or brushed aluminum trim accents and a newly available Leather-Wrapped Interior Package in Linen or Sierra colors bring a different appearance. OnStar and XM Satellite Radio are now standard, and an auxiliary audio input for MP3 players is now standard on all sound systems except with the optional navigation system.

Two new exterior colors join the Corvette lineup for 2008: Jetstream Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat.

Chevrolet's 2008 Corvette coupe and convertible are flashy, fast sports cars, yet they're comfortable enough to drive daily in fair-weather places. The Corvette Z06 especially is one of the best-performing cars in the world, and makes various race-proven design features available in an affordably priced production vehicle. Relative to its performance rivals, all well over $100,000, the Z06 is a downright bargain at a touch over $70,000. The Corvette's various improvements and across-the-line power boost for 2008 make it an even better value.