It all started with a roadster. The thrill of open-air motoring was a part of the original allure when the Chevrolet Corvette was born in 1953. Now the sixth-generation 2005 Corvette Convertible arrives.

The sixth-generation of the Corvette legacy begins with the 2005 edition, available in Coupe and Convertible models. Featuring upgrades throughout, a new 400-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8 engine, and new styling, the sixth-generation Corvette brings more power, passion and precision to America’s performance icon.

The sixth-generation Corvette Convertible features an optional power-operated soft top, a feature that last appeared on the car in 1962. The power top features a single-button control and completes its cycle in 18 seconds. The top is designed and manufactured in partnership between GM and Car Top Systems, Gmbh, experts who’ve contributed to some of the world’s most celebrated open cars. An easy-to-operate manual top remains standard.

The convertible top for the sixth-generation Corvette reflects great attention to detail to net improvements in aesthetics, aerodynamics and utility. In both its manual and power versions, the canvas soft top is available in three colors: Black, Beige and Grey. In its closed position, the canvas top has a smoother, more contoured appearance that conceals the underlying structure better than traditional soft tops. In addition to being more pleasing to the eye, this also helps preserve the aerodynamic characteristics designed into the sixth-generation Corvette.

In addition to the new power top, several more details combine to make the convertible much more pleasing to drive, especially for long trips. A bulkhead has been added to better contain small items in the trunk and enable the addition of a new storage area behind each seat. The power top occupies no more space than the manual version, preserving maximum trunk space in both versions. Rear visibility is improved with a glass backlight that is 18.5 percent larger than the 2004 version. Like its predecessor, the backlight has a standard rear defogger.

Production of the 2005 Corvette Convertible begins in fall 2004, slightly after the Coupe begins production in late summer. The 2005 Corvette will be available for sale in the U.S. in late summer, with sales in Europe scheduled to begin in October.

Story by General Motors Corp, edited by Supercars.net