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No one needs a Corvette, but lots of people want one. If you’re having a little trouble convincing either yourself or the other name on your checking account, try the practicality premise.
A base model (it seems ludicrous to call any Corvette a base model) 2008 Corvette Coupe (2-door hatchback) is actually quite practical. It’s very comfortable; it’s capable of good fuel economy; it has ample cargo capacity; it’s safe; it’s tractable in everyday traffic; it’s easy to park; and it’s an excellent value with very good resale. On top of that, it’s incredibly fun to drive.
Its low stance isn’t the easiest for ingress/egress, but once you’re ensconced it’s very comfortable. The high torque engine (424 kb-ft) means you can cruise at very low rpms and thus get excellent fuel economy (as long as you’re judicious with the throttle). The hatchback area behind the seats is roomy, versatile and easy to access. Besides all its standard safety equipment the extreme maneuverability and great brakes are outstanding proactive safety features.
A base coupe starts around $45,000 (and can rise quickly with too many checkmarks on the old option list). That’s plenty of money for a two-passenger car, but given the Corvette’s awesome capabilities it’s a bargain compared to its rivals. Strong resale value helps justify the initial price.
Walkaround: If the above logic didn’t convince you to buy a new Corvette a good look at its swoopy styling should seal the deal. There’s no mistaking the Corvette for anything other than America’s finest sports car. Styling is so sleek it looks fast even when parked. The Corvette reeks of sex appeal.
The removable roof panel on the coupe makes it better than the more expensive convertible, because you can have both a tight, quiet interior or open air motoring. And, you don’t compromise cargo capacity.
Interior: The Corvette interior has been criticized for not being European enough. Yes, there are some inherent fit and finish problems with a fiberglass body, but compared to where Corvettes once were on quality charts, the new cars are spectacular. The cockpit is more of a racecar/jet fighter cockpit than a luxury sedan, but that’s the Corvette’s personality.
The Corvette is comfortable on short trips around town or on all day cross-country treks. It’s a perfect car for weekend getaways.
Under The Hood: The base model now offers more power than what the King of the Hill Z06 had in 2004. The ‘04 Z06 had 405 hp; the ‘08 base Corvette has 430 hp. The 2008 Z06 has 505 hp. We don’t know why (or where) anyone needs or can use more than 430 horsepower. You reach a performance point where further increases are difficult to quantify without test equipment. The 2008 Corvette has easily blown past that point.
Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual or no-cost 6-speed automatic. We’ve driven both and they’re both great. The automatic transmission is more practical for daily commuting, but the manual is more fun.
Behind The Wheel: Driving a new Corvette makes every outing fun regardless of destination or duration. Freeway onramps are something to anticipate. Underpasses provide an exhaust note symphony. The Corvette is a blast to drive. It’s so competent and easy to drive that it makes mediocre drivers seem much more talented than they really are.
Whines: Prices keep rising faster than our income.
Bottom Line: All 2008 Corvettes are awesome. Period.
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