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The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette convertible is offered in two trimlines, with the Grand Sport joining the standard Corvette Convertible for the second year in a row.  The 2011 Corvette Convertible is powered by the familiar 430 horsepower LS3 V8 mated to either a manual or automatic six speed transmission.  Buyers who select the automatic transmission also get the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters – allowing for better driver control over the shift points.  There are few changes to the Corvette Convertible for 2001, with the only major changes to the base model being a variety of customization options.

The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible receives the addition of Inferno Orange and Supersonic Blue to the exterior color choices along with optional color-contrasting headlight houses, available in Cyber Gray, Black or Blade Silver.  The new Corvette Convertible also receives a redesigned wheel design with those handsome 5-star wheels coming in three finishes - Competition Gray, machine face and chrome.  Finally, the customization options go inside with a choice of three new stitching colors (blue, red or yellow) to accent the interior.

The Grand Sport package was introduced in 2010 and returns for the 2011 models.  The Corvette Grand Sport Convertible takes the handling goodies of the Z06, including a more aerodynamic body, improved brakes and tuned suspension and packs them into the topless body where the Z06 is only available as a coupe. The main differences between the Grand Sport and the Z06 is the lightweight chassis in the Z06 and the 505 horsepower LS7; where the 2011 Grand Sport derives its power from the standard Corvette’s 430hp LS3 V8.

The 2011 Corvette Grand Sport Convertible’s upgrades begin on the outside with wider front and rear fenders with the bright Grand Sport badging.  Next, the 2011 Grand Sport receives the Z06-style front splitter and rear spoiler to help improve downforce.  Next, the Corvette Z06 brake kits are added with functional cooling ducts to keep those big brakes cooler during spirited driving.  Finally, depending on which transmission is chosen, the 2011 Grand Sport offers specific gearing compared to the standard 2011 Corvette Convertible.

The 2011 Corvette Grand Sport is ideal for someone who wants the race-ready handling of the Z06 but also wants to be able to feel the wind through their hair.  Also, the lack of the expensive chassis technology and much higher performance engine of the Z06 helps to keep the price down as the Grand Sport rings in around $16k cheaper than the Z06.

 

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