Chevrolet today introduced the 2019 Corvette ZR1 convertible, the first drop top since the original 1970 model-year ZR1. On sale next spring, the Corvette ZR1 coupe will have a suggested retail price of $119,995, while the convertible will begin at $123,995, in addition to tax, title, and other dealer fees.
Because the strength of the Corvette ZR1 coupe’s aluminum chassis carries over to the ZR1 convertible, the only structural changes in the convertible are accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. The power top can be operated remotely or while driving up to 30 miles per hour. The curb weight difference between the two models is less than 60 pounds
An adjustable High Wing is part of an available $2,995 ZTK performance package, which also includes a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin pilot sport cup tires, and a specific chassis and magnetic ride control tuning. The upgrade is designed to help generate faster lap times through maximum grip on the corners, with up to 950 pounds of downforce.
The ZR1’s aero advantage is complemented by an LT5 6.2-liter supercharged engine with 755 horsepower and 715 pounds per foot of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission and ZR1 paddle-shift eight speed automatic transmission are both available, as well. Preliminary testing has shown 0-60 miles per hour in less than three seconds.
A new, patent-pending exhaust system provides the ZR1 with a more aggressive sound, and the bi-modal exhaust system inspired by other Corvette models features four distinct models and sound levels: stealth, tour, sport, and track.
“The ZR1 convertible is a no-compromise supercar,” says Tadge Juechter, Corvette’s executive chief engineer. “Thanks to the strong structure, the suspension tuning between coupe and convertible models is identical, meaning the ZR1 convertible offers the same benchmark performance, including a top speed of over 200 miles per hour.”
The 2019 ZR1 coupe and convertible will be on display to the public at the Los Angeles Auto Show from Dec. 1-10, and is expected to be at the North American International Auto Show at Cobo Center in downtown Detroit (Jan. 20-28).
The 2018 North American Auto Show will offer:
- Jan. 13 — The Gallery at Cobo Center (new location)
- Jan. 14-21 — AutoMobili-D
- Jan. 15-16 — Media Days
- Jan. 17-18 — Industry Days
- Jan. 19 — Charity Preview
- Jan. 20-28 — Public Days
