The Corvette C6 Gearboxes and Chassis
Published: 26th February 2008
Corvette C6 Convertible
Three-mode Paddle Shift automatic
Drivers opting for the automatic six-speed transmission have a choice of three modes: Drive, Sport, and Paddle Shift. The fully-automatic Drive mode uses predetermined shift points and is optimised for smooth gear changes. Sport mode features Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), which modifies gear change patterns during spirited driving holding each gear to a higher rpm, and delivering quicker shifts, for even better performance. In Paddle Shift mode, sequential gear changes are controlled by the driver manually, using paddles behind the steering wheel.
This six-speed close-ratio transmission has smaller ‘steps’ between the gears, which enhances the feeling of seamlessly surging performance and smoothness. A lower first gear ratio provides exceptional ‘launch’ from standstill, while a high top gear ratio enables the automatic Corvette to cruise quickly, quietly and economically with extra-urban fuel economy figures exceeding 30 mpg.
Fitted with the automatic transmission, the Corvette is capable of reaching a top speed of 186 mph and accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Short-throw, six-speed manual
In standard guise, the Corvette C6 is equipped with a Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission, which is pre-configured with the more aggressive gearing of the Z51 Performance Package for improved acceleration. This gearbox features a sharp, precise short-throw mechanism that minimises movements of the selector lever.
When specified with the Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension option (£1700), the Corvette C6 will also have slightly ‘softer’ gearing with different ratios for the manual transmission.
Enhanced chassis and suspension
The Corvette chassis design features a low-weight hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, cored composite floors, an enclosed centre tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminium cockpit structure.
The proven and trademark short-long arm (double-wishbone) and transverse composite leaf spring independent suspension configuration (front and rear) delivers a sure-footed, compliant ride and sharp, direct handling with excellent traction and stability in corners.
The C6 features a long wheelbase (2686 mm), wide track (1577 mm front and 1542 mm rear), and a front-mounted engine, rear transaxle configuration. These features help to achieve an ‘ideally balanced’ 51/49% front/rear weight distribution, and are all excellent ingredients for a car with agile, responsive handling.
Three dynamic chassis control systems – Active Handling (ESP), Traction Control and ABS anti-lock braking – operate together to provide a strong, but unobtrusive safety net at all times, even during high-performance driving.
As befits a high performance supercar, the C6 features a powerful braking system. Impressive stopping power is delivered through the front 340 mm brakes, which feature six-piston calipers, and the rear 330 mm discs using four-piston calipers.
The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension (£1700) features fast-reacting magneto-rheological shock absorbers that automatically adjust their damping rates, almost instantaneously, in response to changing terrain and road surfaces. Two suspension choices – ‘Tour’ and ‘Sport’ – allow drivers to choose the set-up that best suits their mood and driving style every day. Customers choosing this option also benefit from upgraded cross-drilled brakes.
As standard, the C6 sits on 18-inch front and 19-inch rear, five split spoke aluminium silver alloy wheels, with 245/40 ZR18 and 285/35 ZR19 tyres. As an option, similarly sized, five-spoke polished aluminium wheels are available. Both wheel types are fitted with Goodyear Extended Mobility Tyres that exploit the latest tyre sidewall design and compound technology to deliver the safety benefits of run-flat technology.
Corvette C6
Our Corvette C6 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK C6 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £45,995 - £52,995
Body Styles:
Fuel:
Models in the range: 2
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 25th Jun 2008
