Chevrolet Corvette

The sharp-edged Corvette has abundant power from its 455-hp, 6.2-liter V8 engine and an interior worthy of the price. A seven-speed manual transmission is standard, with an eight-speed automatic optional. Drivers with a thirst for more power can opt for the 650-hp Z06. The car's all-aluminum construction optimizes weight savings and strength. Whether in coupe or convertible form, acceleration is blisteringly quick and handling is pinpoint. With its adjustable driving modes, the car can be a fairly refined cruiser or a track-ready race car. The seats deliver support and comfort. But owners can't ignore the low-slung cabin, which requires almost acrobatic skills to get in and out of; the vague manual shifter; and the omnipresent tire noise. The Grand Sport and ultra-high-performance ZR1 versions are also available. A redesigned Corvette is on sale early next year.

Where previous Corvettes were more like broadswords in terms of their raw capability, this version of the Corvette embraced some of the finesse of a rapier with quick reflexes, flat cornering, and more agility. Further, the cheap interior of past models is gone in favor of more refined environment. For the 2015 model year, WiFi hotspot capability was added, the automatic transmission was upgraded from six- to eight speeds, and the line-topping Z06 with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 cranking out 650 hp was introduced. Changes for 2016 included Apple CarPlay capability, a front curb-view parking camera and a power-activated hatch/trunk closer.

The Corvette has nimble and secure handling, excellent brakes, and a tolerable ride. Responsive, well-weighted steering and tenacious grip allow it to corner with confidence and agility. On the downside, interior fit and finish are unimpressive. We also found the convertible top a nuisance to operate. The redesigned 2005 Corvette was slightly smaller and lighter than the model it replaced. Base models get a 400-hp, 6.0-liter V8, but the Z06 uses a wicked 505-hp, 7.0-liter V8. The ride is comfortable and handling is capable, though it's less agile than some other sports cars.

Muscular V8 performance is what Corvettes are all about--a six-speed 2002 model we tested recently hit 60 mph in an astonishing 4.8 seconds. Power comes from a 350-horsepower V8 mated to a rear-mounted transmission for better weight distribution. Stronger still is the ultra-high-performance Z06 coupe, which now makes 405 hp. Handling is responsive and very balanced at the limits. The ride is stiff but not punishing. Noise is constant, but the big V8's trademark exhaust note is unobjectionable. Even fuel economy is respectable. Raising and lowering the convertible top remain tedious, multi-step affairs, however. The turning circle is wide, making parking difficult. Fit and finish are unimpressive, and interior fittings lack the quality look and feel one expects in an expensive car.