Speaking of standard features, the Corvette is fitted with an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual is available as a no-cost option.
It's indicative of the majority of today's Corvette buyers, and their driving habits, that the automatic is standard and the manual is an option. The manual is awkward to use, and includes a mechanism that forces the shift to go from first to fourth, bypassing second and third gears, in leisurely acceleration. This is done for fuel economy reasons but detracts from the pleasure of the around-town driving experience.
Although insurance companies take a dim view of the Corvette's performance potential, its sports-car agility does have active safety overtones. In addition, standard safety features include dual airbags and a reinforced safety cage around the passenger compartment. Next Page