C5 Corvettes come with comfortable cabins, something that wasn't always true of previous-generation models. Low doorsills and narrow side rails make getting in and out easier than before, and there's more room for both driver and passenger. There's also a real trunk; arriving at the airport after a trip halfway around the world, we were able to cram two huge duffel bags into a coupe. The other major improvement is the elimination of the rattles and stress squeaks that have haunted Corvettes for so long. The C5's handsome analog gauges are easier to use and more satisfying than the old digital displays.The convertible top stows neatly under a flap that folds flat at the forward edge of the trunk lid. You'll need to read the owner's manual to figure out how to use it, however. The top is made of high-quality material and the rear window is glass. The top seals well; we found no leaks in our car-wash test, nor in our high-speed wind test.
We did notice more interior noise in the convertible than in the coupe, and the coupe isn't exactly quiet. Even more noise comes through in the Z06, as we mentioned. However, this is a sports car, and noise, particularly the calculated growl of that terrific V8, is part of the deal.