We weren't expecting it to be that much better. After all, the fifth-generation Corvette (1997-2004), or C5, was (and is) a terrific sports car. Hailed at the time for its rigid and innovative chassis, it represented a huge leap ahead of the C4 (1984-96). And the C4 was a giant leap ahead of the rumbling (and rattling) C3 (1968-82). Because this new sixth-generation Corvette, or C6, builds on the basic bones of the C5, we figured the C6 would be an improvement but never imagined it would be this dramatic.

The new styling, with exposed headlamps and a slimmed-down rear end, is the first thing people notice. But what makes the C6 great is its improved handling, performance, refinement and comfort. It's substantially shorter and lighter than the previous model, the wheelbase is slightly longer, and it gets a new engine, new transmissions, new suspension, new brakes, a new interior and extensive refinements throughout. Chevrolet set out to eliminate every imperfection and complaint in the C5 and says 85 percent of the content in the C6 is new.