1998 Chevrolet Corvette Review Summary & Specs

Base Coupe
World class performance, world class quality.

Summary & Specs

reviewed by New Car Test Drive
1998 Chevrolet Corvette Review

Although there are a number of very good sports cars in the same price range as the Corvette, it doesn't really seem to have any direct competitors.

The similarly priced Mercedes-Benz SLK, BMW Z3 2.8, and Porsche Boxster are all delightful and competent players, but they play at a more modest pace. When it comes to real pavement-ripping prowess, none can match the Corvette's sheer power and corner-gobbling grip.

The Dodge Viper does rival the Corvette's dynamic capabilities--indeed, it's even faster--but it requires a single-minded focus on brutish performance to enjoy it. When it comes to civilization and comfort, the Corvette wins hands-down.

To get a similar blend of comfort and true sports car performance, you'll find yourself in a Porsche store looking at 911s, but the 911 can't compete with the Corvette's price.

The Corvette is no longer this country's only sports car, and it's certainly evolved well beyond the realm of what we call affordable. But coupe or convertible, there doesn't seem to be much question that the latest generation of this all-American is also world-class.

Specs

Vehicle Category Sports Cars
Editor Tony Swan
Model Lineup
Engines (standard) 5.7-liter ohv V8
Transmissions (standard) 6-speed manual
Engines (optional)
Transmissions (optional) 4-speed automatic
Safety Equipment (standard) Dual airbags
Safety Equipment (optional)
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Assembled In Bowling Green, Kentucky
Manufacturer Phone 1-800-222-1020
Manufacturer URL www.chevrolet.com
Base Price MSRP $44,990

Specs as Tested

Model Tested MSRP Convertible
Standard Equipment (Convertible) ABS, air conditioning, AM/FM/cassette stereo, power windows, keyless remote entry, heated power mirrors, power leather seats, tilt steering, illuminated vanity mirrors, low tire pressure warning, cruise control, rear window defogger, aluminum alloy wheels
Destination Charge
Options as Tested (MSRP) 6-speed manual transmission
Gas Guzzler Tax
Layout
Price as Tested $45,805
Horse Power 345 @ 5600
Torque 350 @ 4400
Fuel Economy 18/28
Wheelbase 104.5
Length/Width/Height 179.7/73.6/47.4
Track Front/Rear 62.0/62.1
Turning Radius 38.5
Seating Capacity 2
Front Head/Hip/Leg room 37.8/54.2/42.7
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room
Trunk Volume 13.9
Payload
Towing Capacity
Front Suspension Independent
Rear Suspension Independent
Ground Clearance
Curb Weight 3246
Stock Tires P245/45ZR-17/P275/40ZR-18
Brakes Front/Rear disc/disc
Fuel Capacity 19.1

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