''We sweated the details to ensure that the convertible driver has all the performance of the coupe,'' Hill said, ''with surprising quietness and excellent storage capability for a roadster, top-up or top-down.''

Indexing side glass, a feature normally reserved for higher-priced luxury cars, helps better seal the cabin from wind noise. The Corvette's new structure, including a new aluminum windshield frame, was designed using extensive computer airflow models to improve top-down quietness -- especially for noise frequencies in the range of passenger conversations. The top material itself is made of a thick fabric called Twillfast, constructed in five layers for strong durability and insulation.

Hill said that, ''In addition to the new power top, several more details combine to make the convertible much more pleasing to drive, especially for long trips.''

A bulkhead has been added to better contain small items in the trunk and enable the addition of a new storage area behind each seat. The power top occupies no more space than the manual version, preserving maximum trunk space in both versions. Rear visibility is improved with a glass backlight that is 18.5 percent larger than the 2004 version, and the backlight has a standard rear defogger.

Hill also pointed out that the Corvette convertible got lighter ''in an era in which most vehicles seem to grow ever more bulky,'' even with the addition of numerous features new to the marque.

The convertible has a curbweight of 1,451 kg, which is 22 kg less than the 2004 model.

Every option available on the coupe can be had on the convertible, including features new to the Corvette such as OnStar and DVD-navigation. Likewise, all three suspension choices -- Corvette Standard Suspension, Magnetic Selective Ride Control, and the new Z51 Performance Package -- are available on the Convertible.

''The sixth-generation Corvette not only replaces the outgoing C5 Corvette,'' Hill said, ''but also creates a 21st century Corvette that thrills the legions of traditional loyalists and captures the imagination of a new generation of performance enthusiasts.''

The formula from the C5 era remains, Hill said -- extremely high performance capabilities in a car that offers great style, value and quality, with surprising comfort for daily driving.