The 2013 model year marked a significant milestone for Chevrolet Corvette, celebrating its 60th anniversary and the final production year of the esteemed ‘C6’ generation. To commemorate this historic occasion, Chevrolet unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition, a vehicle that not only honored the brand’s rich heritage but also established itself as the fastest and most capable convertible in Corvette history. Alongside this special edition, the 60th Anniversary Package was introduced, available across all 2013 Corvette models, adding a touch of celebratory flair to the entire lineup.
2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible 60th Anniversary Edition front quarter view
The Pinnacle of Convertible Performance: 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition was engineered to be the ultimate open-top Corvette, seamlessly blending elements from the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 models. This resulted in a convertible that not only delivered exhilarating speed but also offered exceptional handling and driving dynamics.
At the heart of this remarkable machine lies the legendary 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 V-8 engine, borrowed directly from the Corvette Z06. This hand-built powerhouse produces an impressive 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), making it the most potent engine ever fitted in a production Corvette convertible. Exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the 427 Convertible offers a purist driving experience, emphasizing driver engagement and control.
The LS7 engine’s pedigree is deeply rooted in Corvette racing history, co-developed with the engine that propelled Corvette to victory at Le Mans. It features lightweight components such as titanium connecting rods and intake valves, along with racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system, ensuring consistent performance even under demanding conditions. Adding to the exclusivity, customers purchasing the 427 Convertible Collector Edition had the unique option to participate in the Corvette Build Experience, personally assembling the LS7 engine that would power their car at GM’s Performance Build Center.
Further enhancing its performance capabilities, the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible incorporated driveline and rear axle components from the Z06, along with a rear-mounted battery for improved weight distribution and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. This advanced suspension system allowed for real-time adjustments to damping forces, optimizing ride comfort and handling prowess. The car rode on standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires, providing exceptional grip and cornering capabilities. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels, initially introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 and ZR1, were standard, with options for black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels to personalize the car’s aesthetics.
Weight reduction was a crucial factor in achieving the 427 Convertible’s exceptional performance. Chevrolet engineers incorporated several carbon-fiber components, including:
- Carbon fiber raised hood: First seen on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition, this hood not only reduced weight but also added a distinctive visual element.
- Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders: Wider and lighter than standard fenders, these contributed to both weight savings and a more aggressive stance.
- Carbon fiber floor panels: Replacing heavier traditional materials, these panels further reduced the car’s overall mass.
- Optional Carbon Fiber Ground Effects: The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels were available as an option and included with the 60th Anniversary package, enhancing aerodynamics and visual appeal.
These weight-saving measures brought the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible’s curb weight down to a mere 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower engine, this resulted in a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 pounds per horsepower. This impressive figure surpassed competitors like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder, Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible, and Ferrari California Convertible, solidifying the 427 Convertible’s position as a performance leader.
The result was breathtaking performance. The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.8 seconds, conquer the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds, achieve a lateral acceleration of 1.04 g, and reach a top speed exceeding 190 mph, placing it among the fastest convertibles globally.
Available in 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT trim levels, the 427 Convertible Collector Edition featured a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1, further emphasizing its exclusivity and collectibility.
60th Anniversary Package: A Celebration Across the Corvette Range
To celebrate six decades of Corvette excellence, the 60th Anniversary Package was offered across all 2013 Corvette models, including the 427 Convertible. This package provided a distinctive visual identity, instantly recognizable and befitting of the anniversary.
The centerpiece of the package was the exclusive Arctic White exterior finish, complemented by a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with elegant suede accents. Convertible models received a striking blue top, further enhancing the celebratory color scheme. Additional features included a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special 60th Anniversary badging, gray-painted brake calipers, and the “60th” logo subtly incorporated on the wheel center caps, steering wheel, and seat headrests.
For those seeking an even bolder statement, an optional graphics package added full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue. On convertible models, this included a unique tonal stripe stitched into the blue convertible top, seamlessly extending the graphic theme over the car’s roofline. Beyond the package, all 2013 Corvettes featured 60th Anniversary badges on the front and rear fascias and the “waterfall” panel on convertible models, along with 60th logos integrated into the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates, ensuring every 2013 Corvette participated in the anniversary celebration.
The Legacy of 427-Powered Corvettes: A Coveted Heritage
The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition not only represented the pinnacle of C6 Corvette performance but also paid homage to the legendary 427-powered Corvettes of the past, particularly those produced from 1966 to 1969. These early 427 Corvettes, especially the convertibles, are among the most highly sought-after and collectible Corvettes ever created.
The introduction of the 427 engine in 1966 marked a turning point in Corvette performance. Initially, two versions were available: the “L30” rated at 390 horsepower and the more potent “L72” delivering 425 horsepower, both producing a substantial 460 lb-ft of torque. The 427 engine lineup expanded in 1967 with the addition of the “L71” and “L88” options. The L71, known as the “427/435,” featured a tri-power carburetor system boosting output to 435 horsepower, becoming highly prized by collectors, especially in convertible form. The “L88,” despite being officially rated at 430 horsepower, was a race-oriented engine with aluminum heads and was intentionally understated in its power rating. Intended for racing enthusiasts, only 216 L88 Corvettes were produced between 1967 and 1969, adding to their rarity and desirability.
In 1969, the “L89” engine combined the L71’s tri-power induction with the L88’s aluminum heads, offering maximum horsepower with a significant weight reduction. The same year also saw the creation of two “ZL1” 427 Corvette coupes, featuring an all-aluminum version of the L88 engine, further reducing weight for racing applications. While production of ZL1 Corvettes was extremely limited, the ZL1 engines were also sold as crate engines to racers, contributing to their legendary status. By 1970, the big-block Corvette engine evolved into the 454 cubic inch, but the era of the 427 Corvettes from 1966-1969 had already solidified itself as the golden age of Corvette performance.
Commemorative Corvettes: A Tradition of Excellence
Chevrolet has a long-standing tradition of producing commemorative editions of the Corvette, celebrating significant milestones and generations. While rare and low-production Corvettes existed from its inception in 1953, the official commemorative series began in 1978 with the 25th Anniversary model, also known as the Silver Anniversary Corvette. As the third generation of Corvette concluded, the 1982 Collector Edition was introduced, further establishing this tradition.
Since then, milestone anniversary and generational collector editions have become a hallmark of the Corvette brand. The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition holds a unique place in this history as the first instance where both a Collector Edition and an Anniversary Edition were offered in the same year and available on the same vehicle, truly encapsulating the significance of the 2013 model year for Corvette.
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