One of Chevrolet?s oldest and most recognized models,the Corvette has been available since 1953. This performance-focused sports car has had many different competitors over the years. Chevy emphasizes the Corvette?s combination of performance and price. For 2010,the Corvette has added a new trim level: the Grand Sport.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette is available as a two-door hatchback or as a convertible. On the base and GS models,a removable roof panel is also available. Trims include the base level (1LT,plus three other LT upgrades),Grand Sport,Z06,and ZR1. Standard on the base model are 18-in. front and 19-in. rear wheels,xenon headlamps,leather seating,seven-speaker sound system,and a full menu of power accessories. The LT 2,LT3,and LT4 trims gradually add more upscale seats,a power telescoping steering column with manually adjusted tilt,upgraded sound system,and a more luxurious interior. The Grand Sport offers the same four levels of equipment packages,plus a sport-tuned suspension and many exterior upgrades.

The Z06 is powered by a 7.0-liter V8 engine and features a stiffer suspension,upgraded brakes and seats,a lighter frame,and distinctive bodywork. The ZR1 has a supercharged V8 engine,larger wheels,an exclusive suspension with adaptive dampers,and a distinctive hood treatment. Many stand-alone options are also available.

All Corvettes receive V8 engines. The standard model is a 430-hp,6.2-liter V8 engine with optional dual-mode exhaust that increases the power slightly. The Z06?s higher-displacement engine makes 505 hp,and the ZR1?s supercharged 6.2-liter V8 makes 638 hp and 604 lb.-ft. of torque. All 2010 Corvettes have a six-speed manual transmission with launch control. A six-speed automatic transmission is available at no cost with the base and GS trims. Gas mileage ranges from 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg highway for the base model,to 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway for the ZR1.

The 2010 Corvette starts at $48,930 and tops out at more than $100,000.