2012 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is filled with a variety of new technologies and features. The Corvette is a model that many people have always coveted, but only few people can afford it. From design to the engine, this car has a lot to offer.

The 2012 model is different from previous years because it has a lot of upgrades. The base and GS are the two coupe models. The convertible models include: base, GS, Z06 and the ZR1.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $49,600.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68l) MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 174.6 in. (443.4 cm) Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268.4 cm)
Height: 49.1 in. (124.7 cm) Width: 72.6 in. (184.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3208 lbs (1455 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 22.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: V8 OHV Displacement: 6.2 Liter
Horsepower: 430 HP Max RPM: 5900 RPM
Torque: 424 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:GS MSRP: $56,000; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy
Option:Z06 7.0L MSRP: $75,600; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy
Option:ZR1 6.2L MSRP: $111,600; MPG: 14 city / 21 hwy
Option:Convertible MSRP: $54,600; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy

Engine

The engine is a 6.2L V8 16 valve, 430 horsepower @5900 rpm, with a torque at 424 ft/lbs @ 4600 rpm. A wishbone suspension helps support the car in the front and rear, in addition to a stabilizer bar. This vehicle uses premium unleaded gas and the tank holds 18 gallons.

Performance

This car gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway. Its range in miles is 288 in the city and 468 on the highway. It has a paddle shit 6 speed automatic transmission and magnetic ride suspension for a smooth ride. There is also a dual-mode performance exhaust with large rotors that are cross drilled.

Exterior

Painted alloy 19×10 inch wheels come standard with P285/35R Z run flat tires. There is a Targa roof along with rear defogger and removable hard top as well. Supersonic blue metallic, velocity yellow tint coat and inferno orange metallic are three of the many color options for the outside.

Interior

The driver’s seat is power adjustable and both seats are buckets. They are premium leather and can be adjusted for different heights. There are heated mirrors to help with visibility during certain weather conditions. The interior colors available include: cashmere premium leather, red premium leather, red and black premium leather and more.

In addition, there is cruise control, remote trunk release and audio controls on the steering wheel. Entertainment inside the car includes: satellite radio from Sirius XM, MP3 audio input, AM/FM and seven speakers.

Safety & Reliability

Four wheel ABS are standard to offer more control when driving. Air bags are located throughout the car with sensors to determine when they go off. An anti-theft alarm system comes included as does tire pressure monitoring.

Front fog and driving lights offer more visibility when there isn’t much clarity outside. There are also dusk sensing headlamps that automatically go out during low lighting situations. There is a basic 3 year/36000 mile warranty included. There is also a 5 year/1000000 drivetrain warranty with this vehicle.

Pros

  • This car is quick and has excellent acceleration.
  • A well-known luxury brand that is coveted by many.
  • Sporty and luxurious with a lot of standard features.
  • Large cargo space while still being compact.
  • Good brakes and handling.

Cons

  • Interior needs improvement.
  • Tires are too big for the small frame of the car.
  • Base price

The Corvette isn’t a car that is fit for all drivers. It is a sporty car that is best suited for people who love flashy vehicles and driving. It also doesn’t have many seats inside, so passenger options are limited.

Competition

Along with its reputation, the Corvette has been chased after by the likes of the BMW Z4 -4 cylinder Turbo – (MSRP $48,650; 23 city / 34 hwy), and two of Porsche’s fan favorites, the 911 Carrera – a flat 6 (MSRP $91,900; 18 city / 25 hwy) and the Cayman – flat 6 (MSRP $62,100; 18 city / 26 hwy).

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette’s weak point is its interior, which may show how Chevy packs so much car into so few dollars; the leather interior upgrade package goes a long way toward mitigating the problem…”Car Connection

“Quick steering, tenacious smooth-road grip, and little cornering lean make Corvette, and particularly the ZR1, among the world’s best-handling cars. In fast turns, the Z06, more than the ZR1, requires careful use of the throttle, or the rear end will fishtail. Big, powerful brakes provide short, stable stops.”Consumer Guide

“The Corvette delivers impressive performance. The ride is comfortable, and handling is capable but less agile than other sports cars.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette offers even more driving enthusiasts to love. With horsepower and handling to rival some of Europe’s greatest super cars, the made-in-America 2012 Chevrolet Corvette continues to offer superior performance at a fraction of the price of those super cars.”KBB

“When it comes to performance, the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is one of the world’s best bargains. A lack of refinement proves you get what you pay for, but since you get a whole lot of old-school American muscle, that should be more than enough for many.”Edmunds

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