The 2013 model year marked a significant milestone for Chevrolet Corvette, celebrating its 60th anniversary and serving as the final year for 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 legacy of Corvette performance but also established itself as the fastest and most capable convertible in the brand’s storied history. Alongside this special edition, the 60th Anniversary Package was introduced, available across all 2013 Corvette models, further amplifying the celebratory spirit.
Image: Front view of the Arctic White 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition showcasing its 60th Anniversary badging and carbon fiber hood, embodying high-performance convertible design.
Chris Perry, then vice president of Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet, aptly stated, “The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette… We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.” This statement underscored the significance of the 2013 Corvette 427, a model that revived a legendary engine displacement in a highly desirable convertible format.
The public eagerly anticipated the debut of both the 60th Anniversary Package and the 427 Convertible, which took place at the prestigious Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, on January 21. Enthusiasts and collectors alike marked their calendars for the summer of 2012, when these special Corvettes were set to arrive at Chevrolet dealerships across the United States.
Image gallery: A set of thumbnail images showcasing different angles and design details of the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition, highlighting its unique features.
The Pinnacle of Convertible Performance: Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
The Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition was meticulously engineered to embody the best attributes of the Z06 and ZR1 models, culminating in what was proclaimed as the fastest and most capable convertible in Corvette’s impressive lineage. This special edition was not merely an aesthetic upgrade; it was a performance powerhouse.
At the heart of this exceptional vehicle resided the legendary 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine, borrowed directly from the formidable Corvette Z06. This naturally aspirated V-8 engine delivered a staggering 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), making it the most potent engine ever fitted into a production Corvette convertible. Staying true to its performance-oriented nature, the 427 Convertible was exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission, catering to driving purists who value direct engagement and control.
The LS7 engine’s pedigree is deeply rooted in racing, co-developed alongside the engine that powered Corvette’s Le Mans-winning GT1 race cars. It boasted high-performance components such as lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, race-inspired high-flow cylinder heads, and a dry-sump oiling system ensuring consistent lubrication under high G-forces. Adding to its exclusivity and bespoke nature, each LS7 engine was hand-assembled at GM’s Performance Build Center. Owners of the 427 Convertible Collector Edition were even offered the unique Corvette Build Experience option, allowing them to personally participate in the assembly of the very engine that would power their new prized possession.
Image: Close-up view of the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible’s wheel, showcasing the lightweight machine-face Cup wheels with gray-painted pockets and ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires, emphasizing the performance-focused wheel and tire combination.
Beyond the formidable engine, the Corvette 427 Convertible incorporated numerous performance-enhancing elements. It utilized the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, along with a rear-mounted battery to optimize weight distribution. Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control further enhanced handling and ride quality, adapting to various driving conditions. The vehicle rode on substantial 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires, ensuring exceptional grip and responsiveness. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels, initially featured on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages, were standard, distinguished by their unique gray-painted pockets. For those seeking alternative aesthetics, black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels were also available options.
Weight reduction was a crucial aspect in maximizing the performance of the 427 Convertible. To achieve this, Chevrolet incorporated several carbon-fiber components:
- Carbon fiber raised hood: A design element first seen on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition, reducing weight at the front of the car.
- Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders: Wider and lighter than standard fenders, contributing to both weight savings and aggressive styling.
- Carbon fiber floor panels: Replacing heavier materials with carbon fiber in the floor further minimized weight and lowered the center of gravity.
- Optional Carbon Fiber Ground Effects: The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels, while optional on the standard 427 Convertible, were included with the 60th Anniversary package, enhancing aerodynamics and visual appeal.
These weight-saving measures brought the 427 Convertible’s curb weight down to a mere 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Coupled with the 505-horsepower LS7 engine, this resulted in an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 pounds per horsepower. This impressive figure surpassed that of several high-performance convertibles in its class, including:
- Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
- Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
- Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
- Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31
This superior power-to-weight ratio translated directly into exhilarating performance. The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible was projected to achieve a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.8 seconds, complete the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds, achieve a lateral acceleration of 1.04 g, and reach a top speed exceeding 190 mph, firmly establishing it as one of the quickest convertibles globally.
The 427 Convertible was available in 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT trim levels, offering varying degrees of features and luxury. Each vehicle was assigned a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1, further emphasizing its exclusivity and collector status.
60th Anniversary Package: A Celebration Across the Corvette Range
To commemorate six decades of Corvette excellence, the 60th Anniversary Package was offered across the entire 2013 Corvette lineup, including the 427 Convertible. This package provided a distinctive aesthetic treatment that celebrated this milestone.
The hallmark of the 60th Anniversary Package was an exclusive Arctic White exterior finish, beautifully contrasted by a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior featuring suede accents. Convertible models, including the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible, received a complementary blue convertible top. Further enhancements included a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special 60th anniversary badging, gray-painted brake calipers, and the “60th” logo tastefully incorporated into the wheel center caps, steering wheel, and seat headrests. An optional graphics package took the celebratory theme a step further, adding full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe elegantly stitched into the convertible top, seamlessly extending the graphic theme over the roofline.
Image: Interior detail of the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition showcasing the Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents and the 60th Anniversary logo on the headrest, highlighting the celebratory and luxurious cabin.
Beyond the specific package, all 2013 Corvettes proudly displayed 60th Anniversary badges on the front and rear fascias. Convertible models featured additional badging on the “waterfall” panel between the seats. Inside, the instrument panel gauge cluster and sill plates were adorned with subtle yet distinctive 60th anniversary logos, ensuring that every 2013 Corvette served as a rolling tribute to six decades of automotive excellence.
Charity Auction: The First 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible
Adding a philanthropic dimension to the launch, the very first Corvette 427 Convertible offered to the public was auctioned off at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction on Saturday, January 21. Chevrolet partnered with Hendrick Motorsports for this charitable endeavor, enlisting the support of four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jeff Gordon and team owner Rick Hendrick. The proceeds from this highly anticipated sale were directed to benefit AARP’s Drive to End Hunger initiative, a program dedicated to combating hunger among older Americans. This auction not only highlighted the desirability of the 2013 Corvette 427 but also demonstrated Chevrolet’s commitment to social responsibility.
A Lineage of 427 Power: Corvette’s Big-Block Legacy
The allure of the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible was deeply rooted in the historical significance of 427-powered Corvettes. Early models, particularly convertibles produced from 1966 to 1969, are among the most coveted and collectible Corvettes ever created, establishing a golden era for big-block Corvette performance.
The inaugural 427-powered Corvette debuted for the 1966 model year. Initially, two performance variants of the 427 engine were offered: the “L30” rated at 390 horsepower and the more potent “L72,” producing 425 horsepower. Both versions delivered a robust 460 lb-ft of torque.
The 427 engine family expanded in 1967 with the introduction of the “L71” and “L88” options. The L71 featured a unique triple-carburetor induction system, boosting output to 435 horsepower, making these “427/435” cars, especially the convertibles, highly prized by collectors. The “L88,” despite being rated at 430 horsepower (with a single four-barrel carburetor), incorporated racing-tuned aluminum heads and was designed for customers intending to transform their Corvettes into race cars. Only 216 production Corvettes received the L88 engine between 1967 and 1969, further enhancing their rarity.
In 1969, the “L89” 427 engine emerged, combining the L71’s induction system with the L88’s aluminum heads, offering maximum horsepower with a significant weight advantage due to the lighter aluminum heads. That same year, Chevrolet also produced two “ZL1” 427 Corvette coupes. The ZL1 engine was an all-aluminum version of the L88, providing an even greater weight advantage for racing applications. Many ZL1 engines were also sold as crate engines to racers, further solidifying their legendary status.
By 1970, the big-block engine had grown to 454 cubic inches, coinciding with the decline of high-compression, high-performance engines. The brief but impactful four-year run of 427 Corvettes had already cemented its place as a golden age of American performance car engineering.
Commemorative Editions: A Corvette Tradition
While rare and low-production Corvettes have existed since its inception in 1953, Chevrolet officially began producing commemorative models in 1978 with the 25th Anniversary model, also known as the Silver Anniversary Corvette. This tradition continued with the 1982 Collector Edition, marking the end of the Corvette’s third generation.
These special editions initiated a lasting tradition for the Chevrolet Corvette, with milestone anniversary and generational collector-edition models being offered ever since. The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible holds a unique place in this history, representing the first instance where both a Collector Edition and an Anniversary Edition were offered in the same year, and available on the same vehicle, making it a truly special and collectible Corvette.
| YEAR | MODEL | FEATURES | PRODUCTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1978 | 25th Anniversary | Two-tone silver exterior with gray leather interior | 15,283 |
| 1982 | Collector Edition | Silver-beige exterior color with lower graphic accent; silver-beige leather interior; bronze-tinted roof panels; cast aluminum “fin” wheels and unique VIN identification | 6,759 |
| 1988 | 35th Anniversary | White lower body with white 17-in. wheels, with black roof and dark removable roof panel; special badging and embroidered seat logos; all-white leather interior | 2,050 |
| 1993 | 40th Anniversary | First anniversary model offered in coupe and convertible body styles; Ruby Red exterior with special badging; Ruby Red leather-covered seats | 6,749 |
| 1996 | Collector Edition | Sebring Silver exterior with special badging; silver 17-inch ZR-1-style wheels; “Collector Edition”-embroidered seats; optional LT4 5.7L engine with 330 hp | 5,412 |
| 2003 | 50th Anniversary | Special 50th Anniversary Red exterior; specific badging and champagne-color five-spoke wheels; Shale leather-trimmed interior | 11,632 |
| 2004 | Commemorative Edition | Coupe and convertible models in LeMans Blue with Shale leather-trimmed interior; Z06 model in LeMans Blue with silver stripe graphics and carbon fiber hood | 4,829 (coupe/convertible) 2,025 (Z06) |
| 2013 | 60th Anniversary | Arctic White with Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior and blue top (convertibles); special badging; optional stripe package; 60th logo gauge cluster and sill plates | TBD |
| 427 Convertible Collector Edition | 427 Convertible Collector Edition with LS7 engine; carbon fiber hood, fenders and floor panels; 19-in./20- in. wheels with Michelin PS2 tires; std. Magnetic Selective Ride Control; 427 hood badges | TBD |
Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet has grown into one of the world’s largest automotive brands, operating in over 140 countries and selling more than 4 million vehicles annually. Chevrolet is committed to providing customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that offer spirited performance, expressive design, and exceptional quality. Further information about Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – Preliminary Specifications
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Model: | Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition |
| Body styles / driveline | two-door convertible; rear-wheel drive |
| Construction: | composite body panels, hydroformed steel frame with aluminum and magnesium structural and chassis components |
| Manufacturing location: | Bowling Green, Ky. |
| Engines | 7.0L V-8 LS7 (Z06) |
| Displacement (cu in / cc): | 427 / 7008 |
| Bore & stroke (in / mm): | 4.125 x 4 / 104.8 x 101.6 |
| Block material: | cast aluminum |
| Cylinder head material: | cast aluminum |
| Valvetrain: | overhead valve, two valves per cylinder |
| Fuel delivery: | SFI (sequential fuel injection) |
| Compression ratio: | 11.0:1 |
| Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): | 505 / 377 @ 6300* |
| Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): | 470 / 637 @ 4800* |
| Recommended fuel: | premium required |
| Estimated fuel economy (city / hwy): | 15 / 24 (no guzzler tax) |
| Transmission | six-speed manual |
| Application: | std. |
| Gear ratios (:1): | |
| First: | 2.66 |
| Second: | 1.78 |
| Third: | 1.30 |
| Fourth: | 1.00 |
| Fifth: | 0.74 |
| Sixth: | 0.50 |
| Reverse: | 2.90 |
| Final drive ratio: | 3.42 |
| Chassis / Suspension | |
| Front: | short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control |
| Rear: | short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control |
| Traction control: | electronic traction control; Active Handling |
| Brakes | |
| Type: | front and rear power-assisted disc with ABS with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, cross-drilled rotors; |
| Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm): | front: 14 x 1.3 / 355 x 32 rear: 13.4 x 1 / 340 x 26 |
| Brake swept area (sq in / mm): | front: 309 / 1994 rear: 269 / 1735 |
| Wheels & Tires | |
| Wheel size: | front: 19-inch x 10-inch aluminum rear: 20-inch x 12-inch aluminum |
| Tires: | front: 285/30ZR19 rear: 335/25ZR20 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase (in / mm): | 105.7 / 2685 |
| Overall length (in / mm): | 175.6 / 4460 |
| Overall width (in / mm): | 75.9 / 1928 |
| Overall height (in / mm): | 48.7 / 1236 |
| Curb weight (lb / kg): | 3355/ 1522 |
| Weight distribution (% front / rear): | 50 / 50 |
| Interior | |
| Seating capacity | 2 |
| Interior volume (cu ft / L): | 52 / 1475 |
| Headroom (in / mm): | 38 / 962 |
| Legroom (in / mm): | 43 / 1092 |
| Shoulder room (in / mm): | 55 / 1397 |
| Hip room (in / mm): | 54 / 1371 |
| Capacities | |
| Cargo volume (cu ft / L): | 11 / 295 (top up); 7.5 / 212 (top down) |
| Fuel tank (gal / L): | 18 / 68.1 |
| Engine oil (qt / L): | 10.5 / 9.9 |
* SAE certified. Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.
