With the top up, the convertible is designed for a refined driving experience. A thick fabric top,
along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and
premium appearance.
With the top down, the Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the
seat backs, dual black trim panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Corvette
Stingray’s signature “waterfall” design originates in the valley between the seats, bringing the
exterior color into the interior.
When it comes to aerodynamics, the new Stingray is in a league of its own. Advanced
computer-aided modeling programs predict and track airflow over, under and through the new
Corvette’s body. Engineers and designers also relied on data gleaned from the Corvette Racing
program – the most successful program ever in the American Le Mans Series and the 2012 GT
class champion – to help balance front and rear grip for high-speed stability.
Many hours were spent in the wind tunnel hand-sculpting surfaces for aesthetics and
performance. Functional exterior elements on all models include a new grille/radiator
arrangement, hood vents and front fender cove vents. Venting air out of the hood reduces total
front-end lift for improved steering response at high speeds, while the fender vents relieve
underhood air pressure to reduce aerodynamic drag.
All Corvette Stingray models with the Z51 package also feature integral coolers for the rear
differential and transmission (the transmission cooler is also included with the optional
automatic transmission). For coupe models, the air intakes are integrated on the rear quarter
panels, similar to the NACA ducts on the Corvette Racing C6.R. For convertible models, the air
intakes are integrated into the underbody.
Airflow through the differential and transmission heat exchangers exits through the aircraft-
inspired taillamp vents and lower-rear fascia air outlets. The Z51 Performance Package also
includes brake-cooling ducts, a unique rear spoiler and additional air deflectors for enhanced
track capability.
“Every square inch of the 2014 Corvette’s exterior is designed to enhance high-performance
driving,” said Kirk Bennion, exterior design manager. “The team delivered a great balance of low
drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability – all in a
sculpted design that excites in all the ways that a Corvette has for six decades.”
Engineered to race, built for the road
Both coupe and convertible versions of the new Corvette Stingray take advantage of lightweight
materials, advanced manufacturing techniques and technology transfer from the Corvette
Racing program to produce an ideal 50/50 weight balance and to deliver world-class power-to-
weight ratios.
The technologically advanced foundation is an all-new aluminum frame structure that is 99
pounds (45 kg) lighter, and is 57-percent stiffer than the previous-generation convertible. The
result is a frame that is so strong, no structural reinforcements are needed for the convertible
model. The only changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned
safety belt mounts.
