The ‘Vette

Dan Neil finds things to like in the new Corvette — once he’s past the legend.

[The Corvette has] always been a big, audacious slab of a car for an audience that can be fairly described likewise. It’s always been America’s Sports Car, for those who would sooner down a wine-tasting spit bucket than drive a foreign-nameplate car like Porsche 911 or Acura NSX.

… Build quality is excellent. Compared to Corvette interiors of a decade ago, which chirred and rattled like Ricky Ricardo’s percussion section, the new Corvette is as solid as a steamer chest.

… top speed is a very creditable 186 mph, should your commute include a dry lakebed.

… The new Corvette is an Ivy League education in driving at state college tuition: The test car priced out at $52,795, which puts it in a class of exactly one. Nothing can touch it at anywhere near that price. For another 20 grand or so you can own a Viper; should you feel such a masochistic impulse, seek professional attention.