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In its
second year of production, the C5 Corvette
makes our 10Best list for the second time,
owing to its stellar blend of value,
performance, practicality, and extroverted
personality, as well as a few useful
enhancements.
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Able to reach a
top speed of 175 mph, and streak through the
standing quarter-mile in 13.3 seconds, this
Corvette's speed can humiliate any other car's in
its price range. This muscle collaborates with the
Corvette's tenacious grip, excellent handling
balance, and powerful brakes to produce supercar
performance at a price that millions can
afford.
Moreover,
the Corvette takes advantage of its large
dimensions to provide ample carrying capacity for
everyday commutes as well as long-distance trips
for two. And the new active-handling option
provides the Vette with impressive security, even
in potentially treacherous climates such as
Michigan's.
The new hardtop
version for '99 offers a slightly less expensive
entree into the Corvette experience, although we
are partial to the more attractive profiles of the
coupe and convertible. In all three forms, however,
the Corvette is a refined, practical sports car
with performance that simply can't be matched at
the price.
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Vehicle
Type:
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front-engine,
rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door
coupe, 3-door targa, or 2-door
roadster
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Base
Price:
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$39,361-$46,154
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Engine
Type:
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pushrod
16-valve 5.7-liter V-8
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Power(SAE
net):
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345
bhp @ 5600 rpm
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Transmission:
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6-speed
manual, 4-speed auto
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Wheelbase:
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104.5
in
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Length:
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179.7
in
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Curb
Weight:
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3150-3250
lb
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EPA
fuel economy, city driving:
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17-18
mpg
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