Chevrolet unveiled the new 2019 Corvette ZR1 convertible with its global launch at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. This is the first Corvette ZR1 drop-top since the original which was launched in the 1970 model-year.

It will go on sale next spring with the Corvette ZR1 coupe. The ZR1 coupe has a US MSRP of $119,995 and the ZR1 convertible will start at USD$123,995 (prices include destination charge, but exclude tax, title and other dealer fees). Canadian pricing will be announced in early 2018.

“The new Corvette ZR1 convertible is a supercar in all respects,” said Mark Reuss, executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain. “Few others can challenge the ZR1 convertible’s power and speed while offering the exhilaration of top-down motoring.”

The performance and technology introduced on the Corvette ZR1 coupe carry over to the new ZR1 convertible. The strength of the Corvette’s aluminum chassis means the only structural changes in the convertible are accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. The power top can be operated remotely or while driving up to 30 mph. The curb weight difference between the ZR1 coupe and convertible is less than 60 pounds (27 kg), with most of the difference attributable to the folding top hardware.

“The ZR1 convertible is a no-compromise supercar,” said Corvette Executive Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter. “Thanks to the strong structure, the suspension tuning between coupe and convertible models is identical, meaning the ZR1 convertible offers the same benchmark performance, including a top speed of over 200 mph.”

The Corvette ZR1’s unique aero package is central to the coupe’s 341 km/h (212 mph) top speed. Its standard, stanchion-mounted Low Wing generates road-holding downforce with minimal drag, enabling the benchmark top speed. An adjustable High Wing is part of the new USD$2,995 ZTK Performance Package, which also includes a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning. It is designed to help generate faster lap times through maximum grip in the corners, with up to 950 pounds of downforce. The top speed is lower with the High Wing but still exceeds 200 mph.

Complementing the ZR1’s aero advantage on the way to 212 mph is the thrust generated by the exclusive LT5 6.2L supercharged engine, which is rated at an SAE-certified 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission and a ZR1-first paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission are available. Preliminary testing has shown 0-60 mph in under 3.0 seconds and the quarter mile in the high 10-second range when the engine is equipped with the eight-speed automatic. Four new radiators also help manage cooling in the ZR1, which features 13 radiators in all, including circuits for engine oil, transmission and differential cooling.