Refreshing or Revolting: 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Coupe vs. Convertible

Chevrolet has finally revealed the 2020 Corvette C8 convertible, which ditches the traditional soft top for a power retractable hard top. We’ve already examined the 2020 Corvette Convertible next to its front-engine predecessor. Now, let’s see how the drop-top’s styling compares to its targa-roof counterpart. Which C8 body style is more attractive? Take a look below and decide for yourself.

When you look at it next to the coupe, the convertible’s styling differences aren’t immediately apparent from the front fascia. The moment you move to the side, however, the obvious lack of a rear hatch and the smaller glass area distinguish the convertible from the coupe. Move around to the back and we find more key differences like the fairings behind the seats and the repositioned rear window in between both seats. That means when you opt for the convertible, you can’t see the 6.2-liter V-8 unless you open the trunk. In the coupe, the swoopy rear window and hatch show off the C8’s engine eye candy every time you approach the car from the rear. The folding roof mechanism also creates stark cut lines for the trunk and the compartment where the top is stowed. Another distinguishing feature on the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 convertible is the ability to get the retractable roof in all-black  for a two-tone look. Additionally, the black accents can extend to the A-pillar and the top part of the fairings, the latter of which can be had in black even if you opt for a body-colored roof.

The interior designs for both the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 coupe and convertible are virtually identical. Only switches to raise or lower the roof and open the rear window are unique to the Corvette C8 convertible. If you want to remove the roof panel on the coupe, you need to do it manually. Otherwise, the strip of climate control buttons remains, as does the digital gauge cluster and the 8.0-inch touchscreen turned toward the driver. The same seat styles available in the coupe can be had in the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 convertible, including the competition buckets.

For now, the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 will only come with a 6.2-liter V-8 with up to 495 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the available performance exhaust system. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic will be the only transmission available. Chevrolet has yet to announce more powerful variants like the Z06 and ZR1, both of which are expected to arrive later in the Corvette C8’s life cycle.

The post Refreshing or Revolting: 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Coupe vs. Convertible appeared first on MotorTrend.