2019 Corvette ZR1 Goes Topless For The Ultimate 755 Horsepower, 200 MPH Mid-Life Crisis

This marks the first-ever factory Corvette ZR1 convertible, and it is every bit as attractive (maybe even more so) and formidable as its closed-roof sibling. Under the low-slung hood still beats a supercharged LT5 V8 engine pumping out 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. As with the coupe, you'll have your choice of a seven-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic (which, surprisingly, seems to be the most popular transmission choice for Corvette buyers).

In order to get the ZR1 prepped for convertible duty, GM didn't really have to change much structurally given that the aluminum chassis was already incredibly stiff. "The only structural changes in the convertible are accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts," the company noted in a press release. When all is said and done, the convertible only weighs about 60 pounds more than the coupe.

“The new Corvette ZR1 convertible is a supercar in all respects,” said Mark Reuss, GM executive vice president for 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.”

While the Corvette ZR1 coupe has a top speed of 212 mph, GM is only stating that the convertible version has a top speed in excess of 200 mph. While it might not reach 212, we doubt that many will balk at the tiny difference. And we should mention that the vehicle’s 0-60 speed is still listed in the sub-3-second range.

All of this performance and good looks, however, comes at a price. The Corvette ZR1 coupe has a base price of $119,995, while the convertible ups that figure to $123,995.