Wrap-up The 2005 Chevrolet Corvette’s ferocity is combined with a grace previously unknown to the traditionally rough-hewn ‘Vette, giving it just the right amount of sophistication to compete on a global level, making it a world-class performer for the first time in its history. Nice work, Chevrolet.

Call us predictable, but we didn’t want to hand the keys to our 2005 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible test car over to General Motors after a week of thrills behind the wheel. Not surprising, given the car’s speed and sex appeal – two things for which the Corvette has always been known.

What we couldn’t have predicted was the Corvette’s newfound sense of refinement and docility, which does not come at the expense of blue-blooded American style and explosive power. Sure, the car could still use a little bit of improvement, but its few flaws are easily forgivable when you mash the accelerator and discover that the Corvette is as raw and raucous as ever. But now, that ferocity is combined with a grace previously unknown to the traditionally rough-hewn ‘Vette, giving it just the right amount of sophistication to compete on a global level, making it a world-class performer for the first time in its history.

Nice work, Chevrolet.