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Since the day the Corvette was developed, it was always designed to be a convertible. In fact, when it was first released in 1953, the Corvette was only available as a convertible. Since then, every Corvette made offered the option to have a foldable soft top roof. So naturally, after we saw the reveal of the 2020 Corvette in July, it was just a matter of time before the convertible version was revealed; however, with a twist to the plot, this is first Corvette to feature a retractable hardtop.

With the design encompassing convertible structural integrity from the start, there are no major requirements to modify the Corvettes rigid chassis to incorporate the folding roof. Thus, the addition of 70lbs to the cars overall weight holds a microscopic effect on its performance and handling characteristics as the 495-horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque naturally aspirated 6.2-liter Small Block V-8 LT2 engine reads out nearly identical numbers on the track. Modifications were made to the suspension with different springs and dampers that are specifically tuned to provide the same understanding as the coupe.

Starting $67,495, the entry level Corvette Convertible 1LT carries a $7500 premium over the standard coupe. Within less than 16-seconds the two-piece roof can be retracted at upwards to 30 miles per hour. It takes six electric motors to operate the top and uses encoders to increase control precision. The previous generation used hydraulics – by switching to electric, it helps increase lifespan longevity and dependability. Once the roof is lowered, the Corvette’s appeal is heightened as its appearance gets even better with the dropped roof. Its bulging curvature physique over the back end almost represents muscle flexing as the design cascades around the driver and passenger seats. Despite losing the visual port to see the engine bay, the convertibles essence carries a more supercar-like application.

Most convertibles feature an odd plastic divider behind the seats to help maintain window deflection. The Corvette incorporates a power sliding glass divider to optimize reduction of air re-circulation, window noise and cabin quietness when the roof is down while keeping an upscale feel.

Like the Coupe, the convertible will be offered in three available trims, 1LT, 2LT and 3LT. It will be available in either left or right hand drive depending on your region. And will also feature 12 available color options – the one featured here was noted as Sebring Orange which has to be one of my top favorites, but that’s just this writer’s opinion. The convertible will also have the option to opt for the $5000 Z51 Performance Package that gives the ability of a 0-60 mph time in 3-seconds through a rapidly quick 8-speed automatic transmission – there is no manual option.

Going convertible usually means losing luggage space or effecting sound deadening quality. None of that was affected here as the Corvette keeps its cargo space the same as two sets of golf clubs can be fitted in the rear trunk with the top down. The new hard top increased security and a quieter cabin than the previous generation soft tops.

While the coupe will be starting production later this year, production on the convertible won’t start till sometime mid-2020. So if dropping your top is something that you prefer, your patience will have to become a virtue.