Powering both the coupe ($41,680) and convertible ($48,205) is the 350-horsepower 5.7-liter LS1 V8, which meets California's Low Emissions Vehicle standards. An automatic transmission is standard; a six-speed manual ($915) is optional.

The LS6 V8 in the Z06 hardtop ($50,043) displaces the same 5.7 liters, but produces an amazing 405 horsepower and 400 foot-pounds of torque.

The coupe comes with a body-colored removable roof panel as standard equipment; a translucent plastic panel is an option. The coupe's rear window opens like a hatchback. The hardtop and convertible have trunks. The Z06's top is fixed, for maximum rigidity.

Standard equipment includes dual-zone climate controls, fog lamps, sport seats, four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, a driver information center, remote keyless entry, stainless steel exhaust with chromed quad outlets, retractable headlights, Bose speakers, 6-way power seats with leather upholstery, extended-mobility (run flat) Z-rated tires, traction control with Active Handling, and cast alloy wheels. The coupe comes with a parcel net and luggage shade. Child Restraint Attachment System (CRAS) hooks have been added to the passenger seat for 2003. Don't forget that the passenger-side air bag must be manually shut off while carrying children.

The Z06 hardtop adds a head-up instrument display, titanium exhaust, a tire inflator kit for its Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, and forged alloy wheels. The six-speed manual is the only transmission offered.

In addition to its special colors, the 50th Anniversary Editions feature a color-coordinated instrument panel, Champagne-painted wheels, embroidered badges on the seats and floor mats, padded armrests and grips on the inner door panels, and a Shale top for the convertible. Race fans may recognize the package, which was previewed on the 'Vette that paced the 2002 Indianapolis 500.

Standard on the Anniversary Edition, and optional on coupes and convertibles, is Magnetic Selective Ride Control, which provides continuously variable suspension damping without electro-mechanical valves or any small moving parts at all. Instead, the system relies on Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid in the shock absorbers and an electromagnetic coil inside the shock-absorber pistons. Varying the current to the coil instantly changes the viscosity of the MR fluid. This in turn allows the system to continuously adjust the shock rates, providing a quieter, flatter ride with more precise, responsive handling, particularly during sudden high-speed maneuvers. On bumpy or slick surfaces, Magnetic Selective Ride Control integrates with the Corvette's standard traction control to maximize stability; it also communicates with the anti-lock brakes.

Changes made last year (2002) included revised rear shock valving and new high-performance front brake pads. New aluminum front stabilizer-bar links were added for Z06s, and coupes and convertibles with the Z51 suspension package. All Corvettes with automatics got a new aluminum transmission cooler case.

A CD-capable stereo is standard on Corvette coupes and convertibles; a 12-disc remote CD changer costs $600 extra.