Auto Spies Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

[Chuck S.]

The link below takes you to Auto Spies picture gallery of 2005 Corvette convertible.

Whatever became of single individual gifted designers like Harley Earl, Bill Mitchell, or Larry Shinoda that could put their mind's picture of a beautiful vehicle down on paper, and it all just kind of blended together to form one harmonious mass without any weird incongruous features that just don't fit? I hate to say it, but this new Vette looks like it was designed by a freaking committee.

We waited for the C5 rear end to improve, and it did...a little. Now we have this strange side vent/cove treatment that slants up at too steep an angle, and doesn't seem to match the rest of the car. And, there's that big freaking bottom-feeding catfish mouth; all the car needs is some whiskers (curb feelers?) to complete the image.

Oh, what the heck...I'll probably have to buy one when the social security kicks in...if I wait for another that looks as good as the C2 or C3, I'll die waiting.




Auto Spies 2005 Corvette Convertible

[Tom D.]

Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

Don't you think that perhaps Harley Earl, Bill Mitchell, and Larry Shinoda all had some help, but proceeded to take more credit that Ed W. does today?

I happen to like the design, but also feel it not is changed enough to be "C6".

td




Michigan Chapter Site

[Gordon Peterson #4961]

Re: Auto Spies Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

Geez, I hadn't noticed that before, but you're right. The top edge of that thing on the side is at the wrong angle, isn't it? Just a couple degrees too much angle. It cuts across the natural highlight/shadow "break" on the door. Oh well, it didn't stop me from hitting "Save image as background" so I can continue to let it grow on me.

Pete

[Chuck S.]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

After nearly 40 years working as a professional, I understand very well that credit is always taken by the supervisor who actually does little of the detail work. I also know that Harley, Bill, and Larry didn't come up with finished designs alone at their breakfast table.

However, the "guy in charge" is responsible for setting the expectations and goals, most frequently his, for those on his staff. I have no idea who Ed W. is...maybe his modestly is too great. With a little stronger leadership, maybe his studio could turn out a design that looks like it "fits" together.

The design is OK...not so bad I won't drive one (it'll grow on me), but, my loyalty to Corvette doesn't blind me to its "new clothes".

[Vaughn Spencer]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

I agree with Tom. I too like the new look, especially of the convertible, but they should have called it the C5+ or something. They've basically ignored 50 years of tradition by calling it a C6, when the changes from the previous model are relatively minor, and in a similar vein to the changes from the early C3's to the late C3's.

Vaughn

[Clem Z.]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

there are more new mechanical(performance) changes in the C-6 vs C-5 than the 68 vs the 67 but everybody thinks the 68 was a BIG change. all they did was change it body.the large grill opening is required because of more HP in the C-6 engine and pulling hot air from the pavement(bottom breather) like the C-5 would not cool the engine. this is even more important with the coming of the 500HP Z-06. remember the cooling problems with the BBs when installed into the 65 to 67 corvettes,they even had to move the front plate mount. when you plug a design into a computer to get the lowerst C of D the looks will not be much different. the C-6Rs will need the more open grill area and they must look like the production car.

[Jack H.]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

Chuck,
Ed W. is Ed Welburn, design director for General Motors North America. He succeeded Wayne Cherry.
jackcasa

[Chuck S.]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

Hey, Senor Casa. How's everything in the "Land of Enchantment"?

Wayne Cherry?!! Who's that? Uh...Oh, nevermind, I know. He was Design Director for General Motors North America that preceeded Ed Welburn.

I may have to turn in my Corvette loyalty badge, but I don't really care what these guys names are...holds no mystique for me. I only want to see (and sometimes buy) a finished product that at least matches the fine touches that Chrysler's studio is turning out. That, in no way, implies that a Corvette has to look like a PT Cruiser or a Viper.

[Jack H.]

Re: Pictures 2005 Corvette Convertible

Goin' good Chuck. Just waitin' to place my order for a C6.
jackcasa