Chevrolet corvette
In 1984, Chevrolet released a redesigned Corvette that it claimed was equal to or better than any comparable European sports car. European car writers tested the new Vette. Oh how they laughed.
Not this time. The new Corvette 97 is a globally competitive supercar that can stop and drive, as well as move forward, as athletically as any European rival, most of which cost at least twice as much. And it does so with levels of comfort, refinement and build quality unimaginable in any previous Corvette. Yet the Corvette’s all-new 345-horsepower, 5.7-liter LS1 pushrod aluminum V8 ensures that the experience continues to be delivered with the traditional taste and strength of all Americans. New for ’99 is the so-called hardtop, a two-door model, with a derivative of the trunk, as opposed to the T-roof hatchback coupe setup that has been the standard Corvette format for nearly 30 years. . Of course, a full convertible is also available. Being somewhat lighter than the coupe and available with fewer bells and whistles, the hardtop bills itself as the Corvette for performance enthusiasts, those steely-eyed types who compete in auto-slaloms for weekend recreation. Standard equipment includes Z51 sports suspension, 3.42: 1 axle ratio, and 6-speed manual transmission. There is no automatic available. No need to request installers.
Better yet, the rigid hardtop is also somewhat cheaper than the coupe. Better for less mass, what do I not like? Other enhancements for 1999 include the availability of the Active Steering System on all models, plus a power telescopic steering column and front visor on Coupe and Convertible models.
Mazda miata
We held our collective breath when we heard that Mazda was remaking the Miata. I work hard to keep cars cheap, fun, and simple when the technology is there for Lexus-ise. But Mazda did it. They didn’t screw it up.
The new car is actually a bit shorter than the old one, but it appears longer due to a longer wheelbase and less overhang. It is also a bit lower and slippery.
Exposed oval lights replace Miata’s signature pop-ups and body sculpting creates a more muscular appearance.
A neat advance is a frame that attaches the engine / transmission unit to the differential, so that the driver can feel the car respond instantly when stepping on the accelerator. The DOHC, 16-valve 1.8-liter four, carries over, but now makes 140 hp. Other things, like trannies and suspension, carry over as well, but get updated. The short-throw manual shifter is even shorter, approaching race car standards. The interior is all new. More things. The biggest improvements to the cabin are the non-plastic rear window which is also equipped with a defroster and the cup holders.
Standard are speed-sensitive power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, 14-inch aluminum wheels, dual-cut passenger airbags, remote trunk release, and CD stereo. The only equipment upgrades are the leather package, which offers a tan leather interior, 4-channel ABS, limited slip differential, Nardi leather-wrapped wheels, power windows, folding cruiser windshield, wheels and tires. 15-inch aluminum and 200-watt stereo. . The new Miata is faster, smoother, more agile and more comfortable than its predecessor without losing the heady buzz of the original.
