2002
Chevrolet Corvette reviews and buying guide.
2002 Chevrolet Corvette
For nearly 50 years,
the Chevrolet Corvette has had a special place in America’s
garage. Crafted from a precise blend of power, performance,
style and comfort, Corvette’s success has been
based on a willingness to embrace advancing technology
while remaining true to its heritage. Today’s 2002
Chevrolet Corvette exemplifies this philosophy like
no other.
More power
Last year’s introduction
of the Z06 Corvette, based on the former hardtop model
and the legendary 1960s Z06 option package, is aimed
at true performance enthusiasts at the upper end of
the high-performance market. And now, an extra boost
of 20 hp, to 405, makes Z06 the quickest production
Corvette ever.
This upgrade to the LS6
engine’s output is the result of new hollow stem
valves, a higher-lift camshaft, a low restriction mass
air flow (MAF) sensor and a new low restriction air
cleaner design. Eliminating the PUP converter from the
exhaust system enables better flow of spent gasses and
reduces vehicle weight, without compromising Corvette’s
NLEV (National Low Emission Vehicle) status.
Suspension upgrades
The Z06-specific FE4
High-Performance suspension system features a larger
front stabilizer bar, a stiffer rear leaf spring and
specific camber settings – all calibrated for maximum
control during high-speed operation. The 2002 Z06 also
has new rear shock valving for a more controlled ride.
Although retaining the
same design and color finish, the unique aluminum Z06
wheels are now produced using a cast rather than a forged
process. The magnesium wheel option for Chevrolet Coupes
and Convertibles is no longer available.
Maximum agility
The foundation of Chevrolet
Corvette’s agile handling is hydroformed frame
rails. Its four-wheel independent front suspension features
cast aluminum upper and lower A-arms. The Z06 and models
equipped with the available Z51 package now have aluminum
front stabilizer bar links for lighter weight. The rear
suspension has a transverse leaf spring system.
All Chevrolet Corvettes
have the second-generation Active Handling system as
standard equipment. The system features dynamic rear
brake proportioning to prevent rear wheel lockup, and
rear brake stability control to assist the driver in
maintaining control under light braking and high acceleration
conditions. It also has integral traction control calibrated
to allow drivers to experience the Chevrolet Corvette’s
power and handling while controlling excessive wheelspin.
The Corvette system’s on/off switch and "Competitive
Mode" enables drivers to disengage the traction
control feature without giving up Active Handling’s
other benefits. For more information on Active Handling,
see the "Applied Technology" section of the
Corporate press kit.
Additional refinements
Now standard on Z06,
the Chevrolet Corvette’s Head-Up Display (HUD)
projects vehicle speed and many other gauges digitally
on the windshield ahead of the steering wheel, enabling
drivers to keep their eyes on the road. HUD remains
an option on Corvette Coupes and Convertibles.
The automatic transmission
cooler case is constructed of lightweight cast aluminum,
replacing the previous stainless steel design.
New high performance
front brake pads on Z06 provide improved lining durability
and fade resistance in high performance situations.
Corvette Coupes and Convertibles
receive an AM/FM/In-dash CD system as the new standard
entertainment system. An AM/FM/Cassette system is available
when buyers order the remote 12-disc CD changer. The
12-disc CD changer is also available with the CD radio.
The exterior color palette
adds Electron Blue, replacing Navy Blue Metallic previously
offered on Coupes and Convertibles. Electron Blue also
takes the place of Speedway White as one of five choices
on the Z06.
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