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Corvette turns 60 in 2013

Famed for its enviable looks and powerful performance, Chevrolet's legendary Corvette is about to celebrate a major marker in 2013 – its 60th anniversary.

The Corvette, Chev claims, exemplifies a true sports car – simply cool and exciting, traits that have been underlined by its image in pop culture. However, undeniable style isn't all that the Corvette possesses – it's safe and comfortable for everyday driving.

STARRING: A CORVETTE

The fame of Corvette has long been established through its success in American culture and its technical refinement.

Over time, a wide variety of innovative features have contributed to its growth: examples over the decades include extended mobility tyres (also known as run-flats), the head-up display which projects important data on the windscreen in plain view of the driver, as well as magnetic selective ride control which enables real-time wheel-damping.

Chevrolet's significance in the American cultural landscape is as obvious on the streets as it is in the arts and entertainment. From action adventure films to TV dramas, the car has taken just more than 1400 lead or supporting roles in TV shows and Hollywood films.

The Internet Movie Cars Database has recognised top movies featuring Corvettes – a short selection includes:

Rush Hour (1998) - James Carter, the fast-talking and quick-witted detective, drives a 1971 Chevrolet Corvette.

CARS 2 (2011) – Chevrolet Nascar legend Jeff Gordon provides the voice for a Corvette C6.R character called Jeff Gorvette in the Disney-Pixar animated film.

Corvette Summer (1978) – The leading man heads on an adventure to find his stolen 1973 Corvette Stingray, the ultimate object of desire in this classic teen summer movie.

Route 66 (1960-1964)
– The iconic vehicle that stays true to the characters throughout their travels is a red 1960 Chevrolet Corvette convertible.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009) – The sexy silver 2009 Corvette Stingray concept car was featured as Sideswipe, Autobot sidekick to Optimus Prime.

Glee (Season 2, Episode 2) –
The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport proved to be an instrument of power for Will Schuester and his arch nemesis Carl Howell when it came to vying for the attention of sweet-natured guidance counsellor Emma Pillsbury.

Chevrolet Europe public relations director Vijay Iyer said:  "The Corvette is admired the world over and there are few world-class vehicles that can match its iconic status and successes."

The new Corvette 427 Convertible Collector's Edition was specifically built to commemorate the 60th anniversary of this legendary sports car. It's the fastest Corvette convertible yet built and includes the high-tech features for which the brand has become renowned.

Executive chief engineer Tadge Juechter, the man responsible for overseeing the design of the Corvette 427 Convertible Collector's Edition said: "For almost 60 years, Corvette has offered state-of-the-art features, technologies and incredible performance.”
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