New Corvette: Shorter, Narrower, Faster

It's faster, shorter and narrower. It's the sixth-generation Chevrolet Corvette, unveiled at Detroit's North American International Auto Show.

“Our goal is to thrill Corvette loyalists and capture new enthusiasts,” says Dave Hill, Corvette chief engineer.

The Corvette coupe will go on sale in the third quarter as an '05 model. The convertible will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March.

The C6 Corvette offers an eye-catching design change from its predecessor, arguably the most significant styling alteration in the car's history since the C2 replaced the C1 in 1963 or possibly the transformation from C3 to C4 in 1983.

Exterior design is tense and aggressive. Classic Corvette cues blend with styling reminiscent of the Dodge Viper and some Lamborghinis.

There are fixed headlights for the first time since 1962. The arching fenders feature a beltline crease and recall Stingrays of years past.

The forward-hinged hood hides the most powerful standard engine in Corvette history: the 400-hp 6.0L LS2 small-block V-8, which replaces the 350-hp 5.7L LS1 V-8.

As if driving the Corvette wasn't already hot enough, heated seats are available for the first time.