Hardtop VettesI really enjoyed your September cover story on the '99 versus the '69 Corvette, but if I hear Chief Engineer Dave Hill tell me one more time that the new Vette is stiffer, I'm going to expect the glovebox to be filled with Viagra when I pick mine up!Walt PetzoldDunedin, Fla.via Motor Trend Online
As a lifelong Corvette enthusiast, I must say I'm displeased with Chevrolet's decision to introduce the fixed-roof coupe as just another Corvette. For the last three years, the public has been led to believe the new third model would be priced around $5000 less than a standard hatchback coupe. At that price, I'd gladly forego the added thrill of open-top motoring to experience owning a new Corvette. I was excited about Chevrolet returning the Corvette to its roots as America's affordable sports car, however, GM has disappointed meJeff MiddletonSan Antonio, Texasvia Motor Trend Online
When I die, I want a Corvette to be the sepulcher in which I am buried. Having stated my indestructible loyalty to this automobile, I can now proceed to express my concern for this bloodline's future. As if trouble close to home, such as the Dodge Viper, weren't enough, what happens when the performance-car world gets super serious in a couple years as Acura, BMW, Mercedes, and others come out with leave-'em-in-the-dust exotics? How will Chevrolet's reluctance to go for the real home run (i.e., ZR-1) bode for this American legend?Joe GeorgeFayetteville, Ariz.
For a diehard enthusiast, you're engraving the Vette's tombstone prematurely.-Ed.
I'm happy to see that, even in this age of faster, more efficient, and better-handling vehicles, MT still takes the time to show some respect for older American performance cars. However, toward the end of the article you comment that, for real-world driving or club racing, the '99 Corvette is the way to go. I'm sure it probably is, given the superior handling and fuel economy, but if real-world driving is what you're talking about, then you should have dressed the '69 as a daily driver, not a museum showpiece. For once I'd like to see someone put some modern tires on a vintage Corvette before running a comparison. I know you like to test them in stock condition, but, honestly, it's just not realistic.Scott LymanWestford, Mass.via Motor Trend Online
I loved Jack Keebler's "Reasons To Ride" sidebar in the Vette shootout. To hear him share the priceless experience with his son was touching, but to watch him do it in such an awesome machine causes pure envy. I share Jack's feelings exactly: Let others fly, we'll ride!Dewayne SutherlandJohnson City, Tenn.
I was curious as to why you've given no follow-up coverage to the '99 Corvette Lightweight (April '98). I'm interested in this car because there's a large price difference from the other Vettes. I see the '99 Corvette hardtop has the same glass topper feature as the Lightweight. Is the Lightweight model going to be made?Chris PetersNew Port Richey, Fla.
Sorry to break it to you, but the "hardtop" is the "lightweight" sans the moreattractive pricing. -Ed.
Fun CarsI found the "Cheap Thrills" article (Sept. '98) very informative, as I've been looking for a reasonable, fun-to-drive vehicle. However, I don't think it applies to the New Beetle, as all the dealers in this area are trying to rob the public without a gun on this one. Would you spend $26,000 for a vehicle that has a $15,200 base price? Not likely. VW ads say, "Drivers Wanted." Maybe they should change that to "Suckers Wanted" when it comes to the New Bug.Dennis Shorevia Motor Trend Online
As supply catches up with the overwhelming demand, prices will stabilize. At press time, a local dealer had 40 New Beetles and was conducting a big sale to make way for the '99 models.-Ed.
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