With all of the improvements in terms of power, performance and overall quality the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has over its C6 predecessor, there's been a lot of speculation that a major price increase was all but guaranteed. Well, first the bad news: Chevrolet did in fact increase the new 'Vette's base price. But the good news is that it's by just $1,400 for the coupe and $2,395 for the convertible. The Stingray coupe bases at $51,995 while the convertible comes in at $56,995, with both prices including the $995 destination charge.

Sounds great, huh? But here's the thing: Once you start checking the order form options, the Corvette Stingray will go all Porsche 911 pricing jumping on you. Tack on items like the Z51 Performance Package ($2,800), 3LT interior package with leather ($8,005), Competition Sports Seats ($2,495), Magnetic Ride Control ($1,795) and several other pricey options and the price will quickly exceed $70k. For example, the red coupe shown at the Detroit Auto Show last January would carry a price tag of $73,360. Still, considering the car's performance vs. price when compared to those of the 911 and even the Nissan GT-R, the Corvette still represents a hell of a good bargain.