Corvette Stingray Convertible

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
Compact

The year 2020 has been unlike any other, but when it comes to cars, two have stolen the limelight. The 2021 Ford Bronco pretty much took over the internet ahead of its reveal and has just about every week since. Meanwhile, the C8 Corvette has managed to become the poster car of the year, despite numerous issues like frunk lids opening while driving and, of course, a number of production delays due to the global pandemic. But what do these two machines have in common, aside from both being produced by Detroit-based American automakers? As it turns out, both the Corvette Convertible and the Bronco make use of the same manufacturer for their convertible roofs.

We already knew that Webasto was responsible for the Bronco's roof, but as of last month, the company started delivering the first power-retractable tin-tops to be used in the production of the Corvette Convertible. In a year filled with production delays, we're not sure it's exactly great news, as Webasto was allegedly blamed for the delay in Bronco production from Spring to Summer of 2021. Fortunately, though, the Corvette Convertible production schedule seems to finally be in full swing without further delays, and considering the two vehicles use vastly different styles of top, any delay that affects one is unlikely to affect the other.

The C8 Corvette features a retractable hardtop for the first time, which has been designed by GM and Webasto to weigh just 141 lbs. Unfortunately, that weight is mounted relatively high. The top is operable at speeds of up to 30 mph, and due to its solid nature, provides better rigidity and insulation when closed. Unlike this, the Bronco's retractable soft-top requires some manual labor but provides more versatility in that it can be flipped back to only reveal the front pair of seats, all seats, or completely removed for a full open-air experience. Alternatively, a hard-top option has separate panels that can be removed individually for a further custom feel.