Those interested in buying a Corvette Convertible, but not wanting a standard showroom model can now purchase a high-performance variation through Connecticut-based tuner Reeves Callaway. The new cabriolet version of Callaway's C16, recently unveiled at the New York Auto Show, has been treated to various aesthetic and performance upgrades that will certainly make it stand out from the crowd.

Reeves Callaway is no stranger to performance. Having begun his affair with speed as a competition race driver, he began turbocharging models (initially starting with a 1976 BMW 3 Series) shortly after winning his first race in a Formula Vee at Lime Rock. In 1984 he started a now legendary association with Corvette and more than 20 years later Callaway is continuing to work his magic, this time on a Corvette C6-based car.

The all-new C16 Cabrio was penned by Canadian Paul Deutschman, the legendary designer responsible for two decades of Callaway design. The C16's front and rear fascias and revised body panels have been designed so that they simply replace the old panels and bolt into place. The doors open electrically at the push of a button, so there is no need for door handles. Functional vents aft of the front and rear wheels serve to dissipate heat, conducting hot air away from the brakes and engine. At the front, a low egg-crate grille - reminiscent of 1960s Ferraris - forces air into the engine compartment, while the revised rear incorporates single round tail lamps at each corner and a centre-mounted dual exhaust outlet.

A prominent bonnet bulge finished in contrasting blue paint is clear indication that there is more to this Corvette than just some mild styling enhancements. Opening the bonnet reveals a chrome-plated Eaton-Magnuson Roots-type intercooled supercharger that pumps 7.5psi of boost into the 6-litre V8 powerplant. The C16 Cabrio produces a claimed 560bhp and 529lb.ft of twist in standard form, but more power can be extracted through an optional performance package, allowing up to 616bhp and 582lb.ft of torque. Without the upgrade, the C16 will shoot occupants to 60mph in a shade under four seconds, blowing past the quarter mile in 11.7 seconds and a hitting an estimated 200mph top speed. The performance pack will decrease the 0-60mph time to 3.4 seconds and it will help the C16 reach the quarter mile mark in 11.2 seconds. Engines are coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox or a paddle-shifted automatic transmission.

Callaway also takes every other component up a notch, fitting separately adjustable aluminium body Eibach shocks to regulate bounce and rebound and StopTech 355mm vented discs with six-piston front and four-piston rear callipers to provide stopping power. Staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels with magnesium alloy centrepieces are bolted to carbon fibre rims, specially manufactured for Callaway by UK-based Dymag. Even the 20-inch versions weigh in at a scant 8.2kg.

Leaving no stone unturned, Callaway has also trimmed the Recaro seats of the C16 Cabrio in leather and Alcantara suede, transforming the interior into one of the most cosseting cockpits ever to be seen in a Corvette. The door sill panels, dash pad, and steering wheel are upgraded and carry signature Callaway badging. Each C16 Cabrio will be built to order for $128,765.