Chevorlet Corvette's are an American icon and exude American Muscle
Yes it is also known as Vette or Chevy Corvette
You're right. The most sought after one is the Stingray with the split windows.
Yes this car has been produced through seven generations, I assume it changed a bit
Yes, it has. The first year they were produced was 1953. 
Yes the first model was also convertible and was introduced at the GM Motorama