cmrws67

Hi, I have a C3 that is my absolute love, but I am thinking of adding a C4 or C5 to start a collection . I like the "second generation" C4s so I was thinking 95-96. Or a 97-99 C5. Does anyone have any advice as to what to look for in searching for one of these cars. I am thinking a convertiable. Red/Red or White/Red. Like what mileage, what are known concerns, etc. Is matching numbers a concern with these "newer" vettes like is was for my C3? I want to be able to show the car, but I want to be able to drive it when ever, where ever with no concerns. It would not be a daily driver, just for enjoyment and sunshine....thanks for any help..
Chrissi

cmrws67

I forgot to add, I only drive a manual...so if there are any concerns for those transmissions too.....

Jon Hekking

I did the same thing, I opted for the C4 as it was a MUCH better value for the money and felt more like a Vette than the C5 did. The C5 feels too soft for me, but it's a nice cruiser.

I love my C3, but driving the C4 is a blast and you can't buy more car for the money.

RollaMo-LT4

Since you stated '95 or '96 and a manual transmission, you should give strong consideration to a well maintained 1996 6-Speed.

The 1996 manual transmission cars were all LT4's.
1000 were Grand Sports, but all other manual cars got the same engine.

Since you mentioned showing it and it not being a daily driver, I would make sure you got a very well maintained and excellent condition car.

It will be cheaper to spend a little extra and get an excellent car, than it is to save on the initial purchase and then have to spend $ fixing it up.

I use my '96 just as you describe, and I wouldn't be afraid to drive it cross country.
In fact, I run the Hot Rod Power Tour (Long Haul) every year in it.

xCCTer

'96 LT4.

CopperCorvette

I say get what you want be it a C4 or C5. Each year is an improvement on the prior year. Do you like the small cockpits that the C3 has or would you want some extra space around you? Getting in and out of C4 isn't the easiest thing in the world but once inside you truly feel as though your really connected to the car If you want it to be more for show than go I say buy that '96 LT5. Regaurdless what it is that you choose you'll just have to buy the other generation later for your collection. Copper

Bob89c4

You are in the same boat I was in about four years ago. I have a 1971 coupe that I love but wanted a new C4-C5. I knew I wanted a six speed. I love the Lt-1 models but had heard alot of bad stuff about the opti spark. I finallay decided on a 89 model. First year for the Zf six speeds.

If I did it again I think I would go for a 95 or 96 manual vert.

What ever you decide, I am sure you will love it!

Bob

jrzvette

The usual rule applies, get the newest and best you can afford. Look for maintanence records. There is a checklist on this forum for all Corvettes in general. Matching numbers is usually not a concern as these cars were produced in such large quantities that they will most likely never become collectable in the same sense and the earlier generations. Having said that, most of these cars, particularly the later years will have matching numbers as the engines/ transmissions are very robust.

PLRX

If you are looking for a ready to buy and drive Vette, find a 95 or 96 LT4. All 96 manuals are LT4.

95 ZR1s are also manuals.

ks5shooter

Go for a vert I love the top down.