Daniel Day

Depends on what wheels they were. Were they the Gumby wheels, Z06, etc.(but, yes, chrome wheels were an option from the factory on all the C6 models, just depends on trim level)

Don-Vette

Nail on head!!

Boilerman

I can't say about the wheels, however I would opt for the 08 if both were equipped equally well and same for miles as the 08 hast the LT 3 motor.

RaysLilVette

Hey Mike. Been 50/50 on getting rid of my Vette. It's an 08 Vert Auto. Triple black. Thing has been amazing and I love every moment of it, I seriously get asked about it everywhere I go. Black Wheels (Nice Stance, ZR1 extended spoiler, ZR1 splitter, NPP exhaust and its a 3LT) PM if interested. I'm also in california to.

Mike Ritter

Rethinking the amount I want to spend and have now been looking at C5's instead of c6's. Also figured out that if I'm going to get one, it will be a convertible. I'm in Southern California and not far from Palm Springs, so why not enjoy the weather here. I like both the red colors available and have found a 2001 and a 2002 that are worth a look. Asking prices of $15,500 for the 2001 (private) and $18,000 for the 2002 (dealer). Both have around 75,000 miles.

I'm not a mechanic, so I'm thinking of enlisting the assistance of a Forum member in my area to go with me to look at one close by. I'd pay of course. One is in San Diego so I can look for somebody there too. Has anybody else done this? Makes sense, as this would be my first corvette and I am not familiar with all the car specific details to look for.

Jughead

Like a house purchase, buy the best & newest one you can possibly afford.

Daniel Day

Yep, that makes perfect sense. I can handle basic things but I am no mechanic either so I had my friend(who was a lead mechanic at a big Chevrolet dealer for over 10 years) look my car over before I signed any papers.

Also, I am no expert, but $18k for an 02 with 75k miles sounds a little steep. You're in CA though, so it may be a good price for your area. Personally, if both cars have similar options and are in similar condition, I would go for the 01. It's only a year older and $2500 cheaper. Unless I am purchasing a certified pre-owned car, I would almost always rather buy from a private seller versus a dealer.

Alerotaz

First time Vette owner and lurker... First time Vette Poster..

I bought a 2006 Base convertible, with aftermarket nave unit. Ruby red Convertible for a nice price of 22.5.. only 47,000 miles. Also already has the Borla Exhaust..
I’m going to do a little to it like change intake, CAI and a data logged Tune but I bought it to mainly cruise with the wife. While I second guess myself on the year.. i think i got a good deal especially when i see other going for 28-29k Targa top and higher miles.
The car was in really really really good shape.. not a ding or scratch on it..

RdzQuikSS

I picked up my 2008 Base C6 Z51 6M 3LT for right around 24k with 69K on the clock. The car is in great condition! The only bad thing so far is my tranny started scratching on 4th which turned out to be the main shaft going out due to a bad bearing. I had the tranny rebuilt but that wasn't so bad. Still in love with this car. The deals are out there! Don't settle

extrapilot

I'm not sure why you would second guess the year, at the cost and mileage, sounds like a decent purchase, although you didn't mention the trim level, which reflects cost also.
You should have plenty of happy miles in your future...

RaysLilVette

C5 are great. That was my first corvette I ever purchased. 18,000 does seem kinda steep for a 02 corvette. I sold my 98 which had 99,000 miles and lots of exterior and interior upgrades for 12,000 one year ago. I wouldn't pay anymore then 15,000 dollars for a C5. I also think that you're able to get a better deal going through a private party. If he is asking 15,000 for the car you can easily get it for 13,500. C5 are hard to sell, especially with the C6 corvettes prices anywhere from 18,000 to 25,000 for a 05 or 06. I would strongly consider you taking a mechanic to a private party or a dealer. Dealers can be shady especially the smaller ones. Good luck

J3TVETTE

Cars to consider:
I don't know the mileage. I see it is a Z51 by the rotors and its most likely a 3LT. It has heated seats/HUD display. Priced right depending on miles.
https://inlandempire.craigslist.org/ctd/5658920780.html

95k miles but if they go for 20k I would definitely consider it. Also has Z51 rotors and HUD/heated seats so its optioned well.
https://losangeles.craigslist.org/la...658715921.html

$7900 for a C5? Seriously if I was in california I would just buy this to keep around for a daily driver. Thats a crazy price.
https://losangeles.craigslist.org/lg...644210986.html

bgspot

Since you are rethinking price and seriously considering a C5 thats around 18k, i would just hold out until September/October and buy an 05-07 in the 19-24k range. If you are willing to travel, there are so many well priced vettes up for sale around fall winter...but i'm assuming you may be like me and its hard to resist scratching that corvette itch. My first vette was an 01, and although i loved that car, to me it just didn't compare to my 12 C6. A lot of folks seem to like the "raw" feel of the C5. To me i interpreted that raw feeling as being less refined. Your choice though. Either way keep us posted...

Mike Ritter

Thanks. Good finds. Especially like the red/burgundy one.

DPC57

I went thru the same process a few months ago. Ended up with a base 08; only option was those chrome wheels Yes, they are factory stock.

$26,700 34k miles

Mike Ritter

Nice car. Like that color with the chromed wheels. There is a similar one in the post above yours. Mike

RaysLilVette

Here is a pic of mine.. It would be hard to let go. Still thinking of keeping her even when I get a stingray.