Ken Fichtner

Hello from your friends at Fichtner Chevrolet in Laurel, Montana!

The weather is still hot and dry but the fires have been contained for the most part.

There is quite a bit in the way of new news this week!

****Let me know if there is anything in particular you would like to see included in the next newsletter.****

*NEWEST News:

*Link to exclusive interviews with Dave Hill, Dave McLellan and John Cafaro.

*New 2003 & 2004 Chevrolet Car and Trucks Sale Priced!
We are now offering our in stock 2003 and 2004 models as well as any special ordered 2004 model at dealer invoice + $149 and you will receive any and all rebates or special finance rate offers!!! Corvettes are excluded but we are making special deals on special orders. Email me for more information.

*General Motors Protection Plan – GMPP, SALE PRICED FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER AT EVEN DEEPER DISCOUNTS!!!!!

Have you considered the high cost of repair on your Corvette?

We recommend that you take a close look at the GM Protection Plan available from General Motors.

PLEASE NOTE:
We are discounting all GM Protection Plans even more for the month of September!!! This program begins today 9/5/03 and ends on 9/30/03.

Mention that you saw the special discount here and we will discount the plan an additional amount below our already hugely discounted price!!

Shop and compare!
Remember that NO ONE sells the GMPP MajorGuard for less than one of the original supporting dealers, Fichtner Chevrolet!
PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU PURCHASE THE PLAN THE SAME DAY AS YOU TAKE DELIVERY OF YOUR NEW CAR OR TRUCK, THE PRICE IS LOWER!!!

WE WILL MATCH ANY OTHER GM DEALERS PRICE!! AND FURTHER, THERE IS NO SALES TAX IN MONTANA!!

*General Motors Parts and Accessories
We sell parts and accessories for EVERY GM car and truck. We sell all items at dealer wholesale pricing without any exhorbidant shipping and handling costs. Call or email our parts department for a no hassle quotation.

*Would you like to see an expanded parts list?
Please email our parts department at: parts@fichtnerchevrolet.com if you would like to see the C5 offerings expanded and C4 items added!!!

*Now taking orders for 2004 Service Manuals
We are offering an early bird special again this year. Pre-order your 2004 manuals by August 31 and you will receive your 3 volume set for only $99.95 plus s/h. You can order direct from Helm as well but the price is $125!

*2004 Z16/Z06 Shocks Now Available!
We have been receiving the new shocks daily. Call or email our parts department today to get on the list!!

*Order parts securely online here: http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/kenf...rtspage1.shtml

SAME DAY SHIPPING ON ALL INSTOCK ITEMS ORDERED BY 1 PM, MOUNTAIN TIME!

***PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT OTHER ITEMS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADDED TO THE PARTS SITE!***

We are now accepting Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and YES even American Express. You can simply select the item(s) you want and complete your order quickly and securely. We will receive your order via email and will fill it and ship it ASAP.

We are confident that this will make ordering parts from us much more convenient. No need to call us long distance or take time from your busy schedule. You may, of course, still call our parts department at 406-628-4121 or email them at parts@fichtnerchevrolet.com

New Rebates and Interest Rates Announced by GM – September 3, 2003

2004 Model Year Pricing – MSRP and Invoice – Updated August 15, 2003
Find the new prices in the newsletter below!

2004 Model Year Weekly production constraints: Updated September 5, 2003

Coupes, Convertibles and non-Z16 Z06s are available this week with the only constraints being White-restricted to 3%, G92 Performance Axle Ratio-restricted to 39% and QF5 High Polished Wheels-restricted to 75% this week.

Z16 Commemorative Editions are constrained and dealer allocations have been delayed!

Fichtner Chevrolet Departments & Individuals – Email Addresses & Phone Numbers

Here is the directory:

Sales:
KenFichtner@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 103

LFichtner@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 102

ABummer@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 105

Sales@FichtnerChevrolet.com

GM Protection Plans:
GMPP@FichtnerChevrolet.com
Albert Bummer 406-628-4618 Ext 105

Parts:
BWendorff@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121
TDorsey@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121
Parts@FichtnerChevrolet.com

Service:
Service@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Office Administration/Accounting:
KEastlick@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter and thanks for your business!
http://www.glassreunioncorvetteclub.com/index.htm
This is the Corvette club’s webpage. We sponsor this club!

Index of topics:

Weekly Newsletter – Contents

1) Link to exclusive interviews with Dave Hill, Dave McLellan and John
Cafaro.
2) 2004 Z16 Commemorative Edition – Dealer Notification
3) Fichtner Chevrolet Parts Ordering Website
4) Corvette Promotional Model Sale
5) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates – UPDATED!
6) Event Codes and what they mean
7) General Motors Protection Plan, MajorGuard
8) GM Employee & Supplier 2004 Eligibility
9) Weekly Constraint/Production News – UPDATED!
10) 2004 Corvette Information
11) 2004 Model Year Pricing


1) Link to exclusive interviews with Dave Hill, Dave McLellan and John
Cafaro.

Frank Calmes of CrossedFlags.com has returned from Bowling Green and returned with some very cool interviews!

Go here to see and here them! http://crossedflags.com/text.php?id=8

2) 2004 Z16 Commemorative Edition – Dealer Notification – Updated
6/13/03

EVERY DEALER HAS RECEIVED THEIR LETTER NOW WITH THEIR ACTUAL ALLOCATION! DO NOT BE MISLED BY A DEALER CLAIMING TO HAVE ALLOCATIONS. ASK TO SEE THEIR LETTER!!!!

Subject: 2004 Z16 Commemorative Edition Dealer Notification

Production of the Z16 Commemorative Edition will begin in June 2003 and run through the entire 2004 Model Year. Z16 Commemorative Edition units will be allocated to all Corvette Dealers who sold 5 or more Corvettes for the 52-week period ending April 2, 2003. This is consistent with the initial distribution method of the Z06. It is anticipated that each dealer who sold at least 5 Corvettes during this period will receive at least one Z16 Commemorative Edition vehicle.

The Z16 Commemorative Edition allocation projection will be provided to Regions by the end of May. A letter will be sent to those dealers that qualify for Z16 Allocation notifying them of their expected Z16 Allocation by the middle of June. This communication will provide dealers with a Z16 Commemorative Edition estimated allocation quantity for the 2004 MY. The allocation estimate should assist dealers in planning their sales volume of the Z16 Commemorative Edition Corvette. As a reminder, the estimated allocation is considered to be an estimate and is not a commitment.

As of May, the monthly breakdown of Z16 Commemorative Edition allocation will be loaded into VOMS under the VTZ06C Allocation Group. This will enable each dealer to view their allocation for the current month plus one outlook month.

The Z16 Commemorative Edition consensus will be under the VTZ06C Allocation Group. If a dealer does not consent to (or) does not have a preliminary Z16 order in VOMS, the Z16 allocation will be redistributed to another dealer during variance resolution.

Since it is each dealer's responsibility to manage "sold" orders within the allocation process, it is recommended that you do not accept customer orders in excess of your Z16 Commemorative Edition allocation projection.

CORVETTE MARKETING TEAM

3) Fichtner Chevrolet Parts Ordering Website-UPDATED!

Just a note to let you know that I have added several new items to our parts ordering website. I have also made a few changes to make it easier to order items from us!
Check it out here http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/kenf...rtspage1.shtml
PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE ADDED TO THIS WEBSITE!!

4) Corvette Promotional Model Sale


2003 Corvette Pace Car Coupe (paced the 2002 race)
Molded in Anniversary Red with all of the 86th Annual Indy Pace Car Decals!

ONLY 7 LEFT – SALE PRICED at $39 plus S/H


2001 Convertible – White with red interior

ONLY 8 LEFT - DISCOUNTED to $29 with free shipping!



2001 Hardtop Z06 – Millennium Yellow with black interior.

ONLY 22 LEFT - DISCOUNTED to $29 with free shipping!


We only have 7 LEFT of the 2003 50th Anniversary Two Car Package:
1 – Coupe, 1 – Convertible

SALE PRICED at $69 plus S/H

Please call Bob at 406-628-4121 to place your order.


5) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates – New 9/3/03

GENERAL MOTORS ANNOUNCED INCENTIVES ON NEW AND UNUSED 2003, 2004 CHEVROLET MODELS ON 9/3/03.

Program dates:
9/3 thru 9/30

Consumer Cash:

2004 Model Year Chevrolets

Cavalier(non 1SV)
$3000 Consumer cash or 0% for 36, 48, 60 months or 1.9% for 72 months

S10 Pickup
Silverado
Tracker
Tahoe
Suburban
Venture
Astro
Express
$1500 Consumer cash or 0.0% for 36 months, 1.9% for 48 months, 2.9% for 60 months or 3.9% for 72 months

Impala
Monte Carlo
Avalanche
Blazer
Trailblazer & Trailblazer EXT
$2000 Consumer cash or 0.0% for 36 months, 0.9% for 48 months, 1.9% for 60 months or 2.9% for 72 months

Corvette
$0 Consumer cash or 5.9% for 36, 48, 60 months

2003 Model Year Chevrolets

S10 Pickup
Avalanche
$4000 Consumer cash or 0% for 36, 48, 60 months, 1.9% for 72 months

Cavalier
Tracker
$3500 Consumer cash or 0% for 36, 48, 60 months, 1.9% for 72 months

Malibu
Impala
Monte Carlo
Silverado
Kodiak
Blazer
Trailblazer & Trailblazer EXT
Tahoe
Suburban
Venture
Astro
Express
$3000 Consumer cash or 0% for 36, 48, 60 months, 1.9% for 72 months

Corvette
$2000 Consumer cash or 0% for 36 months, 2.9% for 48 months, 3.9% for 60 months

Consumer Bonus Cash:
This may be combined with the program above. The consumer may add this cash to the cash above or take this cash with the special APR above

2004 Model Year Chevrolets

$500
Cavalier (non 1SV)
Silverado
Tahoe
Suburban

$1000
Avalanche
Trailblazer & Trailblazer EXT


2003 Model Year Chevrolets

$500
Cavalier

$1000
Impala
Monte Carlo
Silverado
Avalanche
Trailblazer & Trailblazer EXT
Tahoe
Suburban

6) Event Codes and what they mean

Every dealer has the ability to monitor the progress of a specific order as identified by its order number (6 digits) assigned upon order generation to the dealership. Here are the event codes that a dealer can view and their meaning:
2001-Order generated to dealer
2005-Order replaced with GM Prospec order
2050-Order changed
2500-Order sent to production, preferenced
3000-Order accepted by production control
3100-Order available to sequence (now the tpw becomes more stable)
3400-Order broadcasted for production
3800-Vehicle produced
4150-Vehicled invoiced to dealer
4200-Vehicle shipped
5000-Vehicle delivered to dealer
6000-Vehicle delivered to customer
6010-Vehicle delivery change

7) General Motors Protection Plan, MajorGuard


PLEASE NOTE:
We are discounting all GM Protection Plans even more for the month of September!!! This program begins today 9/5/03 and ends on 9/30/03.

Mention that you saw the special discount here and we will discount the plan an additional amount below our already hugely discounted price!!

To find out more about the GM Protection Plan, click here: http://www.gmprotectionplan.com

For pricing and availability questions as well as to purchase the plan, please call Albert Bummer at 406-628-4618 or email him at: gmpp@fichtnerchevrolet.com

Remember that NO ONE sells the GMPP MajorGuard for less than one of the original supporting dealers, Fichtner Chevrolet!
PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU PURCHASE THE PLAN THE SAME DAY AS YOU TAKE DELIVERY OF YOUR NEW CAR OR TRUCK, THE PRICE IS LOWER!!!

As an independent new car dealer, Fichtner Chevrolet is authorized by General Motors to sell the GM Protection Plan/MRP.

Here’s more about the plan!
Major Guard can be purchased from any GM Dealer. To save big dollars, buy it from Fichtner Chevrolet. Many dealers mark-up Major Guard beyond GM suggested prices by several hundred dollars. We are continuing to offer the plan at a substantial discount below the suggested retail price!

I am also offering the same pricing on all GM vehicles. Not just Corvettes!! Please email me for a quote specific to the model of GM car or truck.

Major Guard is honored nation-wide and it doesn’t matter where you bought the plan! Major Guard is a policy of General Motors Corporation. Be very careful of policies written by other companies that may no longer be in business when you need them! There have been hundreds of these companies going broke in the past. In addition, this policy is good at any GM dealership. The vast majority of dealerships will not honor any policy except those sold by General Motors. The GM Protection Plan protects your vehicle and assures that it is repaired to GM standards whenever necessary. Second, the plan is completely transferable to subsequent owners of your vehicle adding to the vehicle’s resale value. The GM Protection Plan comes with a GM money-back guarantee of satisfaction. You get a full refund if you cancel the Plan within 60 days of purchase and no claim is filed. After 60 days, your refund is prorated, (less a small administration fee).
For years, millions of Major Guard customers have known that, “From the engine to the trunk lock, if it breaks – or even if it just plan wears out – and it’s not on the list of the few items not covered, Major Guard will pay for the repair less your deductible – whatever it is!”

What does Major Guard cover?
It’s as simple as this: If it’s not on the very short list of what’s not covered, it’s covered!

WHAT’S NOT COVERED? (Quoted from the actual policy)
“Unless required in connection with the repair of a covered part, GM will not pay anything under the agreement that is related to normal maintenance service including engine tune-up, suspension alignment, wheel balancing, filters, lubricants, engine coolant, drive belts, radiator hoses, heater and vacuum hoses, windshield wiper blades, air conditioning recharging, fluids, spark/glow plugs, brake pads, linings and shoes, brake rotors, manual clutch disc, or any other maintenance service or part required to be performed or replaced as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule. Additionally, neither rust damage nor any of the following parts or services are covered under any circumstance: sheet metal, body panels, carpet, weather-strips, lenses, sealed beams, light bulbs, tires, trim, convertible or vinyl tops, moldings, bright metal, upholstery, paint, exhaust system, catalytic converter, hinges, brake drums, shock absorbers, batteries, carburetor, correction of air and water leaks, wind noise, odors, squeaks, rattles, contaminated fuel systems, bumpers, body parts, and glass.”

Major Guard provides 24-hour no cash needed towing and roadside assistance. Major Guard will authorize towing or emergency road service for any disablement of your covered vehicle, or will reimburse you up to $50 for these expenses. Benefits include towing, flat tire service, battery jump, out-of-gas fuel delivery and locksmith and key service. Major Guard will pay the charge to rent a replacement vehicle whenever the new vehicle limited warranty or Major Guard covered repairs require 2.0 or more manufacturers’ labor time guide hours to repair.

For any vehicle that is still inside the new vehicle limited warranty period, Major Guard time and mileage limits start on the same day as the new vehicle limited warranty and at 0 miles. Coverage ends at the earlier of the selected time or mileage. The term of coverage includes the new vehicle limited warranty. You may purchase the plan at any time but such coverage must be purchased prior to the end of the new vehicle limited warranty of 36 months or 36000 miles. Major Guard can be transferred when you sell your vehicle. Major Guard is recognized by dealers in the US and Canada. It makes sense to return to your selling dealer, but if you find it inconvenient to do so, you may use any commercial repair facility! Just refer to the Coverage Agreement for the appropriate phone number to call.

Due to an amendment to the GM Protection Plan Dealer Agreement I am not allowed to post the prices of the plan. Please email me for a specific quote. I would be pleased to email or fax you the prices. Of course you may also call me at 406-628-4618. Here are the plan terms that are available:
36 Months with mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
48 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
60 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
72 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
84 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K

Application is simple. Provide me with your name, address, phone number, VIN of you car, present mileage or the odometer reading upon delivery when purchasing the plan the same day, and the term and miles desired. You may either call Albert Bummer at 406-628-4618 or email him at: gmpp@fichtnerchevrolet.com We gladly accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or personal checks as a form of payment.

Benefits of having the GM Protection Plan during the base warranty period:

I am often times asked why one should purchase the GM Protection Plan before the base warranty expires so I thought it would be beneficial to all if I published a list of some of the benefits.
* The price is lower if you purchase the plan the same day as you take
delivery of a new car or truck.
* The price increases annually so waiting will without a doubt cost
more.
*GMPP is honored at all GM dealerships versus the base warranty which
is only honored at Chevrolet dealerships.
*GMPP covers a rental car if your vehicle needs 2.0 labor hours or more
of repair versus the base warranty which only covers a rental if your
car is disabled, in the dealership all day and then overnight.
GMPP covers items that break or wear out versus the base warranty which
only covers items that fail due to a quality or workmanship issue.
*If your base warranty expires your car is no longer eligible for a
GMPP.

General Motors has refined their marketing approach to be tuned to the lifestyle and buying approach of today’s consumer. These buyers seek information from a variety of sources. So, for the first time, the GM Protection Plan (GMPP) is being introduced to the information-seeking customer via the internet!
Please visit the new website here: http://www.gmprotectionplan.com
You will be able to view information on the available GMPP plans as well as brand specific information and more!

Supplemental Coverage:
*Tire Road Hazard
A new choice for customers this year is the Tire Road Hazard protection. This option is available for new vehicles exclusively and must be purchased with a GMPP on the date of new vehicle delivery. This coverage includes:
*100% flat tire protection
*Complete or prorated replacement of original 4 tires
*$150 per tire maximum
*$0 deductible
*The term is equal to the GM Protection Plan with a cap not to exceed 60 months or 50K miles whichever comes first

GM Protection Plan – Eligibility

GMPP Administration Guide – 2003

Most passenger cars, vans and light-duty trucks with remaining New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage are eligible.

A vehicle is ineligible for coverage if:

The vehicle has a branded title (severely damaged).
The vehicle has a gross vehicle rating (GVWR) of more than 14000 pounds.
The vehicle is being used for daily rental or as a limousine, taxi, shuttle service, tow truck/vehicle carrier, or to transport people for a fee.
The vehicle manufacturer’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty covering the vehicle has been voided (applies only to Contracts purchased during the term of such warranty).
The vehicle has received modifications that do not meet manufacturer’s specifications, including, but not limited to, modifications to permit trailering, towing or snowplowing, lift kits or high performance engine modifications.
The vehicle is being used in business on a regular basis (does not apply to vehicles specifically identified on the Contract Registration as Business, HUMMER Business, Snowplow or Emergency)>
Vehicles with VINS that indicate incomplete chassis or chassis modification.
Vehicles that are delivered from the factory as incompletes and subsequently upfitted or structurally modified are not eligible for mechanical or maintenance coverage.
The vehicle has been modified for towing.

Note: The Warranty start date for all GM vehicles is the first day the vehicle is placed in service either by the initial purchaser/less or when the vehicle is first placed in dealer demonstrator service or as a GM company owned vehicle. Company owned vehicles include PEP, work related, special event, engineering test and courtesy use.

Plan purchase eligibility:

In-Warranty
Major Guard, Value Guard and Basic Guard can be purchased any time during the first 36 months and 36000 miles of warranty inception, except Cadillac contracts, which may be purchased any time up to 48 months and 50000 miles. Contracts purchased on the warranty start date provide a lower cost.

Out-of-Warranty
Any contract for which the vehicle meets the inception age and mileage parameters may be purchased. These contracts may only be purchased at the time of vehicle sale. Out-of-Warranty is defined as greater than 36 months or 36000 miles (48 months or 50000 miles for Cadillac). Any vehicle no longer covered by the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty must be inspected and serviced.

Note: Contract upgrades are available on eligible vehicles that are still within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

8) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2004

To: All GM Dealers

From: VSSM Order Fulfillment

Subject: 2004 MY Restrictions for GM Employee/Supplier/GM Dealership Purchase Programs

Date: April 25, 2003

Following are the initial 2004 Model Year restrictions from the individual Marketing Teams for the GM Employee Purchase Program, the GM Supplier New Vehicle Purchase Program , and the GM Dealership Employee Purchase Program as of April 24, 2003:

Buick - No restrictions.

Cadillac
CTS - Very limited GMU.
XLR - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
SRX - Very limited GMU.
ESV - Very limited GMU.

Chevrolet Cars
Classic (old body style Malibu) - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
Malibu - Limited GMU
Corvette - Very limited GMU.
GMS and stock sales of Supplier are eligible.
Only eligible for the U6C portion of the Dealership Employee Purchase Program.

Chevrolet Trucks
Astro van - No cargo models in GMU.
Express van - No cargo models in GMU.
Silverado 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Silverado 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Cutaway vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
Kodiak (C4500) - Not available.
SSR - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.

GMC
Safari van - No cargo models in GMU.
Savana van - No cargo models in GMU.
Sierra 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Sierra 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed
Cutaway vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
TopKick (C4500) - Not available.

Oldsmobile - No restrictions.

Pontiac
Vibe - Very limited GMU. Available for all other programs.
GTO - Very limited GMU.

Hummer
H2 - Very limited GMU.

Saturn - No restrictions.

The above restrictions are subject to change at any time.

9) Weekly Constraint/Production News

Constraints are distributed based on Available Days’ Supply (ADS), Controlled Method or Percent of Allocation (POA). Please refer to your GM Common Training Course Book #XDS01.OGD (page 2-12) for more information regarding these three methods. It is anticipated the majority of the time the ADS calculation will be used to calculate dealers’ weekly constraints. Dealers can use the weekly constraint wire to see the basic availability of an option. However, to view your availability of an option, dealers will need to view the “available constraints” screen in order management. The percentages on the weekly constraint wire are estimated based on the national retail number of the constrained option divided by the amount of retail orders being allocated for the week.

To: All Chevrolet Dealers
From: Distribution
Subject: Chevrolet Constraint Wire for 8-7-03

Model, Target Production Week, Constraint #, Description, % of National Allocation

2004 Model Year

Corvette Convertible/Coupe/Z06 – Target production week 9/29/03
*#384, G92 Performance Axle Ratio, 42% available for allocations this week
*#385, QF5 High Polished Aluminum Wheel, 69% available for allocations this week

Corvette Hardtop – *No target production available!!!!

*denotes change

Topic: VOMS Calendar for the Next 4 Weeks

WEEK 36 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2003

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, September 4, 2003 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, September 9th, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on September 9, 2003.

WEEK 37 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2003

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, September 11, 2003 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, September 16th, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on September 16, 2003.

WEEK 38 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2003

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, September 18, 2003 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, September 23rd, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on September 23, 2003.

WEEK 39 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2003

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, September 25, 2003 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, September 30th, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on September 30, 2003.

10) 2004 Corvette Order Information

There will be a new allocation group for dealer ordering for the 2004 model year.
The allocation group is: VTZ06C, Corvette Collector’s Commemorative Edition.
Coupes/Convertibles/Non Commemorative Z06s will now be combined into one allocation group.
Dealers NOW (5/9/03) know their allocations for production June 23rd thru August 3rd for Commemorative Z06s and all other Corvettes.
Dealers may submit orders to Chevrolet on May 22, 2003.

Corvette Coupes

Exterior Colors:
19U Lemans Dark Blue Metallic – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
40U Speedway White – LATE RELEASE, NOT AVAILABLE FOR INITIAL ORDERING
41U Black
67U Machine Silver Metallic
70U Torch Red
79U Millennium Yellow
86U Magnetic Red II Metallic
88U Medium Spiral Gray Metallic

Interior Colors:
152 Shale Collector Leather – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
193 Black Leather
673 Light Oak Leather
703 Torch Red Leather
923 Light Gray Leather

Preferred Equipment Group:
1SA, 1SB, 1SC

New Option:
Z15 Commemorative Edition

Corvette Convertible

Exterior Colors:
19U Lemans Dark Blue Metallic – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
40U Speedway White – LATE RELEASE, NOT AVAILABLE FOR INITIAL ORDERING
41U Black
67U Machine Silver Metallic
70U Torch Red
79U Millennium Yellow
86U Magnetic Red II Metallic
88U Medium Spiral Gray Metallic

Interior Colors:
152 Shale Collector Leather – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
193 Black Leather
673 Light Oak Leather
703 Torch Red Leather
923 Light Gray Leather

Convertible Top Colors:
16T White
41T Black
54T Shale
67T Light Oak

Preferred Equipment Group:
1SA, 1SB, 1SC

New Option:
Z15 Commemorative Edition

Corvette Z06

Exterior Colors:
19U Lemans Dark Blue Metallic – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
41U Black
67U Machine Silver Metallic
70U Torch Red
79U Millennium Yellow

Interior Colors:
192 Black Collector Leather – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION ONLY
194 Black Leather
704 Black/Torch Red Leather

Preferred Equipment Group:
1SA, 1SB, 1SC

New Option:
Z16 Z06 Commemorative Edition
FOR RELEASE: April 24, 2003
2004 Chevrolet Corvette: Commemorative Edition Celebrates Racing Success, and Improves the C5 Breed
DETROIT, MICH. - Since its inception in 1997, the fifth-generation Chevrolet Corvette has created a remarkable string of performance achievements, on the road and on the racetrack. For 2004, the final chapter in the C5 era, this tradition continues with the Commemorative Edition Corvette, celebrating Corvette Racing's historic Le Mans victories and delivering technology that once again improves the breed.
Corvette Racing has claimed consecutive GTS class championships in 2001 and 2002 at the famed Le Mans 24 Hours, the world's most prestigious sports car endurance race.
"The great racing success of the C5-R is more than just symbolic, it's a real testament to the world-class technology and performance of the Corvette," says David Hill, vehicle line executive and Corvette chief engineer. "We've created the 2004 Commemorative Edition to share our racing achievements with Corvette enthusiasts, while bringing real performance and technology upgrades to the Z06."
The 2004 Commemorative Edition Z06 features a new hood using carbon fiber material, and exterior graphics and color designed in concert with the new-look C5-R that will go for a landmark third consecutive Le Mans GTS class championship. The carbon fiber hood represents the first time this advanced material has been used as original equipment for a painted exterior panel on a North American-produced vehicle. The unique Le Mans Blue paint with a silver and red center graphic will appear on the race car only at Le Mans 2003 and only on the road on a limited number of 2004 Commemorative Edition Z06s.
Commemorative Edition Corvette Coupes and Convertibles will also be available for 2004. These will share an exclusive package of styling amenities, including Le Mans Blue paint and a Shale-colored interior, with a Commemorative Edition exterior badge noting Corvette's Le Mans titles. Special embroidery on the headrests of each seat is also included.
"At Chevrolet and especially with the Corvette, racing is part of our DNA," says Rick Baldick, Corvette Marketing Director. "The 2004 Commemorative Edition provides us the opportunity to connect our customers even more closely with this unprecedented era of Corvette Racing."
2004 Z06 - another round of technical enhancements
The Z06 Corvette shook the foundations of the sports car world upon its 2001 debut, as the Corvette for the extreme performance enthusiast. Just a year later, horsepower moved from 385 to an awe-inspiring 405. For 2004, Z06 gets two performance-enhancing upgrades - the lightweight, race-inspired carbon fiber hood for the Commemorative Edition, and revised chassis tuning for quicker, smoother response in the most challenging environments.
The carbon fiber hood - only available on the Commemorative Edition version of the 2004 Z06 - weighs 20.5 pounds, 10.6 less than the standard hood, providing another measure of weight savings for a car that already enjoys a very potent power-to-weight ratio. Previously reserved for racing and exotic sports cars, carbon fiber combines extremely high strength and low weight. The inside hood panel is a hybrid of carbon fiber and Sheet Molded Compound (SMC).
Specifically developed for the Corvette, the Commemorative Edition Z06 hood achieves a higher level of exterior finish quality than previous automotive applications of carbon fiber. On most carbon fiber parts, the woven pattern of the material is easily seen beneath the exterior finish. To diminish that effect and preserve the rich LeMans Blue paint finish, on the Commemorative Edition Z06 the carbon fibers are aligned in a single direction. The only visual cue that the hood is made from carbon fiber is in the red border surrounding the silver graphic on the car, which is arranged in a woven pattern signifying the material that lies underneath. The overall result is a finish consistent with the rest of the car that gives just a slight hint at the carbon fiber construction.
Nurburgring-inspired chassis tuning
All 2004 Z06 Corvettes will benefit from the continual pursuit of performance enhancements that have characterized the C5 era. The enhancements for 2004 are subtle in terms of physical parts, but significant in terms of the car's performance and feel.
GM engineers have refined the Z06's shock damping characteristics to provide improved handling in the most challenging conditions, while maintaining good ride control for the demands of daily driving.
Continual analysis, development and refinement of the shock valves in particular resulted in more damping control and force, delivered more smoothly. This new tuning is aimed at diminishing the impact of yaw and roll on the car, particularly in quick, transient maneuvers such as "S-turns" or a series of tight corners.
"While the Z06 already had an excellent blend of extreme handling capability and surprising ride quality, we're never satisfied," Hill says. "The enhancements for 2004 provide a bit more poised and smooth response, connecting the car better to the driver's input, without the penalty of ride harshness."
These refinements are a result of extensive testing and development, including several high-speed test sessions at Germany's famed Nurburgring circuit. Corvette Z06 is one of only a precious few cars to have broken the 8-minute barrier for lap times at Nurburgring. Corvette testing at Nurburgring isn't just about raw speed, as the Z06 provides plenty of that. Engineers gathered important learning on tuning the chassis to enhance the poise, confidence and smoothness of response, attributes that are of great importance under the severe demands of a 14-mile course that has approximately 170 turns and virtually constant elevation changes.
"Nurburgring, at the extreme edge of the envelope, provides conditions that can't be easily duplicated anywhere else," says Hill. "But, even for the Z06, we spend considerable time ensuring we don't make adjustments that compromise the normal daily driving character of the car."

11) 2004 Model Year Pricing

2004 Corvette Prices, MSRP and Dealer Invoice - FYI

I thought it might be helpful if forum members had the actual MSRP and Invoice prices when shopping for a new Corvette.

Often times dealers will misquote either or both the MSRP and actual Dealer Invoice prices.

In an attempt to assist our members make informed decisions and to keep dealers honest I am posting this information. It is certainly not hard to acquire this information from any of several buying service websites or on any newstand!

2004 Corvette Pricing – Announced 6/13/03

MSRP

Corvette Coupe $43735.00 (up $100 from 2003 final price)
Corvette Convertible $50735.00 (up $200 from 2003 final price)
Corvette Z06 $51585.00 ((up $150 from 2003 final price)

Corvette Coupe, Convertible/1SB Option Package $1200.00 (no increase)
Corvette Z06 Commemorative Z16/1SB Option Package $4335.00 (new package)
Corvette Coupe, Convertible Z15/1SC Option Package $3700.00 (new package)

R8C Corvette Museum Delivery $490.00 (no increase)
G92 Performance Axle Ratio $395.00 (no increase)
V49 Front License Plate Frame $15.00 (no increase)
DD0 Electrochromic Mirrors (Z06) $160.00 (up $40.00 from 2003 final price)
B84 Body Side Moldings $150.00 (no increase)
AAB Memory Package (Z06) $175.00 (no increase)
Z51 Performance Handling Package $395.00 (no increase)
79U Millennium Yellow Tint Coat $750.00 (no increase)
86U Magnetic Red Met Tint Coat $750.00 (no increase-not avail in 2003)
U1S 12 Disc CD Changer $600.00 (no increase)
C2L Dual Removable Package $1400.00 (up $200 from 2003 final price)
CC3 Transparent Roof Panel $750.00 (no increase)
F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control $1695.00 (no increase)
MN6 6 Speed Manual Transmission $915.00 (no increase)
MX0 Automatic OD Transmission $0.00 (no increase)
N73 Magnesium Wheels $995.00 ($505.00 DECREASE from 2003 final price)
QF5 High Polished Wheels $1295.00 (no increase)

DEST Destination Charges $800.00 (no increase)

DEALER INVOICE

Corvette Coupe $38268.13
Corvette Convertible $44393.13
Corvette Z06 $45136.88

Corvette Coupe, Convertible/1SB Option Package $1032.00
Corvette Z06 Commemorative Z16/1SB Option Package $3728.10
Corvette Coupe, Convertible Z15/1SC Option Package $3182.00

R8C Corvette Museum Delivery $421.40
G92 Performance Axle Ratio $339.70
V49 Front License Plate Frame $12.90
DD0 Electrochromic Mirrors (Z06) $137.60
B84 Body Side Moldings $129.00
AAB Memory Package (Z06) $150.50
Z51 Performance Handling Package $339.70
79U Millennium Yellow Tint Coat $645.00
86U Magnetic Red Met Tint Coat $645.00
U1S 12 Disc CD Changer $516.00
C2L Dual Removable Package $1032.00
CC3 Transparent Roof Panel $645.00
F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control $1457.70
MN6 6 Speed Manual Transmission $786.90
MX0 Automatic OD Transmission $0.00
N73 Magnesium Wheels $1290.00
QF5 High Polished Wheels $1113.70

DEST Destination Charges $800.00

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and read this week’s news.

[Modified by Ken Fichtner, 4:02 PM 9/8/2003]


[Modified by Ken Fichtner, 7:49 PM 9/8/2003]