Most reliable C4?
Team Owner
Joined: May 2001
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From: ...tearing up the highways, one state at a time™®©
Originally Posted by grey 79
Which C4 , if purchased today, most reliable as daily driver?
Fewest issues such as Opti, electronics, etc.
Fewest issues such as Opti, electronics, etc.
It would be tough to honestly say
...too many variables, as they are all USED cars now at this point.
Some will say the L98's are more reliable - the tried & true small block Gen I V8 Chevrolet w/ distributor - others will say an opti LT1/LT4 is just fine. Some may even say an LT5 is darn near bulletproof
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 1999
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From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Many people have said here that you should buy the latest year for the money you have to spend. Improvements were made in each new model year and sometimes improvements were made in the middle of a production year.
The L98 motor is very strong, easily modded and is famous for it's low-end torque. The LT1 motor has more HP and a stock LT1 against a stock L98 is a close race with the LT1 being a bit faster on the top end. LT1's are capable of 30MPG on the freeway and even 15-17 in town is doable.
The OptiSpark in the LT1 can be a problem, but there are lots of LT1 motors running around that still have the original unit. My 92 that I just sold last summer is still running fine with the original Opti. They do not like being wet although the later (95-96) units had a vacuum line in them to keep moisture out.
Auto tranny cars use the GM 700R4 design are probably the best choice a they can handle lots of power and no worries with clutch wear or hydraulics. The ZF 6-speed (found in the 89 and later cars) is a strong tranny but can be very expensive to fix.
Coupes are good for the storage under the hatch but some exhibit lots of "cowl shake". Verts are fun but limited storage space behind the seats.
The L98 motor is very strong, easily modded and is famous for it's low-end torque. The LT1 motor has more HP and a stock LT1 against a stock L98 is a close race with the LT1 being a bit faster on the top end. LT1's are capable of 30MPG on the freeway and even 15-17 in town is doable.
The OptiSpark in the LT1 can be a problem, but there are lots of LT1 motors running around that still have the original unit. My 92 that I just sold last summer is still running fine with the original Opti. They do not like being wet although the later (95-96) units had a vacuum line in them to keep moisture out.
Auto tranny cars use the GM 700R4 design are probably the best choice a they can handle lots of power and no worries with clutch wear or hydraulics. The ZF 6-speed (found in the 89 and later cars) is a strong tranny but can be very expensive to fix.
Coupes are good for the storage under the hatch but some exhibit lots of "cowl shake". Verts are fun but limited storage space behind the seats.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2002
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From: San Diego , CA Double Yellow DirtBags 1985..Z51..6-speed
Originally Posted by wht_slvr_86
don't buy a neglected car
i did and i'm payin out the wazoo for it
i did and i'm payin out the wazoo for it
That's a way bigger factor than what year it is.
Instructor
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 198
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From: Elkton MD
I have a 90 coupe with 140k as my daily driver.I've owned it just over 3 years. In that time the trans went but I thouht it was time, I've had cars with less miles need a trans. I'm now fixing thing before they go, new alt.,water pump.Fule pump, ect. Just don't want to be guy on the side of the road waiting for the tow truck.
Race Director
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From: Kingman AZ
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St. Jude Donor '06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16
In one of Gordon Killebrew's classes he stated that the 95/96 models had all the latest upgrades. The weatherstripping was better along with the Opti and electronics. Good maintenance by previous owners is the key on any C4 though.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Woodstock Georgia
Originally Posted by corvetteronw
In one of Gordon Killebrew's classes he stated that the 95/96 models had all the latest upgrades. The weatherstripping was better along with the Opti and electronics. Good maintenance by previous owners is the key on any C4 though.
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From: ...tearing up the highways, one state at a time™®©
Originally Posted by aminnich
Better opti, better dash, better brakes, etc. Conisistent with about any kind of production car, get better every year (or so we hope).
better dash - that is an opinion
better brakes?? Than what? J55 was avail on most C4's
My point here - and from the begining, is that there is a lot of opinions about what is "better" however, where are the factual points in this thread?
...no disrespect meant - but without facts, the "newer has to be better" dosen't hold water...
After all, GM got cheap in 1990 when they discontnued the mass air sensor and went to speed density (at the expense of overall drivability).
Heel & Toe
Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Seattle WA.
Originally Posted by *89x2*
better dash - that is an opinion
better brakes?? Than what? J55 was avail on most C4's
My point here - and from the begining, is that there is a lot of opinions about what is "better" however, where are the factual points in this thread?
...no disrespect meant - but without facts, the "newer has to be better" dosen't hold water...
After all, GM got cheap in 1990 when they discontnued the mass air sensor and went to speed density (at the expense of overall drivability).
better brakes?? Than what? J55 was avail on most C4's
My point here - and from the begining, is that there is a lot of opinions about what is "better" however, where are the factual points in this thread?
...no disrespect meant - but without facts, the "newer has to be better" dosen't hold water...
After all, GM got cheap in 1990 when they discontnued the mass air sensor and went to speed density (at the expense of overall drivability).
Ive had both an '85 and now a '96. The overall condition of both was and are the same. The '96 is overall a better put together, better feeling and better equipped car,lmo. They are still alike in some ways, but in the overall drivability and quality, pluss durability (4+3 trans)? BTW the later models use both speed density and maf systems in conjuction, which is somewhat redundent but does not show GM's dropping the ball. (opti is ify though) Overall, 95,96 systems are still up to todays standards with 96's being obd 2 a little better. IMO.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Woodstock Georgia
Originally Posted by *89x2*
better dash - that is an opinion
better brakes?? Than what? J55 was avail on most C4's
My point here - and from the begining, is that there is a lot of opinions about what is "better" however, where are the factual points in this thread?
...no disrespect meant - but without facts, the "newer has to be better" dosen't hold water...
After all, GM got cheap in 1990 when they discontnued the mass air sensor and went to speed density (at the expense of overall drivability).
better brakes?? Than what? J55 was avail on most C4's
My point here - and from the begining, is that there is a lot of opinions about what is "better" however, where are the factual points in this thread?
...no disrespect meant - but without facts, the "newer has to be better" dosen't hold water...
After all, GM got cheap in 1990 when they discontnued the mass air sensor and went to speed density (at the expense of overall drivability).
So following is my opinion, which is not debatable, facts might be:
1. Better dash--I like the gauges and configuration, and don't see very many want to buys in the c4 parts sections for the newer dash clusters,
or tech help needed posts either. That is my opinion.
2. Starting in 95 the HD brakes, which were standard on the zr1 previously, were made standard. Even Gordon Kilebrew stated the earlier brakes left lot to be desired. That is my opinion.
3. With same model of vehicles continuous improvement processes are expected by the buying public. As problems in design, engineering, or production are rectified the product is expected to improve. That does not always happen, but is at least supposed to happen. That is my opinion.
All of the above is still secondary to buying the best for the least, and low mileage well maintained vehicles are much more desireable then newer hi mileage poorly maintained vehicles. That is my opinion.
If you really want low mileage and cheap look for a used Lincoln or Cadillac, not a Corvette. That is my opinion.
Take care and Enjoy the Ride
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 6,715
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From: Santa Teresa New Mexico
Originally Posted by aminnich
I just new someone would offer a difference in opinion. Doesn't mean he/she isn't right, and I am not about to debate what is better or best.
So following is my opinion, which is not debatable, facts might be:
1. Better dash--I like the gauges and configuration, and don't see very many want to buys in the c4 parts sections for the newer dash clusters,
or tech help needed posts either. That is my opinion.
2. Starting in 95 the HD brakes, which were standard on the zr1 previously, were made standard. Even Gordon Kilebrew stated the earlier brakes left lot to be desired. That is my opinion.
3. With same model of vehicles continuous improvement processes are expected by the buying public. As problems in design, engineering, or production are rectified the product is expected to improve. That does not always happen, but is at least supposed to happen. That is my opinion.
All of the above is still secondary to buying the best for the least, and low mileage well maintained vehicles are much more desireable then newer hi mileage poorly maintained vehicles. That is my opinion.
If you really want low mileage and cheap look for a used Lincoln or Cadillac, not a Corvette. That is my opinion.
Take care and Enjoy the Ride
So following is my opinion, which is not debatable, facts might be:
1. Better dash--I like the gauges and configuration, and don't see very many want to buys in the c4 parts sections for the newer dash clusters,
or tech help needed posts either. That is my opinion.
2. Starting in 95 the HD brakes, which were standard on the zr1 previously, were made standard. Even Gordon Kilebrew stated the earlier brakes left lot to be desired. That is my opinion.
3. With same model of vehicles continuous improvement processes are expected by the buying public. As problems in design, engineering, or production are rectified the product is expected to improve. That does not always happen, but is at least supposed to happen. That is my opinion.
All of the above is still secondary to buying the best for the least, and low mileage well maintained vehicles are much more desireable then newer hi mileage poorly maintained vehicles. That is my opinion.
If you really want low mileage and cheap look for a used Lincoln or Cadillac, not a Corvette. That is my opinion.
Take care and Enjoy the Ride
But otherwise I agree with ya.......
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Joined: Jul 2003
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From: Good health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die
St. Jude Donor '04-'05-'06-'07
Originally Posted by FNG
i think they changed the opti in 95 or 96. others will correct me if im wrong. mine has 54k. no probs. i keep a good eye on the water pump tho
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 46,295
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From: Northern, VA
St. Jude Donor '15
"In honor of jpee"
Originally Posted by aminnich
I just new someone would offer a difference in opinion. Doesn't mean he/she isn't right, and I am not about to debate what is better or best.
So following is my opinion, which is not debatable, facts might be:
1. Better dash--I like the gauges and configuration, and don't see very many want to buys in the c4 parts sections for the newer dash clusters,
or tech help needed posts either. That is my opinion.
2. Starting in 95 the HD brakes, which were standard on the zr1 previously, were made standard. Even Gordon Kilebrew stated the earlier brakes left lot to be desired. That is my opinion.
3. With same model of vehicles continuous improvement processes are expected by the buying public. As problems in design, engineering, or production are rectified the product is expected to improve. That does not always happen, but is at least supposed to happen. That is my opinion.
All of the above is still secondary to buying the best for the least, and low mileage well maintained vehicles are much more desireable then newer hi mileage poorly maintained vehicles. That is my opinion.
If you really want low mileage and cheap look for a used Lincoln or Cadillac, not a Corvette. That is my opinion.
Take care and Enjoy the Ride
So following is my opinion, which is not debatable, facts might be:
1. Better dash--I like the gauges and configuration, and don't see very many want to buys in the c4 parts sections for the newer dash clusters,
or tech help needed posts either. That is my opinion.
2. Starting in 95 the HD brakes, which were standard on the zr1 previously, were made standard. Even Gordon Kilebrew stated the earlier brakes left lot to be desired. That is my opinion.
3. With same model of vehicles continuous improvement processes are expected by the buying public. As problems in design, engineering, or production are rectified the product is expected to improve. That does not always happen, but is at least supposed to happen. That is my opinion.
All of the above is still secondary to buying the best for the least, and low mileage well maintained vehicles are much more desireable then newer hi mileage poorly maintained vehicles. That is my opinion.
If you really want low mileage and cheap look for a used Lincoln or Cadillac, not a Corvette. That is my opinion.
Take care and Enjoy the Ride
Having owned a '93 and now a '96 there IS a difference. One came to me with 0 miles and one with 7900. Close, and a cigar.
Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 24,460
Likes: 7
From: sw Ohio
The reliability of any used car is mainly contributed to how well it was taken care of by the previous owners. All year C4's are reliable as long as you continue to do the basic maintanence. The only downside would be the later years Optispark, but even thats not too bad.