I would really like to stay with the vette and not the kit car. Some of you say c4 and some say c3. For just long range highway driving just to narrow it down what can be done to the c3 suspension? I definetly do not want a harsh ride. Maybe it would be better to start off with a c3 since the ride is softer. Does the ride improve on latter models of the c4's?

 

Yes. Later model C4 base suspension packages are pretty "soft" from a performance stand point. I have ridden in later C4s and I think they are smoother and more comfortable, but do not handle like my stiff Z51 '90. However my definition of soft could still be stiff to someone else.

 

I own both. My C3 has the complete VBP ultimate suspension package and the spredder bar in front and off set rear trailing arms. Oversized new brakes, 17" wheels.
New interior, Hooker Side exhaust. 355 Small block Roller Cam kit, Brodex Alloy heads oversize valves 425hp at the wheels.
Remote oil cooler new rad., remote trans cooler.
Engine never runs hot. I have new carpet with insulated tunnels. After driving the car for more than an hour the interior is too hot!! The frame acts like a heat sink and the interior gets so hot it is very unconfortable.
I run this car in many auto cross events and it stomps most C4 including mine.
I can take a long trip in the 79 if an OPEC tanker truck will follow me for gas stops.
My C4 is an 87 Roadster with long tube hedders cat back Magnaflow, lowered, 18" wheels New Street Rod leather interior. Can not touch the times my C3 runs.
However, it never ever is too hot. I get 28 MPG on the highway. And will stomp the C3 on the top end.
In the past 1 1/2 years I have put more miles on my 87 thab I put on my 79 in the past 10 years.
And do not say the driver. I was the regional midwest class champion n 3 times and I use to instruct at autocross drivers schools.
I won many Concourse and Peoples Choice with the C3.
My C4 is in excellant shape, never placed in a car show. Oh well.
I just sold my C3, I miss it but I enjoy driver the C4 more.

 

After reading above mods on my C4 is installing an Elderbrock Manifold with the Ram Tubes worth the money??? I do not want to make any internal changes to the engine. Just swap manifold and runners.