First Corvette
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
First Corvette
I am looking to purchase my first corvette and am thinking that the C4 is the way to go. What does everyone think about that series of cars to purchase? I am 70 years old and want a good daily driver perhaps to drive across county. Any other years that would be better? Money is a consideration.
Thanks,
Curly
Thanks,
Curly
Pro
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 677
Likes: 39
From: Southern Indiana
C4s are great (not perfect, but then what year Vette is? 
)... ESPECIALLY when $$$ is a factor.
That said, they are NOT the easiest Vette to get in and out of... at 70 (no age-related insult intended), they may not be the best choice. I have some lower back issues (I’m 53) and I have to be mindful of proper entering/exiting.
I suggest getting some in-person seat time (and practice getting in and out) to see if it’s a factor for you.
That said, in order to have a good daily driver C4 you will want to definitely buy the best cared for/lowest mileage one you can find... and in that case you may find that you are pretty close to a good C5 as well. Nothing beats first person experience when it comes to these cars.
)... ESPECIALLY when $$$ is a factor.That said, they are NOT the easiest Vette to get in and out of... at 70 (no age-related insult intended), they may not be the best choice. I have some lower back issues (I’m 53) and I have to be mindful of proper entering/exiting.
I suggest getting some in-person seat time (and practice getting in and out) to see if it’s a factor for you.That said, in order to have a good daily driver C4 you will want to definitely buy the best cared for/lowest mileage one you can find... and in that case you may find that you are pretty close to a good C5 as well. Nothing beats first person experience when it comes to these cars.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 17,279
Likes: 6,469
From: Melbourne, FL
It depends on what you're looking for from the car., and what your budget is. If you can spend 15 to 20k, a c5 is in striking range and will be a more comfortable cruiser, but not as good of a driver. The c4 is a very analog car, before a lot of electronics got involved with the driving experience. That's good for a drivers car, but in many cases makes the cars harsher and harder to deal with as a daily driver or road trip car. I love my c4 for a daily driver, makes commuting to work fun. But I think if I was going cross country I would take my c6, it's more comfortable and has a higher chance of being fixable quickly at a Chevy dealer in any town in the US if something happens. I'm also less than half your age, so the stiff ride of a C4 is sort of fun to me, whereas for someone even my dad's age it's painful.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 1,052
Likes: 290
From: Farmington MO
I strongly encourage you to drive a few early C5's and late C4's. I'm older than you (and perhaps, dirt). I set out to buy a C5. Bought a C4 and clearly prefer it. Didn't know to expect such differences. Must be experienced.
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 99
Likes: 21
From: Chelmsford, Mass
The "High Sill" is a big reason for many people with mobility limitations to sell their C4.
The Sill on a C5 is 4 inches shorter than a C4.
The guy I bought my C4 from, could not get in/out of the C4, which was one of the reasons he sold it.
I suggest you take both for a test drive.
I love my C4 and I recommend the years 1994 - 1996.
#1, Still plenty around for $7-15k
#2, Dual air bags [My wife insisted on dual airbags].
#3, The Air-conditioning came stock with R-134, so you won't have any issues with buying Freon R-134.
#4, Fun to drive.
#5, Limited Storage, Coup 12.6 cuft, Convertible top up 6.6 cuft, top down 3 cuft
#6, Reliable engine called the LT1.
The Sill on a C5 is 4 inches shorter than a C4.
The guy I bought my C4 from, could not get in/out of the C4, which was one of the reasons he sold it.
I suggest you take both for a test drive.
I love my C4 and I recommend the years 1994 - 1996.
#1, Still plenty around for $7-15k
#2, Dual air bags [My wife insisted on dual airbags].
#3, The Air-conditioning came stock with R-134, so you won't have any issues with buying Freon R-134.
#4, Fun to drive.
#5, Limited Storage, Coup 12.6 cuft, Convertible top up 6.6 cuft, top down 3 cuft
#6, Reliable engine called the LT1.
Pro
Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 596
Likes: 146
From: Minford, Ohio
I bought my 93 last year at the age of 73. I bought it because I like the looks of the C4 better than the newer Vetts. About 150 miles is the
most I want to spend in it. I love driving it but it is not the most comfortable the longer you sit in it. Like others have said try out a C4
and a C5, then make your decision. Good luck!
most I want to spend in it. I love driving it but it is not the most comfortable the longer you sit in it. Like others have said try out a C4
and a C5, then make your decision. Good luck!
Last edited by SloJo; Nov 2, 2020 at 03:22 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 891
Likes: 175
From: PA
Yes the C4 is harder to get in and out of. I got my first one back in 2001 at age 40. My wife had no trouble getting in and out. My best friend at work who was in good physical condition but about 6 years older had issues when I drove for lunch. I now have a physical handicap but still can get in and out of my C4. A C5 would be easier for sure. Whatever you do get go with a stock unmodified car for reliability. We have a ZR1 net registry member who drives his cars on long trips up through Canada to Alaska, and then back through the southwestern US back to Maryland . For the most part they are trouble free miles. We are talking trips of many thousands of miles. I have driven my cars from Maryland and Pennsylvania to Bowling Green , Kentucky and back with zero issues. They are comfortable on long trips. Good luck with your new Corvette whatever you decide on.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
8 Coolest Corvette Pace Cars (and Replicas) of All Time
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Corvette Engines RANKED by Peak Torque (70+ Years of Muscle!)
Joe Kucinski
Corvette ZR1X Will Be Pacing the Indy 500, And Could Probably Race, Too!
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Corvettes Coming to Mecum Indy 2026!
Brett Foote
Top 10 C9 Corvette MUST-HAVES to Fix These C8 Generation Flaws!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Revolutionary 'Corvette Firsts' Most People Don't Know
Joe Kucinski
5 Reasons to Upgrade to an LS6-Powered Corvette; 5 Reasons to Stay LT2
Michael S. Palmer
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every C8 vs Its Closest Competitor
Joe Kucinski
10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!
Joe Kucinski
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,042
Likes: 2,144
From: Schaller Iowa
A few years ago I drove my '94 base from Abilene Texas to home in NW Iowa in one day. Never again. Just under 1000 miles straight in a C4 is an.... adventure I have no desire to repeat.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,295
Likes: 326
From: Central Pennsylvannia
2021 C4 of the Year - Modified Finalist
Hi Curly,
I can say from my experience, the C4 is definitely a drivers car. ive driven all but the 8th gen car, and ive always enjoyed the C4 experience the most. both for function and value.
im 58 yrs old, and i can get in and out of the car just fine, it takes some getting use to but once you figure it out, its not that hard. i would say long trips are not as comfortable as the newer cars, i use mine for cruising and just going for a ride for a few hours. Ive owned two, both convertibles, both 6 spd manuals. i just love these cars.
Chris
I can say from my experience, the C4 is definitely a drivers car. ive driven all but the 8th gen car, and ive always enjoyed the C4 experience the most. both for function and value.
im 58 yrs old, and i can get in and out of the car just fine, it takes some getting use to but once you figure it out, its not that hard. i would say long trips are not as comfortable as the newer cars, i use mine for cruising and just going for a ride for a few hours. Ive owned two, both convertibles, both 6 spd manuals. i just love these cars.
Chris
Racer
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 455
Likes: 111
From: Hill Country TX
C4s are great (not perfect, but then what year Vette is? )... ESPECIALLY when $$$ is a factor.
That said, they are NOT the easiest Vette to get in and out of... at 70 (no age-related insult intended), they may not be the best choice. I have some lower back issues (I’m 53) and I have to be mindful of proper entering/exiting. I suggest getting some in-person seat time (and practice getting in and out) to see if it’s a factor for you.
That said, in order to have a good daily driver C4 you will want to definitely buy the best cared for/lowest mileage one you can find... and in that case you may find that you are pretty close to a good C5 as well. Nothing beats first person experience when it comes to these cars.
)... ESPECIALLY when $$$ is a factor.That said, they are NOT the easiest Vette to get in and out of... at 70 (no age-related insult intended), they may not be the best choice. I have some lower back issues (I’m 53) and I have to be mindful of proper entering/exiting.
I suggest getting some in-person seat time (and practice getting in and out) to see if it’s a factor for you.That said, in order to have a good daily driver C4 you will want to definitely buy the best cared for/lowest mileage one you can find... and in that case you may find that you are pretty close to a good C5 as well. Nothing beats first person experience when it comes to these cars.
There are YouTube videos of various methods folks use to enter/exit the car. It really isn't that difficult and becomes second nature, so don't be overly concerned, just aware as you look for your Corvette. PS, I'm in the same age range as you (the op) have back issues but love my 86 Vert and get in and out with little issue.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 750
Likes: 86
From: St Petersburg
I'm 71 bought my first vette 2 years ago C4 1989 convertible 117,000 all stock OEM
getting in and out is a bit rough but every time I take that car out I smile just about any older vette you buy will have issues
getting in and out is a bit rough but every time I take that car out I smile just about any older vette you buy will have issues
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2020
Posts: 61
Likes: 7
From: Spotsylvania Va.
I'm 70. No Problem getting in and out. I work on it as needed.I like the way the "Hood" flips forward. Plenty of room ! The only other vette i Owned was a 77.and it had a lot stiffer ride. that's the reason of this one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,528
Likes: 752
From: South Dakota
I like the C4's.
I am probably the only one, but for me it is easier to get in and out of compared to a C5 and later. I have some leg problems and I can sit on the sill while getting in and out, but without the high sill it is more difficult for me. I have also had some back issues, and when it was acting up, I could still get in and out fine, I just had to be careful.
I have daily driven C4's and taken long trips in them too. I look forward to driving them. My first 1000 mile day in a C4 ('87 4+3) was about 30 years ago when I bought it on vacation. After the drive I was "fresher" and in better shape than I ever was in another car. Last year I had two 1000 mile days in C4's. They are great road trip cars. I enjoyed the drives.
The real issues are the C4 vs later have a lot of differences both in feel and in features. You need to see which you like better. Try test driving a few so you can see what they are like, and note the differences between good condition cars vs poor conditions.
I have and like both C4's and C5's.
Good luck with your choice.
I am probably the only one, but for me it is easier to get in and out of compared to a C5 and later. I have some leg problems and I can sit on the sill while getting in and out, but without the high sill it is more difficult for me. I have also had some back issues, and when it was acting up, I could still get in and out fine, I just had to be careful.
I have daily driven C4's and taken long trips in them too. I look forward to driving them. My first 1000 mile day in a C4 ('87 4+3) was about 30 years ago when I bought it on vacation. After the drive I was "fresher" and in better shape than I ever was in another car. Last year I had two 1000 mile days in C4's. They are great road trip cars. I enjoyed the drives.
The real issues are the C4 vs later have a lot of differences both in feel and in features. You need to see which you like better. Try test driving a few so you can see what they are like, and note the differences between good condition cars vs poor conditions.
I have and like both C4's and C5's.
Good luck with your choice.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
I am looking for a couple of cars to compare. I do have R/A but it is under control right now so I am still pretty flexible. I really like the looks of the C4 but will find a newer one to sit in and see how they compare. After I try them I may change my mind but the key issue is to find a low mileage car in good shape. Also I am a little concerned about the opti-spark being a concern. We have a pretty dry climate here so moisture may be less of an issue that elsewhere but it is still a concern.
Thanks again everyone!
Curly
Thanks again everyone!
Curly
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 17,279
Likes: 6,469
From: Melbourne, FL
Optispark issues are way overblown, and mostly a result of lack of maintenance. Usually people let their water pump blow out all over them and then get mad. My stocker lasted 130k miles before I pulled it out for no good reason, but everyone said it had to be the opti... It was not.
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 90,675
Likes: 304
From: SE NY
Cruise-In II Veteran
Indeed it's a good idea to sit in and drive a few C4 as well as other years.
I recently picked up a sweet '89 vert with 6-speed and 54k miles for $9k.
At 82 yrs of age it took a few drives to strengthen my left quads to deal with the clutch, otherwise it is a sweet ride.
I recently picked up a sweet '89 vert with 6-speed and 54k miles for $9k.
At 82 yrs of age it took a few drives to strengthen my left quads to deal with the clutch, otherwise it is a sweet ride.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 1,782
Likes: 578
From: Mays Landing, NJ
I tell people getting in is very easy, gravity is your friend. At 63 i have no issues getting out and use my right hand up against center console as a support as i move my legs over the sill. For me the driving position is comfortable and seat supportive. I'm 6'3" and 220ibs.
Pro
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 677
Likes: 39
From: Southern Indiana
Live in AZ now, but planning a big road trip back home (& back to AZ) in my 94 in 2022! We’ll see if I’m miserable after that!!!
Racer
Joined: Nov 2020
Posts: 289
Likes: 48
From: Dover N.H.
Hey everyone. Also first timer here. I read all the comments and if getting in and out is the only major impression concern I will worry less! HA. I have been reading a ton on here and very valuable indeed. I have a new to me stock 51K blue 93 base AT trying to hitch a ride from FLA to NH. Yes reading the possible issues is concerning but I am pretty savy under the hood. Hopefully I wont have to test those skills for a while! I appreciate the time and detail of the veteran owners, Glad there is a solid community to reach out to, and to Contribute to in the future!
I am a bit of a tuner head so I am wading through the morass of chips and adapters, up links, ribbon cables and emulators oh my. Would like to get head porting and maybe shorty headers to start.
I am wondering what would be a starting place to look at for preventive maintenance if you had to do it over again at 50K. From all records it was treated very well and consistent miles over its 27 years. paid 13K judging by Haggerty's estimator is good to excellent condition. Seats aren't even wrinkled.
I am a bit of a tuner head so I am wading through the morass of chips and adapters, up links, ribbon cables and emulators oh my. Would like to get head porting and maybe shorty headers to start.
I am wondering what would be a starting place to look at for preventive maintenance if you had to do it over again at 50K. From all records it was treated very well and consistent miles over its 27 years. paid 13K judging by Haggerty's estimator is good to excellent condition. Seats aren't even wrinkled.