I am new to this site and looking for some general help. I have always dreamed of owning a corvette and may now be able to make that dream come true. Now starts the searching process and this is where I need the help. In all likelihood, I will be buying in this category, but need some advise on what to look for. Specifically, are there certain years to avoid, certain models to avoid etc... etc. does anybody now of any books/magazines that I should consider buying to help me with this? Thanks to anybody for their help.

 

a lot depends on your budget, :yesnod:

 

:iagree: All C4's are really good. If you can afford it, get one that is a 92 or newer. 1992 started the LT1 300hp motors. Best is going with the newest model you can afford. Good luck with your search!

:seeya

 

I've owned an 84 coupe, an 02 coupe, and now an 89 vert. Each has their own personalities. For me, the C4 is sexier looking then the C5. I like the C3 but the mechanics are a little scary for my abilities. I find the C4 gives you more conection with the world around you. The C5 is an awesome car but with all improved things the feel of the road has been dampened by all the new suspension and sound deading. This is great but not for me. If you like tinkering on autos the C4 is for you. If you're more into paying someone to get their hands dirty then the C5 would be better. Whatever you decide it will be a plunge in the dark. I knew nothing about Vettes until I purchased my 84. I used this forum and magizines to learn a great deal. Don't get the first thing you see. If it is rough on the body and interior chances are that the engine and drive train have too been neglected. Don't get ripped off. Take your time, ask lots of questions and shop around. One will show up that you know is right for you. Best of luck! :seeya

 

Welcome! My advice would be to buy the best Vette you can afford. Don't look to buy a fixer up because in the long run it'll end up costing more than it's worth. Also, gather all the information you can on the various years and what changes each year entailed. There are several good magazines out there on Corvettes, including Vette magazine which once a year prints all the values on each year's Corvette. Be patient and don't buy the first one you see. Also, check out the forum's for sale section. There are some really good Vettes for sale and usually the prices are pretty darn good. Good luck.

 

First and foremost, I highly recommend you continue to browse http://www.Corvetteforum.com the internet's largest online Corvette community. I joined in 2000 and although I considered myself an informed enthusiast, I was amazed by the wealth of information and knowledge about Corvettes that resides there 24-7.

The members of the Forum are truly salt-of-the-earth folks. The site offers free tech support, purchasing advise, regional activities and even pristine cars for sale.

Before you commit to any Corvette purchase, you should also test drive at least 15 or more examples. Don't impulse buy or be a sucker for a pretty face.

There are lots of things you should be on the lookout for such as leaking intake gaskets, bad Opti-spark distributors, leaking water pumps, bad weather-stripping, paint, the condition of the interior, transmission issues, SES codes on the DIC and much, much more.

I would also purchase Corvette books, must-reads include The Corvette Owner's Little Black Book and Corvette Specs C4: 1984-1996 Models by Mike Antonick.

Please note that C4 Corvette prices are in the tank right now. For sellers this is bad news, but for perspective buyers like you, it's good.

Bluebook, NADA, et.al., are relatively useless now. They're simply a gauge. The market sets the price. And the prices vary way too much for their own good!

Region, seasons... all effect prices of Corvettes. Sometimes, more so than condition. What is cheap in Louisville could be expensive in FL or right in PA... who knows?

Dealerships are notorious for overpriced Vette's. And some private owners can be equally guilty. Take your time and shop around. There are many excellent buys out there still!

Obviously there's much more to know than I can write here.

I hope you'll become a member of the Corvette family soon! We're a unique community of "wavers." It will be our pleasure to mentor you along the way.
:seeya

 

thanks to all for your quick responses. It seems the first and most important thing to remember is to take my time when buying. When you want it so bad, you tend to forget this important perspective, but I will definitely keep it in mind at all times.
I also look forward to reading some of the books/magazines suggest.
Again thanks to every one who responded.