Corvette Newb has questions!
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 296
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From: Landisville PA
Corvette Newb has questions!
Well, let me say that I think I've spent more time on CF reading posts that I have spent sleeping over the last few weeks! Way to go, guys!
My wife and I are in the market for our first 'vette. It'll be a pleasure vehicle, and not a daily driver.
I still haven't been out to drive any but I think my budget is going to put is in a 2001 coupe, or vert. I need to drive one of each to see which I prefer.
It needs to be a 6 speed, but beyond that I'm not sure.
I've done quite a bit of reading and don't think I want the added expense of the F45 selective ride. I think I'd prefer the Z51 option.
Without either the F45 or the Z51 package, what do you get? Softer ride? Help!
Also, I've read quite a few threads that seem to agree that 2001 had quite a few improvements over the 2000 model year. I've also read that the 2001 vettes had the potential for an oil consumption prombem. Any concern there? Hmmm.
I guess one of by biggest questions is whether or not the 2001 is worth the additional expense over a comparably equipped 2000? Not crazy about the wagon wheels, but that is easy enough to remedy.
Do I understand correctly that verts in 2001 got a new version top? Are they really superior to a 2000 version?
Sorry for all the questions, I'm sure there will be more!
Thanks in advance!
My wife and I are in the market for our first 'vette. It'll be a pleasure vehicle, and not a daily driver.
I still haven't been out to drive any but I think my budget is going to put is in a 2001 coupe, or vert. I need to drive one of each to see which I prefer.
It needs to be a 6 speed, but beyond that I'm not sure.
I've done quite a bit of reading and don't think I want the added expense of the F45 selective ride. I think I'd prefer the Z51 option.
Without either the F45 or the Z51 package, what do you get? Softer ride? Help!
Also, I've read quite a few threads that seem to agree that 2001 had quite a few improvements over the 2000 model year. I've also read that the 2001 vettes had the potential for an oil consumption prombem. Any concern there? Hmmm.
I guess one of by biggest questions is whether or not the 2001 is worth the additional expense over a comparably equipped 2000? Not crazy about the wagon wheels, but that is easy enough to remedy.
Do I understand correctly that verts in 2001 got a new version top? Are they really superior to a 2000 version?
Sorry for all the questions, I'm sure there will be more!
Thanks in advance!
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 14,358
Likes: 1
From: Medford NJ
Yeah I had heard that the 2001s had that oil issue so I'd probably steer clear.
I bought my 97' as a replacement to a totalled (flood) 99'. I originally bought it as a weekend vehicle but it has become my DD. I chose the coupe for a couple of reason over a vert. Bigger trunk space - not always need but sure nice to have, don't need roll bars to take it on most tracks (you do with verts), and living here in the NE (Philly area) I'm going to have more top on days than off, so I figured the targa top would suffice for the open air experience. If I was still lving in So Cal or Hawaii maybe I'd go vert.
I had the wagon wheels but bought a set of Y2K rims from a CF member for dirt cheap, as os many people upgarde there rims from stock. The only issue I have is that my tire pressure sensors don't work with the newer rims. Apparently they cahnged the system aournd 2000 and the old does not work with the new.
I have the slective ride control but its hard to really tell much difference in ride. I heard the Z51s can be a bit bumpy. Best thing to do is find some local Vette guys to take you for a ride. Most people here would be willing to help out.
Just some thoughts. Good luck on your search.
I bought my 97' as a replacement to a totalled (flood) 99'. I originally bought it as a weekend vehicle but it has become my DD. I chose the coupe for a couple of reason over a vert. Bigger trunk space - not always need but sure nice to have, don't need roll bars to take it on most tracks (you do with verts), and living here in the NE (Philly area) I'm going to have more top on days than off, so I figured the targa top would suffice for the open air experience. If I was still lving in So Cal or Hawaii maybe I'd go vert.
I had the wagon wheels but bought a set of Y2K rims from a CF member for dirt cheap, as os many people upgarde there rims from stock. The only issue I have is that my tire pressure sensors don't work with the newer rims. Apparently they cahnged the system aournd 2000 and the old does not work with the new.
I have the slective ride control but its hard to really tell much difference in ride. I heard the Z51s can be a bit bumpy. Best thing to do is find some local Vette guys to take you for a ride. Most people here would be willing to help out.
Just some thoughts. Good luck on your search.
Last edited by cjlaw73; Mar 26, 2007 at 06:03 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 10,295
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From: Downers Grove IL
St. Jude Donor '15
Don't let the 97-99's scare you away. I have a '98 with a whopping 27K miles on it and it's been trouble free. I had the wagon wheels, and switched to some polished 5 spokers from an '04 (my pressure sensors made the change with no problems whatsoever). Shop around and get the best car you can afford! There are PLENTY of garage queens out there. Buy it and you'll have a stupid grin on your face all summer long. 
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: I love you & miss you Linda
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2001 oil probelms were with the LS6 engines only.......
IF you do not get the F45 or Z51, you'll end up with the FE1 suspension. Pretty squeemish for my taste, BUT that can be changed without too much effort or expense after you own the car.
I would look for a Z51 car if I were you.
IF you do not get the F45 or Z51, you'll end up with the FE1 suspension. Pretty squeemish for my taste, BUT that can be changed without too much effort or expense after you own the car.
I would look for a Z51 car if I were you.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,049
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From: The second childhood is the best one of all.
I've got an 02 coupe w/ 6 speed and Z51. The ride is firmer, by design. It has stiffer torsion bars and larger diameter shocks. The Z51 was designed to for those who want to AutoX or track their cars.
Now I drove mine from Houston Texas, through New Orleans, to Bowling Green and up to Akron, Ohio. 1540 miles. I have a weak lower back. I'll tell you. It was one of the most comfortable long distance rides I've ever done. I was amazed how fresh I felt at each stop.
My wife has vertebrae problems in her upper back. We drove to Carlisle to the Vette show last September. We took a cooler and ice packs and mega quantities on Motrin. She never needed them. Five hours each way and she was fine.
So, yes it's stiffer, but it's still a fine ride.
Now I drove mine from Houston Texas, through New Orleans, to Bowling Green and up to Akron, Ohio. 1540 miles. I have a weak lower back. I'll tell you. It was one of the most comfortable long distance rides I've ever done. I was amazed how fresh I felt at each stop.
My wife has vertebrae problems in her upper back. We drove to Carlisle to the Vette show last September. We took a cooler and ice packs and mega quantities on Motrin. She never needed them. Five hours each way and she was fine.
So, yes it's stiffer, but it's still a fine ride.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,190
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From: Fayetteville AR
I have an 01 z51 with no oil issues. I only have 31K now (bought almost 3 years now) and I think the z51 rides great! Not harsh at all and will handle the curves a little better than the base not the mention the 3.15 rear end (z51 w/auto tranny) which really makes a difference!
I also bought the 01 mostly due to the improvements they have made to the c5 lineup. I test drove a 01 vert before I bought mine and i was impressed with how quite it was at 70 mph on the interstate. I chose the coupe for the room for weekend trips and I figure I would not put down the top as much as I would like and on any long trip it would be up for comfort (not to mention a trunk full of her luggage).
The coupe was 5k cheaper over the vert with more miles on her - so thats always a bonus
I also bought the 01 mostly due to the improvements they have made to the c5 lineup. I test drove a 01 vert before I bought mine and i was impressed with how quite it was at 70 mph on the interstate. I chose the coupe for the room for weekend trips and I figure I would not put down the top as much as I would like and on any long trip it would be up for comfort (not to mention a trunk full of her luggage).
The coupe was 5k cheaper over the vert with more miles on her - so thats always a bonus
Administrator
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The 2000 did not have wagon wheels - it had the thin 5-spoke wheels. With the 2001 you get a 5 hp bump and more torque than the 00, but you do run the risk of oil consumption as you mentioned.
Nothing wrong with going with a nice example of any '97-00 C5 either.
Nothing wrong with going with a nice example of any '97-00 C5 either.
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Drifting
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,496
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From: San Dimas Ca.
The 2001 oil burning issue is blown way out of proportion. It was mainly a problem to people who drove around town at high RPMs in the lower gears. I would buy an 01 in a second if I was looking. I have an 02 and haven't had a single problem. The improvements over the earlier C5s are well worth holding out for. I have a coupe because it is close to the best of both worlds plus the extra room. Drive as many as you can so you can get a feel for what appeals to your situation. Don't be in a hurry. Get the newest lowest miles one you can afford. 
Rick
Rick
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 2,787
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From: center of Kalifornia
The 2001 oil burning issue is blown way out of proportion. It was mainly a problem to people who drove around town at high RPMs in the lower gears. I would buy an 01 in a second if I was looking. I have an 02 and haven't had a single problem. The improvements over the earlier C5s are well worth holding out for. I have a coupe because it is close to the best of both worlds plus the extra room. Drive as many as you can so you can get a feel for what appeals to your situation. Don't be in a hurry. Get the newest lowest miles one you can afford.
Rick
Rick
My 2001 was born 8/00 and uses no oil between changes. You will find something with every year that is not what you want and go crazy looking. Find a nice low mile car priced right and go for it !!
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 30,897
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From: Picking on the weakest kid in the yard.
The only oil burning cars were Z06s!!!!! I though everybody on here knew that. Forget about that. The '01s got a better intake manifold and a vastly improved traction control and active handling system. Other than that, I don't know.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,791
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From: Loudon/Lake Mary Tennessee/Florida
I have an 01 z51 with no oil issues. I only have 31K now (bought almost 3 years now) and I think the z51 rides great! Not harsh at all and will handle the curves a little better than the base not the mention the 3.15 rear end (z51 w/auto tranny) which really makes a difference!
I also bought the 01 mostly due to the improvements they have made to the c5 lineup. I test drove a 01 vert before I bought mine and i was impressed with how quite it was at 70 mph on the interstate. I chose the coupe for the room for weekend trips and I figure I would not put down the top as much as I would like and on any long trip it would be up for comfort (not to mention a trunk full of her luggage).
The coupe was 5k cheaper over the vert with more miles on her - so thats always a bonus
I also bought the 01 mostly due to the improvements they have made to the c5 lineup. I test drove a 01 vert before I bought mine and i was impressed with how quite it was at 70 mph on the interstate. I chose the coupe for the room for weekend trips and I figure I would not put down the top as much as I would like and on any long trip it would be up for comfort (not to mention a trunk full of her luggage).
The coupe was 5k cheaper over the vert with more miles on her - so thats always a bonus
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 296
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From: Landisville PA
I appreciate all of the information. I look forward to hearing from more of the forum users.
I'm really thinking I'll be looking for an '01, but I'll leave all of my options open for earlier model years, if the price is right.
I'm really thinking I'll be looking for an '01, but I'll leave all of my options open for earlier model years, if the price is right.
Pro
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 553
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From: Cape Coral Florida
i have a 01 coupe 6spd f45, love it, like they said z06 burned alittle oil so what oil is cheap , i have 64k on mine its fine. the f45 rides geat mine works, definalty a differance in the setting ill bet the f55 in 02 is even better. we have bad roads here in new england but are hwys are ok. so i ajust the ride all the time to save my old broken back also. i had a audi tt 6spd with sport suspension it felt like there where bricks instead of springs it hit so hard i thought it was going to break the windshield, did blow two tires in 1.5 years. my vette compared to the audi rides like a cadi and would definalty out corner it
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Central Ma
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 296
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From: Landisville PA
I'm comfortable spending $25k, but could always go a few grand more for the right vehicle/options/color/location.
A $25k, 2001 vert, M6, w/Z51 would likely have a bunch more miles on it than a comparably equipped coupe for the same price.
Like I said in the first post, I need to get out and drive a few, but I was concerned about the pros and cons of the 2001 model year and earlier. Very few 2002 models fit my budget, especially lower mileage. I'd like to stay around 40k miles or less.
A $25k, 2001 vert, M6, w/Z51 would likely have a bunch more miles on it than a comparably equipped coupe for the same price.
Like I said in the first post, I need to get out and drive a few, but I was concerned about the pros and cons of the 2001 model year and earlier. Very few 2002 models fit my budget, especially lower mileage. I'd like to stay around 40k miles or less.
Last edited by sliebl; Mar 28, 2007 at 04:18 PM.