Frustrating Search
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 45
Likes: 0
From: Pleasanton California
Frustrating Search
So I'm finally looking for my Vette after a long time of saving. When I didn't have any money, it seemed like every Vette I found was perfect (narrowed to C5, by the way). I found cars in great shape, with smooth acceleration, (reasonably) clean interiors; now, I'm finding cars that have either been messed with by amateurs or have been messed up and abused by poor drivers (cars that don't accelerate and make a lot of noise, hesitate when starting; interiors that look like somebody's lived in them, HUDs not working, seats not adjusting). It's making me nuts. Were the cars I saw in the past really good, or am I just seeing more problems now that I actually have money? Anybody else have this experience? --Brian
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 19,384
Likes: 87
From: Horncastle Lincolnshire, England
2023 C5 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
From what I read here there are no end of great C5s out there that people put a lot of TLC into
I'd say it's just a case of looking.
Hope you find that perfect Vette soon. It'll be worth the wait.
I'd say it's just a case of looking.
Hope you find that perfect Vette soon. It'll be worth the wait.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,232
Likes: 2
From: Palm Desert CA
there are a few out there but you just have to wait to find "the perfect one" for you. I bought an amazing 2004 CE Vert in March with only 13,000 miles and one VERY careful owner...it looked like it had never been driven.So they are out there and you will find the car of your dreams!
Good luck with your search
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,091
Likes: 0
From: Gary IN
Just be patient grasshopper. You're just going through what everybody does when you finally are in the position to buy what you want no matter what type of car it is. There are more than enough good vettes out there at real good prices. Just don't rush into getting something too quick...you'll definately regret it later. Good Luck and Good Hunting.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 19,605
Likes: 523
From: Ideals are peaceful...History is violent...St.Charles, MO.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C5 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'12 thru'22
You pretty much answered your own question.Now that
you are in the market for a C5 the conditioned response
would be for you to be far more cautious.
Your not alone in this feeling,and I believe most people
on this forum would agree to that.
Taking the extra time to research a potential C5
will pay for itself in the long run.It's just not
worth the risk of getting a lemon on a spontanious-purchase
especially the kind of jack your gonna lay-down for a C5.
When you find one,you could always take it to a shop
that is well-versed in C5's and have them look it over
and appraise it.I think I spent about $85.00 to have
mine done and it was well worth it.
Good luck to ya,keep us posted on your search
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 4,735
Likes: 14
From: Visalia CA
The above is all good advice. 
After you've decided what years and model you want, make a list of exactly what you want on your car. Then try and find one with the options you must have.
They are out there. Just be patient. You WILL find one sooner or later.
Tip: Don't be taken in by sellers that say "It's in excellent condition, except for the normal 'wear & tear' like a few dings & dents & paint chips, seat wear etc." There are cars out there that really ARE in perfect condition.
After you've decided what years and model you want, make a list of exactly what you want on your car. Then try and find one with the options you must have.
They are out there. Just be patient. You WILL find one sooner or later.
Tip: Don't be taken in by sellers that say "It's in excellent condition, except for the normal 'wear & tear' like a few dings & dents & paint chips, seat wear etc." There are cars out there that really ARE in perfect condition.
Last edited by WetteVette; Dec 4, 2007 at 02:10 PM.
C5 General
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 3,391
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From: Boosted in Manhattan & Round Rock TX. President of the Non Club Club of Kansas and Round Rock , Not the flat part.
I have only test drove 3 Vettes in my life. Out of the three I sold 2 and still have the third. Do your homework befor you go out and kick the tires.
Paul G.
Paul G.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,488
Likes: 1,743
From: Knoxville Tn
Remember also, every day the C-5s get one day older and will get a bit more long in the tooth. The hardly driven garage queens are still out there, but the fact is, one with a few more miles on it has probably had taken better care taken. Finding a 4 or 5 year old car with between 25,000 and 50,000 would be what I'd focus on. The daily drivers will be a bit beaten up just from normal wear and tear. The week end cruiser would be {and was) my choice.
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Just be patient - that nice car with your name on it is out there. May have to expand your search area.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,232
Likes: 2
From: Palm Desert CA
you might have to search out of state but could be worth it! If you do but one on the other side of the country...don't ship it, enjoy the drive of a lifetime!