C5 vs. C6 question.
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 16,825
Likes: 0
From: One Particular Harbour
Cruise-In 9-10-11 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10,-'13
I believe in the Beer Fairy
Between the C5 and the C6, I choose the 6. The interior feels more 'open' (unless you prefer the cockpit feeling) and it's a much smoother ride, more modern conveniences, more attractive exterior body, etc.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 798
Likes: 2
From: Notorious Miami sunny south florida
Alot more time was taken to design the C5 its a much better looking car. The C6 still looks like its missing something .more power under the hood is its only advantage if it wasn't for that I think most would still be in there C5
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 41,058
Likes: 9,817
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
Actually, there are at least 3 threads right now where people are making that claim. That is what prompted this thread.
2 of them are in the C5 for sale forum. One guy owns a C6 and wants to go back to a C5 because he says it's a better car, but doesn't elaborate. I suppose I could have sent him a PM or something, but I didn't think about this until later and I don't want to go try to find the threads. If I run across them again, I'll post links here.
2 of them are in the C5 for sale forum. One guy owns a C6 and wants to go back to a C5 because he says it's a better car, but doesn't elaborate. I suppose I could have sent him a PM or something, but I didn't think about this until later and I don't want to go try to find the threads. If I run across them again, I'll post links here.Bill
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 3,194
Likes: 10
From: New Smyrna Beach Florida
Personally I'd go for an LS3 powered C6 if I wasn't such a tightwad. C6 is basically a refinement of the C5. If it feels too refined, you can always add headers cam and such to make it a little more rowdy and it will likely be fairly quick.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,549
Likes: 2
From: Cambridge Illinois
The C6 is 3 inches shorter in the front overhang and 2 inches in the rear. It is 1 inch narrower and the wheel base is 1 inch longer. This was done to help aerodynamics. The C6 is a little quieter because of the less wind drag and a little better ride by virtue of the wheelbase.
The principal factor between the two is style. The more rounded style of the C5 is liked by many.
The bigger motor is the main draw of the C6. I have both because I like the C5 best for looks and the C6 for power. I collect the motors as much as the car. I have the LS1, LS2 and LS3. Now, I need to convince the wife that we must have a LS8.
The principal factor between the two is style. The more rounded style of the C5 is liked by many.
The bigger motor is the main draw of the C6. I have both because I like the C5 best for looks and the C6 for power. I collect the motors as much as the car. I have the LS1, LS2 and LS3. Now, I need to convince the wife that we must have a LS8.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,975
Likes: 9
From: "Philly" Pennsylvania
As a current owner of an 09 Cyber Gray Coupe just over 4k on the Daily Driven clock and my boosted C5 (it was dd for 3 years got bored with Stock HP), I will give you what I think of the two. The C5 was such a leap forward in Techo that the C6 is an improved version of the C5 except for the Z06 and ZR1 models. What I like better about my C5 is the body style is timeless. The LS platform got it start here and has proved to be a very good motor in stock trim or easy to gain a few more HP like I have done. I also like that the C5 has a little more interior space than the C6. Now that I have driven the C6 for 3 months it seems that there is less of a blind spot off to the sides on the C5, could just be me. I also like that the hatch on the C5 is lower easy to put stuff in and I do DD the C6 so I do notice this. What I like about the C6 over my C5. Better headlights (I do like pop-up better) from the factory, the 09 has variable steering and the turning is faster (I put C5Z sways on my C6), the ride on the C6 is smoother and with the new variable steering you also can feel the road better. Stock motors the LS3 has much more low end grunt over my LS1 and this is nice even behind the A6 (GM did do continous improvement on engines) and the LS3 pulls strong all the way to redline. I can not compare trannys as I have an MN6 in my 99 and the A6 is great for DD and the MN6 is awesome for spirited and boosted fun. The interior is updated and I like the seats better, but they still could be better after all these years, I like the C5 and C6 interiors about the same, more space in the C5 and I got two tone in the C6 a cool option. Both are great platforms and you can not go wrong with either generation, get the one you like best as you can see I love both of mine, now for different reasons
Racer
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 438
Likes: 0
I don't know why so many people in the C5 section complain that the C6 is too refined, especially when it comes to ride quality. If you want a stiffer ride, then some basic suspension mods will take care of that. Someone must make some aftermarket poly bushings for example.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
Top 10 Most Expensive Corvettes Ever Sold on Bring A Trailer
Brett Foote
10 Things Every Corvette Owner Needs (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
8 Most "Only Corvette Owners Understand" Quirks and Problems
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Reasons the C6 Z06 is Still A Performance Benchmark After 20 Years
Joe Kucinski
How Much Horsepower Every Corvette Engine "LOST" in 1972
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts for Protecting Your Convertible Top!
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Most Explosive Corvettes Ever Made: Power-to-Weight Ratio Ranked!
Joe Kucinski
150 hp to 1,250 hp: Every Corvette Generation Compared by the Specs That Matter
Joe Kucinski
8 Coolest Corvette Pace Cars (and Replicas) of All Time
Verdad Gallardo
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 180
Likes: 0
I've owned two c5s (a 2002 Z06, and currently a 2000 FRC) and my buddy just bought an 05 c6 Z51. It was my first time actually sitting in one and driving it. The c6 is so much more refined but that is a good thing. I love my c5s but I would take a c6 over my current frc, although it would be a much tougher call if I were debating between my c5 z06 and a non z06/zr1 c6. In the end I would probably pick the c6. It's always nice to have the current generation car and the interior looks so much better to me. I HATE the gap in my radio bezel on my c5. But you can't go wrong with either. try both out and decide. I would go c6 
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 790
Likes: 0
From: Sebastian Sunshine
also if u like electron blue then its a c5
Personally - I've driven several C6's coupes as well as convertibles. I have not had the opportunity to drive a Z06 or a ZR1, so I cannot comment on either of those.
The C6 is a more refined car - things like steering and shifting seem to be less effort. The headlights on a C6 are awesome and the C5 headlights are not even in the same league - kinda like a candle next to a Halogen beam. The C6 rides softer (note I said not better, but that's personal taste). There are far more electronic aids on the C6 - navigation, XM radio, Blue Tooth (on the newest models), keyless operation, etc. Convertibles were available with an optional power top.
The '06 and newer cars were available with the 6L80E trans which differs is the 6 speed auto with paddle shifters. The engine choices were the LS2 in the early models (more displacement, HP and torque - 6 liter) and gave way to the LS3 (6.2 liter and more HP still). So the stock C6 is faster than a stock LS1 C5.
But - the C6 was not the landmark car the C5 was....it was a refinement and enhancement of the existing platform with the rear transaxle. When the C5 was introduced in 1997, it was a totally new car that employed things like hydro-formed frame rails, the rear transaxle, an all new series of engines (LSx - all aluminum), and many other innovations. The C6 is slightly smaller (seems like mostly in the trunk cargo area).
Personally - I found the C6 to be little less "raw" and I thought "too soft" for my taste.
Many C5 owners complain about the missing flip-up headlights. Personally I never liked the front fascia of the car - I know this sounds stupid, but I always thought cars had faces. The face of the C6 looks like a smiling fish - the C5 looks more angry "predator" to me.
But which one is better? The better one is the one you like and makes you happy when you walk away and look back at it. I could have bought a C6 last year, and chose not to - because I love my C5. It's not jealousy, I just happen to like what I have.
The above is my opinion - not to be taken as an arguement of one over the the other - as the OP posted, they are all Corvettes, which makes it good in my book.
The C6 is a more refined car - things like steering and shifting seem to be less effort. The headlights on a C6 are awesome and the C5 headlights are not even in the same league - kinda like a candle next to a Halogen beam. The C6 rides softer (note I said not better, but that's personal taste). There are far more electronic aids on the C6 - navigation, XM radio, Blue Tooth (on the newest models), keyless operation, etc. Convertibles were available with an optional power top.
The '06 and newer cars were available with the 6L80E trans which differs is the 6 speed auto with paddle shifters. The engine choices were the LS2 in the early models (more displacement, HP and torque - 6 liter) and gave way to the LS3 (6.2 liter and more HP still). So the stock C6 is faster than a stock LS1 C5.
But - the C6 was not the landmark car the C5 was....it was a refinement and enhancement of the existing platform with the rear transaxle. When the C5 was introduced in 1997, it was a totally new car that employed things like hydro-formed frame rails, the rear transaxle, an all new series of engines (LSx - all aluminum), and many other innovations. The C6 is slightly smaller (seems like mostly in the trunk cargo area).
Personally - I found the C6 to be little less "raw" and I thought "too soft" for my taste.
Many C5 owners complain about the missing flip-up headlights. Personally I never liked the front fascia of the car - I know this sounds stupid, but I always thought cars had faces. The face of the C6 looks like a smiling fish - the C5 looks more angry "predator" to me.
But which one is better? The better one is the one you like and makes you happy when you walk away and look back at it. I could have bought a C6 last year, and chose not to - because I love my C5. It's not jealousy, I just happen to like what I have.
The above is my opinion - not to be taken as an arguement of one over the the other - as the OP posted, they are all Corvettes, which makes it good in my book.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 607
Likes: 29
From: Tulsa Oklahoma
I could afford either. (Not the C6 ZO6). I found the C5 ZO6 to feel much more like a sports car. It gave me that brute "hold on" feeling. I felt more connected to the road. With that being said, if it was my daily driver, I would have selected the C6 for the reasons that have already been stated above. Fortunately, I drive a nice comfortable Honda Accord to work...but on the weekends...
Lepus-temperamentalus
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 5,827
Likes: 5
From: Roswell Ga
While I'll be the first one to say that the looks of a car are subjective, I can also speak from my time here.
I've been around quite awhile and participated on both the C5 and the C6 forums and I've heard for a number of people that they think the C5 looks better.
I've never heard anyone say they think the C6 looks better.
I also have a real problem with the electric feldergarb on the doors of a C6. But I have to say that it offers the things I think the C5 lacks; the quietness, the more solid construction, the better ride.
I've been around quite awhile and participated on both the C5 and the C6 forums and I've heard for a number of people that they think the C5 looks better.
I've never heard anyone say they think the C6 looks better.
I also have a real problem with the electric feldergarb on the doors of a C6. But I have to say that it offers the things I think the C5 lacks; the quietness, the more solid construction, the better ride.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 183
Likes: 0
From: Shawnee Kansas
Almost bought a C6...but on my (wife's) budget, it just didn't offer enough. HP is not significantly greater, I have a HUD, power seats et.al. currently, to get what I have in my C5 would require a 3LT trim level, and the corresponding higher cost, differences weren't worth it. I like the body better on the C5 but the interior, and quietness of the C6was impressive. After sound dampening on my C5, however, I can't tell too much of a difference there anymore. As everyone else says, these are just our opinions...you have to drive them both...couple of drives should do it for you...
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2,167
Likes: 55
From: Kempner TX
St. Jude Donor '08-'09
I have driven both and currently own a C5 FRC. I was not impressed at all with the C6 and it made me want to go drive my car even worse to tell the truth. I also dont like how Chevy decided to cater to the European style and forget about what the good ol' American people want. When I want a Ferrari... I will go buy a Ferrari. LOL
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 18,048
Likes: 53
From: long Island NY
I could buy a C6 tomorrow if I wanted but I just love my C5Z I still think it very well be the best looking car on the road.I love the raw race car feel and sound.Keep it forever.
Administrator
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 66,409
Likes: 2,061
From: Bel Air (by way of Fort Worth, TX) Maryland
St. Jude Donor '12 thru '21
Great thread! Suprisingly civil (hope it stays that way)
Both cars are great (and American-made
)
There is a lot to like about either of them.
I love the lines of the C5 better, but refinements of the C6 are very appealing.
My C5 was meant to be a "retirement gift" to myself, but thanks to a promotion, I owe the Army a couple of more years.
Most likely I'll trade up to a C6 before I retire. Personally, I like the bells and whistles of the C6. However, the C5 is a modern classic
)Both cars are great (and American-made
) There is a lot to like about either of them.
I love the lines of the C5 better, but refinements of the C6 are very appealing.
My C5 was meant to be a "retirement gift" to myself, but thanks to a promotion, I owe the Army a couple of more years.
Most likely I'll trade up to a C6 before I retire. Personally, I like the bells and whistles of the C6. However, the C5 is a modern classic
Administrator
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 368,319
Likes: 24,777
From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
C7 of the Year - Modified Finalist 2021
MO Events Coordinator
St. Jude Co-Organizer
St. Jude Donor '03 thru '25
NCM Sinkhole Donor
CI 5, 8 & 11 Veteran
I think it comes down to more of a like or dislike of the body style rather than one being better than the other. The C6 offers a lot of updates over the C5, especially in the power department. But the C5 styling is, IMO, a classic. Heck, I'd like to have either a C5 or a C6 - they are both fine cars.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 13,007
Likes: 0
From: Happiness is Busch in Victory Lane!
St. Jude Donor '09 & '12, '14
I've owned a C5 Vert and C6 Vert
Both are extremely nice.
My Favorite C5 Features
Big Booty
Price
LS1 + lack of insulation = Raw power feeling
My Favorite C6 Features
Power Top
Keyless Entry (just keep it in your pocket all day)
Updated Interior / Factory Nav
Z51 makes it feel like a train on rails
Both are extremely nice.
My Favorite C5 Features
Big Booty
Price
LS1 + lack of insulation = Raw power feeling
My Favorite C6 Features
Power Top
Keyless Entry (just keep it in your pocket all day)
Updated Interior / Factory Nav
Z51 makes it feel like a train on rails
Race Director
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 11,334
Likes: 136
From: Out of Site...Out of Mind. Corvette: anything else is just transportation.
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '20
When I bought my C5, almost 2 years ago, there was a C6, used, sitting next to it. Same color, options, that I wanted. If the salesman had his heart right with Jesus, I'd be driving a C6.
Not that there's anything wrong with my C5. It was just a matter of what I could afford.
Personally......... 6 generations........... 6 reasons to have a bigger garage.
Not that there's anything wrong with my C5. It was just a matter of what I could afford.
Personally......... 6 generations........... 6 reasons to have a bigger garage.