Notices
C5 General General C5 Corvette and C5 Z06 Discussion not covered in Tech

Why should I buy a C5

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:29 PM
  #1  
ernie22golf's Avatar
ernie22golf
Thread Starter
Instructor
 
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 236
Likes: 0
From: Mobile Alabama
Default Why should I buy a C5

Now don't shoot me - I want to buy a C5 but I also ain't rich or even close - I seems to me that I can buy a really nice C4 for a lot less than the C5. I know I'm giving up some performance but I don't street race anymore - I'm still somewhat limber enough to get in and out. Now the storage I agree is nice but I'm looking for the crowd that knows to tell me all the other many reasons to buy - I also would like your ideas on the model to get - it seems 97 through 00 will likely fit my price range so just any imput is appreciated. I like the six speed but am actually chicken to speed shift anymore (transmissions cost to much) so a automatic is likely my best route. So are there any models with transmission problems or such.
Thanks
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:34 PM
  #2  
TopFuelTim's Avatar
TopFuelTim
Burning Brakes
10 Year Member
 
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 985
Likes: 0
From: Cumming Georgia
Default

Ride quality way better in a C5. Got tired myself of shifting gears (been doing it for 25 years), so I got automatic.

C5 much easier to get in and out of that C4.

Doesn't squeak as much.

Substantially more power.

After sitting in a C4 one time, my wife said if I got a C4, she would never ride in or drive it. She absolutely loves the C5, and when mama's happy, so am I.

Last reason was main one : ) .


Tim Glover
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:37 PM
  #3  
Wicked C5's Avatar
Wicked C5
Race Director
20 Year Member
Conversation Starter
All Eyes On Me
 
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 10,030
Likes: 10
From: Prescott AZ
St. Jude Donor '04
Default

Originally Posted by TopFuelTim
Ride quality way better in a C5. Got tired myself of shifting gears (been doing it for 25 years), so I got automatic.

C5 much easier to get in and out of that C4.

Doesn't squeak as much.

Substantially more power.

After sitting in a C4 one time, my wife said if I got a C4, she would never ride in or drive it. She absolutely loves the C5, and when mama's happy, so am I.

Last reason was main one : ) .


Tim Glover
Plus add

easier to work on and do a tune
More parts that are available since many of the Ls2 items fit a Ls1
Cheaper Insurance then a C4
Better looking
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:43 PM
  #4  
jrose7004's Avatar
jrose7004
Team Owner
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 58,508
Likes: 1,841
From: Oklahoma City OK
C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Default

Buy because that's what you want, not because I tell you that you should!
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:46 PM
  #5  
J S Machine's Avatar
J S Machine
Race Director
15 Year Member
Conversation Starter
All Eyes On Me
 
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 17,336
Likes: 8
From: Maker of Sharp Objects, AL - Roll Tide
St. Jude Donor '10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17
St. Jude Knife Maker
Default

Well, I would hope your street racing days are over.

C5 is a more advanced car. You can get them at really good prices right now too.
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 05:55 PM
  #6  
DEATHPROOF's Avatar
DEATHPROOF
Melting Slicks
 
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,266
Likes: 1
From: Knoxville Tennessee
Default

Launch both cars then decide...you dont want to ride in a buddies C5 and get dissatisfied.Not that C4's dont rock...I love all Corvettes!
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 06:58 PM
  #7  
aleadfoot's Avatar
aleadfoot
Pro
 
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 504
Likes: 0
Default

I bought my C4 new it was and is a great machine. I bought a C5 because it was hands down better. The ride, entry, can work on it cause it tells you whats wrong, performance comfort on and on it is just way better. The C6 is better than the C5 but no that much better. Bang for the buck C5 no doubt in my mind. An automatic is my prefered version if shopping get the 315 rear it is a huge difference in performance. Avoid the F45 shocks adjustable as they are $800 a shock to replace. there are other ways to go but if you buy F45 and want to keep it original you have to have lots of money..Buyon and you will konw why we hang out and type about them. A friggin great machine that has super car like performance ona working mans budget. All C5 are created equal some are newer and have newer stuff but basically they are all great Best of Luck
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:02 PM
  #8  
Johnny_B_Good's Avatar
Johnny_B_Good
Safety Car
St. Jude 20 Year Donor
20 Year Member
Liked
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 3,561
Likes: 33
From: Clark NJ
St. Jude Donor '05 thru '26
Default

If you need convincing, then you’re not ready.
Reply
Corvette Stories

The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts

story-0

5 Best & 5 Most Overrated Corvette Track Packages of All Time!

 Joe Kucinski
story-1

Every 2027 Corvette Engine Explained

 Joe Kucinski
story-2

Designer Imagines A Corvette That Looks More Like a Corvette Than the Corvette

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

10 Ugly Corvettes That We Still Kinda Love

 Joe Kucinski
story-4

Top 10 Most Expensive Corvettes Ever Sold on Bring A Trailer

 Brett Foote
story-5

10 Things Every Corvette Owner Needs (2026 Edition)

 Michael S. Palmer
story-6

8 Most "Only Corvette Owners Understand" Quirks and Problems

 Pouria Savadkouei
story-7

10 Reasons the C6 Z06 is Still A Performance Benchmark After 20 Years

 Joe Kucinski
story-8

How Much Horsepower Every Corvette Engine "LOST" in 1972

 Joe Kucinski
story-9

Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts for Protecting Your Convertible Top!

 Michael S. Palmer
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:06 PM
  #9  
shadeshift's Avatar
shadeshift
Racer
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 474
Likes: 33
Default

The C5 was designed to improve on the C4 in every way. Not that it should persuade you one way or another...
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:16 PM
  #10  
dobewillie's Avatar
dobewillie
Race Director
 
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 10,477
Likes: 4
From: lockport n.y
Default

the c5 is simply a great vette to own
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:23 PM
  #11  
tlc0706's Avatar
tlc0706
Safety Car
Supporting Lifetime
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 4,225
Likes: 0
From: The Great Truth: "There ain't no free lunch"
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11
Default

The C5 forum is probably going to recommend a C5.... The C4 is a great car but for all the above mention items, the C5 is the way to go....
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:40 PM
  #12  
jrose7004's Avatar
jrose7004
Team Owner
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 58,508
Likes: 1,841
From: Oklahoma City OK
C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Default

Originally Posted by Johnny_B_Good
If you need convincing, then you’re not ready.
That was my point exactly!
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:47 PM
  #13  
jobear's Avatar
jobear
Racer
10 Year Member
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 484
Likes: 0
From: North Dallas area TX
Default

Originally Posted by Johnny_B_Good
If you need convincing, then you’re not ready.
another snobby Corvette owner.
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:50 PM
  #14  
dmoore's Avatar
dmoore
Le Mans Master
 
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 6,007
Likes: 2
From: Manteo NC
Default

When I bought my Vette I was looking between C4 and C5. I am a big guy and found it easier to get in and out of the C5. With the cost of C5s now a days you can get a great C5 pretty cheap just search around! C5 is just a much better car in my opinion and I think you will be a lot happier with the advances in the C5!
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 07:54 PM
  #15  
vette.mix's Avatar
vette.mix
Le Mans Master
10 Year Member
 
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 5,280
Likes: 1
From: PALM COAST Flordia
Default

The C3 looks classic, the C5 looks mordern, the C4 just looks outdated to me. but get what you can afford- just get a Vette
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 08:18 PM
  #16  
MagRedConv's Avatar
MagRedConv
Team Owner
Supporting Lifetime
10 Year Member
 
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 21,915
Likes: 61
From: Miami Beach FL
Default

Originally Posted by Johnny_B_Good
If you need convincing, then you’re not ready.
Thank you. There have been more "Talk me into a C5" posts than you can shake a stick at. For the OP - go drive them both and make up YOUR mind.
Reply
Old Apr 13, 2009 | 08:37 PM
  #17  
Z28TOZO6's Avatar
Z28TOZO6
Safety Car
Supporting Lifetime
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,501
Likes: 1
From: TAMPA BAY FL.
Default

Originally Posted by ernie22golf
Now don't shoot me - I want to buy a C5 but I also ain't rich or even close - I seems to me that I can buy a really nice C4 for a lot less than the C5. I know I'm giving up some performance but I don't street race anymore - I'm still somewhat limber enough to get in and out. Now the storage I agree is nice but I'm looking for the crowd that knows to tell me all the other many reasons to buy - I also would like your ideas on the model to get - it seems 97 through 00 will likely fit my price range so just any imput is appreciated. I like the six speed but am actually chicken to speed shift anymore (transmissions cost to much) so a automatic is likely my best route. So are there any models with transmission problems or such.
Thanks
I guess it all depends on what a "fortune" is

this is in another thread here
http://lasvegas.craigslist.org/ctd/1118156779.html

its an odormatic too. right up ur alley
Reply

Get notified of new replies

To Why should I buy a C5

Old Apr 13, 2009 | 10:39 PM
  #18  
itzza427's Avatar
itzza427
Le Mans Master
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 7,604
Likes: 8
From: Belleville Il
Default

Originally Posted by Wicked C5
Plus add

easier to work on and do a tune
More parts that are available since many of the Ls2 items fit a Ls1
Cheaper Insurance then a C4
Better looking
Especially the easier to work on!!! A buddy brought his C4 over(I have a 4 poster) to put headers,high flows,and cat-back with new plugs and wires!!! After working on that C4 I told him if he wanted to do anything else,,,take it to a shop!! What an under hood nightmare!!!
Reply
Old Apr 14, 2009 | 06:43 AM
  #19  
AIKMAN8's Avatar
AIKMAN8
Racer
 
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 424
Likes: 0
Default

C5, too many reasons to list. If you can't afford one now save up and get one when you can afford it. Don't settle for less...
Reply
Old Apr 14, 2009 | 06:54 AM
  #20  
realvc's Avatar
realvc
Drifting
Supporting Lifetime
15 Year Member
Veteran: Army
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 1,780
Likes: 42
From: Lake Norrell Arkansas
Default

One thing that sold me on the C5 over the C4 was the speedometer. The C4 is digital and the C5 is analog and has 200 on it and matches the tach. Too cool. Plus all the other things that have been listed. It is up to you, so go for what makes you happy.
Reply



All times are GMT -4. The time now is 02:51 PM.

story-0
5 Best & 5 Most Overrated Corvette Track Packages of All Time!

Slideshow: The 5 best and 5 most overrated Corvette track packages ever.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-09 12:46:45


VIEW MORE
story-1
Every 2027 Corvette Engine Explained

Slideshow: Every 2027 Corvette engine explained

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-09 12:16:31


VIEW MORE
story-2
Designer Imagines A Corvette That Looks More Like a Corvette Than the Corvette

Slideshow: A Jaguar designer's personal project imagines what a modern front-engined Corvette might look like if Chevrolet revisited the golden age of the Stingray.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-08 19:53:43


VIEW MORE
story-3
10 Ugly Corvettes That We Still Kinda Love

Slideshow: 10 ugly Corvettes that we still kinda love.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-03 10:34:17


VIEW MORE
story-4
Top 10 Most Expensive Corvettes Ever Sold on Bring A Trailer

A lot of money has changed hands at the online auction house over the years.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-03 10:21:50


VIEW MORE
story-5
10 Things Every Corvette Owner Needs (2026 Edition)

Slideshow: 10 great gifts Corvette enthusiasts actually want for Father's Day!

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-06-03 15:43:40


VIEW MORE
story-6
8 Most "Only Corvette Owners Understand" Quirks and Problems

Slideshow: These are the quirks, annoyances, and oddly lovable problems that every Corvette owner eventually learns to live with.

By Pouria Savadkouei | 2026-05-28 09:31:39


VIEW MORE
story-7
10 Reasons the C6 Z06 is Still A Performance Benchmark After 20 Years

Slideshow: 10 reasons why the C6 Z06 is still a performance benchmark after 20 years.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-27 17:20:09


VIEW MORE
story-8
How Much Horsepower Every Corvette Engine "LOST" in 1972

Slideshow: How much horsepower every Corvette engine lost in 1972.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-27 16:54:53


VIEW MORE
story-9
Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts for Protecting Your Convertible Top!

Slideshow: How to Protect A Convertible Top: 10 DOs & DON'Ts

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-04-03 00:00:00


VIEW MORE