New Member Here
I just joined the C5 ranks by purchasing a 98 Triple black vert w/ 76k miles. I made this purchase from a dealer in Ky but the car has a marked title. It was originally a Florida car that was a theft recovery. The radio and seats were removed and the car sustained a very light hit to the passengers front bumper, headlight, fender and a scrape along the rear bumper cover. I was amazed that the state of Florida called this a salvage car. I saw the car on auto trader.com and couldn't believe it. There was absolutely no damage whatsoever aside from the outer plastic covers and fender. The underbody, cooling, suspension, bumper support and reinforcement were all in like new condition and the bags did'nt deploy.
I have gathered up all of the parts along with some mod parts to put this Beauty back together and enjoy some top down cruising.
It was obvious that the previous owner (s) put a lot of time and attention into the car. I am the 3rd owner and some of the things that were done by the previous owners were wrapped full length headers w/ the BB route66 quad oval tipped exhaust, underdrive pulley, a cold air induction system and cross drilled and slotted rotors at all four corners.
The car is currently in the paint shop and some of the mods I have included are the Depot C6 style headlights, and Ecklers trick hood, C6 chrome wheels, and a hurst billet shifter for the 6spd tranny.
I have only driven the car a few miles, from my home to the body shop, but it was a very impressive drive and feel. Nothing like my C4 Greenwood vert which I was in love with and thought was tops.
I do have a question forum Guru's, in a case like my car which sustained such small damage (less than $500.00 in needed replacement parts) why are they de-valued so much? I'm not in this to make money because the truth is I could not afford to go out and buy a C5 this nice at current market prices, but is there some sort of inspection procedure that could re evaluate the condition and functionality of this car so if and when the time came to sell prospective buyers wouldn't be affraid of the vehicle because of the "marked" title?
Thanks again for such a great medium!!
I just joined the C5 ranks by purchasing a 98 Triple black vert w/ 76k miles. I made this purchase from a dealer in Ky but the car has a marked title. It was originally a Florida car that was a theft recovery. The radio and seats were removed and the car sustained a very light hit to the passengers front bumper, headlight, fender and a scrape along the rear bumper cover. I was amazed that the state of Florida called this a salvage car. I saw the car on auto trader.com and couldn't believe it. There was absolutely no damage whatsoever aside from the outer plastic covers and fender. The underbody, cooling, suspension, bumper support and reinforcement were all in like new condition and the bags did'nt deploy.
I have gathered up all of the parts along with some mod parts to put this Beauty back together and enjoy some top down cruising.
It was obvious that the previous owner (s) put a lot of time and attention into the car. I am the 3rd owner and some of the things that were done by the previous owners were wrapped full length headers w/ the BB route66 quad oval tipped exhaust, underdrive pulley, a cold air induction system and cross drilled and slotted rotors at all four corners.
The car is currently in the paint shop and some of the mods I have included are the Depot C6 style headlights, and Ecklers trick hood, C6 chrome wheels, and a hurst billet shifter for the 6spd tranny.
I have only driven the car a few miles, from my home to the body shop, but it was a very impressive drive and feel. Nothing like my C4 Greenwood vert which I was in love with and thought was tops.
I do have a question forum Guru's, in a case like my car which sustained such small damage (less than $500.00 in needed replacement parts) why are they de-valued so much? I'm not in this to make money because the truth is I could not afford to go out and buy a C5 this nice at current market prices, but is there some sort of inspection procedure that could re evaluate the condition and functionality of this car so if and when the time came to sell prospective buyers wouldn't be affraid of the vehicle because of the "marked" title?
Thanks again for such a great medium!!
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
There has to be more than meets the eye.
It sounds like you are happy with what I assume was a good deal.
Welcome and good luck.






When I bought my '98 convertible six years ago - I used http://www.automobileinspections.com/report_red.asp
Maybe you could retain a copy of the inspection if and when you ever sell it. You might consider having a conversation with the licensing authority in your state, show them the inspection and maybe you could petition for issuance of a clear title......good luck!
Welcome as a C5 brother, too! Enjoy the ride - both here on the forum, and in the car!
























