Advice on C5 "deal" requested
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 629
Likes: 0
From: Oceanside CA
Advice on C5 "deal" requested
I'm looking at buying the following--and would appreciate your input if you think it's a good value/model selection.. I have an appt with the Seller tomorrow (private party)...
2004 C5 Coupe
Magnetic Red II / Black
Auto Trans
23,980 miles / 1-Owner / All Service Records
1SB Preferred Equip Group (inc. HUD)
Still Has Original Tires--may need replacement
Not sure yet on the following: 3.15 Axle; Z51; F55 (but I doubt it)...
$ 22,000
Body/Paint/Interior are pretty much flawless
This would be my 1st Vette!
thanks!
2004 C5 Coupe
Magnetic Red II / Black
Auto Trans
23,980 miles / 1-Owner / All Service Records
1SB Preferred Equip Group (inc. HUD)
Still Has Original Tires--may need replacement
Not sure yet on the following: 3.15 Axle; Z51; F55 (but I doubt it)...
$ 22,000
Body/Paint/Interior are pretty much flawless
This would be my 1st Vette!
thanks!
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 65,010
Likes: 133
From: Title town, Champs live here.
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-'18-'19
You will get a wide range of responses, just know your option codes and find them in the glove box for comparison sake and look for the newest cheapest low mileage Vette you can get. Check into the sticky up top also, it will show you how to pull codes from the DIC. Any worries either pass or spend the $$ to have someone you trust give it a thorough inspection. Very similar to my car and I think it is a reasonable price. Good luck 
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,192
Likes: 7
From: Charlotte N.C
Mileage sounds good but not big on any color of red because it draws attention especially cops. I also prefer a 6-speed. As for the tires needing to be replaced, Offer him 20,000. as is and for about 700.00 go put you on a set of nittos non run flats that will make the car handle like a true sports car. Also kuhmo or michelin sports are also good choices.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 5,253
Likes: 9
From: Northwest CT
IMO, the price depends on the specific car and if it is worth it to you. If it all checks out OK, you can use the tires as a bargaining chip.
I have a MN6 myself, so I am biased towards that. Are you using it as a daily driver in traffic? Then you will appreciate the auto trans. The 3:15 gears are a plus w/auto. The MN6s all come w/3:42s
I am also biased toward Mag. Red.
No probs W/ cops. Breaking traffic laws attracts attention...no matter the color.
Best of luck w/your decision!
I have a MN6 myself, so I am biased towards that. Are you using it as a daily driver in traffic? Then you will appreciate the auto trans. The 3:15 gears are a plus w/auto. The MN6s all come w/3:42s
I am also biased toward Mag. Red.
No probs W/ cops. Breaking traffic laws attracts attention...no matter the color.Best of luck w/your decision!
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Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 629
Likes: 0
From: Oceanside CA
Great Info!
Thanks to all for the good info--I really need it!! 
I'm OK with Red--plus I'm a "retired cop" and hope that helps if I ever get stopped (but that's a whole other story!!)
If I like it (after owning it a while--as if that's really a concern!) it will become my DD--but I only drive for "pleasure" anyway... But I do want the Auto--I'm in the San Diego area with the inherent traffic issues...
I figured the tires would have to be done--thanks for the suggestions on replacements...
And I will try to bargain a bit--but the seller is an older gentleman who indicates "firm price" initially... He still loves his "baby" but is selling for financial & medical reasons. He bought it new, says he only drove on weekends and the occasional trip to Las Vegas. CarFax report verifies mileage/ownership...
As you can tell--I'm rather pumped-up about this car--I hope it all works out... Will advise after I check it out in person (later today or tomorrow)..
Again--thanks--really beneficial!!
I'm OK with Red--plus I'm a "retired cop" and hope that helps if I ever get stopped (but that's a whole other story!!)
If I like it (after owning it a while--as if that's really a concern!) it will become my DD--but I only drive for "pleasure" anyway... But I do want the Auto--I'm in the San Diego area with the inherent traffic issues...
I figured the tires would have to be done--thanks for the suggestions on replacements...
And I will try to bargain a bit--but the seller is an older gentleman who indicates "firm price" initially... He still loves his "baby" but is selling for financial & medical reasons. He bought it new, says he only drove on weekends and the occasional trip to Las Vegas. CarFax report verifies mileage/ownership...
As you can tell--I'm rather pumped-up about this car--I hope it all works out... Will advise after I check it out in person (later today or tomorrow)..
Again--thanks--really beneficial!!
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 16,270
Likes: 30
From: "It's 106 miles to Chicago, we've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark, and
St. Jude Donor '03-'04-'05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-‘18-'19
NCM Sinkhole Donor
I'm looking at buying the following--and would appreciate your input if you think it's a good value/model selection.. I have an appt with the Seller tomorrow (private party)...
2004 C5 Coupe
Magnetic Red II / Black
Auto Trans
23,980 miles / 1-Owner / All Service Records
1SB Preferred Equip Group (inc. HUD)
Still Has Original Tires--may need replacement
Not sure yet on the following: 3.15 Axle; Z51; F55 (but I doubt it)...
$ 22,000
Body/Paint/Interior are pretty much flawless
This would be my 1st Vette!
thanks!
2004 C5 Coupe
Magnetic Red II / Black
Auto Trans
23,980 miles / 1-Owner / All Service Records
1SB Preferred Equip Group (inc. HUD)
Still Has Original Tires--may need replacement
Not sure yet on the following: 3.15 Axle; Z51; F55 (but I doubt it)...
$ 22,000
Body/Paint/Interior are pretty much flawless
This would be my 1st Vette!
thanks!
Here's a checklist that might be of some help before you write the check....
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/tech/buying.html
Here's a list of the RPO codes, which you will find on the door of the glove box (inside of course!) The codes will tell you what you have on the car for certain.
http://home.fuse.net/corvette/rpo.htm
Back to the suspension question for a moment - if the car has the F55, it will also have the FE1 suspension, which is the base suspension. This basically refers to the thickness of the sway bars and the "weight" of the springs. F55 utilizes the base suspension (FE1) along with computer controlled shocks. Here are some links to information on the F55 suspension - which BTW is the same suspension that Corvette puts on the new ZR1 (slightly modified from the C5 version). Also Ferrari uses a modified version of this suspension as well!
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/...s+the+50th+Car
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/...l+-+First+Ride
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/...003/msrc2.html
Good luck - and remember to look at this intellectually, not emotionally.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 2,303
Likes: 5
From: Nevada
Sounds like a good car and a fair deal.
Some information in this thread might be of use to you. Note message 7 which I posted that refers to still another thread for specific information.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...-2003-z51.html
I have Torch Red, but Magnetic Red is also very good. A bit more subdued and preferred by some.
I respect your preference for an Auto - and I'm sure as a retired LA Sheriff, you have good experience behind your preferences. The only thing I'd point out, for me anyway, my car is also used for pleasure - not daily commuting - in the LA area, where I sometimes encounter some tough traffic (which I'm sure you "fondly" remember) e.g. 405 West Side, 110 downtown to the 5 North. Even in these cases, I still love the 6 speed and would not give up for anything. Anyway - had to make my pitch, for what it's worth.
Some information in this thread might be of use to you. Note message 7 which I posted that refers to still another thread for specific information.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...-2003-z51.html
I have Torch Red, but Magnetic Red is also very good. A bit more subdued and preferred by some.
I respect your preference for an Auto - and I'm sure as a retired LA Sheriff, you have good experience behind your preferences. The only thing I'd point out, for me anyway, my car is also used for pleasure - not daily commuting - in the LA area, where I sometimes encounter some tough traffic (which I'm sure you "fondly" remember) e.g. 405 West Side, 110 downtown to the 5 North. Even in these cases, I still love the 6 speed and would not give up for anything. Anyway - had to make my pitch, for what it's worth.
Administrator
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St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26
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Negotiate the price down to compensate for the tires, but sounds like a nice ride. Nothing wrong with Mag Red and a 2004 is a good choice.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 9,369
Likes: 4
From: Zephyrhills, Florida
St. Jude Donor '06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13
Thanks to all for the good info--I really need it!!
I'm OK with Red--plus I'm a "retired cop" and hope that helps if I ever get stopped (but that's a whole other story!!)
If I like it (after owning it a while--as if that's really a concern!) it will become my DD--but I only drive for "pleasure" anyway... But I do want the Auto--I'm in the San Diego area with the inherent traffic issues...
I figured the tires would have to be done--thanks for the suggestions on replacements...
And I will try to bargain a bit--but the seller is an older gentleman who indicates "firm price" initially... He still loves his "baby" but is selling for financial & medical reasons. He bought it new, says he only drove on weekends and the occasional trip to Las Vegas. CarFax report verifies mileage/ownership...
As you can tell--I'm rather pumped-up about this car--I hope it all works out... Will advise after I check it out in person (later today or tomorrow)..
Again--thanks--really beneficial!!
I'm OK with Red--plus I'm a "retired cop" and hope that helps if I ever get stopped (but that's a whole other story!!)
If I like it (after owning it a while--as if that's really a concern!) it will become my DD--but I only drive for "pleasure" anyway... But I do want the Auto--I'm in the San Diego area with the inherent traffic issues...
I figured the tires would have to be done--thanks for the suggestions on replacements...
And I will try to bargain a bit--but the seller is an older gentleman who indicates "firm price" initially... He still loves his "baby" but is selling for financial & medical reasons. He bought it new, says he only drove on weekends and the occasional trip to Las Vegas. CarFax report verifies mileage/ownership...
As you can tell--I'm rather pumped-up about this car--I hope it all works out... Will advise after I check it out in person (later today or tomorrow)..
Again--thanks--really beneficial!!
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 629
Likes: 0
From: Oceanside CA
Sounds like a good car and a fair deal.
Some information in this thread might be of use to you. Note message 7 which I posted that refers to still another thread for specific information.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...-2003-z51.html
I have Torch Red, but Magnetic Red is also very good. A bit more subdued and preferred by some.
I respect your preference for an Auto - and I'm sure as a retired LA Sheriff, you have good experience behind your preferences. The only thing I'd point out, for me anyway, my car is also used for pleasure - not daily commuting - in the LA area, where I sometimes encounter some tough traffic (which I'm sure you "fondly" remember) e.g. 405 West Side, 110 downtown to the 5 North. Even in these cases, I still love the 6 speed and would not give up for anything. Anyway - had to make my pitch, for what it's worth.
Some information in this thread might be of use to you. Note message 7 which I posted that refers to still another thread for specific information.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...-2003-z51.html
I have Torch Red, but Magnetic Red is also very good. A bit more subdued and preferred by some.
I respect your preference for an Auto - and I'm sure as a retired LA Sheriff, you have good experience behind your preferences. The only thing I'd point out, for me anyway, my car is also used for pleasure - not daily commuting - in the LA area, where I sometimes encounter some tough traffic (which I'm sure you "fondly" remember) e.g. 405 West Side, 110 downtown to the 5 North. Even in these cases, I still love the 6 speed and would not give up for anything. Anyway - had to make my pitch, for what it's worth.
But at least I could turn-on the "red lights"... Sometimes they would actually get out of my way! Funny thing 'bout the Red paint: Torch has been my #1 choice--but I think I will also like the Magnetic...
I am studying the info you provided--Thanks!!
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
I would pay to have someone check the car out, and get a carfax report. You cant just trust what someone tells you about the car IMO. It sounds like a fair deal and really on a car this expensive the cost of new tires is minimal.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 6,420
Likes: 5
From: "This is not a psychotic episode, but a cleansing moment of clarity."
Do we still have Spongevette around and is he still will running the VIN for you to check the vehicle history thoroughly? (But all receipts is nice).
Nothing wrong with an A4. Nothing at all. Sounds like a fair price and a nice car.
Nothing wrong with an A4. Nothing at all. Sounds like a fair price and a nice car.
Waiting to hear the news...
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 142
Likes: 0
From: Hampton Va
Mileage sounds good but not big on any color of red because it draws attention especially cops. I also prefer a 6-speed. As for the tires needing to be replaced, Offer him 20,000. as is and for about 700.00 go put you on a set of nittos non run flats that will make the car handle like a true sports car. Also kuhmo or michelin sports are also good choices.