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

Considering a Late Model C5

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old May 14, 2011 | 01:29 AM
  #1  
TheRadioFlyer's Avatar
TheRadioFlyer
Thread Starter
Supporting Vendor
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 895
From: Republic of Texas
Default Considering a Late Model C5

When I totaled my car, I originally wanted to upgrade to a C6, but I'm thinking that they're just not in the price range and I already have stuff for the C5.

I'd like to get the best of the LS1 setups and If I remember correctly it was between 02 and 03.

Also I'm not up to date on the subtle changes between 01 and 03 cars.

Any thoughts?
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 04:03 AM
  #2  
momo20's Avatar
momo20
Safety Car
20 Year Member
 
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 3,532
Likes: 79
From: pueblo co
Default

i would say do it...why not get a Z06?
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 08:07 AM
  #3  
Vetteman Jack's Avatar
Vetteman Jack
Administrator
Supporting Lifetime
Veteran: Navy
St. Jude 20 Year Donor
25 Year Member
Veteran: Reserves
 
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 367,976
Likes: 24,706
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
Default

I'd get the newest one that fits in your budget. Here's a list of changes that were made to the C5 platform (this was posted on the forum a while back):

1997
• Completely new, redesigned Corvette. Base (FE1) and Z51 (FE3) suspension packages.
• All Z51 cars include: Power Steering Cooler
• 97-00 C5 LS1's produce 345 HP @ 5600 RPM and 350 Ft Lbs of torque @ 4400 RPM.

1998
• Convertible becomes available
• Active Handling becomes available late in year

1999
• 26# injectors substituted for 28#
• Fuel pump revised to reduce noise
• FRC "Fixed Roof Coupe" aka the hardtop, becomes available. All FRC's are MN6 (6-speed) cars with the Z51 suspension package, and are about 60lbs lighter than coupes.
• HUD introduced
• Only one line in driver's side fuel rail cover (no fuel return line?)
• Power telescoping wheel becomes an option
• Steering hardware changed to combat wandering
• Door sill trim plates added

2000
• Millennium Yellow available
• "Thin Spoke" versus "wagon wheel" design wheels become standard.
• Pup cats added to all models for LEV emissions requirements (5hp loss relative to 97-99)
• Steel swaybar endlinks instead of plastic on Z51 equipped cars
• Z51 swaybar diameters grow (25.4/21.7 to 28.6/21.7 to 28.6/23.6 (note: new rear same as Z06)
• No keyhole on passenger side doorhandle
• Passenger airbag 'off' switch added to console (light by TC/AH button) – mid-model year change.

2001
• Return to 28# injectors for all models.
• Second Generation Active Handling
• Nassau Blue discontinued
• Alternator 'clutch' pulley added on A4 cars
• New soundproofing + foam in all cars
• Smaller keyfob
• Electrochromic dimming rearview and driver's mirrors
• Lighter AGM battery
• Thickness + Material in Convertible change
• Chrome exhaust tips for coupe + Convertible
• 85MM MAF with integral temp sensor (versus 74mm with separate plug for IAT)
• LS1 cam profile changed to: .500/0.500, 198/208 on 115.5LSA (From: 0.472/0.479, 202/210 on 117)
• All Corvettes now have the LS6 intake manifold
• All Corvettes now have the LS6 engine block (windage passages in block), which includes a beefier oil pump.
• LS1 changes result in new output of 350 HP @ 5200 RPM and 375 Ft Lbs of torque @ 4400 RPM (MN6)
• Hardtop/FRC discontinued
• Stronger synchros in all transmissions
• Exhaust manifolds revised (5hp regained) - thin wall cast replacing SS manifolds
• Metal valvestem caps (late year)
• Torque Tube changed from metal-matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, increased in diameter from 55 to 63 mm.
• Driveshaft couplings have also been upgraded on manual-equipped models for additional strength and durability
• Introduction of the Z06, which has as differences:
• Hardtop body style
• Rear brake ducting
• Screened inlets on front fascia, without foglights
• F1 Supercar tires 265-17 front, 295-18 rear, on 17x9.5 and 18x10.5 (one inch wider, respectively
• New LS6 top-end with new style head design (10.5:1 compression, 64cc chamber), LS6 cam (0.525/0.525, 204/211 on 116) - 385hp
• M12 transmission with shorter gearing (1-2-3 analagous to MN6 with 3.90 rear diff
• Titanium exhaust system
• Lightweight windshield
• New, stronger clutch with redesigned master + slave cylinder
• Stronger rear differential (shotpeened ring gear)
• Red brake calipers (otherwise identical)
• Transmission overtemp warning light on DIC
• 6500 redline gauges with special checkering + Z06 font
• Redesigned PCV system to help combat oil burning
• Red LS6 Fuel Rail Covers (FRC's)
• FE4 Z06 suspension - uprated springs, bars (30mm/23.6mm), shocks (note front spring and rear bar same as Z51)

2002
• Z06 Changes:
• Z06 LS6 cam changed to: 0.551/0.547, 204/218 on 117.5
• Less restrictive intake airbox lid
• Descreened MAF
• Removal of pup-cats (total with changes = 405hp)
• Z06 shocks revised with less rebound for better launching
• Z06 brake pads revised for better stopping (generate more dust)
• Lighter, sodium filled valves w/ stronger valve springs
• Higher tension rings installed to prevent oil burning problems
• Slight piston redesign *
• Clutch strength upgraded.
• HUD available on Z06 (not avail '01 model year)
• Wheel supplier changed to Speedline, moved from forged to cast. Weight nearly identical
• Electron Blue color offered
• Steel endlinks changed to aluminum

2003
• Late model-year new fuel system design from C6's
* Magnetic Ride Shocks were introduced.

2004
• Z06 shocks further refined. Accompanying upper front control arm bushing, and rear swaybar bushing changes.
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 08:54 AM
  #4  
jrose7004's Avatar
jrose7004
Team Owner
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 58,498
Likes: 1,818
From: Oklahoma City OK
C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Default

Originally Posted by momo20
i would say do it...why not get a Z06?
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 09:20 AM
  #5  
TheRadioFlyer's Avatar
TheRadioFlyer
Thread Starter
Supporting Vendor
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 895
From: Republic of Texas
Default

Originally Posted by momo20
i would say do it...why not get a Z06?
I live/drive in suburbia and driving a Manual car would get very tedious when there's stop lights every 500 feet. Plus i need the additional storage space and fuel economy of a Targa coupe.....F. or instance, I KNOW I can fit my full size mountain bike inside my 97, the same cant' be said for the FRCs
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 10:07 AM
  #6  
flynbyu2's Avatar
flynbyu2
Melting Slicks
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 40
From: Orangevale California
St. Jude Donor '10
Default

I'd get an '03. All the important updates were made by then AND you get the super sexy 50th Anniversary badges.
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 01:11 PM
  #7  
TheRadioFlyer's Avatar
TheRadioFlyer
Thread Starter
Supporting Vendor
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 895
From: Republic of Texas
Default

Originally Posted by flynbyu2
I'd get an '03. All the important updates were made by then AND you get the super sexy 50th Anniversary badges.
Lol....i'm just gonna black out the flags anyway. I've heard some of some 03 cars having fuel system issues regarding the re-design. I'll have to look more into that.
Reply
Old May 14, 2011 | 01:42 PM
  #8  
YeloFevr's Avatar
YeloFevr
Melting Slicks
15 Year Member
Conversation Starter
All Eyes On Me
Liked
 
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2,787
Likes: 22
From: Lititz PA
Default

Originally Posted by theradioflyer
Lol....i'm just gonna black out the flags anyway. I've heard some of some 03 cars having fuel system issues regarding the re-design. I'll have to look more into that.
No issues that I'm aware of other than you have to DROP THE TANK to get to the pump on '03+. '02 and previous have pumps that you can easily access from the LR wheel well. All comes down to what your plans are for the car.
Reply
Corvette Stories

The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts

story-0

Top 10 Most Explosive Corvettes Ever Made: Power-to-Weight Ratio Ranked!

 Joe Kucinski
story-1

150 hp to 1,250 hp: Every Corvette Generation Compared by the Specs That Matter

 Joe Kucinski
story-2

8 Coolest Corvette Pace Cars (and Replicas) of All Time

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

Top 10 Corvette Engines RANKED by Peak Torque (70+ Years of Muscle!)

 Joe Kucinski
story-4

Corvette ZR1X Will Be Pacing the Indy 500, And Could Probably Race, Too!

 Verdad Gallardo
story-5

Top 10 Corvettes Coming to Mecum Indy 2026!

 Brett Foote
story-6

Top 10 C9 Corvette MUST-HAVES to Fix These C8 Generation Flaws!

 Michael S. Palmer
story-7

10 Revolutionary 'Corvette Firsts' Most People Don't Know

 Joe Kucinski
story-8

5 Reasons to Upgrade to an LS6-Powered Corvette; 5 Reasons to Stay LT2

 Michael S. Palmer
story-9

2027 Corvette vs The World: Every C8 vs Its Closest Competitor

 Joe Kucinski
Old May 14, 2011 | 03:07 PM
  #9  
cor28vettes's Avatar
cor28vettes
Race Director
15 Year Member
Veteran: Army
Liked
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,188
Likes: 1,138
From: Santa Rosa Beach FL
Default

Originally Posted by theradioflyer
Lol....i'm just gonna black out the flags anyway. I've heard some of some 03 cars having fuel system issues regarding the re-design. I'll have to look more into that.
Fuel issues w/certain 04's from a bad batch of parts is the latest, which are being made good by GM if there is an existing issue. Yes, redesign took place in Nov 02. All C6 have this new system.





Last edited by cor28vettes; May 15, 2011 at 11:07 PM.
Reply
Old May 15, 2011 | 01:29 AM
  #10  
jornahow's Avatar
jornahow
Burning Brakes
 
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,211
Likes: 4
From: Vancouver B.C.
Default

My research led me to buy a 2002 A4 coupe. There were some engine improvements from 01 to 02. Some 01 cars had an excessive oil consumption problem. The 02s have the Z06 intake manifold and they do not have the problematic fuel tank system found in 04 and some 03s. I don't think there were any significant improvements after 02. My only problems have been ABS module failure fixed by ABSFIXER for $150 and dim HVAC display, easily fixed. Everything else I have spent is on improvements. Purchased in 2007 with 37,000 miles; now has 75,000. It has been my daily driver - one of the most enjoyable and trouble free cars I have owned.
Reply
Old May 15, 2011 | 04:26 PM
  #11  
teebee's Avatar
teebee
Safety Car
20 Year Member
Photoriffic
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 4,907
Likes: 731
From: Southwest Kansas
2022 Corvette of the Year Finalist -- Unmodified
2021 C6 of the Year Winner - Unmodified
Default

Originally Posted by jornahow
My research led me to buy a 2002 A4 coupe. There were some engine improvements from 01 to 02. Some 01 cars had an excessive oil consumption problem. The 02s have the Z06 intake manifold and they do not have the problematic fuel tank system found in 04 and some 03s. I don't think there were any significant improvements after 02. My only problems have been ABS module failure fixed by ABSFIXER for $150 and dim HVAC display, easily fixed. Everything else I have spent is on improvements. Purchased in 2007 with 37,000 miles; now has 75,000. It has been my daily driver - one of the most enjoyable and trouble free cars I have owned.
All the 01's got the Z06 intake.....If memory serves me correctly.
Reply
Old May 15, 2011 | 07:49 PM
  #12  
C5FORFUN2's Avatar
C5FORFUN2
Drifting
15 Year Member
Liked
Community Favorite
Top Answer: 3
 
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,483
Likes: 254
From: Lake Tapps WA.
Default

Originally Posted by teebee
All the 01's got the Z06 intake.....If memory serves me correctly.
Correct '01 & up have LS6 w/ LS1 heads and in between cam.
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 01:37 AM
  #13  
TheRadioFlyer's Avatar
TheRadioFlyer
Thread Starter
Supporting Vendor
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 895
From: Republic of Texas
Default

Originally Posted by C5FORFUN2
Correct '01 & up have LS6 w/ LS1 heads and in between cam.
Yea, but the 241 heads beat the hell out of the 800 series.

I still can't believe I made as much power as I did with my stock 97 motor. The only internal modifications were 1.8 rockers and valve springs.
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 03:36 AM
  #14  
cor28vettes's Avatar
cor28vettes
Race Director
15 Year Member
Veteran: Army
Liked
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,188
Likes: 1,138
From: Santa Rosa Beach FL
Default

Originally Posted by Vetteman Jack
I'd get the newest one that fits in your budget. Here's a list of changes that were made to the C5 platform (this was posted on the forum a while back):

1997
• Completely new, redesigned Corvette. Base (FE1) and Z51 (FE3) suspension packages.
• All Z51 cars include: Power Steering Cooler
• 97-00 C5 LS1's produce 345 HP @ 5600 RPM and 350 Ft Lbs of torque @ 4400 RPM.

1998
• Convertible becomes available
• Active Handling becomes available late in year

1999
• 26# injectors substituted for 28#
• Fuel pump revised to reduce noise
• FRC "Fixed Roof Coupe" aka the hardtop, becomes available. All FRC's are MN6 (6-speed) cars with the Z51 suspension package, and are about 60lbs lighter than coupes.
• HUD introduced
• Only one line in driver's side fuel rail cover (no fuel return line?)
• Power telescoping wheel becomes an option
• Steering hardware changed to combat wandering
• Door sill trim plates added

2000
• Millennium Yellow available
• "Thin Spoke" versus "wagon wheel" design wheels become standard.
• Pup cats added to all models for LEV emissions requirements (5hp loss relative to 97-99)
• Steel swaybar endlinks instead of plastic on Z51 equipped cars
• Z51 swaybar diameters grow (25.4/21.7 to 28.6/21.7 to 28.6/23.6 (note: new rear same as Z06)
• No keyhole on passenger side doorhandle
• Passenger airbag 'off' switch added to console (light by TC/AH button) – mid-model year change.

2001
• Return to 28# injectors for all models.
• Second Generation Active Handling
• Nassau Blue discontinued
• Alternator 'clutch' pulley added on A4 cars
• New soundproofing + foam in all cars
• Smaller keyfob
• Electrochromic dimming rearview and driver's mirrors
• Lighter AGM battery
• Thickness + Material in Convertible change
• Chrome exhaust tips for coupe + Convertible
• 85MM MAF with integral temp sensor (versus 74mm with separate plug for IAT)
• LS1 cam profile changed to: .500/0.500, 198/208 on 115.5LSA (From: 0.472/0.479, 202/210 on 117)
• All Corvettes now have the LS6 intake manifold
• All Corvettes now have the LS6 engine block (windage passages in block), which includes a beefier oil pump.
• LS1 changes result in new output of 350 HP @ 5200 RPM and 375 Ft Lbs of torque @ 4400 RPM (MN6)
• Hardtop/FRC discontinued
• Stronger synchros in all transmissions
• Exhaust manifolds revised (5hp regained) - thin wall cast replacing SS manifolds
• Metal valvestem caps (late year)
• Torque Tube changed from metal-matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, increased in diameter from 55 to 63 mm.
• Driveshaft couplings have also been upgraded on manual-equipped models for additional strength and durability
• Introduction of the Z06, which has as differences:
• Hardtop body style
• Rear brake ducting
• Screened inlets on front fascia, without foglights
• F1 Supercar tires 265-17 front, 295-18 rear, on 17x9.5 and 18x10.5 (one inch wider, respectively
• New LS6 top-end with new style head design (10.5:1 compression, 64cc chamber), LS6 cam (0.525/0.525, 204/211 on 116) - 385hp
• M12 transmission with shorter gearing (1-2-3 analagous to MN6 with 3.90 rear diff
• Titanium exhaust system
• Lightweight windshield
• New, stronger clutch with redesigned master + slave cylinder
• Stronger rear differential (shotpeened ring gear)
• Red brake calipers (otherwise identical)
• Transmission overtemp warning light on DIC
• 6500 redline gauges with special checkering + Z06 font
• Redesigned PCV system to help combat oil burning
• Red LS6 Fuel Rail Covers (FRC's)
• FE4 Z06 suspension - uprated springs, bars (30mm/23.6mm), shocks (note front spring and rear bar same as Z51)

2002
• Z06 Changes:
• Z06 LS6 cam changed to: 0.551/0.547, 204/218 on 117.5
• Less restrictive intake airbox lid
• Descreened MAF
• Removal of pup-cats (total with changes = 405hp)
• Z06 shocks revised with less rebound for better launching
• Z06 brake pads revised for better stopping (generate more dust)
• Lighter, sodium filled valves w/ stronger valve springs
• Higher tension rings installed to prevent oil burning problems
• Slight piston redesign *
• Clutch strength upgraded.
• HUD available on Z06 (not avail '01 model year)
• Wheel supplier changed to Speedline, moved from forged to cast. Weight nearly identical
• Electron Blue color offered
• Steel endlinks changed to aluminum

2003
* RPO FFS introduced new fuel system design Nov 25, '02 w/VIN 14029
* RPO F55 Magnetic Ride Shocks replaced earlier F45
* RPO 1SC 50th Anniv 'Edition' 5K package; others had 50th emblems only

2004

* Commemorative Editions to honor success of C5R Racer
* Carbon fiber introduced on Z06 CE hood
* Z06 suspension revised to improve cornering control
* amended for 03/04 only

Last edited by cor28vettes; May 17, 2011 at 12:11 AM.
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 12:31 PM
  #15  
TheRadioFlyer's Avatar
TheRadioFlyer
Thread Starter
Supporting Vendor
15 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 895
From: Republic of Texas
Default

Was there any changes between the 01 and 02 NON-Z06?
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 02:02 PM
  #16  
Rob04C5LM's Avatar
Rob04C5LM
Pro
 
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 720
Likes: 2
From: Walnut Creek CA
Default

Unless you care about the 50th or LeMans CEs, the 2001+ coupes are pretty much the same. I'd be more interested in the price/mileage/options value equation than the subtle differences in the 01+ cars.

I have noticed a few minor things that are different on my 2004 than on the 01-03s that aren't listed above (for example, I got a different style thermostat) but I'm sure none of it is terribly significant.

Can't wait to see what you do with it!
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 03:51 PM
  #17  
peter pan's Avatar
peter pan
Life Time NCM #2196
Supporting Lifetime
Veteran: Air Force
20 Year Member
Liked
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 82,582
Likes: 1,693
From: Converse TX
Default

I would get the newest Coupe you can afford and enjoy a new Vette
Reply

Get notified of new replies

To Considering a Late Model C5

Old May 16, 2011 | 04:35 PM
  #18  
RedSoxFan's Avatar
RedSoxFan
Drifting
15 Year Member
Active Streak: 30 Days
Active Streak: 60 Days
Liked
 
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,998
Likes: 33
From: somewhere in New Hampshire
Default

I would look for an early model '03, according to info that was posted in an old thread the problematic gas tank design was introduced in 2003 models with VIN 35111542 (beginning on assembly date Nov. 25, 2002). The problem I'm referring to is the leaking cross-over connector.
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 05:14 PM
  #19  
cor28vettes's Avatar
cor28vettes
Race Director
15 Year Member
Veteran: Army
Liked
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,188
Likes: 1,138
From: Santa Rosa Beach FL
Default

Originally Posted by theradioflyer
Was there any changes between the 01 and 02 NON-Z06?
A/T trans cooler cases changed from SS to aluminum.

Front stabilizer links were changed from steel to aluminum. Initially intended for Z51 & Z06 but all 02's had them.

Verts with heads-up (& Z06) had thinner 4.8mm windshield. Others had 5.4mm

RPO N73 mag wheels weren't listed as optional, but were available at $1,500 in limited quantities (114). Floor mats were standard.

The usual drop/add color changes

source: Genuine Corvette Black Book
Reply
Old May 16, 2011 | 05:22 PM
  #20  
max'svette's Avatar
max'svette
Race Director
 
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 16,154
Likes: 0
From: Kali
St. Jude Donor '11
Default

Originally Posted by theradioflyer
Was there any changes between the 01 and 02 NON-Z06?
An engine that doesn't burn oil.
Reply



All times are GMT -4. The time now is 10:12 AM.

story-0
Top 10 Most Explosive Corvettes Ever Made: Power-to-Weight Ratio Ranked!

Slideshow: The 10 most explosive Corvettes ever built based on power-to-weight ratio.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-20 07:23:03


VIEW MORE
story-1
150 hp to 1,250 hp: Every Corvette Generation Compared by the Specs That Matter

Slideshow: From C1 to C8 we compare every Corvette generation by the numbers.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-12 16:54:12


VIEW MORE
story-2
8 Coolest Corvette Pace Cars (and Replicas) of All Time

Slideshow: Some Corvette pace cars became collectible legends, while others perfectly captured the look and attitude of their era.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-11 09:50:51


VIEW MORE
story-3
Top 10 Corvette Engines RANKED by Peak Torque (70+ Years of Muscle!)

Slideshow: Ranking the top 10 Corvette engines by torque output.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-05 11:58:09


VIEW MORE
story-4
Corvette ZR1X Will Be Pacing the Indy 500, And Could Probably Race, Too!

Slideshow: A Corvette pace car nearly matching IndyCar speeds sounds exaggerated, until you look at the numbers.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-04 20:03:36


VIEW MORE
story-5
Top 10 Corvettes Coming to Mecum Indy 2026!

Among a rather large group of them.

By Brett Foote | 2026-05-04 13:56:44


VIEW MORE
story-6
Top 10 C9 Corvette MUST-HAVES to Fix These C8 Generation Flaws!

Slideshow: the top 10 things Corvette owners want in the C9 Corvette

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-04-30 12:41:15


VIEW MORE
story-7
10 Revolutionary 'Corvette Firsts' Most People Don't Know

Slideshow: 10 Important Corvette 'firsts' that every fan should know.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-29 17:02:16


VIEW MORE
story-8
5 Reasons to Upgrade to an LS6-Powered Corvette; 5 Reasons to Stay LT2

Slideshow: Should you buy a 2020-2026 Corvette or wait for 2027?

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-04-22 10:08:58


VIEW MORE
story-9
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every C8 vs Its Closest Competitor

Slideshow: 2027 Corvette lineup vs the world.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-24 16:12:42


VIEW MORE