Hi, I have lots of general type questions I would like to ask. Seems like they should go in the 'general corvette' forum but the subtitles there seem to be too specific.
I'm seeking buying advice and opinions about different aspects of 'livability ", ride, and other 'issues' that are different between the various generations.
I recently drove my friend's '07 C6 and of course I'm now spoiled, but I know my limitations. Because of my price point, (about 20k)I am mainly interested in a late C4 or any C5. I do not want a convertible.
I would also like to know what other's experiences have been buying a car from a distant seller, and how realistic are the prices of cars on the numerous online dealers like ebay, vettefinder, cars.com...etc. AND are the cars to be avoided?
I'm also curious about Autocheck and Carfax, whether they are really worth the effort.
Thanks!!

 

Well as you may have noticed this form is setup by the different generations (i.e. C1 - C6). Each has a general section so that is where you will post under normal conditions, but seeing you mentioned a C4 or C5 let me say that if you have $20K as a budget you can get into a nice C5 for that price especially seeing you are not looking for a convertible. I would also recommend a C5 over a C4 as I have had both and the C5 is a world apart from a C4. The C5 was a complete redesign of the Corvette, and no parts or systems were carried over from the C4. What I and most everyone on the forum will tell you is get the latest year with the lowest miles. If you can find a 2001 or newer go for it (that is again miles) as the major changes and refinements took place in 2001.
As for ride, after all you are buying a sports car not a luxury sedan so the ride will be a little harsh to rough depending. The Z51 will be the hardest ride over a stock suspension.
If you find a vehicle that is not close to you, there are members on the forum that are willing to go check it out. There are also professionals that can do it for you also.
Last is the pricing. If you are buying locally, just shop around and see what they are asking and check the Kelley Blue Book or the NADA or any of the pricing publication available online. If you find one out of your area, you can do the same was if it was local. Most pricing guidelines allow you to put in the zip code and that will give you a price in that area as Corvette prices will vary from different parts of the country and the time of year.
Hope this helps.

 

I agree - with a $20K budget, go for a really nice C5. Much better ergonomics, performance, high tech features and better fuel economy than a C4 (in most cases).

If you find the right car, don't be afraid to travel a distance to get it. I found my current C5 right here on the forum and ended up traveling from my home here in mid-Missouri to New Jersey to buy it. Drove it home and had a blast.

I do have some Word files that talk about the C5 platform and also have a Corvette Buyers Checklist. If you'd like a copy, PM me your e-mail address.

 

My spending your time reading on here, by using the search function and asking questions of topics you just can't find, you should be able to know about most issues and problems and such with these cars.

 

I found mine through cars.com at a mainly internet dealer 450 Miles away. Flew to Dallas and drove it home to Lafayette, La. Car was exactly like it was represented. Immaculate 2000 C5 Torch Red Coupe.

 

For the money the C5 is a nice vehicle. I got my 1999 almost four years ago for 18,500 and it had 48k miles at the time. So for today you should be able to find a nice 2001-2004 with low miles regular coupe and not a vert of Z06 for the 16000-20000 price range. It will be a nice driving car and still look good. I drive mine daily and wouldn't trade my experiences with it for any other car, except a newer vette.

 

I do appreciate everyone's encouragement! Should I be taking this thread to a 'proper' place?
Anyway, I really like the C5. Is it worth trying for an early C6 as well?. Is below 50k miles asking for problems? In other words, should I be looking for 30k and lower? I was also advised that a super low mileage car can be a problem because it was not used enough and vital fluids and seals do not get circulated/lubed enough.
Vetteman, you came to Jersey....does that mean I have to go to Missouri for mine?? My friend/consultant/advisor here is very nervous about buying out of state.
btw, is there a consensus of opinion about a car that was in an accident but 100% repaired by a Chevy dealer?

 

I bought a 01 - C5 Vert a few months ago - 7,000 miles - car was mint - they were asking 29K - I offered 20K cash & had it with me - I drove the car home! In this market - money talks & BS walks - simple as that - just be prepared to buy with cash or the funds ready to make the buy - I found the car on Craigs List about 3 hours south - I could have spent less but I wanted a vert - drop the top - raise the price - It's always been the rule - good luck - tom

 

Tom, was that the only time you saw the car?? I guess with 7k, it's a no brainer?

 

The car was as new - did a car Fax & a Auto check on the spot - car came back clean - drove it around the block - It was the color I wanted inside & out - Transmission I wanted - I didn't want big HP - It was the perfect car for us & the sellers were good people - They had 6 vehicles - He liked to drive the Viper more than the Vett- can't hold that against him! They had kids so she drove the Lexas - the Vette set in the garage.

I'm not a tire kicker - when I go shopping, I know what I'm looking for & when I find it i buy it - rarely do I have to sleep on it - I did that once & missed out on a great buy.

 

I understand. I sometimes think one can be too careful. Isn't that what exhaustive research is for?