Thoughts on buying a C5
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 208
Likes: 2
From: Tulsa Oklahoma
Thoughts on buying a C5
I trashed my C3 the other day (I will fix it and sell it) and think I want a C5 this go around. My meager research has led me to the ZO6 Coupe (didn't know they existed til last night). It appears to be what I would enjoy. Any known short comings of the model or certain years better than others? Any input appreciated.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 19,304
Likes: 85
From: San Diego CA
There were quite a few improvements in model year 2001 and a decent HP increase for the Z06s in 2002 (30 HP increase to 405). So if you want a Z06, you have a choice of 4 model years, 3 of which will get you 405 HP. Remember, though that this is a fixed roof model but if you live in an area that is mostly cloudy, not having access to the sky may be no big deal.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 73,568
Likes: 33
From: Somewhere in Mo
St. Jude Donor '09-'10, '14
Some people say the 01 had an oil consumption issue but not everyone of them. The C5 Z06 is a great car and it's my personal favorite of any vette ever produced.
I don't think you can go wrong with one, just do your due diligence as you would with any car purchase. If you have specific questions come back and ask. Good luck!
I don't think you can go wrong with one, just do your due diligence as you would with any car purchase. If you have specific questions come back and ask. Good luck!
Administrator
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From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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The Z06 would be a good choice for your first C5 - I would recommend an '02 - '04 just due to the increased HP. I have a lot of Word files that might help you out - including a Corvette Buyers Checklist - and if you'd like a copy, PM me your e-mail address.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 1,953
Likes: 4
From: either, ca/ohio
why is it that every time a question about buying a Z06 the 2001 bashers come out.
i am tired of it.
to op: buy the best one you can afford and put aside some time and money to mod it to your liking.
i am tired of it.
to op: buy the best one you can afford and put aside some time and money to mod it to your liking.
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 228
Likes: 2
why is it everyone needs a Z to feel superior? you can build a better car with the money you save(no offense Z guys) but if you buy a z to upgrade the engine parts might as well go base and work from what you got for cheaper
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 73,568
Likes: 33
From: Somewhere in Mo
St. Jude Donor '09-'10, '14
I didn't see anyone bashing the 01. We did state the obvious though. I also didn't realize the OP stated he needed to feel superior. he ask a question, it was answered, then people got their feelings hurt.
Just another day on CF C5 general.
Just another day on CF C5 general.
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Drifting
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,260
Likes: 1
From: Pearl Mississippi
I actually bought a coupe because of the fixed roof on the Z06. For some reason they just didn't look as good as the coupe did at that time. But the more I drive and look the Z06s are great looking cars now. Kinda wierd I know, if I did it again I would probably by a Z the first time. JMO
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 2,789
Likes: 3
From: Jacksonville FL
Simple statement of fact that the 02-04 have 20 more HP. He certainly meant nothing more. 02-04 has very little else over 01 though. 20 HP doesn't cost that much in mods. Personally I wouldn't trade my 01 for an 02-03 based on colors. I might for 04 though since I like the lemans blue.
See ya!
See ya!
Racer
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 405
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From: northern ca
St. Jude Donor '14
I actually bought a coupe because of the fixed roof on the Z06. For some reason they just didn't look as good as the coupe did at that time. But the more I drive and look the Z06s are great looking cars now. Kinda wierd I know, if I did it again I would probably by a Z the first time. JMO
And now I have a real apperication for the look of the fixed roof. Maybe I won't feel that way the first time I get to take the top off, but that can get old too. Heck, all Corvettes are great cars.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 7,604
Likes: 8
From: Belleville Il
Hard tops are a personal preference!! I like my FRC just because its a little different from the rest!! Handles almost as good as a Z,,and has enough power to get in trouble with. It DID manage a 13.08/110.24 without being a Z
!! If you like the z,,go for it,,they are a GREAT car,,,ENJOY!!!
!! If you like the z,,go for it,,they are a GREAT car,,,ENJOY!!!
Administrator
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From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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I think you need to re-read number 4. All I said was the '02-04 has 20 more hp and that's what I would recommend. I did not say the '01 was a terrible car and should not be bought. If you have an '01, great. Don't get all pizzed off over something that is not there.
BTW, there were some changes made to the '02-04 Z06s compared to the '01 - some may think these are worth the extra cost, others may not. Totally up to the individual to decide on that issue.
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
2004
• Z06 shocks further refined. Accompanying upper front control arm bushing, and rear swaybar bushing changes.
BTW, there were some changes made to the '02-04 Z06s compared to the '01 - some may think these are worth the extra cost, others may not. Totally up to the individual to decide on that issue.
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
2004
• Z06 shocks further refined. Accompanying upper front control arm bushing, and rear swaybar bushing changes.
Last edited by Vetteman Jack; Feb 22, 2012 at 12:02 AM.
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,600
Likes: 2
From: Outer banks North Carolina
Don't listen to these guys man, Buy a "99" coupe that is torch red because thats the best Vette on earth! Me owning one has nothing to do with this advice as I am totally unbiased in my "superior" opinion!
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
C5 body style preference
I have owned a 99 A4 coupe, 01 6-speed convertibe and a 04 Z06. We have loved them all.
The 01 did have oil consumption problems but this was remedied with a factory ring replacement. We installed 2004 Z06 suspension (without the Z alignment specs) on this Z-51 car and like the ride even better. Today, it is a daily driver and really is the most fun to drive in the Spring and Fall.
The 04 Z06 has the most horsepower. It steers quicker than the other two, due to its more agressive factory alignment specs. We take it to race track events and this is where it is most fun to drive.
The 99 automatic coupe was also fun to drive, being our first Corvette; but its ride, handling and performance never compared to the other two cars.
All were mostly stock, with simple modifications like intakes and exhausts.
The bottom line is "try them all and buy what you like". Any car can be modified into whatever you want. If you are not wishing to catch the mod bug, then buy one stock in the style you like most and keep it that way.
You rarely, if ever, will recoupe your costs associated with modding a car if you sell it later.
The 01 did have oil consumption problems but this was remedied with a factory ring replacement. We installed 2004 Z06 suspension (without the Z alignment specs) on this Z-51 car and like the ride even better. Today, it is a daily driver and really is the most fun to drive in the Spring and Fall.
The 04 Z06 has the most horsepower. It steers quicker than the other two, due to its more agressive factory alignment specs. We take it to race track events and this is where it is most fun to drive.
The 99 automatic coupe was also fun to drive, being our first Corvette; but its ride, handling and performance never compared to the other two cars.
All were mostly stock, with simple modifications like intakes and exhausts.
The bottom line is "try them all and buy what you like". Any car can be modified into whatever you want. If you are not wishing to catch the mod bug, then buy one stock in the style you like most and keep it that way.
You rarely, if ever, will recoupe your costs associated with modding a car if you sell it later.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 1,780
Likes: 42
From: Lake Norrell Arkansas
To me they are all cool. I like the manual trans. and for the top to go all the way down.
That is just me though every one should get what they want no matter what others say or do.
Good luck on your hunt, you will enjoy which ever vette you end up with.
That is just me though every one should get what they want no matter what others say or do.
Good luck on your hunt, you will enjoy which ever vette you end up with.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,528
Likes: 752
From: South Dakota
I like the FRC/Z06 body style with a real trunk. I also like the coupe and taking the top off sometimes. I couldn't decide, so I've got one of each.
They all run good, and all of them can be modified easily if you want more performance.
Good luck choosing.