Thinking about buying '97, Input requested.
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Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Greenville SC
Thinking about buying '97, Input requested: (CARFAX now inside).
I've been looking around for my first Corvette. I wouldn't say that I'm in the market, or that I've been looking high and low... but I have always kept my eyes and ears open for a good deal on something that appeals to me. I've found one that is fairly local and is listed at a decent price. I know people always get a little iffy when it comes to buying a first year car, and I was wondering if there is anything that I should be looking out for.
The car has under 30,000 miles on it. It's a Torch Red 6-spd coupe, with a black/silver two tone interior (never seen that combo, looks awesome). It also has the suspension control. Its a two owner car. The current owner has owned it for a little over a year and now has cancer, and that's why he is selling it.
Thanks!
The car has under 30,000 miles on it. It's a Torch Red 6-spd coupe, with a black/silver two tone interior (never seen that combo, looks awesome). It also has the suspension control. Its a two owner car. The current owner has owned it for a little over a year and now has cancer, and that's why he is selling it.
Thanks!
Last edited by MJKvette; Sep 29, 2012 at 06:28 PM.
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Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Greenville SC
That second link is a little scary!
...Well, I guess they're both a little scary. What can happen from the computer failing?
And it appears even with the fixes, the steering can still lock up? Yikes..
...Well, I guess they're both a little scary. What can happen from the computer failing?
And it appears even with the fixes, the steering can still lock up? Yikes..
Last edited by MJKvette; Sep 25, 2012 at 11:16 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 4,671
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From: Southern Ca
Even the new ones fail. 14,000 vs 65,000 for a new one. Sounds like a pretty simple decision. If you are afraid buy 01-04 and still afraid. Buy another car. Mines a 98 .
Last edited by oldC5; Sep 26, 2012 at 08:00 AM.
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From: Should this thoughtful, valuable contribution meet with no acknowledgement or 'thanks' this post----
If you get it for a good price, go for it. Just take care of it, and you should minimize problems...if something acts up, fix it right away, these cars are one of the easiest to work on, right down to how fast you can wash and polish it. Any car is a gamble. My '97 is 15 years old and I still plan to keep driving it. Just do it...we will take care of you too!
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Joined: Sep 2006
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From: Santa Rosa Beach FL
Best thread ever for Newbies
Here is a thread you might want to read that has some discussion about the early year C5's:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...-question.html
And here is still another that will take a bit of time to read:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...ngths-etc.html
Good luck on your decision.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...-question.html
And here is still another that will take a bit of time to read:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...ngths-etc.html
Good luck on your decision.
I can add to that homework assignment
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1249213
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Pro
Joined: Apr 2012
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From: Atlanta GA
Well said. Just find a nice one that you like. Don't worry about year so much. My only hesitation with a super low mileage car is the maintenance. I have had a few issues with old fluids and seals. Check them when you inspect the car. If I had, I would have known to plan on replacing my clutch (really the slave and master cylinders). The car was really well cared for, but since it wasn't driven much, I don't think the older couple realized that all of the maintenance items needed to be changed out based on age too. Also check the tire dates.
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A lot depends on the price. If they're selling well below what other C5's are selling for, it might be worth it. If it's priced close to a much newer C5, probably should pass.
Pro
Joined: Sep 2012
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From: Finleyville PA
I recently got a 97 as well. Took it in on a partial trade for my street rod. Have to say that I wasn't crazy about the idea of a first year C5, but took it anyway.
I love this car! It was a great decision. Any car can break down and if this one does, I'll simply get it fixed. Honestly, as a first Corvette, I don't think you can go wrong. Plus I found this forum and never looked back.
Good luck!!
I love this car! It was a great decision. Any car can break down and if this one does, I'll simply get it fixed. Honestly, as a first Corvette, I don't think you can go wrong. Plus I found this forum and never looked back.
Good luck!!
Burning Brakes
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From: Spiro Oklahoma
"I Totally Agree!"..."Forum members are very helpful!"..."Sound like a great opportunity MJKvette."
007
Last edited by routeman007; Sep 26, 2012 at 10:33 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2009
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From: West Branch, MI
If you feel the car is in good condition, I wouldn't hesitate if it appeals to you. Even though it's a first year C5, there are reports of people here with nearly 350,000 miles on their C5s. My 98 has 118K and is absolutely amazing. I've had my share of the "common" problems with C5s, but you just fix them and move on. The mechanical issues are what can really cost, and if you feel good about the condition of the 97, I'd go for it.
Pro
Joined: Nov 2005
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From: Fresno CA
I've owned my 97 for over 6 years and it has a 187,000 miles on it. I was a bit concerned buying a car with 134,000 miles on it....... but no regrets!
Best wishes on your decision!
And to repeat what has been mentioned, this forum is a great resource for info on repair and mods.
Best wishes on your decision!
And to repeat what has been mentioned, this forum is a great resource for info on repair and mods.
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Thread Starter
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Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 97
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From: Greenville SC
Well, I made an offer on the car today and he accepted it. I will be getting the finances together during the week, and making the drive to check the car out next weekend. If I don't run into any hang-ups and the car is as good as the owner says it is, I will hopefully be driving the car home. Wish me luck!
Last edited by MJKvette; Sep 29, 2012 at 11:22 PM.