C5 or C7
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 10,238
Likes: 96
From: not far enough from Chicago
C5 or C7
OK, I own a 1998 C5 in SUPER MINT CONDITION, 20K miles, garage kept, just a couple of appearance mods.
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 4,671
Likes: 1,245
From: Southern Ca
OK, I own a 1998 C5 in SUPER MINT CONDITION, 20K miles, garage kept, just a couple of appearance mods.
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Acct Suspended APR 2026 by request
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 10,367
Likes: 1,272
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
C5 of Year Winner (performance mods) 2019
no way I would get rid of my c5z for a c7/c7z... my car is faster, looks better, and has cost me less money (so far)... the front of the c7 looks like a fish or something in that kids movie CARS and the rear is just
... the competition seats are nice though!
... the front of the c7 looks like a fish or something in that kids movie CARS and the rear is just... the competition seats are nice though!
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,422
Likes: 118
From: San Gabriel Valley California
St. Jude Donor '14-'15
OK, I own a 1998 C5 in SUPER MINT CONDITION, 20K miles, garage kept, just a couple of appearance mods.
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Lowered about 1.5" on stock bolts, OEM C6 19x18 chrome wheels, spoiler professionally painted at a body shop, as shiny as the car.
In my opinion;
The best example of a C5 I have ever seen, but I may be a little bit partial.
Oh, I forgot, a C5 emblem on the steering wheel.
I went to a Chevy dealer today. I was able to put my C5 next to a C7 side by side both facing forward.
In my opinion my C5 looks superior. Just because I own a C5 has nothing to do with it.
If I wanted to I would I would buy a C7
I asked my wife if everything was the same, both new, same price, what would be the choice?
She thinks the C7 looks much better, only seeing them drive around on the street. Some people just have bad taste in things, I guess.
So, if you were given the same choice;
What would the answer be?
Like you (OP), I have the car I want. I love my 2003 C5. If I wanted another, I'd have it.
But, I also appreciated C7 from the beginning, even the rear end many disliked.
And, just recently, I got a ride in Andy's (A&A) new C7 Z06. It's really nice. And the Z looks even more awesome. Great ride, and I love the sound of the pipes growl, when he 'hit it' a little...
I commented how good it felt, and Andy reminded me that 'yours (my C5) has more power, for now'. And then he smiled...
Also, mine weighs a couple hundred pounds (at least) less than C7 Z.
So, it's such a subjective thing, to each his own. I think it's ok, for you to think your's the most beautiful Corvette. I get it, and feel the same way.
Certainly one can understand the excitement of getting a new Corvette, as well.
I still, open the garage door sometimes, just to look out at my C5, sitting there. And I love what I see. I'll keep it, for the forseeable future.....
Don
Last edited by donald4972; Aug 23, 2015 at 09:56 AM. Reason: spelling
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,422
Likes: 118
From: San Gabriel Valley California
St. Jude Donor '14-'15
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 3,311
Likes: 386
From: Toronto Ontario
Ill never understand automotive designers, they seem to be so out of touch and almost seems like after a successful design they fire the entire staff and hire new people, who then go and F%^& everything up.
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 6,774
Likes: 363
From: Midland TX
Ill never understand automotive designers, they seem to be so out of touch and almost seems like after a successful design they fire the entire staff and hire new people, who then go and F%^& everything up.
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 10,238
Likes: 96
From: not far enough from Chicago
The C5 has the perfect shape for being aerodynamic. Low in the front and tapers up higher at the rear.
In my opinion that shape will never GO OUT OF STYLE, it’s timeless. The C7 doesn’t have that look if you view them side by side. Just look at a commercial jet aircraft. They maintain the same basic shape because it slices through the air easier.
In my opinion that shape will never GO OUT OF STYLE, it’s timeless. The C7 doesn’t have that look if you view them side by side. Just look at a commercial jet aircraft. They maintain the same basic shape because it slices through the air easier.
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Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 4,168
Likes: 21
From: Sunniest city on Earth
C5 or C7
Ill never understand automotive designers, they seem to be so out of touch and almost seems like after a successful design they fire the entire staff and hire new people, who then go and F%^& everything up.
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
Although porsches are pretty unreliable money pits I will give them credit for sticking with the same design over the years and just adding to it.
The C3 was definitely a timeless design, they blew it with the C4, its not that bad but its a step down from the C3, they redeemed themselves with the C5 and should of built on that style in a positive way, not butchered it like the C6, and then they come back with another design from way out in left field with the C7.
Its almost like they have a team of people who have no idea of what they are doing and where they are going, literally all over the place.
The C7 is a nice car, but its a little wacky looking
The C7 is selling like hot cakes, so clearly the design hasn't been a problem
Administrator
Joined: Mar 2001
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From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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I do like my C5, but I also think the designers did a great job with the C7. Perhaps some day I'll make the jump to the newer generation, but for now, there is not a thing wrong with having a C5 and it still puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. Plus I have a lot more money in my pocket.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 734
Likes: 45
From: Over in the UK
Funny I went through similar thoughts on my 99 vert and looking at not C7 but grand sport C6....
Lots of deliberations over it.. When sat at my computer thinking C6, but open garage, look at mine take it out.. I love it.. And prefer the design of mine too.. Over here in the UK we have less choice available of options..
If I was going C6 it would be taking a bit hit in mine, and got some nice mods already done that will never recover.. Dump some savings, then top up with a loan.. Then no doubt the C6 over coming years is going to go on quite a downward track of depreciation where by my C5 is paid for, and fairly bottomed out for now.
Mine is more financial and a heart decision...So what I have decided to do is keep mine and for less than the depreciation I would see on a C6 finish mine the way I want it.. So looking at a supercharger initially, then new upgrade seats, brakes etc and just enjoy my car more!
One of the big things for me is my car is circa 16 years old.. OK over here a lot of people don't know these cars.. But C5 is a timeless design, most think it's new! Some designs do that, C5 is one of them that's hasn't dated... My friend has a Nissan 300zx twin turbo.. It looks newish too and it's 25 years old!!
So I'm answer to the question, in a few years the C7 would be in the GS territory now.. But don't think I would do it... I'm surprised I'm saying that!!
Lots of deliberations over it.. When sat at my computer thinking C6, but open garage, look at mine take it out.. I love it.. And prefer the design of mine too.. Over here in the UK we have less choice available of options..
If I was going C6 it would be taking a bit hit in mine, and got some nice mods already done that will never recover.. Dump some savings, then top up with a loan.. Then no doubt the C6 over coming years is going to go on quite a downward track of depreciation where by my C5 is paid for, and fairly bottomed out for now.
Mine is more financial and a heart decision...So what I have decided to do is keep mine and for less than the depreciation I would see on a C6 finish mine the way I want it.. So looking at a supercharger initially, then new upgrade seats, brakes etc and just enjoy my car more!
One of the big things for me is my car is circa 16 years old.. OK over here a lot of people don't know these cars.. But C5 is a timeless design, most think it's new! Some designs do that, C5 is one of them that's hasn't dated... My friend has a Nissan 300zx twin turbo.. It looks newish too and it's 25 years old!!
So I'm answer to the question, in a few years the C7 would be in the GS territory now.. But don't think I would do it... I'm surprised I'm saying that!!
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 901
Likes: 190
All depends on what your individual needs are. I love the look of my C5, but having a C7 would be a major step up in build quality, handling ( without mods) and would be nice having warranty. In the end my C5 is for weekend shows, C7 would just be 3to4 x cost and fill the same purpose. Either one would be great to own but this guy is staying with his C5.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 799
Likes: 160
From: Landenberg PA
I love my C5, I get a ton of compliments and most people ask what year is it, they are surprised when I tell them a 2000. I sit on the step of my garage every morning with my cup of coffee and just look at it, great way to start the day.
I agree the exterior design is timeless, however the only issue I have is that the interior does seem dated especially the seats. ( which may get resolved this winter).
That being said the C7 is a beautiful car, i think the design is contemporary and helps to keep it relevant when up against the way more expensive "super cars" of today.
If I had the means I would pass on a C6 and get a C7.
I agree the exterior design is timeless, however the only issue I have is that the interior does seem dated especially the seats. ( which may get resolved this winter).
That being said the C7 is a beautiful car, i think the design is contemporary and helps to keep it relevant when up against the way more expensive "super cars" of today.
If I had the means I would pass on a C6 and get a C7.
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 4,168
Likes: 21
From: Sunniest city on Earth
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 6,119
Likes: 156
From: Huntington tx
C7 is better, if you don't like it that's fine it's your opinion. If I had no Corvette I'd get one set-up the way I want it. However with that said I already have the Corvette I want in my garage.
My C5 is just fine and suits me. I don't have to worry if it's gonna drop a grenade in the engine and be flatbedded back to GM so they can try and solve the current issues the C7Z has. GM will certainly fix the issues....I don't want to be the tester for them. BUT make NO MISTAKE....The C7 and C7Z are a fantastic looking rides and have LOTS of happy owners.
So again....if given the choice and I have no vette.... I'd pick the C7.
My C5 is just fine and suits me. I don't have to worry if it's gonna drop a grenade in the engine and be flatbedded back to GM so they can try and solve the current issues the C7Z has. GM will certainly fix the issues....I don't want to be the tester for them. BUT make NO MISTAKE....The C7 and C7Z are a fantastic looking rides and have LOTS of happy owners.
So again....if given the choice and I have no vette.... I'd pick the C7.
