C4 LT4 vs. C5
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Heel & Toe
Joined: Apr 2017
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C4 LT4 vs. C5
How would a convertible C4 LT4 compare to a convertible C5? Long time ago I had a coupe LT4 & really liked it. Now debating between a C4 & a C5. Price point seems to be about the same. What about performance as well as comfort (for a weekend trip).
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
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From: Appleton WI
Go with the C5. More foot room and easier to get in and out. You gain considerable foot space due to the transmission being moved rearward and the door sill is in a normal position in relation to the seat.
The C5 vert is also more rigid than a C4 vert so you should have fewer squeaks and rattles.
The C5 vert is also more rigid than a C4 vert so you should have fewer squeaks and rattles.
Last edited by 3sACROWD; Apr 7, 2017 at 08:43 PM.
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From what I have read, the LT-4 engine was a little underrated from the factory and would be pretty comparable to the LS1, at least in HP numbers. The C5 wins hands down in driving comfort, ergonomics, fuel efficiency, and general roominess. It also has less parts to go wrong than the C4. Plus there are features available on the C5 that were not on the C4 - notably the HUD and Active Handling, as well as a transaxle layout.
All that said, I had four C4s before my three C5s and I liked them all. Drive some examples of each generation and then make up your mind. Either would be a fun car to drive.
All that said, I had four C4s before my three C5s and I liked them all. Drive some examples of each generation and then make up your mind. Either would be a fun car to drive.
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A friend had an LT4 Collectors with headers and bolt ons.
His car was strong but past 5500+ rpm reaching to redline you could feel the power band nose over where the LS engine pulls until it slams into the redline like it didn't know it was there.
The LS is smoother, easier to mod for bigger power compared to the LT and the C5 overall is an amazing platform.
I'd like to own a Collectors, but if I could choose one it would be the C5
His car was strong but past 5500+ rpm reaching to redline you could feel the power band nose over where the LS engine pulls until it slams into the redline like it didn't know it was there.
The LS is smoother, easier to mod for bigger power compared to the LT and the C5 overall is an amazing platform.
I'd like to own a Collectors, but if I could choose one it would be the C5
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2011
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From: Gulf Coast Mississippi
St. Jude Donor '13-'14-'15
A friend had an LT4 Collectors with headers and bolt ons.
His car was strong but past 5500+ rpm reaching to redline you could feel the power band nose over where the LS engine pulls until it slams into the redline like it didn't know it was there.
The LS is smoother, easier to mod for bigger power compared to the LT and the C5 overall is an amazing platform.
I'd like to own a Collectors, but if I could choose one it would be the C5
His car was strong but past 5500+ rpm reaching to redline you could feel the power band nose over where the LS engine pulls until it slams into the redline like it didn't know it was there.
The LS is smoother, easier to mod for bigger power compared to the LT and the C5 overall is an amazing platform.
I'd like to own a Collectors, but if I could choose one it would be the C5
yep 
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From: South Dakota
I have a C4 LT4 CE and C5's.
For performance, they are very close.
For a smoother ride and luggage space the C5 is much better.
For comfort that is subjective. The C4 seats feel much better to me. The C4 ride is harsher. The C4 has much less foot space, even worse on the passenger side.
I don't notice that entering or exiting the car is easier in one or the other, but most people say the C5 is easier.
However, the feel of the cars is different and which you prefer is subjective. Personally I like trading off. The C4 gives more feedback and the tighter "cockpit" feel.
The best advice since so much is subjective, is to drive examples of both and see which one you like the best.
Good luck with your choice and have some fun.
For performance, they are very close.
For a smoother ride and luggage space the C5 is much better.
For comfort that is subjective. The C4 seats feel much better to me. The C4 ride is harsher. The C4 has much less foot space, even worse on the passenger side.
I don't notice that entering or exiting the car is easier in one or the other, but most people say the C5 is easier.
However, the feel of the cars is different and which you prefer is subjective. Personally I like trading off. The C4 gives more feedback and the tighter "cockpit" feel.
The best advice since so much is subjective, is to drive examples of both and see which one you like the best.
Good luck with your choice and have some fun.
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From: Rotonda West, Florida
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C4 look is very dated imo, they pretty much look the same as the mid 80's Vette's. And if your planning on modifying the car the LS aftermarket is way bigger.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2006
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From: Grand Rapids Michigan West Michigan Crew
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I had an LT4 for 2 years before going to a 99 coupe. The LT4 had headers, exhaust and a tune and it was real strong. It was just as fast as a stock 6 speed C5. The LT4 I think had better low end power, but the C5 has better upper end pull from what I remember when comparing them. It has been almost 10 years since I sold the LT4 and though it was an awesome car, the only thing I miss about it in comparison to the C5 is the seats. (C5 seats suck, even the sport seats. No Bolsters) The C5 has better handling and the engine is so much better in forms of technology and reliability.
Now keeping in mind you looking into the C5 market. stick to a 2001 or newer. C5's have a few common things that fail and many of them no longer have replacement parts available. Most common is the EBCM (Electronic Brake Control Module) that fails. 97-00 cannon be repaired, only replaced at a hefty price if you can even find one. Even used ones are $500+ where the 01+ can be repaired for only $150
Now keeping in mind you looking into the C5 market. stick to a 2001 or newer. C5's have a few common things that fail and many of them no longer have replacement parts available. Most common is the EBCM (Electronic Brake Control Module) that fails. 97-00 cannon be repaired, only replaced at a hefty price if you can even find one. Even used ones are $500+ where the 01+ can be repaired for only $150
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2016
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From: jefferson texas
While I didn't own a C4 I had friends who did and therefore was able to spend some time around them. Not knocking the C4, but in my humble opinion the C5 is all around, in most every way, a more "liveable" car. Just better in every aspect. Just my two cents. Take care!