Recon_Joe

C5 ... mic drop!

doublenut9

We have had our C5 for 2 years now. We have a 69 TTop, that we have had for years. When we started the search we looked at styling first. In our opinion the C 5 had that hands down. Then we got on the forum and started reading researching. The later year models seemed to have less issues, so we decided on a base model 2004. Have not regretted the decision once. Fun car to drive and I smile every time I get in it.

JohnRogers

My plan is to buy a 2001 getting the 350hp and hopefully avoiding the battery and locking steering issues.

Keith Richards

I like Cargurus search engine if this link works right they list 1,252 97-04 automatics now nationwide......of course you can edit it to the radius you are willing to travel.

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/invent...sModified=true

redzg

For me, the C4's electronic dash is just too fixed in the 80's -- the time for Nightrider came and went. Some of the C3's are delightful (loved my '73), but are just a little too raw for long road trips. The C6 is another step up, both in performance and in price. The C7 is just priced outside reason for me. I don't owe that much on my house! Dollar for dollar, this is bargain that just can't be beat.

friou

While looking at available C5's, read the stickies at the top of this page, very important. As other posters above have stated, and I fully agree, the C5 is the all time bargain performance car of this century. Quick, even in stock form, handles nicely, enough luggage room, and comfortable enough for a long drive. C5's however are getting old and they do have their issues, so doing your due diligence in the form of checking accident, maintenance history and a thorough going over by a qualified tech and help ensure a good ownership experience. Take your time, be thorough and fussy. Do not settle on a marginal or problem C5 as they can be very expensive to get it straightened out. Lots of loved on and beautiful C5's are available with some dedicated and patient looking. If you find a car that looks good you can post details on this forum and I guarantee members will be very happy to help with advice. Happy hunting!

JohnRogers

I'm still confused, now I think I want a blue 2003 or 2004 convertible or silver, 50th Anniversary...anything but red.

twokbolt

2002-2004 were all pretty much the same. You've narrowed down the body style which is good. Now decide if you want automatic or stick. Then you can go shopping.

coia96vette

How about a beautiful '04 Z51 coupe. Been thinking about selling mine because I just don't drive much since the divorce. It is black on black auto with both tops and all options. PM me for pics and more info if you are interested.

JohnRogers

I seriously respect the Z06 as a road corse machine that takes the battle to the Germans and Japanese but I'm wanting an open air GT.

coia96vette

I think you are confusing the Z06 with my Z51 coupe. The Z51 is a handling package that is basically the Z06 suspension on the coupe. Although not a convertible, the top is removable with just three catches and can be stored in the back. The Z06 is a six speed manual only and my coupe is an automatic. I have both the lexan clear top and the black hard top. Good luck with your search. That is half the fun.

grampi50

While this is not bad advise, it severely limits one's choices. To rule out all pre-'01 C5s means you're automatically ruling out half or more of the C5s that were built, which is going to make a buyer's search all that much more difficult. The only year model I would rule out would the '97, and that's only because first year models of a new design tend to have more problems than successive year models. I know why people recommend staying away from the pre-'01 models, because if the EBCM fails it can't be repaired, but the way I look at it, if the unit hasn't failed by now, it's likely not going to fail...

JohnRogers

The Z06 is a fixed roof coupe, right?

zeevette

Yes, but the Z51 is a handling package for standard Corvettes only. Either 'vert, or coupe. Don't confuse this package for a Z06.

JohnRogers

I think I really want a 2010 Cyber Gray Metallic Grand Sport convertible...yes I realize my budget must increase significantly.

Jeff T.

Only I think it might be more than "slightly".

57gman

I couldn't agree with you more. I was stuck between a C3 and C5 and bought the C5. Now, for number two, it's between the early C3 or C7.