Hey all,

I’m new to the forum and a first time Corvette owner! I recently picked up a 2004 base model Magnetic Red coupe with 65k miles on the clock.
I’ve been a Camaro guy since the 70’s, having owned a ‘67, ‘69, ‘96 and a ‘12 (426 hp w/6spd man.!)
Now that I’m “old (er)”, I was looking for a project car to play with in my future retirement days. Gotta buy toys now cuz it’s not in the retirement budget
I found most f-body cars really expensive and stumbled across some reasonably priced C-5’s. Ive always admired Corvettes, but they were either too expensive, or I got shot down for a two seater because of the kids. My kids are now grown *** adults so that “problem” is gone.

I’ve been lurking since December and got bit by the Corvette bug. I’ve been reading stories about forum members taking road trips to get the car of their dreams and started the search for the perfect Corvette for me. As luck would have it, a forum member offered up his car for a reasonable price, and he was local.

My first thought was, “but it’s red” and I’m a “black, blue, grey” car kinda guy. But it is a beauty and it’s time to move out of my comfort zone.

I bought “DennisZ’s” vette and couldn’t be happier. Dennis is a stand up guy and due to personal issues, can’t drive a stick any longer. (Here’s hoping he comes back with a C-5 A4 some day.)

The car is very clean and well maintained, here’s what’s happened since purchase:
Bought the car and drove it home!
New tires (Sumitomo HTR Z III’s because there was one new one on the car with three old ones of various brands, some with ‘04 date codes!)
Went for a drive
Thorough wash and cleaning
Went for a drive
Changed oil/filter
Went for a drive
Installed LMC5 w/brown wire mod
Went for a drive
Washed it again
Went for a drive (gotta love California winters!)

I can’t seem to get rid of this **** eating grin! This car is badass!

At some point I’ll add some sort of exhaust and CAI but for now I’m happy driving the **** out of this thing.

Sorry for the long first post but I wanted to give some background, and to say thanks for the help y’all provided.

I read all the stickies and so many posts I feel like I went into this fully prepared. I know what I’m getting into with a 14 yo car and because I do all my own work, am ready for pretty much anything, once again thanks to all the help from you guys.

Finally, my wife said “this thing’s all done, what kinda project car is this, what are you going to do with it?” to which I replied, “wash it on Saturday and drive it on Sunday*.(everyday is Sunday when you’re retired

Thanks,
Steve

P.S. While driving down to look at this car we we’re listening to Audislave singing “Jewel of the Summertime” which explains my forum name and soon to come personal plates. Seemed appropriate.

Congrats and welcome aboard!