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From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
C7 of the Year - Modified Finalist 2021
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You really do need to spend some time behind the wheel and carefully check over what options you want in each of the cars. The newer cars will have many more creature comforts, get much better gas mileage and IMO be more reliable than an older vehicle. I'm on my third C5 and for the money they are very hard to beat.
I sometimes regret my decision getting my C5 instead of an LS3 C6. So many little quirks and issues in these cars.
I also don't think C5 Z06s are worth what many are going for. If its near 20k get a C6 LS3 and don't look back. I don't think any C5 is worth over 20k.
as you can see many dif opinions, I believe as some do the c5 z gives you the best of value maint and style of any of the years. I have had c3 and 4 and didn't really consider them keepers, the c5 imo in the best bang for buck but the c6 if your gonna drive daily might bet the best. While the c7 is awesome don't take the depreciation hit this early on, the c5 can and is a dependable ride for a lot of miles
You could hang out here at the shop on a Saturday. I have probably 3 each of every car you've mentioned sitting here. You can check them out and possibly drive them. Decide for yourself.
Hi Josh.
Unfortunately I’m from suburbs Illinois, I wish I was living closer to you.
Thank yor for your offer.
2025 C8 Z06/7/E-Ray of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2021 C8 of the Year Finalist Unmodified
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
2019 C1 of Year Winner (performance mods)
2017 Corvette of the Year Finalist
2016 C2 of Year
2015 C3 of Year Finalist
Originally Posted by Crosis
I'm not sure where you are from but a C3 doesnt come close to stretching a 30k budget. I can buy C3's all day long for under 15k.
It depends on what they are. 68-72 Big blocks, 70-72 LT-1's command more than 30. I sold a 68 427/390 coupe and a 69 350/350 convertible recently. Both went well into the 30's.
Low horsepower, rubber bumper cars are cheap but they don't perform.
I sometimes regret my decision getting my C5 instead of an LS3 C6. So many little quirks and issues in these cars.
I also don't think C5 Z06s are worth what many are going for. If its near 20k get a C6 LS3 and don't look back. I don't think any C5 is worth over 20k.
I know I wouldn't sell my 20k mile 02Z for $25k. Hell, the wheels alone cost $4k. I know you don't mod cars with any aspirations of getting your money back, but it'll go to a family member before I give it away (my opinion) at too low. I look at all the new Corvettes, Camaros, Mustangs, and Mopar muscle cars and kind of wish...then reality creeps in. I already have a car that's faster, better looking, and aside from shitty seats, a better platform to personalize. A C3 would not even be an option, as I think they're too much trouble to keep nice, and the performance is a joke compared to even a stock Z.
I know I wouldn't sell my 20k mile 02Z for $25k. Hell, the wheels alone cost $4k. I know you don't mod cars with any aspirations of getting your money back, but it'll go to a family member before I give it away (my opinion) at too low. I look at all the new Corvettes, Camaros, Mustangs, and Mopar muscle cars and kind of wish...then reality creeps in. I already have a car that's faster, better looking, and aside from shitty seats, a better platform to personalize. A C3 would not even be an option, as I think they're too much trouble to keep nice, and the performance is a joke compared to even a stock Z.
I have never thought owning a corvette as an investment for me. They are just fun to drive. My C3, ’72 T-top base 4 speed was a great curser to own. Did some engine mods (375 hp) and new paint . Only issue were the brakes but easy to fix. The C5 is a better car for gadgets but not any more for the fun factor IMHO. I enjoy my ‘04C5 vert but down deep I wish I never sold my ’72.
I bought a '71 new when I was a young CPT, drove it 8 yrs as DD across the Pacific. Bought my C5 5 yrs ago, I'm 73, love it. I would look at "want" as to your pull towards the generation and its functions, as well as most important, how much you love being under the hood and down under on the slab. Only your joints and muscles can answer this, but they will someday tell you.
While a noble thought, very inaccurate. When you do the research you will find non Z06 C5's sell every month at auction for more than $20,000. While you might not consider them worth it, people are paying.
While a noble thought, very inaccurate. When you do the research you will find non Z06 C5's sell every month at auction for more than $20,000. While you might not consider them worth it, people are paying.
While a noble thought, very inaccurate. When you do the research you will find non Z06 C5's sell every month at auction for more than $20,000. While you might not consider them worth it, people are paying.
While a noble thought, very inaccurate. When you do the research you will find non Z06 C5's sell every month at auction for more than $20,000. While you might not consider them worth it, people are paying.