Vettedream53

Hi,

I have been wanting to get a Corvette now for over 40 years. I am finally getting a lot closer to buying one. I've done quite a bit of research on these cars but there's still a lot I don't know. I am going back and forth between a C5 and C6. I realize the C6 is more advanced in a lot of ways but I kind of like the exterior of the C5 a little better. My budget would also be better suited for a C5 also. But if I found the right C6 at the right price, I wouldn't count it out. I realize I'm in the C5 Forum also. But any input as to both would be very much appreciated. I'm concerned with seat comfort (mainly because I'm 65) and also which is better for those long drives. By the way, I'm trying not to spend more than $21,000 or $22,000. Thanks again for reading this post.

Gary (NJ)

jd_black_00

C5 is better looking imho and many C6 parts bolt up to it so that made the decision very easy for me

3sACROWD

The best advice I can give you is to drive both and see what you like better. If you like both, then look for both. When you find THE ONE for you, you will know it. Your gut will tell you.

Don't be afraid to look at many Vettes. Be picky as this is a car you want but don't need. If the deal doesn't feel right, it isn't. I looked at over 30 Vettes before I found mine. I've owned it almost 8 years and have NEVER regretted it. I've added over 130k miles during that time too.

Enjoy the hunt. It is part of the experience.

Forcedvert

I’ve driven my buddies C6 and there is no doubt it is more comfortable but I also prefer the look of a C5...

unless you you could stretch to C6 Z they look awesome

Jackie N

Base C5 vs C6, I'd go for the C6.

C5 Z06 vs base C6, I'd go with the C5Z.

There's no doubt that the C6 is the nicer and more comfortable car. Better interior, better seats, and more power.

Not4spd

When it comes to Corvettes, buy the newest you can afford. The only difference would be if you just absolutely love a certain generation. Interior is a little bit nicer on the C6 and the ride is a little more refined.

DDaaryl

I'd go with the C6 but be aware the 2005 automatic does not have paddle shifters that were added in 2006 and newer

Kurac

C6 just for interior alone

grampi50

Everything I've read on both leads me to similar issues. If comparing '01-'04 C5s to say pre-'08 C6s, I'd go with a C5. Most people say if you're going C6, go with an '08 or later model. It's kind of like the later model C5s being a better choice than the earlier models...

Tsumi

Don't get stuck with an 05 C6. The electronics of the 05 was a weird hybrid of the 04 C5 and 06 C6 electronics, with the downsides of both and none of the good of either.

The 08 C6 came with a lot of refinements, one of which being the LS3 engine. Holding out for an 08+ over the 05-07 is worth it if you're looking at C6 IMO.

jaki30

Having owned both, the C5 is easier to get in/out of (especially for us older people).
Also, the C5 has pop up headlights. (like the C2 )
Recommend the 2001-2004 model as some of the earlier year C5s have important parts
that are not available anymore.

RPGR90s

I looked a long time and settled on a C5 convertible. Styling is personal and I really love the overall looks of the C5, the hidden headlights, the smooth lines from the side, the gorgeous view over the head when driving. I contend that the C6 has a better designed rear end but I guess I love the C6 front and again, that's personal.

Just like anything, the newer the better, usually more refined.

I really like the ride of the C5. It's tight, taut but at times on the right road, almost Buick like.

Zero complaints with this car. Oh, and the 6 speed made me learn to love driving again.

Good luck

Black03vert

Buy a 2001-2004 C5 or a 2006+ C6. Stay away from 2005 and early C5s.

Vetteman Jack

Drive them both and see which one calls to you. If it is the C6, I would see if the ‘08+ is in your price range, just for the LS3 alone. I had three C5s and never really considered a C6 - other than perhaps a GS or Z06.

ShagVette

Gary, you have a C5 for your forum profile avatar/pic, so if that is the color you desire, then search and find one.

Like said, drive each generation, and you'll probably know what feels better to you. When looking at used, find the date code on the tires



keeping in mind regardless of how they look, older will feel hard and not perform well, new tires of course literally transform how a car rides

coletrickle35

Go with a late-model C5. You can find a C5 that's in great condition or a C6 that's been driven hard for the same $.

Keith Richards

I have both, '98 pretty loaded and a '07 1lt (pretty much no options like upgraded radio, heated seats, ect.). The C6 is .2/10 quicker at the track but for most street driving you don't really feel the power difference as they are both stock other than cat back exhaust which is only for sound if anything else. That all being said I do like the way the '98 looks, drives and feels in the drivers seat much better. FWIW they both have relatively low miles with the '98 at 53k and the '07 at 50k. One thing I do like about the '07 better is the paddle shift auto, if you get a C6 I would stay away from an '05 if auto as it will be a 4 gear as mentioned above. Good luck with your search.

Toys4Life C5

Since you are shopping soon, avoid 97-00 C5's (dreaded EBCM problem with no good solution) and the 05 C6 (first year, weak diff).

Get a cream puff with less than 60k in whichever one you think looks and fits you best. You will pay about 10K more for a C6 for what most would say is a marginal benefit at most.

I went through this decision myself and made a Video to organize my thoughts. Take a look.

C5 vs C5, which is better?

Vettedream53

Thanks!! That was very helpful! Very good video. Best of luck to you if you decide to look for a C6. As for me, I'm still not sure what I'm gonna do. I am in no rush. I will test drive both and see which I like better.

Tsumi

That's the best way to look at cars. No rush, wait for the right deal.