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C5 Base with NO options (Missing fog lights and dual climate HVAC)? Should I buy...

Old 08-14-2020, 12:18 PM
  #21  
Kam1685
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Originally Posted by MWWarlord
$22K is not totally unreasonable for a well optioned '04 with that mileage. I would try to negotiate it down if you can. However, what you're describing is worth $20K+ (especially if you're buying from a dealer). Another thing to consider is that parts for the "04 will be somewhat more available than parts for the '02. I would strongly advise you to actually drive the '02, the '04, and the Z06. Once you've actually driven each car, you can make a much more informed decision. Frankly, all 3 options are great. You should try them all, and decide what's best for you.
Thanks. The 02 and 04 are both 2 owners, which is nice. There are so many 5-7 owners ones.

The colors are the only thing holding me up on the 04. It's silver, which looks nice, but the 02 is torch red with polished wheels. The red looks so nice. There seems to be so many silver C5s for sale.
Old 08-14-2020, 12:20 PM
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Originally Posted by MWWarlord
$22K is not totally unreasonable for a well optioned '04 with that mileage. I would try to negotiate it down if you can. However, what you're describing is worth $20K+ (especially if you're buying from a dealer). Another thing to consider is that parts for the "04 will be somewhat more available than parts for the '02. I would strongly advise you to actually drive the '02, the '04, and the Z06. Once you've actually driven each car, you can make a much more informed decision. Frankly, all 3 options are great. You should try them all, and decide what's best for you.
Wait. just reread your comment about part availability. Aren't the parts generally the same for an 02-04?
Old 08-14-2020, 12:28 PM
  #23  
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Originally Posted by Kam1685
Wait. just reread your comment about part availability. Aren't the parts generally the same for an 02-04?
There is a pretty significant difference in parts from the earlier cars and the later ones. However, you are right that most (not all) parts from the '02 and '04 are the same.
Old 08-14-2020, 12:40 PM
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Originally Posted by MWWarlord
There is a pretty significant difference in parts from the earlier cars and the later ones. However, you are right that most (not all) parts from the '02 and '04 are the same.
Thanks. All of the research led me to only pick an 02-04.
Old 08-14-2020, 12:43 PM
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Originally Posted by Kam1685
Thanks. The 02 and 04 are both 2 owners, which is nice. There are so many 5-7 owners ones.

The colors are the only thing holding me up on the 04. It's silver, which looks nice, but the 02 is torch red with polished wheels. The red looks so nice. There seems to be so many silver C5s for sale.
That's a big consideration for a lot of people (myself included). It is all about personal preference. As long as the car you buy is in good shape, at a good price, and it makes you happy, there is no wrong answer here. Unless you're under a time crunch to get this done, I advise you to take your time. There are LOTS of C5s out there. Wait until you find the right one for you. I would still drive all 3 of the options that you're currently looking at. That will give you a MUCH better idea of what you want. If you find you really like the '04 more than the '02 (but you don't like the silver) wait until you can find a fully stocked '04 in torch red. If you like the '02 just as much as the '04, buy the '02. Again, this will come down to what you want. You should try them all so you know what that is.
Old 08-14-2020, 06:43 PM
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With the age of our cars, I wouldn't let the number of owners deter you. Condition and maintenance are more critical.

As for comfort, I find my Z06 very comfortable for trips and daily driving. I have driven several 1200 mile days without issue.

This is a car you want. You don't need it. Shop for the one that speaks to you. I looked at 30-40 Vettes before finding mine. I knew I was going to buy it as soon as I pulled up next to it. I have owned it longer than any other car I've had and it still makes me happy when I look at it. Happier when I drive it. I bought mine with 167k miles on it and it now has 292k and I still get compliments on it from all ages. Funny...it is silver.
Old 08-14-2020, 07:25 PM
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Originally Posted by Kam1685
Thanks. The 02 and 04 are both 2 owners, which is nice. There are so many 5-7 owners ones.

The colors are the only thing holding me up on the 04. It's silver, which looks nice, but the 02 is torch red with polished wheels. The red looks so nice. There seems to be so many silver C5s for sale.
Red cars are faster . . .
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Old 08-14-2020, 07:40 PM
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Originally Posted by 3sACROWD
With the age of our cars, I wouldn't let the number of owners deter you. Condition and maintenance are more critical.

As for comfort, I find my Z06 very comfortable for trips and daily driving. I have driven several 1200 mile days without issue.

This is a car you want. You don't need it. Shop for the one that speaks to you. I looked at 30-40 Vettes before finding mine. I knew I was going to buy it as soon as I pulled up next to it. I have owned it longer than any other car I've had and it still makes me happy when I look at it. Happier when I drive it. I bought mine with 167k miles on it and it now has 292k and I still get compliments on it from all ages. Funny...it is silver.
thanks. That’s awesome that yours has that many miles. I just saw a great condition 2002 with 115k miles, listed at $10k. It sparked my interest.
Old 08-14-2020, 07:41 PM
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Originally Posted by K9Leader
Red cars are faster . . .
especially the ones with racing stripes.
Old 08-14-2020, 09:50 PM
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Originally Posted by MWWarlord
$22K is not totally unreasonable for a well optioned '04 with that mileage. I would try to negotiate it down if you can. However, what you're describing is worth $20K+ (especially if you're buying from a dealer). Another thing to consider is that parts for the "04 will be somewhat more available than parts for the '02. I would strongly advise you to actually drive the '02, the '04, and the Z06. Once you've actually driven each car, you can make a much more informed decision. Frankly, all 3 options are great. You should try them all, and decide what's best for you.
Why would the parts be more available on an 04 than an 02?

Last edited by o2bnkc; 08-14-2020 at 09:53 PM.
Old 08-14-2020, 10:15 PM
  #31  
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You can add factory fogs to a car that didn't come from the factory with them.

I did.
Old 08-15-2020, 12:15 AM
  #32  
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Originally Posted by jdmvette
You can add factory fogs to a car that didn't come from the factory with them.

I did.
is it plug and play? Wiring is already there?
Old 08-15-2020, 01:00 AM
  #33  
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It's been a minute since I did this mod but I believe the wiring from the fog light switch + trunk switch is pre-wired to the fuse/relay box.

You will need to replace your trunk-only switch to fog+trunk (eBay)



You then need to run your wiring from the underhood fuse/relay location to the front of the car as this wiring is not present.

I believe I first bought a PIAA kit back in the day that had all the necessary wiring from the fuse box forward. I did eventually switch to stock C5 projector foglight housings (again eBay) as they are superior due to the ability to be fitted with HID then eventually LED bulbs. Be sure you get factory projectors *with* mounting brackets

If you really want to know more on how to do this, I'll see if I can find the old information I used on my installation.
Old 08-15-2020, 08:33 AM
  #34  
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Originally Posted by Stingroo
Go drive both before you discount the Z06 as being "uncomfortable."


The difference between the two is, in my opinion, negligible as far as ride comfort goes.
Agreed, Fog Lights for show, you won't miss them. I don't have dual climate control and its fine. The wife just closes the vents!
Old 08-15-2020, 10:17 AM
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Yeah the fogs are pointless. lol Even with upgraded bulbs they don't do a damn thing.
Old 08-15-2020, 10:34 AM
  #36  
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^^ show means a lot IMHO
Old 08-15-2020, 07:08 PM
  #37  
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Originally Posted by jdmvette
It's been a minute since I did this mod but I believe the wiring from the fog light switch + trunk switch is pre-wired to the fuse/relay box.

You will need to replace your trunk-only switch to fog+trunk (eBay)



You then need to run your wiring from the underhood fuse/relay location to the front of the car as this wiring is not present.

I believe I first bought a PIAA kit back in the day that had all the necessary wiring from the fuse box forward. I did eventually switch to stock C5 projector foglight housings (again eBay) as they are superior due to the ability to be fitted with HID then eventually LED bulbs. Be sure you get factory projectors *with* mounting brackets

If you really want to know more on how to do this, I'll see if I can find the old information I used on my installation.
thanks. If I buy one with no fogs I may research this further.
Old 08-15-2020, 07:09 PM
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Originally Posted by 57gman
Agreed, Fog Lights for show, you won't miss them. I don't have dual climate control and its fine. The wife just closes the vents!
you mean she doesn’t control the AC and you close your vents? Must be nice.


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