A c5 in my future?
Thread Starter
Navigator
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 9
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A c5 in my future?
I've been considering a C5 for spring of 2022. I've never test driven one (hate to be that tire kicker guy). My number one concern would be at 6'4" and 280lbs whether this wide body would fit? Especially if I were to do a few HPDE's and needing to wear a helmet.
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 124
Likes: 93
I've been considering a C5 for spring of 2022. I've never test driven one (hate to be that tire kicker guy). My number one concern would be at 6'4" and 280lbs whether this wide body would fit? Especially if I were to do a few HPDE's and needing to wear a helmet.
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
I'm 6'2" and 235, and and have no problems driving comfortably in my C5, with the seat all the way back. One thing to consider is if you will be purchasing a manual or auto, I can't speak for the C5 but I have owned other manuals where shifting was an issue. (mine is an auto)
Racer
Joined: Jun 2021
Posts: 257
Likes: 75
I've been considering a C5 for spring of 2022. I've never test driven one (hate to be that tire kicker guy). My number one concern would be at 6'4" and 280lbs whether this wide body would fit? Especially if I were to do a few HPDE's and needing to wear a helmet.
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
Any input?
Anything else on the "must know" list before I start looking in earnest?
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 1,233
Likes: 427
From: LI NY
If you are looking for a FRC or Z06 you will probably need to remove the headliner to wear a helmet. At 280lbs it will be a tight fit in any C5. Post your location and maybe someone local to you will let you sit in their car.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 141
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From: Saint joseph MI
I’m 6’5” and 255, I’ve got a 6 speed convertible and don’t have any trouble working clutch. I pretty much only drive with the top down, not sure if a helmet would fit with top up. I have taken the sun visors off as they were in the way.
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Your best bet will be to check out some C5s, maybe at a cruise in or a car show, and see if the owner will allow you to just sit in the car for a test fit. Explain that you are looking to purchase a C5 and the owner may be very understanding.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2017
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From: Virginia
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The C5 is one of the best Corvettes for taller drivers. It can be snug for heavier drivers though. As Jack suggested, I would find someone local that would let you sit in their car. You should certainly test drive any car before you buy it. C5s are great cars, but you really need to sit in one, and decide for yourself if it is a great car for you. Good luck with your search once you start looking. If you have any questions when that time comes, we are always happy to help. You should read all the sticky posts on the top of the forum. They have a ton of great info for when you're looking to buy. Also keep an eye on the for sale section of the forum. Most of the people on here take good care of their cars, so it is a good place to buy from.
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Thread Starter
Navigator
Joined: May 2020
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Some good suggestions. I will find a cruise or owner and ask to give it a try. Might be that the headliner would have to come out at some point to fit my big squash plus helmet. If I go with a C5 it will be a Z06 for certain.
Pro
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 525
Likes: 192
From: Central Ohio
I am almost right at your same measurements and I did a 5.5 hour drive down and 5.5 back home from the National Corvette Museum. The car was actually very comfortable and no issues in driving the car. Now, if you have to have a helmet for HPDE's I can not answer that.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 137
Likes: 21
From: Denver, CO
St. Jude Donor '20
6'4" 295. No problems with fitting in or driving, except for when wearing a helmet. The helmet doesn't really clear the roof, even with the targa top off. It's not bad, just tight. Have to sit a little lower in the seat, which is OK for drag racing, but would be a hassle for other helmet required activities.