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Old Jun 19, 2025 | 03:26 PM
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Default Retirement Gift

I'm researching to buy a used C7 or C8 within the next year or two as a retirement gift to myself. Any issues (model year, engine, recalls, electronics, etc.) that i should look out for?
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Old Jun 19, 2025 | 04:17 PM
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overheating on the early 15-16 models with the a8 trans. dod lifter failure on all the lt4 motors no matter the yr. transmission shudder on the a8 trans dash peeling, seat bolsters on the bottom cushion going flat, up/down cable failure on the infotainment screen, infotainment screen going black , dash flicker on early 14-15 models.
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Old Jun 19, 2025 | 05:27 PM
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The 19 C7, being the last year will have the mostest and the bestest of design and build upgrades.
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Old Jun 19, 2025 | 05:43 PM
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This is kind of an apples to oranges comparison (kind of, between the C7 & C8). What's your first call? Also, do you have a preference for a Stingray, GS, Z06? Auto / Manual?
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Old Jun 19, 2025 | 11:38 PM
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^^^100%^^^


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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 12:00 AM
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Originally Posted by cgladish
This is kind of an apples to oranges comparison (kind of, between the C7 & C8). What's your first call? Also, do you have a preference for a Stingray, GS, Z06? Auto / Manual?
I know the C7 and C8 are different, and so are the packages. I like both body styles (and packages). Im trying to narrow my choice my by hearing what the group says about Vettes overall.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 12:27 AM
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See my comment in your C8 thread.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 12:51 AM
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Be sure to drive both generations first, they are two different driving experiences. Also, if you are looking for a manual transmission, that will narrow it down right away So will your need for storage space.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 09:06 AM
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As I always say when it comes to toys like this, how do you plan to use it? If you plan to track it only, then the C8 is probably the better car. If you plan it as a daily driver, what will you be carrying with you daily? If you plan to take road trips, the C7 is the better car for the ability to pack. After you figure out how you'll mostly use it, then you can think about some of the other choices. These are two very different cars.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 09:28 AM
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If you favor the C7, to me, the most desirable would be the 2019 with a manual tranny. Being the last front-engine and the last stick-shift, whether it's a StingRay, Z51, Z06, GS, or ZR1.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 10:12 AM
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Welcome to the forum, congrats on retirement and the decision to buy a vette. I did both in 2022, 2018 Z51 3LT with 8k miles. No regrets at all!!!!
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 10:16 AM
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A year or two to decide? You may not even want to get a Vette by then.
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 11:20 AM
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Consider a manual 2019 Z06 - last of the manuals.

The wife bought me a military HUMVEE for retirement. Spent a LOT of time and $ on that!
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Old Jun 20, 2025 | 12:45 PM
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good luck on your search!!
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Old Jun 21, 2025 | 01:13 AM
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Originally Posted by Mike98SilVert
Be sure to drive both generations first, they are two different driving experiences. Also, if you are looking for a manual transmission, that will narrow it down right away So will your need for storage space.
This is what help me make my decision on the spot. Dealer had 1 each parked next to each other. Drove both. Neither was what I wanted, but the opportunity presented itself. End of story........C7.
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Old Jun 24, 2025 | 05:22 PM
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If you're considering a C7, I'd shot for one that was built after Feb 2018 as a 2019. If I recall, those were built in the new factory and got some ZR1 parts.
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Old Jun 25, 2025 | 09:03 PM
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Congratulations on planning for retirement. I also bought a newer Corvette after retirement, to add to my C3. I bought a 2019 Grand Sport. I love it.
Get the C7. Outstanding in many ways. There are many to choose from. I think maintenance costs might be lower in the long run with C7 than a C8.
Test drive both a C7 and C8... decide what you like best.
Here's a picture of you in retirement. See the smile on your face?


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Old Jul 1, 2025 | 10:30 AM
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That's a lot to look for, but that's the information I need to hopefully avoid buying a dud! Thanks for the info. That's a good place for me to start.
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Old Jul 1, 2025 | 10:43 AM
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Doubtful. I've wanted a Vette (C!-C8) since I was kid. I'm now in a position to buy one outright! My style preference is C7 or C8 for driving. My collectible preference after my purchase is C1-C2.
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