Is the C5 Torch Red the exact same paint code as on a C7?
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Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2023
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Is the C5 Torch Red the exact same paint code as on a C7?
I have a 1997 C5, that is Torch Red. I LOVE the color. I love the brilliant fiery red. My Dad had a 2015 C7 that was Torch Red as well. They were sitting side by side on the driveway a while back, and he remarked that his seemed to have a slightly more pinkish cast to the red, where mine was more of a bright fiery red. Both were original paint. I'm going to start looking at 2016's and was wondering if the paint type and color codes are the same for all years that are painted Torch Red. Thanks!
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2005
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From: WI
Could well be. A lot of car companies use certain popular colors for years, even a couple decades in a few cases.
I don't personally know on the torch red. You could look and compare the WA paint codes of each vehicle on the RPO sticker/s. (Do a google search how to find the paint codes). See if they're the same. A quick way to find out for sure would be to call your local autobody paint store and ask them. Give them the vin's, or (EXACT) WA paint codes of each vehicle. They can look them up and compare the paint formula weights for each base-color that comprises the Torch Red color of each car, and tell you for 100% sure. You could have your definite answer (not some 'I think...' internet-answer) in less than 15 minutes. To me, that would make the most sense. If you find out, come back and give us the verdict. Cheers!
I don't personally know on the torch red. You could look and compare the WA paint codes of each vehicle on the RPO sticker/s. (Do a google search how to find the paint codes). See if they're the same. A quick way to find out for sure would be to call your local autobody paint store and ask them. Give them the vin's, or (EXACT) WA paint codes of each vehicle. They can look them up and compare the paint formula weights for each base-color that comprises the Torch Red color of each car, and tell you for 100% sure. You could have your definite answer (not some 'I think...' internet-answer) in less than 15 minutes. To me, that would make the most sense. If you find out, come back and give us the verdict. Cheers!
Last edited by Mark G; Jul 16, 2025 at 07:11 PM.
Le Mans Master
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According to the black book Torch Red went from '93-'04 with paint code 70.
It came back with the same code from '10-'13. For the C7 it was code GKZ...
It came back with the same code from '10-'13. For the C7 it was code GKZ...
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Joined: Aug 2000
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paint codes may be the same as they are only color IDENTIFIERS. the actual color FORMULA most likely differs as pigments and pigment types change over the years and varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. PPG's torch red vs S-W torch red will have different color formulas . the base white from 1993 vs the base white used today are two different animals and holds true for all other tint colors and even whthin the same manufacturer. you can match the original color from 1993, but the chemical make-up will be totally different today. same holds true from year to year, to year, to year. that's why you are seeing the subtle difference between cars.
