The Best and Worst CHEAP Chevy Corvette: C4 vs C5 vs C6 Compared!

[@georgeh6856]

The C4 looks amazing. With its electronic gauges, it was so futuristic when it first came out.

[@MyHumanWreckage]

We used to call it the Star Wars dashboard

[@jakejake7162]

I love mine, feels like going back in time when the dash lights up

[@RobertWave]

I have a 93, noticed the mixture of analog and digital gauges are still going strong on a lot of vehicles today. Like my newer truck has digital and analog mix. I love the digital cluster on the older C4! The only thing I don't like is the bread box.

[@rjkStudios]

My buddy has a C4 on coilovers with LED mod on the gauges, and it looks amazing!!!

[@gflav]

I fell in love with the 84 nissan 300zx for this exact same reason. The dashboard is so cool! this one gives me the same vibes. I'm between the 2

[@jordanstrang8535]

Although it’s not the fastest Vette, I love the sharp lines of the C4. As a teenager in the 1990s the C4 was my dream machine!

[@MattWallace-vl4nw]

Amen

[@Guy-mx4fb]

C5 with pop up lights will always be an iconic cool look to be

[@4zuego]

i’ve been looking everywhere but i can’t find anything, can i put c5 pop up headlights on a c6?

[@justsomedude7874]

​@@4zuegonot with any amount of ease. lots of custom fab and wiring. not to mention you'd make the vehicle illegal for road use

[@Hirthirthirt]

nope, never was, never will be

[@michaelm3381]

I'd pick the C5. Pop-up headlights, easy to get in and out of, a real ignition key, and the LS1 engine.

[@thatoneguy985]

I got a 2005 C6 manual Z51 for 22,500 with 71k miles and I love it. Replaced the front end, brakes and shocks and it feels brand new again. Absolute beast of a car

[@paulhonore3603]

From where

[@salvadormonella8953]

What in the front end did you need to replace?

[@MMatte75]

I purchased my 99 C5 brand new for 41k it’s got 35,000 miles on it now and over the last 24yrs I would definitely say it’s the best money I have spend for fun. No major mech issues just oil changes that I do all original. Oh yeah and it’s a stick!! Biggest mistake Gm made with the C8 no standard option I guess I will just keep her forever❤

[@wydopnthrtl]

I hope to keep my 04 Z06 for ever too.

[@salvadormonella8953]

Yeah, GM really screwed the pooch on that no-manual decision. A C8 is a hella bargain, but no MT? All real sports cars have manual transmissions. Everybody knows that.

[@johncook9392]

That's unfortunately becoming all too common. Mustang seems to still make some models manual, but not if you go to the GT500 as its auto only.

[@BIGJOHNSHVAC]

I have owned all 3... C5 was the tightest. C6 Grand Sport was the fastest. 96 c4 was my favorite.

[@disciplinedev]

im sorry tightest as in turning? does it not turn well?

[@BIGJOHNSHVAC]

@@disciplinedev build quality... no squeaks and rattles.

[@disciplinedev]

oh ok thanks@@BIGJOHNSHVAC

[@guins99]

@@disciplinedevhe means was “driven” a lot by various drivers.

[@drunyon88]

​@@guins99 no he doesn't that doesn't even make sense he would have had to say loose

[@SuperSnakePlissken]

I have owned five different Corvettes, and hands down my favorite was the C6 2013 Grand Sport MT. It’s 6.2L V8 I would argue was the best motor and best cruising motor ever in a Corvette.

[@racingdreamz8021]

The ls2 isn’t too far behind, you can get the LS2 Vette & invest about $5k into the engine & it’ll be an LS3 eating monster & at the end of the day you spent less than a stock ls3 Vette

[@johncook9392]

I've always wanted a C6, aiming for C6 Z06 not too far down the road. My retired father in law just gave me his C5, first vette I've ever had and I am enjoying it very much. But I still get the feeling that I would like the C6 better!

[@SuperSnakePlissken]

@@johncook9392 C5 is great! C6 is better! The classic 5.7L V8 in the C5 is hard to beat for its era.

[@johncook9392]

@@SuperSnakePlissken With your name SuperSnakePlissken... Have you had any Mustangs or GT500's? Back in the day I had a few f-bodies and preferred them over Mustangs, until the 5.0 came back in 2011! I would say my 2 most wanted vehicles at this point would be either a C6 Z06 or a 2013 or 2014 GT500...

[@SuperSnakePlissken]

@ the 2014 GT500 super snake widebody in my opinion is the greatest Mustang ever built. It’s the most beautiful looking Mustang ever built as well. Never owned one I don’t think hardly anyone will ever own one because they’ve become a museum piece at this point.

[@josemontano7767]

The C4 looks beautiful that’s my favorite style the TPI looks awesome under the hood

[@pawsnpistons]

I love the C4. Doesn't get more 80s than that styling the electronic gauge cluster, pop ups and that L98.

[@mohamedalkaboom]

Ya straight out of Scarface

[@marcelromijn2227]

Always loved the C4 styling for the earlier models. Both inside and out. And in Europe the C4 is quite exotic also and the fact its one of the smaller ones makes it very usable. Quality of the interior is for sure very poor with lot of rattles, windnoise and leaking when its raining. Even after fixing a lot. But it ls such a great cruiser with much better handling than the average person expects. I dont dislike C5 or C6 but the C4 is just such a classic.

[@mattc9875]

Totally agree

[@arkansasturin8144]

If you have still leak problems during rain I think I may be able to help. You just need good set of weatherstrio and mount it corectly. My friends never had problem with OEM. But they cost a bit. Deoends where in EU you live ir may be small amout of money up to 2 pay checks in Poland.

[@dougwelch8890]

I own a C5 because it was the best corvette I could afford. I like the flowing lines, the handling and the power. You can cruise it all day on the highway and not get tired. Of course it has the 6 speed manual which on the highway, means 33+ mpg.

[@SuperIronGiant531]

I’ve never driven and don’t own a car, so please excuse me dumb question, but is 33+ mpg good?

[@dannysong5702]

@@SuperIronGiant531 For an older car like the C5, 33mph is pretty good on the highway. I can do about 30ish in my C4 as well. Driving in the city though...maybe just 13mpg haha.

[@SuperIronGiant531]

@@dannysong5702 Thanks! I’ll keep that in mind 😊

[@Corvolet5]

Overall I like the C6 the most out of all gens, but I'm absolutely sold on the C5 styling. It aged really well.

[@davesloat9006]

C5 is voluptuous, C6 is a fitness model! Better in every way (other than sadly stuck with fixed headlights)

[@wydopnthrtl]

From the B pillar forward the C5 is good looking. But the 2 golf bag holding butt..... no I hate the rear end of my C5

[@Corvolet5]

@@wydopnthrtl True, I think the rear looks better on the C6. I'm kinda looking for an LS3 at the moment, but any of these models are a good pick. Living in Europe it's not really easy to find one, the term "RARE" is actually the case here.

[@wydopnthrtl]

@@Corvolet5 If I had to deal with emission compliance I'd probably have a C6 w/LS3 or something so old its epempt.

[@kleinbottled79]

I actually like the big butt of the C5. Particularly on the convertibles. Also agree on the aging well. When the C6 came out I thought it looked better than the C5. Nowadays my eye gives the 5th gen car the edge. Time has been very kind to that design, and I reckon will remain so. I guess the used term is 'timeless.''

[@ChrisLoew]

C4 has the most fighter pilot cockpit feel of any car, wish they made one new

[@evanwatling3897]

C5 and C6 interiors are genuinely ugly. C5 especially. The C4 has by far the best of the three

[@gsczr1]

Sold my 94 C4 ZR-1 and bought a 2023 C8. The C8 is amazing but I do miss my C4 ZR-1. Cheers!!!

[@carguy0389]

Well that’s a huge upgrade!

[@formula112967]

The C8 is a mid-engined Lambo challenger at 1/4 the price....you done good Fred.

[@carguy0389]

@@formula112967 it’s not a Lamborghini challenger at all lol. The huracan is light years ahead and the aventador is even further ahead 🤣 it’s a good car but the c8 is not a supercar. Now the ZO6, that’s a different story

[@mohamedalkaboom]

The 1994 ZR1 is a much nicer looking masculine car compared to a 2023 Corvette. But whatever floats your boat

[@miken3709]

Owned all three and loved them all! Autocrossed the hell out of my 86 (usually FSTD but had to rebuild my 4+3 transmission 3 times!) and most served as my daily driver - a lot more practical than one might imagine. C4 was particularly memorable as I was single, and the high sills made it very tough for my dates wearing skirts not to flash me getting out LOL! C5 (hardtop) was not just way quicker, but had a much stiffer body structure and the rear suspension did not cause the car to jump sideways like the C4 would do in a bumpy turn. Not as good of an autocrosser due to the longer wheelbase, but otherwise handled way better. 08 C6, which I still have, was imo much easier on the eyes than the big butt C5 and just generally more refined and considerably faster again. C6 is the keeper, but honestly if I had the garage space and an accommodating wife I'd have all three!

[@baguettispaghetti1429]

C5’s have the best looking ass of any car to me

[@EJleon96]

C5 is the looker of the 3, not to say the other 3 are ugly. I like big butts on women and on my cars as well

[@darrenbuttery3527]

I had a 95 C4 manual and I loved the car. Then I got a 2000 C5 manual vert and wow what a night and day difference. The C5 over the C4 any day of the week and twice on Sunday IMO. I have no experience yet with a C6 but I would venture to guess that I would like it better than my C5 providing it was both a LS3 and a manual. My advice to most corvette shoppers is by the newest generation that you can afford. Then look for the sweet spots within that generation. C4 I would stick with 95-96 for the LT1/LT4 and vented opti-spark. C5 I would go for 01-04 to get the EBCM module that is actually repairable and C6 definitely 08-13 to get the LS3 motor.

[@mogulme6190]

There’s nothing wrong with the ls2

[@OldRustySteele]

Sound advice and I agree. I own a 2003 50th Anniversary convertible. Solid car which hasn’t given much trouble. The 2 gripes were: 1) the ignition/steering wheel lock issue which was common to many C5’s. I put the aftermarket bypass in. 2) the magnetorheological shocks which cost $500 each to replace if you do it yourself and $1000 each if you get them done at your local Chevy dealer. I replaced the 2 rears myself and had the 2 fronts replaced by the dealer since I didn’t have the time.

[@BEY.007]

I have c5 w/o the 3 shocks options just the Traction Control single button, when I bought it had the Z06 shocks and Z06 front & rear sway bars so, I just do basic maintenance and cruise. That retired life.

[@laurentmx5444]

Bonjour depuis la France, La corvette est une voiture formidable ! Vive la Corvette. Vive les USA !

[@aaronbritt2025]

I will own a C6 Z06 eventually. I love the big 427 NA engine. Everyone complains about the plastic interiors and the shared parts, but without them, the car would've been much more expensive. Chevy remedied this (and raised the price) in the C7 and C8 with the available all leather 3LZ packages. You can pay almost $200k for a fully optioned C8 Z06. @12:55... Actually, you'll find it down by your left foot. Despite having this manual latch, people still manage to get locked in their cars if the battery dies. These are people that don't know that cars come with a book in the glove box that explains how to use the features in their cars.

[@craigthescott5074]

The C5 Z06 is the best performance for the money out there right now.

[@BrandonBennett86]

As a corvette lover I want them all

[@G.M85007]

I think I like the c4 better with the lt1

[@chrisphelps343]

Yea $10k for an L98 C4 is kind of absurd. Could've easily gotten an LT1 car

[@xRenegade44x]

My father in law bought a 2003 C5 brand new "back in the day". 2 years ago, He had mentioned he was thinking of selling the C5 but offered it to us first. I was touched because it is such a beautiful car, he took such great care of it over the years and I know he loves it a TON. SO, I saved up and I offered to buy it from him. My wife and I got married last year so, 19 years from original purchase and 2 months into My ownership of the C5, I drove my beautiful new wife away on our wedding day.

[@michaeldmckenzie]

I recently purchased an 89 auto convertible. I love the retro 80's gauges. Not a huge fan of all the hard plastic, but it's still a ton of fun on cruise night!

[@davidminassian9953]

I have the same car to, I love driving mine.

[@speedracerjeff]

Avoid the 1984 model C4 (L83 only 205hp and Crossfire injection) unless you’re planning on doing an engine swap. You can grab a decent C5 for as low as $9k here in So Cal.

[@tdog6437]

The motor wasn't the issue with the 84, the injection system was. But you're still correct about stepping up in years for the best car for the money..

[@OCDRex11]

Own a C5 Z06 CE and love it! But, I want an LT1 C4 and will pick one up some day. Child of the 80's - never leaves your soul!

[@CS-oe8og]

C5 all day, especially a Z06. But I am slightly biased.

[@GregSr]

I own both a C4 (1988) and a C5 (2003). I'm the original owner of both. Overall, I prefer the C5. I already fixed its electronic gremlins (oil pressure sensor, HVAC display, traction control).

[@innovateandinvest]

Hey Greg, I have a C5 and was wondering if you could direct me to the fix for t he HVAC display issue?

[@GregSr]

There are several videos on KZbin. Just do a search for C5 HVAC. Good luck.

[@jackspence7779]

My wife and I REALLY enjoy our '89 C4 base Corvette (LORVET the Corvette). She's a great GT type experience, very unique nowadays, gorgeous and a lot of fun to drive even without all the raging ponies under her huge clam shell hood! That being said, she can be a "finicky critter" at times and we can't blame her for that being that she's been around for 34 years. A very different driving experience fo' sho' and super nostalgic!

[@tonysteppan8495]

Can relate being a 1990 owner. My wife's C5 was an auto and the engine when cold was sounding like a box of rocks until it got up to op. temp.Ran great though. With the 90 which is somewhat low mileage. You nail it about the age. It's the same with any 33-year-old car or truck. Yes, the driving experience, it's a great cruiser. Not a ball of fire, but still enjoyable. My part replacement due to age, not abuse has been a lot. but I'm picky. But every time I go out for a ride. It's worth it. Hope you get many smiles per mile! CHEERS

[@stevekeithley8409]

I own a c3 82, c4 96 and c5 2003. The C5 feels big and cumbersome compared to my other two. I hope your C5 has a handling package unless you like a Mercedes Benz type of luxury cruise. The C4 is my overall favorite. Best handling, great speed and looks the best in it's 'Torch Red" paint with 6 speed transmission..

[@christophlindemann4744]

All 3 nice cars! I love my C4 6speed Z51 L98! However, I couldn't choose between the 3 of them. Great content! Greats from Germany

[@epa316]

C3 restomod! It would be awesome to have a 500 hp crate engine in that car.

[@shawnharris7747]

I drive my c4 more than my c6 I love the way it drives no traction control n I feel the road feels like I'm driving a fast go cart 😂

[@69FOSTER]

So the C4 does not feel underpowered at all? I remember the first time I saw a C4 in 1984 and I was drooling over it, such a gorgeous car.

[@deployable]

@@69FOSTER as long as you get a c4 with at least an lt1 in it, it will feel powerful. LT1 only produces 300hp but the car is very light and it feels fast

[@lukelun]

@@deployable "only" 300hp.

[@chrisdooley1184]

My ‘89 had the 6spd and I loved it 😊

[@timrum7219]

I like the c4 but if I was to have a C4 it would definitely have to have the LT1 engine. C5 to me is a really good all-around Corvette. C6 it's probably my favorite for looks because I've never been a big fan for the pop-up headlights and interior is a big upgrade for the C6 and of course the upgraded LS engine

[@Jez3134]

How I wish GM brought these to Australia, I've always wanted a V8 coupe. All we had here are the heavy Falcon and Commodore sedans here. A C5 would be a dream, beautiful lines, LS1, light weight, no electical driver assist nonsense. Would look good in the garage sitting next to my Skyline.

[@efrainnocelotl1295]

The c5 was a great buy ! Just change the shocks to c6zo6 ones change headlights to brighter ones stick with pop up ! And slap a nice sound exhaust on it you’ll see a great improvement along with a big touch screen in the middle and a subwoofer in the back of the trunk space

[@fabssgarage]

Love both the c4 and the c5. C4 to keep stored as a classic car and the c5 for the weekend fun!

[@rapid13]

LS3>LS2 all day long, so if you can get an 08 or newer, do it. Love my 08 Z51!

[@corvetteswithbowie7529]

Love my 99 c5 6 speed manual convertible.

[@davideddy8117]

I agree I have an 02 roadster and it is a treat to drive

[@joewhite9183]

I owned a 1993 C-4 ZR-1 life changing experience the rawl power was a thrill and the sound was pure majical.... had no issues keeping C-6 cars in my rear view mirror...

[@randyromero7326]

I HAVE A C6 ZO6,THE C6 GENERATION IS MY FAVORITE JUST LOVE IT .GOOD JOB ON THIS VIDEO

[@innerlightfilms]

I'm very particular about cars I like. They have to tick off certain boxes. I'm like Gordon Murray when it comes to what I like. Its all about the driving experience. Horsepower is only part of the equation. Torque is probably more important to me, but also how you feel when driving the car is hands down all I really care about. The C4 90+ is like sitting in the cockpit of a fighter jet. The way the seats and dash wrap around you. The road feedback from the stiffer (but very capable) suspension and the quick steering. The later generations look better on paper, but driving them will show how much more fun the C4 is overall. This is why I bought a 93 ZR-1. Only because I cant afford a McLaren F1 or the new T.50.

[@icub4ucstr8]

Nice! I’m a hobbyist and picked up an original ‘95 C4 at an estate sale because I’ve never had a Corvette before and always admired the C4 from the first week they finally showed up in the local Chevy Showroom in 1984! My base LT1 is a marvel to drive! The 300 horses are totally sufficient to motivate this 3200 pound beast in all situations! Sitting down into the frame is an experience I’ve never had in a car before! You truly feel in total command and one with the machine! Not only is the mountain road handling spot on but this is by far the most comfortable highway sports/muscle car I’ve ever driven! Not sure how they accomplished this without adjustable computer assisted suspension but it is nothing short of awesome! As a hobbyist none of the gems I uncover stay in my garage forever but I must say this most likely won’t be my last C4! ZR1 is on my list! I’m 64 and the charm of these C4 Corvettes is they are raw enough to evoke the old school muscle cars I grew up on but new enough to be reliable and still very affordable! Clearly THE sexiest performance bang for the buck in the car world today! Hands down! Move fast to find yours because it’s almost impossible to find a super clean original for less then $10,000! 😅

[@innerlightfilms]

@@icub4ucstr8 exactly! People who hate on them have probably never driven one or were too fat to fit inside lol

[@ObscureStuff420]

​@icub4ucstr8 I have a 95 too and I agree 😊

[@bonjournaste]

C5 Vette style constraint has aged it the most gracefully. Still a very beautiful car. To new car designers; just because you can crease metal doesn't mean you should.

[@martinsvensson6884]

C4 is by far the coolest one. C5 looks plasticy on the outside for some reason. And both C5 and C6 looks like som regular Mazda on the inside.

[@ItzFritz]

I think the plastic look comes from the fiberglass of which it’s made

[@jetdust]

I recently picked up a 95 C4 with 64k on it, great car so far!!

[@dmegahan]

C4 with a LS3 would be amazing.

[@stephendibari5010]

I’m the second owner of a 1999 C5 FRC (fixed roof, coupe), the predecessor to the Z06. This car was a lifelong dream of mine. It only had 18k miles when I bought it this past April. Garage kept and 100% OEM. Not one modification, just the way I wanted it. Love it. At 59 years old I decided not to wait until I retire to buy a corvette. Rather have it paid off before I retire. Having the Z51 suspension and 6 speed manual it is a blast to drive. For me, it’s more than enough power. I don’t track it and never will. I drive it spiritedly but I don’t abuse it.

[@wg8290]

I had an ‘84 and put 270,000 miles on it until I got in a wreck. It was great.

[@Akac3sh]

wow it probably would have rolled for another good 100k

[@jaypioh]

love all the C4 vids you put out

[@brucesmith5426]

I've only owner 2 Vettes. The first when a 19 YO was in 1976. I bought a 65 Coupe with a change to a 396 from he 327. I had 4 years of good time with it until the wiring harness went bad. Couldn't afford the body off replacement. Finally at 67 with an empty house I could afford another. It's only been a few weeks for the 2008 Base Coupe, but I'm happy with it. The reason I chose a C6 is the LS3 with the about the same HP/Torque specs of the ole 396; combined with a slight back in time slight C2 look to the body shape. It handles much better, but that sound of that 396 through side pipes with no mufflers was music to my ears.

[@Paul-fq4mm]

I had a 2004 C5 I loved all about three months I had it. Bought it new had 34 miles on it torch red convertible. Got hit head on had to sell it because I was scammed all the way around. I was 18 years old and everyone seen a young naive kid. Really, miss that car.

[@CORVETTEZO6C6]

c6 is the most respected, c4 is underrated too, and c5 is also good too

[@steveowens913]

Out of 6 Corvettes, my C4 was my least favorite. My favorite is my C6Z06, a beautiful metallic blue monster!

[@Mr.Smith77]

C5 has a great design and kept the flip up headlights ls1 and with suspension and a turbo, would make a great prostreet build. Out of the 3 I would go with the c5. One of my affordable dream builds I will one day do hopefully.

[@peterbellini6102]

Had a '92 C4 and IMO the coolest feature was SCV (Speed Control Volume) aka the faster you go, the louder it gets. And the 300hp gets you around...

[@gcox8452]

Love my 08 c6 z06. Most fun car I have ever driven, up there with a cayman s and 911 but just bonkers more power.

[@darrylsjodin7184]

That pull up brake handle next to the door looks like a colonoscopy waiting to happen! Lol😅

[@RexKarrs]

Had one of each: '92 C4; lousy build quality, rear hatch always leaked and would never close properly. Nose went forever, cockpit was squeezed aft like a Gee Bee. "98 C5; much better build quality, much more electronics meant many more gremlins that the dealer network couldn't handle. Haven't owned a car that left me stranded so often. Felt big and wide compared to the interior space. '08 C6 LS3. Best of the bunch, the one I still have. Well-built, quiet, fast, better proportioned than the other two. Trouble-free. More than worth the extra cash, IMHO.

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

The C5 is a beautiful car. And it's nice that it has a bulletproof engine, because I have always had problems with people shooting at my engines!

[@dr.boring7022]

You should probably move to another city if that's frequent...

[@thrillbilly9785]

I’ve got an 85 c4 that I bought as a fixer upper for 2500. I’m all in at about 5k with more to go. It’s a fun car for sure but do yourself a favor and find a c4 that is in the best shape you can find for the money you can afford. I love the c4 styling over the c5 but I long for the daily reliability of a newer gen for sure.

[@tonysteppan8495]

Amen to that! So true. Amazing how much you learn and do with a fixer upper. But once you get it running right. Man, it will be worth every penny to ya. Hope you get your 85 to that point.

[@formula112967]

There were a lot of features I wanted that were in the C5 (curvier than the C6) and some features I didn't want in the C6 (push button start), but I wanted the C6 power (and even more power), so I bought a really nice C5 six speed and threw a supercharger at it.....with 500 horsepower to the wheels, it is a sexy curvy C5 that is faster than a C6 ZO6.

[@carlupthegrove262]

I own a C5 and have for 20 years... I wanted a C7 but waited...then I REALLY wanted a C8..... but my C5 goes fast, handles pretty well and .... I own it... the insurance is far less than a new one so... I'll keep it. Nice comparison guys.

[@bubbalo3388]

Not a fan of the looks of the C5. The instrument cluster, the hood, the 4 round taillights and rotating headlights make the C4 standout and cool. Yeah those side pillars are high. You can literally sit on them like a bench. But after you roll in there you sit low and it feels like a cockpit. The C4 is slow by today's standards but that old school V8 feel baby. With that said, the C4 is no slouch in the handling department. It is still a beast in that area.

[@datruth9872]

Had all three, the one I kept was the C6 / 05. Just a magnificant car. Just a dream to drive. Powerfull , and trouble free driving. Just F.Y.I.

[@mikey.5174]

C4: Active Suspension, ABS/ASR, AirBags, electronic Tyre Pressure. C5: ESP, HeadUp C6: Seatheater...

[@TheMrmmkkpro]

I'm loving my 1990 ZR-1, I will be keeping it.

[@jacksonfive5478]

I got a 94 c4 absolutely love it great running car looking to get a c5 soon

[@TDAWDepthFinder]

Being a mechanic I am very familiar with all 3, I’d rather have a C6 as long as it’s a manual trans. The C4 imho is just too much of a pain in the rear to get in and out of and work on, personally I just don’t want one at all. In my experience at least in the areas have worked in almost all C5s are automatics driven by retirees and social security earners making every mechanic I know consider it a rolling mid-life-crisis. As long as it’s a 6sp manual the C6 is the best to drive and repair/maintain. Automatic versions do not escape the mid-life-crisis thought to me.

[@ObscureStuff420]

What did you find hard to work on with the C4? Most everything I've done has been easy...gotta be easist car there is to change a fuel pump. The clamshell hood makes the engine very accessible, I can even grease some of the chassis without getting under the car or removing the tires. Removing the battery and I think the radiator are a pain in the ass

[@TDAWDepthFinder]

Basic maintenance things are always easyish, not talking about the basic stuff. On the LT1/LT4 models one cannot escape the nonsense that has to do with the Opti-Spark system, most of the cross-fire models have already caught on fire so no need to worry about that junk, the TPI models are mechanically fairly bulletproof to be fair but are badly showing their age in how fragile and decintegratey stuff is., the big thing is just how much of a cluster**** OBD1 electronics are.

[@tonysteppan8495]

@@TDAWDepthFinder YUP, OBD1 stinks. But Opti-fart is a water pump plus the Opti-fart parts. what a pain. But as you know age is something no car or truck can escape. Or us for that matter. Also, the labor per hour charge can be just as bad for an old Toyota, as a C4, or C5, C6. Kind of differs as to what you get the most of in the shop. I had to laugh thinking about the Tech that was looking into my OBD1. He wasn't even born yet. Glad he had a proper plug to get where he needed to be. rather than a paper clip.

[@victorcreed8856]

The C4 is my favorite gen of them all. Something about that wedge design, and quirky retro-futuristic interior.

[@BigEsTruckstop]

I have a C5 Z06. I’ve barely driven it because I’ve been restoring it for 4 years but I finally have it road worthy. I think eventually I want to get a C7.

[@lannylancaster62]

A great piece guys. I enjoyed the information and perspective. It's good to have affordable Corvette options.

[@nyernga]

Miss my 88C4 4+3. Don't miss my C6 auto.......LOVE my C5 six speed convertible

[@leftynero]

Getting my 1996 LT4 C4 this weekend....stoked!

[@philstone7277]

I love the C5 body out of any vette,,,,and have a 2000 with the auto and rag top,,,,I know ,,not the best choice of C5 but I love it,,,,

[@milehighmisfits]

I recently bought an Arctic white 1999 C5 Corvette and i have to say it was one of my best car purchases ever. I absolutely love the car and for the price it's hard to beat it.

[@jimstephens9491]

Thanks for the comparison. I own a 94 polo green targa top Corvette with 86k. I have owned it for 20 years and find it rarely easy to keep running. The weather stripping will need to be addressed soon. I just had a trans pan leak fixed, speedometer connector leak and some drive train seals replaced for $800. Mostly labor since some exhaust needed to be disconnected. I use a repair shop that appreciates the Corvette and is careful with it and repairs. It is more difficult to enter as I am now 83, but it is worth the effort. It is so fun to drive that I haven't regretted owning the C4. Phoenix.

[@timrinn3916]

I have nearly the exact same car (polo green, beige interior, 87k miles) except it's a '93. Love to pull the roof and take it up Usery Pass here in the Valley on warm sunny Sat or Sun afternoons. Would be curious to know which shop you take it to as I'm still looking for the "right" one. I too have a few repairs I need to tend to but overall the car is nearly pristine and drives great. Once you are strapped in, and have that driver- focused instrument panel wrapped around you and give it some beans the car squats down a bit and just wants to go! And that polo green metallic in the bright sunshine..I know the C5's & 6's are an overall better car but I just haven't been able to part with it yet.

[@wigletron2846]

Love the looks of the C5 but the C6 is the best performance bargain

[@COChevyTrainMan1990]

All the Corvette generations are awesome. A true American sports car and a winner on top of the world of sports cars.

[@lancemannion4113]

Never really got into the C4. The later generation/update helped but my 88 Mustang LX coupe would beat my roomies vette more often than not...which made no sense. Plus you can almost see the lego interior squeak just watching this clip! Lol. They were so stiff, and therefore would drive you nuts with the flexing. The c5 however was a HUGE improvement and is my choice of the 3. The c6 is probably a better car but i could never warm up to the goofy lights. Looked like an afterthought. Having said all this - the c5 interior is little 'GM/pedestrian ' looking....but that's pretty minor as the car feels way tighter.

[@kzakis3350]

C4 by far best looking inside with the retro interior and outside with classic design, you don’t need to be the fastest, all about style

[@cjspags4222]

My favorite was c3 which I finally got to own is 1970 stingray Donny brooke Green .beautiful curves but not fun to drive .looking to get c5 soon. love pop-up headlights

[@kevindavis5966]

That's me exactly. I love the lines of the C3 as the most beautiful Vette ever, but they are absolute dogs to drive stock. I would only have one now as a restomod with modern drivetrain, suspension, brakes and steering. C4 LT4 is perhaps my favorite to own and cruise in, but you can't beat the raw power of the C6 LS7. That's why I have both.

[@bradycampbell5321]

The c5 backend is the flagship rear for corvettes and the c6 front end was such a game changer, but man something about the c4 cant be beat

[@davevan9150]

Price/performance would be my choice with the C5, LS, 6spd transaxle. If i had more money, the C6 Z06 is truly special.

[@dannpd1955]

I’ve got a c6 arctic white coupe and I love it. Nothing like that LS3 for great power without any go fast mods unless maybe it’s the LS7.

[@kleinbottled79]

LQ9 Cam introduced at 2001 was a bigger difference to the driving experience than the 5 extra hp they picked up from the intake imho. LQ9 camshaft vs early LS1 camshaft gives something like 15-20% more torque at 1500rpm which is where the 6M cars are at in 6th at 70mph and continues making more everywhere under 4000rpm. Thinking about swapping one into my '99 for the extra low end grunt.

[@peterb4143]

I’ll be honest it’s kinda silly to go through all that trouble of a cam job for hardly anything. I have the Texas speed 224R .600 lift cam and it gives pretty good power gains while not affecting mpg or drive ability much at all. It’ll make 360~70whp with 243 heads a simple intake and a catback on 91. I made 360whp on a hurt motor and with the 4 cats opposed to the 02-04 that only have 2 cats and might pick up a coupe there. I’m finally getting headers and manifold/tb and am expecting anywhere from 415-430whp with that “small” cam on stock heads.

[@ryanb8466]

C5 is my favorite. I have 3 kids so I can't own one yet. But some day. Until then I will enjoy my 2023 Camaro SS convertible.

[@e-henne]

The C6 has the most GM interior I've ever seen

[@mogulme6190]

Easy fix

[@TheSmokingDen]

Unpopular opinion: the late C4 is the best looking vette.

[@TJsVette]

I always dreamed of owning a c5 corvette and never thought I would get one so I bought a 99 camaro. Same motor but it just wasn't the same. I got the opportunity to pick up a c5 super cheap from a friend and I jumped on it. All I can say is I am happy. I love my c5 and feel like a little kid every time I drive it. The c6 is a really nice car but eliminating the pop up headlights killed it for me.

[@ObscureStuff420]

Agree on the popup headlights. Those lights and the grill make the front of the car look like a goofy face

[@TJsVette]

@ObscureStuff420 I've seen people put what I call frog headlights on the c5 and it just doesn't look right. The pop ups are the best. Fun fact, the C5 was the last production car to have them!

[@ObscureStuff420]

@TJsVette I remember back in the day like 20 years ago when I had my first C4 I saw a kit in a catalog to convert the C4 popup headlights to non popups 🤪

[@TJsVette]

​@ObscureStuff420 I don't think I have ever seen a C4 without the pop ups. No please don't haha.

[@twr41cox]

Great review. Its nice to see the base models get some love. It would be super cool if you had a lift to show suspension and under pinnings etc during these. Thanks.

[@shawnharris7747]

Also my c4 has the 3 settings for the suspension in 91

[@einfeldt777]

Cool overall view of 3 great V8 powered cruisers 🤗

[@seangoodman665]

I’m lucky enough to have 2 C4s. A 91 ZR-1 and 96 LT4 Convertible. Both are great cars to drive and are just fun. Being older cars they do require a certain amount if maintenance as any older car does. These cars are a performance bargain. There are many well cared for examples out there if you’re looking for one.

[@Ticona2]

I own a C5, I would never give it up. I guess it is what generation you like.

[@ITRIEDEL]

I bought a C4 when I was like 18 and the C6 just came out a few years prior. Most of the corvettes were C5’s at the time, fun car but so many problems. Always wanted a C5 at the time so may buy one just to have.

[@4everyoung869]

I like c6 over the c7 c6 is legendary

[@marial8235]

I have a C6 and I like it better than C7, C5 or C4. It seems to have a better interior than the earlier cars and performance on a par with a C7. I’d like a C8 but they need to depreciate a bit before I want to get into debt. But I also have a soft spot for the c3’s 1960s styling. They are all cool.❤

[@GeneD283]

I purchased a new 1990 which served me well as my daily driver for 15 years. I just loved the car but it grew impractical as my daily driver as it typically sat for days at the dealership waiting for parts to be special ordered as it got older. Sold it to my sister in Virginia who had it for a year before the control module for the airbag failed. She was unable to source a replacement new or used and had to sell it when she was unable to pass the VA inspection without it. Replacement electronics are going to be a challenge for keeping the more modern Corvettes on the road as they get older. Maybe some of these electronic components are available today through the aftermarket but this was the scenario in 2006 for my sister