Overview & Reviews

Often referred to as America's only true sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette is one of the world's best known and longest-running nameplates. From its rather humble six-cylinder beginnings in 1953 to the 638-horsepower ZR1, the Corvette has transformed a lot over time, but it has always maintained the key aspects of style and performance that make a Vette a Vette.

Note that the Corvette continues on for its seventh generation as the Corvette Stingray, which is reviewed separately. This review covers the three previous generations of modern Corvettes.

Used Chevrolet Corvette Models
The most recent pre-Stingray Corvette is the sixth-generation model, or "C6," which debuted for 2005 and ran through 2013. Compared to the C5, it boasted improvements in performance, build quality and styling. Design changes included the return to exposed headlamps (first time since '62), crisper fender peaks and a visual slimming of the big rear end. The cabin was upgraded with better materials and switchgear, and the convertible's top could be power-operated. Initially, it had a 6.0-liter V8 developing 400 horsepower.

The following year brought a new six-speed automatic transmission and the 7.0-liter, 505-hp Z06 model. Like its predecessor, the C6 Z06 had a fixed roof, but it shared the regular car's hatchback rear end this time around. For 2007, America's sports car received larger brakes (for Magnetic Ride-equipped versions), an available two-tone leather interior and a couple of special editions including an Indy Pace Car convertible and the Ron Fellows (a successful Corvette race driver) Z06.

A refresh took place for 2008 that brought more power for base versions in the form of a 430-hp 6.2-liter V8, which was coupled to either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic. Chevy also made interior, manual transmission and steering improvements that year. The new ZR1 ultra-high-performance fixed-roof coupe arrived for '09, wielding a 638-hp supercharged V8 and appropriate suspension and brake upgrades, as well as some unique styling features such as a transparent hood insert.

The following year (2010) Chevy brought out the Grand Sport, which essentially combined the base car's V8 with the Z06's suspension and brake upgrades. For 2012, Corvettes received new, more heavily bolstered seats, which provided more comfort and previously lacking lateral support.

For 2013 Chevrolet marked both the Corvette's 60th birthday and the last year for the C6 with the expected celebratory versions. One notable example was the 427 Convertible Collector Edition, which was essentially a Z06 convertible powered by the incomparable 7.0-liter V8.

In reviews of the C6 Chevrolet Corvette, we noted its impressive combination of strong performance, a comfortable ride, eye-catching style, affordability and relatively good fuel economy. The Z06 was singled out for particular praise due to its track-ready hardware and phenomenal 505-hp engine. Complaints involved the cabin's ho-hum interior materials (though the C5's were notably worse), an antiquated audio/navigation interface and the car's lack of nimbleness compared to other sports cars.

The previous Chevy Corvette (the C5) was built from 1997-2004 and marked the Corvette's evolution into a world-class sports car, albeit with an interior that borrowed liberally from the GM parts bin. Easier to get in and out of than the C4, the C5 also boasted a new chassis that had nearly 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, a more compliant suspension, a much roomier cockpit with more supportive seats and a new "LS1" 5.7-liter V8 that made 345 hp. The transmission choices were a six-speed manual and four-speed automatic.

With a 0-60-mph time of less than 5 seconds and a top speed of around 175, there wasn't much that could touch this Vette short of a few big-dollar exotics from Europe. That first year saw just the hatchback body, whose styling drew barbs for its rather large hindquarters. But the benefit of the big butt was more than 20 cubic feet of cargo capacity under the rear hatch. A convertible joined the lineup for '98 and the following year brought a fixed-roof "hardtop" model with an even more prominent posterior. For 2001, the mighty Z06, a reincarnation of an earlier Z06 performance package from the '60s, debuted in hardtop form only, bringing 385 hp to an already impressive chassis. As if that weren't enough, the Z06 gained 20 hp the very next year.

Enthusiasts looking for a sports car they can live with day in and day out would be well advised to consider a Chevy Corvette from this generation. Pros and cons are mostly similar to the C6, with the notable exception of the C5's relatively crude interior design and materials. This Corvette still offers considerable bang for the buck in the used sports car marketplace.

The fourth-generation Chevrolet Corvette (C4) was available for the 1984-'96 model years. The flamboyant style of the previous generation was replaced with a leaner look, and a race-inspired suspension featuring lightweight alloy components debuted as well. First-year cars should be avoided, as the 5.7-liter V8 made just 205 hp with its troublesome "Crossfire Injection" setup, while the suspension was much too stiff for daily driver duty. Subsequent years saw the debut of a convertible, more power and suspension refinements. By 1990, the Corvette was a well-sorted sports car with massive grip and respectable performance from its 250-hp engine. That year also saw the debut of a sleeker, wraparound dashboard and the ZR1 supercar, which came with a 375-hp, 5.7-liter V8. For '92, the standard Corvette gained more power via a 300-hp V8. The ZR1's output shot up to 405 hp for '93. The last year of this Corvette's generation saw the availability of a 330-hp version of the main V8.

Although the C4 is regarded as desirable in terms of performance for the price, its awkward ingress/egress, cramped cockpit and less-than-robust structure make it more of a weekend toy than a satisfying daily choice. It still looks cool, though, and it's worth noting that the 1990-'96 wraparound dashboard is quite similar to the hypermodern C7's layout.

Read our Chevy Corvette Z06 Long-Term 20,000-Mile Test

User Reviews:

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  !995 Corvette - 1995 Chevrolet Corvette
  By john g - December 5 - 12:13 pm

  I love this car. It has plenty of power to justify instant incarceration. It rides stiff and really isnt made for bumpy roads, but dont let this fact discourage you from buying it. The value and quality of the build of the car far out weigh the negatives.I can honestly say that if you are considering a Camaro or Mustang, change your mind! You cant get a better car in its class for a better price( 8k-13k )

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  A Disappointment - 2007 Chevrolet Corvette
  By 007vette - December 3 - 2:41 pm

  After waiting 40 years to finally get the boyhood dream, I purchased an 07 Corvette only to find out the name went on before the quality went as the quality never made it. The car is great looking, runs great and is fun to drive, but the drive components and rear end are junk, whenever I turn or start out it is if I were going over bumps in the road, I took it back and the dealer simple lubed the rear end, this worked until the lube wore and the problem reappeared again. On the second trip it was found that a tech bulletin had been generated for the problem and the dealer replaced the friction pads,this didnt cure the problems.I am getting rid of it after this. No more American cars for me

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  Awesome Z51 - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By gsrileyjr - November 29 - 4:40 pm

  If youre going to get a C6, make sure to invest in the Z51 package. It makes all the difference in the world. I owned a 1997 C5, and the difference between the two is like night and day. Im not thrilled with the navigation system only because I would have rather had the in-dash 6-CD changer as opposed to the single CD player.

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  2008 Black Coupe - 2008 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Howard Clem - November 29 - 1:07 pm

  I have owned Vettes starting with 67, 76, 95, 99 and now a 2008. All were coupes with the exception of the 67 that was a vert. I use to say that the best build quality was the 67 until I purchased the 1999 and the most aggressive looking body style and bay far the best bass sound from the bose stereo was the 95. However, the 2008 coupe is by far the best overall corvette I have ever owned. My 99 was a great car with the z51 handling package but I picked up my 2008 and drove it 800 miles in 2 days and it hands down has the best ride and driver seat comfort. GM continues to impove on the American Icon each generation and I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to own one.

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  Best US sports car you can buy - 2008 Chevrolet Corvette
  By greg - November 28 - 7:08 pm

  For the money, the Corvette is a nearly impecible sports car. The car is extremely fun to drive. Ive had the car for 6 months and dont regret it at all. The only American vehicle to make forbes recent top vehicle list, it ties for first with the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG. I believe it deserves this title. You will probaly never use the speed but its extremely fun to have. The quality and speed could be compared to that of the Porshe, Maserati, and maybe a Ferrari. All in all if you are thinking of buying a corvette, stop thinking and start doing.

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  2005 Corvette - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Jim Hamilton - November 27 - 1:20 am

  This is our 3rd new Vette and is by far the best yet. Not only is it the most fun to drive but gets great mileage (34/Imp. gal). I disagree with those who compare it poorly with the 911 which I rate v. highly. Not only is it as fast but it is much more easily maintained, as far as being as much fun, Id say it is more fun than the 911(its sometimes a bit of work) but perhaps a bit behind the Boxster. I rate interior design as good but the C6 has badly needed the new "leather wrapped" trim of the 08, since it was introduced. Now if they can just upgrade the seats for 09 ! Id rate the build quality up to at least an "8-8.5" for 08,comparable to the 911. Ours is still rattle-free !

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  Boxster to vette - 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
  By nunzio - November 26 - 10:00 am

  Had a boxster only thing I can say is WOW!!! Comfort is so muxh better. Boxster rear window was a pain to clean. I love porsche but am very impressed with vette. totally fun cars but I must say i enjory the vette better.

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  Awesome - 2008 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Tim - November 25 - 11:11 pm

  First Vette, hated previous generations. The C6 made me a believer. The C6 is awesome from a thank god six cogger tranny to a really nice interior. It is no Porsche but it no longer a fancy or more powerful mustang or camaro either. Try it you will love it. I sold my E500 for this I am am thrilled with it the new 6.2 is breathtaking and the optional exhaust cant be described must be heard. Also windows crack open when door opens a la BMW for an airtight seal. Way to go GM.

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  Incredible - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By R. DAntuono - November 20 - 5:46 pm

  I have had (and currently have) Porsche, Benz, 80s Corvettes, many moons ago, Austin Healey, Marcos (do you know what that is?)and others. This automobile is staggering. Civilized and "beastly" at the same time! It is amazing how much attention I get (maybe its the Millenium Yellow...). All of a sudden everybody on the road is polite! They want to let me go by so they can see the car! My C6 has everything except Z-51 (does have mag. select). A very, very tight automobile. If you havent been in one, try it... You hear a "great car for the money". No, A GREAT CAR PERIOD!

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  17 year old Corvette, still fun - 1990 Chevrolet Corvette
  By inaband - November 19 - 11:43 pm

  I have a C5, and I had a chance to buy this 1990, for cheap, could not turn it down, new clutch, great sound, needs detailing, but any C4 is a bargain these days, if you find one buy it. These are still simple enough to work on, except for the electrical issues that are hard to figure out...lucky for me, my car is fine.