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:

• 

  Its another "WARBLER" - 2016 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Devildog - September 14 - 10:03 pm

  Many owners of 2016 Chevrolet Corvettes (some 2015s) are reporting on various internet sites IE: Corvette Forum. Stingray Forum, that their new Corvettes, primarily base models with automatic transmissions produce a WARBLE type noise at exactly 1500 RPM under light throttle load , as when going up a slight grade. I am one of said owners. Go to these internet sites and look up WARBLE and even view the video / audio of the issue / complaint. Currently I understand that owners are invoking the lemon law process; GM supposedly has taken back vehicle (s). Basically there is no proven correction at this time. I too have contacted GM and like many others, I was given a "case number". Its been awhile; GM has been involved deeply; taken cars back in exchange...under pretense of studying them. However; GM IS REMAINING VERY QUIET about this serious issue. WHY ? Dealing with this corporation; their possibly covert approach to this serious matter will make GM owners uncomfortable...if they care to listen. Meanwhile, my C7 Stingray, auto has had the differential changed; a improvement is noted but the "WARBLE" goes on.................. and on.....................!

• 

  Awesome Car - 2007 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Brianapal - September 13 - 6:47 pm

  The car is just awesome! Great acceleration. I havent received numerous positive comments in the one month that I have owned the car. LeMans Blue, Cashmere Interior, 3LT (not a cheap option but it does have numerous aspects included), and polished aluminum wheels. The wheels really set the car off. It is beautiful. Good ride. Not a daily driver for me but it could be used for such. Great mileage for a 400HP car. Just a truly fun car to drive! I looked at numerous options including Porsche Boxster and Honda 2000 before deciding on the Corvette. No regrets on my choice. I have had the car for almost 4 weeks and 600 miles. Great car!

• 

  2005 C6 Corvette - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Mert Cheney - September 12 - 9:30 am

  This is a very decent driving sports car. It is my third Corvette with my last being a 2001 Coupe. This is a much quieter ride. The six speed seems a little stiff at times and not much improvement over the 2001. The power is excellent and the seats are more comfortable. The brakes and suspension with the sport package is outstanding. Fuel mileage is slightly less than my old car but I only have 650 miles on it so far.

• 

  2001 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - 2001 Chevrolet Corvette
  By smfcpacfp - September 9 - 12:34 am

  I bought this car new, and it has been the most trouble free car that I have ever owned. I had to replace one sensor in the 46,000 miles that I have owned it. It is also extremely comfortable on long trips. My wife and I recently took it on a 4,600 mile, 3 week trip and as always, extremely reliable. It also had adequate trunk space. I couldnt possibly ask for a more relaible car.

• 

  Awesome - 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Bill - September 8 - 2:42 pm

  Waited quite a few years to finally purchase a Vette and have not regretted it at all. This car is a lot of fun. Rides much nicer than expected.

• 

  Z06 Corvette Solid Black - 2004 Chevrolet Corvette
  By John Springfield - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Had to have rear end seals replaced the first 1000 due to leakage, but no other problems. The car has excellent power and handling.

• 

  Z06 - 2007 Chevrolet Corvette
  By BM - August 30 - 10:27 am

  I picked up the car and drove it 350 miles back home. I was very suprised how quiet and comfortable the car was. The performance is out of this world. The car pulls so hard and builds speed so quickly. It has a suprisingly comfortable ride. I have owned many sports cars and this not only was the greatest value, but the greatest all around car.

• 

  1st vette - 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Ron - August 29 - 11:51 pm

  Ive had the car for about three months. At first I felt like I was driving a large sedan. After driving a Mercede SLK for 6 years the 06 Vette felt much bigger. Had to take a good look each time to remember it was a 2 seat sports car. Once I adjusted to the comfortable ride, I was able to grasp the power and the fantastic handling. Realy like the Vette and dont mis the Mercedes. I am not sorry in the least that I bought the car. Time will tell on reliability

• 

  Best ever - 2004 Chevrolet Corvette
  By MikeChip - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Bought a new 04 Corvette in July. Have over 5,000 trouble free miles on it. Insurance is cheaper than on the 02 Mustang GT that I traded. Best vehicle I have ever owned, and the most fun to drive. Thanks GM for making a quality USA built machine.

• 

  Disappointed - 2004 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Un-impressed - August 27 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I finally were able to buy that corvette we always wanted.....what a mistake....I should have bought a 60s model if I knew it would constantly have to be worked on. The biggest problem to date are the window seals; they keep falling off. Its an ok car, but for nearly 50K I guess I expected more quality and performance. My 55 Chevy with a backyard 327 can smoke it, and it cost a whole lot less!