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:

• 

  A Car With a Soul - 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Dennis DeBoer - February 5 - 9:23 pm

  This is my first Corvette, so I had high expectations for it. The experience has exceeded the expectations. Its a beautiful, sexy and comfortable car, and Im glad I did it.

• 

  Welcome to the World of Corvette Owners - 1995 Chevrolet Corvette
  By he2 - February 5 - 9:04 pm

  I bought this car about 3 weeks ago sight unseen. It had 60K miles on it. I drove the car back from the pickup point. When I got it home I noticed about an inch of mold all over the passengers side due to a water leak. I replaced all the carpet and seats $2200. Then the car would not start. Tune up for $1500 and the Brakes were shot $1800. I still have a few interior pieces to replace. Now the car is fun to drive. The Looks are great. Need to replace the complete weather stripping on the car.

• 

  C-Vette - 2017 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Charlie Wight - February 5 - 4:28 am

  I love her. She is a show stopper. Have not liked the lines of the Stingray since my last one (1968) until the 2017.

• 

  Great car with annoying problems - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Paul Scarpelli - February 4 - 12:05 am

  My C6 is a refinement of my C5, and the Z51 package provides better brakes, shorter gear ratios, and a tight suspension. I replaced the Lexus- sounding exhaust with a Corsa Sport system, and now it sounds like a Corvette. The bad news is little irritating problems, like a plethora of interior rattles, and a chronic roof panel rattle. Fixed under recall, it still makes noise. The worst problem is known as "dead battery syndrome" due to the need to shut off the car in reverse, or it stays in accessory and it kills your battery. This ruined a weekend for me. The F1 Supercar Run Flats are very good for run flats, and I can accept the low 220 wear rating in trade for great handling.

• 

  Manual or Auto? - 2016 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Taxguy - February 3 - 1:50 am

  I recently traded in my LT1 2015 with 8 speed auto for a 2016 with 7 speed manual. Ive always been a manual transmission guy with my sports cars and auto for the family sedans. I bought the automatic believing the paddle shift would simulate the manual experience. After almost two years of driving, I can say that the automatic doesnt deliver the classic sports car "feel." The downshifting is where I mostly notice the difference. The manual transmission Vette is a very different experience. I now feel that Im really driving the manual Vette, not just putting the car in Drive and aiming it. I do mostly around town driving, so rarely get the car out of fourth gear, so constant shifting is not a hassle. The transmission shifts smoothly once I got used to the stiff clutch and found the correct shift points. So, if youre shopping for a Vette, my advice is to try both transmissions before you buy. FOLLOW UP: Sprang for a 911 since this review. MSRP exactly double the Vettes. And, it is auto--the well engineered "PDK" system by Porsche. This is much closer to a manual than the Vettes, plus the Porsche quality vs Chevrolet build. However, for the money, the Vette is an outstanding value, You wont lose much when it is time to sell a C7 unless you got one loaded with overpriced bells and whistles. Example : Color matching brake calipers for $600. Get real. But the option prices on the 911 are even worse.

• 

  Im Hooked! - 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
  By John - February 2 - 2:54 pm

  Ive finally been able to buy my first Vette! Now Im hooked, and I know that there will always be one (or more) parked in my garage. The power, handling, versatility, comfort, styling, and stereo are simply an amazing combination. Im still not used to the admiring stares from other drivers, and people saying "nice ride" in parking lots , etc. Im 6-5", and am happy to report that I fit very well in the coupe & convertible. Alas, the Z06 "real" hard top has frame struts that prevented me from fitting into my true desire. Oh well, I probably wouldve got mare tickets with that baby...

• 

  2001 Z06 - 2001 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Dano - January 30 - 10:55 pm

  This is my second Corvette. It was purchased used, Im the 2nd owner. This is an amazing car, the performance and handling are outstanding. Ive added a hurst shifter Stinger air intake and B&B exhaust. Now its even more fun. The mileage is amazing as long as you can keep your foot out of it. It is a head turner, looks blazing fast just sitting.

• 

  BMW To C6 - 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
  By L Schaffer - January 28 - 2:05 am

  Loved my BMW 330i, until I test drove the C6. I did 15 months of research, sold the BMW, and bought a 2LT Z51 6spd coupe. Have now had it 5 weeks and love everything about it. Went with the 2LT as wanted side air bags, but none of the gadgets (HUD, nav, heated seats, etc). Extreme torque down low and wicked handling - Far superior to my BMW and the M3s I have test driven. Fit and finish is also comparable to BMW and have thus far had no problems. Cargo capacity is HUGE - We do grocery shopping for 5 when kids are home from college. Insurance is very reasonable and comparable to BMW. Best bang for the buck sports car with capability to function as a daily driver. I love this car.

• 

  Somebody Stop Me! - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By 10RENT2OWN - January 25 - 11:18 pm

  Some 20 years ago they told me "youd get over with enjoing driving". Oh, No!!! Not after I got my 1st Vette. Is 12,000 mi in 6 mo a lot for a 2nd vehicle? I meet people at car shows and wonder-"600miles in a year, 900miles in a year" How can you own a Vette and only look at it - I know - the exterior gets the highest ratings. But still I cant stop driving it, mostly w/top down. Somebody stop me!

• 

  Fun car to own and drive - 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
  By vett owner - January 20 - 8:48 pm

  Just back from Florida and had a blast driving it. Its yellow so you cant miss it and it seems like everyone saw it both on the road and off. No matter where I stopped people walked over to look and ask questions.