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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  One Sweet Ride - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Robert - June 6 - 12:47 am

  This car is in a completely different league than anything youve probably driven. It looks like a supercar and thats exactly what it is at a fraction of the price. This is a pure-blooded sports car and not an imitation any- thing. It puts cars twice and even three times its price to shame. Its a rowdy American ride that you can actually drive and live with every day. Definitely a sweet ride that I highly recommend.

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  05 Vette - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By shaltom - June 5 - 12:14 pm

  My first Vette. Glad to have waited for the C-6. More fun to drive than to look at! This car is rock solid. If you have need for speed you will appreciate the performance of this vehicle.

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  Civilized performance - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Dave - June 4 - 4:50 pm

  This car is deceptively fast. You have to compare it to another performance car driving next to you to realize how quick she is. I was surprised how smooth the car is even with the Z51 performance package. This car goes, turns and stops like nothing else can. A heads up display that ties in to your navagation system... way cool. I love it.

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  Hard to Beat! - 2002 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Lee Whitney - June 4 - 3:32 am

  For the money, the 02 Z06 is hard to beat! Performance is right up there with exotics that cost way more. My only real complaint is the slight amount of "orange peel" in the paint and they could have used better quality leather in the seats. On a trip, I got 30 miles per gal with the Z06 in 6th gear and the cruise control set at about73 mph.Not bad for a 405 HP hot rod.I recent put a Vortech (smog legal) supercharger on my Z06 and its now putting out over 560 (reliable)HP at the crank and it still gets over 27 miles per gal. Its a real animal and should be able to stay right with the new 2006 (500 hp) Z06. Even with the blower, I am extremely happy with the durablity and reliablity of my Z06.

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  Purchased But Not Pursuaded - 2007 Chevrolet Corvette
  By mike wilk - June 1 - 8:17 pm

  Purchased a 2007 Corvette Coupe. Still getting used to this car. Traded in a 2015 Camaro V6 for it. With no warranty other than a 30 day/1000 mile transmission warranty, feel somewhat walking on thin ice. Took car in for oil change. Oil seeping around oil pan. It turned into a $900 job by the time all was said and done. Shortly after, I noticed the front quarter panel was sticking out, no longer attached to the frame. Tab connecting panel to the body was broken and duct tape was hanging down on the ground. Took vehicle back to place of purchase and showed them my findings. Car went to body shop for repair. No charge. As for the car itself, its a vette, plain and simple. Repairs are expensive, parts are expensive, anything that says Vette on it is expensive. Still, its a corvette. BASED ON REPAIR COSTS AND MAINTENANCE COSTS, I CAN I EXPECT $1,000 MINIMUM CHARGE FOR BRAKES, TIRES, A/C UNIT, TORQUE BEARING ETC... If I had the opportunity to do it over again, Id choose to get a 2008 or newer and automatic. Stay away from convertibles and not interested in a track car. This purchased car is a daily driver and I enjoy driving the standard, after all, it is a muscle car, still, Im an older guy and driving over speed bumps everyday just to get to the main road sucks. Overall, the the 2007 Z51 3LT has many advanced features that are credit worthy. Its a beautiful car and deserves to be run. "Drive it like you own it (or as my wife says, "Drive it like you stole it."...and enjoy the ride!!! There are those are on the road that wish they had a Vette and there are those who drive a Vette. Cheers.

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  Sports Car Heaven - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Roger - May 30 - 7:58 pm

  The new 2005 Corvette is an unbelievable sports car in terms of performance and beauty. After checking out its 2005 German nemesis, I found the Corvette to be more powerful, more advanced in both interior and exterior design, and more fun to drive. Maintenance is minimal. Make no mistake, the 2005 Corvette is a premium sports car. In addition, the Corvette is designed to provide ample seating room for both driver and passenger. Luggage room is great for cross-country trips. If you decide to buy one, be prepared to watch other people bend their necks and put up their thumbs as you pass-by. You will look for excuses to drive your new Corvette.

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  Corvette Rules - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By William Anderson - May 27 - 12:17 pm

  Having driven a C5 Corvette for over seven years, I was anxious to see if my new C6 could expand the tremendous qualities of the C5. It does in every aspect. The acceleration and handling are a huge step up (especially with the Z51 package), it is explosive. The exterior design is a nice improvement, especially the front end, and the interior is very well done. My car is a Daytona Sunset Orange color, and draws thumbs-up from all ages everywhere I go. Truly a world class peformer with comfort and everyday driving capacities. When comparing the car to the Porsche, Viper, and even Ferrari, it is truly a steal at $54,000.

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  THE ULTIMATE " VIPER EATER" - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Brett - May 26 - 1:50 pm

  NOTHING under 100k even comes close! europe beware!

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  Corvette the Dream Machine - 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Carol - May 24 - 11:00 pm

  The best Corvette yet....I previously owned a 1987 and was sad when I had to turn it in on my new 2005. The sadness soon disappeared when I set foot on that accelerator pedal and took to the road... a sports car with all the new electronic features along with the handling and performance which has always been Corvettes trademark. We are a team...heads turn when we drive along that road of dreams.

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  Great Bang 4 the Buck - 2001 Chevrolet Corvette
  By Greg W - May 20 - 2:40 am

  For the price of a new Lancer Evo or WRX STi, you can purchase a very clean, used Z06 and smoke those 4-cylinder hairdryers all day long. The 2001 Z06 with 385hp & 385ft-lbs of torque launches from a standing start like a Trans-Am race car. Add an intake, LG long tube headers and a good exhaust to a 2001 Z06 and youll easily match the 405hp found in 2002-2004 models. Dont be afraid to rev the engine. Unlike the older C4 and early C5 motors, the Z06 engine doesnt hit its horsepower peak until just over 6000rpm. Handling is fantastic for practically every twisty road in America. Only dedicated track drivers may find it a little soft.