Here's more retro Corvette videos that I hope you enjoy next... C6 BUYER'S GUIDE ua-cam.com/video/QiOZciFMRGE/v-deo.html C4 BUYER'S GUIDE ua-cam.com/video/N0BW_TFzKng/v-deo.html WHY I BOUGHT A C6 CORVETTE ua-cam.com/video/QWy1fUrWa4I/v-deo.html C4/C5 A GOOD FIRST CAR? ua-cam.com/video/dyF5eHPf5sw/v-deo.html Thank you for watching!
Excellent video as always! On the saddle gas tank issue - i took my C6 in to bestbuy to have them install new speakers, carplay, and hideaway kicker subs behind the seats. Reasonable request right…. NOPE…. I SPECIFICALLY asked them to mount the subs to a fabricated bracket to bolt to the seat mounts….. instead they DRILLED HOLES through the back wall INTO a fuel tank….. They paid for the ~$12,000 of damage and work they caused… @RetroCarsForever
@@tom95001 Woah!! That was a very expensive mistake on their part! I have also had bad experiences with Best Buy car installations in the past, but nothing that serious.
I have My Mom's C-4. It sat, & sat & sat in Her garage for years. Being neglected, I begged Mom for it. Finally She caved ( I was the reason it was parked) , but Mom folded & said just come & get it, make it run again, take Me for a ride,& it's Yours....... Thank GOD for Mom's, n Corvettes. I love Mine. My Mom that is, & the Vette too!!!!!!!
I'm 32, about to buy my 3rd C5. I've driven a ton of Corvettes over the years and obviously the C5 is my favorite. Like you said in the video, it's the Goldilocks Corvette for me. As a 90's kid, I get those vibes from the car, which is very sentimental. Apart from sentiment, the C5 for me is the perfect blend of classic and modern. It's the recipe of a classic with just enough technology to satisfy most needs. Plus, with the aftermarket you can address many of it's shortcomings, like the headlights, radio, and interior pieces. There are so many upgrades available now that it's crazy. It has that raw driving feel, the famous LS engine, the stiffness and weight distribution to give you confidence when driving it hard, and it's a very reliable, easy to live with platform overall. I love the styling, with the smooth curves and pop up headlights. But don't get me wrong, I love all Corvettes. There's no denying that each generation takes many leaps, so it will only get better as time goes on. But another huge part of the reason I have such an affection for the C5 is it's story. It has one of the best stories in automotive history. The book "All Corvettes Are Red" is a must read and details the development of the C5 behind the scenes. To summarize quickly, GM was in financial trouble in the 90's and planned on canceling the Corvette. Some diehard Corvette guys at GM moved money around without management knowing and developed the C5 IN SECRET. They had a very limited budget and knew in order for the Corvette to survive, they had to absolutely knock it out of the park. When they were satisfied with the car, they presented it to the executives, who had NO IDEA they were working on it. The executives were so impressed that they gave it the green light immediately and allowed them to continue development. It's an incredible story, and it makes you realize that the Corvette was so close to dying, but the C5 saved the entire brand from extinction. For those reasons it will always hold a very special place for me. Great video, I really enjoyed it!
Thank you! And awesome to hear your thoughts. "All Corvettes Are Red" gave me a whole new appreciation for how difficult and complex it is to design a car, especially at a huge company like GM. Without question, the C5 was a home run at the time, and the passion of the people who made it shines through!
I enjoy a C5 convertible because of the un-obstructed view when the top is down, and all the room. It actually has the largest interior driver/ passenger space of all the corvettes, and the trunk holds enough for some real decent grand touring. I had to laugh when I first noticed the particular hood shape as I drove my used car purchase home. Because, when I was a kid, it was very special to go to Disneyland, and I tried for years to master not passing under the " you must be this tall to ride this ride" sign next to the autopia ride. For a kid, although it was an "E" ticket ride, it was worth it , obviously the best ride in the place, before they built the matterhorn. Go carts were a new invention back then, so that helped fuel the coolness factor , and this road, unlike the little kid version of the ride , didn't even have a track in the middle, you could actually drive them. that generation of kiddie car's body was very loosely based upon the corvette shape, . and the view from behind the wheel of that long gone utopia car just happed to have a startling , almost as if a gift from fate, resemblance to the shape I was now seeing from behind the wheel of the corvette I was now driving home. I also enjoyed when my consumption gauge very briefly hit 99 mpg on the freeway home. Talk about aim high, that is quite a number to shoot for at any time.
@@richardelliott8352 I occasionally get 99 mpg while coasting downhill at slight above usual highway speeds in my '95 C4.... But I also hit 0 mpg under full-throttle acceleration. XD
@@justinrydar4253 for sure, it’s a great platform. I used to daily a rebuilt 383 c3 and it was a blast, but the newer corvettes are something special. At least for my experience they feel like f16s for the road 😂😂😂
really consider the age, because parts will be needed , and someone who knows how to work on such an old specialty car, if it is not you. for me the stewardship of an old car was a steep learning curve, it takes some involvement to keep them on the road . New cars are convenient ..
C4 here, absolutely loving it. Still got some stuff to do (headlight repair, stereo, etc.). I can't complain, though, definitely the most fun I've ever had driving.
I do think the C4 is the most outright FUN car of this trio, though that could be nostalgia talking! BTW if you haven't seen it yet, I have a helpful video here on repairing the headlights... ua-cam.com/video/A79Np_hxGzo/v-deo.html
I also favor the more organic round shape , it's just more graceful, like a classic sports car. Of course, a kid who grew up with hot wheels and transformer robots is going to favor a more aggressive style statement.
I too liked the more smooth design than all those "creases." The dumb thing that I did though was to buy the auto...I should never have done that and bought the stick instead.
Underrated more like most appreciated, I've seen so many of them, and still love them everytime i see one, especically those anniversary Green C5's those are sick!
@siphious2911 I agree with you 💯 % but most regular casual car people don't respect the C5 around where I live.. I personally own 2- C5 corvette convertibles in rare color combinations.. I'm never selling them brother.
@@eriklarson9137not really. My c5 Z is modded but everyone that has had a c5 and went to c6 say the c5 feels more alive and in tune with the car. I’ve punished c6 z06s in the mtns of WNC.
i owned a C4 for 22 years and i loved it. i got it in 1999 with 39 k miles on it. i traded it in with 101k miles for an 05 C6 with 34K. in my opinion, the C6 is better. it is comfortable and performs well. it is also easier to get in and out of unlike the C4. good video
Thank you! And I appreciate the comment, especially from someone who has owned all three. The combo of performance and comfort with the C6 is hard to beat.
Of course the C6 is "better" and the C8 much more so but thats not the point. The C4 is now a vintage car and for its period it has a lot of great quirks like the digi dash, pop-ups, clam shell hood....
C6 Grand Sport here and can honestly say... these cars are a dream to drive. Even driving a C4 a couple of times in the late 90's... very impressive. C6 is a whole other level. Nice vid!
Thank you! I have a theory that the C6 Grand Sport is the Corvette perfected. I have to drive one someday to verify, along with a few older generations that I’ve yet to pilot!
@@RetroCarsForever it is great. Drives like a sporty, muscle-y Cadillac, the wider tires stick to the road no matter how I turn or slam on brakes, mag ride suspension is great... hell of a car.
@johnquintmatt1986 Congrats! Really wanted a 2013 anniversary edition really badly, but the 2011 popped up in really good condition and in the right color combo... red two tone interior.
Agreed! Quick note, the ‘04 Z06 also has revalved shocks after Nurburgring testing in ‘03, and I believe all ‘04s also have a FlexFuel capable ECU! However the fuel pump is C6 style, even more of a chore if it goes.
I've wanted a Corvette since I was kid growing up in the 70's, but I never could afford one, and it just wasn't a practical car as a year round daily driver, especially in the winter up here in the Great White North. Now five decades later, I finally bought my first Corvette, a 2013 60th Anniversary C6 with super low mileage and in excellent condition... And I couldn't be more pleased, it's a life long dream finally realized!!!
Facts… I own both c4 and 5. I know people rip on the c5 interior but I honestly feel like the c6 interior looks cheaper… and not cockpit style… seems super flat..
C4 for me, particularly the early angular bodystyle and digital dash. 80's icon and loads of nostalgia. Best bang for the buck. You can see it's bodyshape influence all the way through the C7 cars.
The C4 is incredibly rad! I actually had a part (that I later cut for time) talking about how cool looking the C4 dash designs are, compared to the rather plain/flat look of the C5/C6 dashboards.
I own and love the C4, but it's funny- I dramatically prefer the looks of the '91-'96 cars; every single alteration made on both exterior and interior was an improvement in my opinion. XD I do like and want an early C4 as a secondary Corvette though! XD
A month ago I was C6 shopping and a friend called me and asked if I wanted to look at his low mileage 2003 C5 Z06. I figured what the hell why not. I checked it out and liked it but when I drove it, to me this thing just hit different. I've driven all gens of the Corvette except the C1 and this C5 Z06 (in my opinion) is hands down the most visceral, raw and light on its feet "drivers" car out of the bunch and its the one that captured my heart. I bought it the next day. I love this car. Ill never sell it. :)
@@EagleScoutmano Never thought about that before, but I think you're right that the C5 Z06 is the lightest MODERN Corvette. The original C1 did weigh a 100-200 lbs less.
Got a chance to drive a C5 Z06 6 speed recently, amazing vehicle to drive, but the interior just doesn't feel great. Best car I've ever driven and would buy one if the right one came up.
Good review! I own a 2004 commemorative edition C5 vert. I'm 6'7" and this car is the only corvette with enough room to drive. I have made several mods and I'm planning on gifting to my grandson when he turns 21 (6yrs).
I've been waiting for this since you teased it on instagram! Awesome!!! I love my '94 a ton and im glad i have it. It may not be as reliable or performance capable as the C5 and C6 but it's weirder and i like that. If i ever get the opportunity to have either of the newer gens I'd take them too. These three gens have been a massive part of my childhood. High quality video as always Brad!
@@RetroCarsForever on top of that, like you mentioned, it's extremely raw compared to the other gens. my brother has an '07 STi which makes 700 at the crank but he's become convinced to get a Corvette like mine after driving it--the sole reason being the raw feel
@@HippuJiima Totally. "Raw" feeling of the C4 might be imperfect, but it has a lot of character that's completely missing from the smooth/disconnected feeling of most modern day cars.
@@gsmith207 Thank you! I make videos professionally so that certainly helps. And I take a LOT of time with my research/homework...I really strive for accuracy, as it bugs me when videos are just parroting incorrect information from untrustworthy sources. Glad to hear it's all appreciated!
The C4 flexed so much that my Dad stripped out the screw holes on the targa top TWICE while trying to remove it on his uneven driveway. The dealer replaced the panel free under warranty, but we learned that it had to be level when removing/installing the panel!
Ugh, I had that exact same issue on my C4 when I installed the top on an uneven surface! Took me a full day to figure out how to fix the top that started to rattle (ended up taking off the bottom of the halo and bending the hole back a tad). I should’ve mentioned that in the video come to think of it.
Had an 85 c4 and it was fun, reliable and decent fast. Build quality was nonexistent and rattled and the interior self destructed with every drive. Handling sucked when the roof was off, but was nice on sunny day. I’m older now so wouldn’t own one but in my early 20s it was fantastic! Also had an 81 and 72 c3, those were as good as an S-10 blazer with a body kit, pure trash, but looked fantastic👍
19 and my first car is an 86 corvette. Have had it for a year now and while its the most basic option and an auto and therefore not as fun as manuals. I still love love the car and driving it gives me life. Its a beautiful car.
Cool first car! And those are still plenty fun with the automatic, especially for a first car where there’s a lot of other stuff to pay attention to beyond worrying about shifting gears.
As much as I am a C4 guy, and dream about the day of owning one again, I have to say the C5 is without a doubt the sweet spot. I think the only thing detracting me from the C6 is that fact that it's a GM (every car has it) steering wheel. My Pontiac G6 had the same one. Even the center stack looks corporate GM. Personal take-aways C4 - owned an 85' z51 car. Super awesome when you are in your 20's. Creaks, rattles, cracked black plastic dash and center console parts, but what a console it was!!! That down low insta-torque! Though, dead after 4000rpm. They were quick for the time, still feel good, but won't pin you like a C6. C5 is a bit soft on the exterior looks side - It's reserved. I like the C5 interior, but then I was used to a new one, and every car was like that. I won't talk about performance, because the only one I drove was a 2000 Lingenfelter 650hp twin-Turbo (my fathers) - it scared me, lol C6 - I know they're fast, I love the look, but the computerization, and odd things that could go wrong detract. I also am not fond of the interior. I do think they would be nice to own, but gravitate to a C5 for something simpler.
Great thoughts, and sounds like we agree with a lot of what I mention in the video. As the C6 owner, I'm actually not as bothered by the corporate steering wheel as I thought I would be. It's only noticeable when you drive those other GM cars from the era...On its own, I think its a good looking and very functional wheel.
Funny you should have that opinion, because I share the opinion, about the C5 being the sweet spot of the line. I think it will be easier to keep on the road as it ages, depending on the junkyards computer supply , because of it's, only in comparison, simplicity. while the C6 is easily faster, the C5 is easier to drive fast. Or so I have read, that one car is more forgiving as the limits are toyed with .
I have all three generations, 94, 04, and 08. One of the sticklers with the C6 are the shifter problems that won’t shift out of park due the the plastic knob. I think my C5 has the smoothest ride. And in your C4 video you mentioned the headline continues to pulse with the erosion of the plastic gears. Mine has started that now. It’s a great video as usual. Keep it up. And you gotta make it to Carlisle one of these days! You owe it to yourself!
Thank you! I know Carlisle (and also the Corvette Museum) are bucket list trips for me someday. At some point I'm going to do a video on C6 Common Problems (or maybe included in a Buyer's Guide), definitely gotta mention that shifter issue. I've seen a ton of people in C6 Facebook groups have that issue!
@RetroCarsForever I'm 32, huge Corvette fan. I planned a trip in January to Bowling Green with my brother. We went to the factory and did the tour (HIGHLY recommend) which was incredible. Seeing how advanced the factory has become and watching Corvettes born right from the factory floor was amazing. Then we went to the Corvette Museum which was INSANE. The amount of rare and iconic Corvettes there blew my mind. The Stingray Cafe was really neat as well, with a really cool looking bar top with a giant Stingray logo. My only regret was not going sooner! I definitely plan on going back when the C9 comes out just to compare to my first trip. It's a must-have trip for Corvette lovers.
Wanted a corvette all my life. When I was serious I considered a C5 or 6 but for a bit more money I could get a C7. Bought a 2014 C7. A real head turner. Compliments galore.
Great video (again as usual)! I paid just $8k for my 2000 C5 earlier this year. 130k miles, runs and drives great, no issues. I’ve owned a 88 and 92 C4, fun cars but I’ve moved on now. My next door neighbor has a LS3 C6 and I finally drove it a month ago, it’s definitely quicker than my LS1 C5! But I still love my C5 cause it was my dream car when I was a young teen in 1997. The C6 is definitely the best performance bang for your buck right now though if you want to build a real fast car.
Thank you! You got a steal on that C5, especially as its not one of the earlier and more trouble-prone years. Corvette values seem to drop off a slope when they hit 100k miles or so, but if you want to drive it and it doesn't have issues, who cares...What a great value!
Wow what a bargain! Congrats👍🏽 I’d have no concerns with the mileage. Those LS1s are bulletproof. I’d love to get a C5 one day and definitely use it as a weekend cruiser. I have a C7 GS and I get so much anxiety from driving it since it’s more expensive. A broken in C5 I wouldn’t have any concerns getting door dings or running into any rain or racking up more miles
Good overview! I just got my first Vette, a C5 Z06, last year. The LS6 revs eagerly and puts more of the power up top, which is tons of fun with the much shorter geared M12 transmission. The front end especially with aftermarket “sleepy LEDs looks much more sleek and interesting to me than the later models, and it holds value very well!
I bought a c5 z06 about a month ago after wanting one since being kid in the early 2000’s. I am honestly amazed on how well it handles for being a 20+ year old car. I do lots of spirited driving and can say it’s the best handling stock car I’ve ever owned. It was pretty weird driving it for the first week as it feels like a clash of two different era’s. It’s a super raw sports car with pop up headlight, but at the same time it has a heads up display, auto climate control, and memory seats that automatically slide back and forth when you turn the car on/off. I think for the value it’s the best out there currently. C6 will be there soon but I think it still has some depreciation to go while the c5’s especially the z06 will continue to go back up in value as they have been for the past few years.
Awesome! Never driven a C5 Z06 but they do seem like great cars, that often get overlooked by the mammoth performance of the C6 Z06. But that just makes the C5 Z a terrific value!
I have a C5 Z06 as well and while I have never gotten the chance to drive a base model, I hear the difference in performance between the two is big. It also out performs the base C6. I would love to hear your opinion of the C5 Z if you can find a stock one to drive!😀
I got a c5z back in 05 and couldn't believe how awesome it was stock. A few years after i picked up a 99 base c5 and it was definitely a big let down coming from the c5z. It's honestly hard to fathom that its the same car@@darrylsjodin7184
Loved watching this! My 1995 purple C4 6-speed is currently for sale on the corvette forum. I’ve absolutely loved the car and I’m only selling it due to our recent family addition. I owe you and your channel a huge thank you for inspiring me to buy one 3 years ago. I’m going to miss it dearly when it sells! For those of you considering a C4 - DO IT!
@@RetroCarsForeverthanks man! Now the question is what to get next that is family-friendly. Leaning into the Elantra N but the C4 will be hard to replace.
@@RetroCarsForever We have a C5 and C6. The 5 is my husband's primary ride, and 6 is my primary. We both love them both! C5 manual is So Much Fun to Drive, and the C6 is like a luxury car with the onscreen display and upgraded radio, etc. Plus, I blinged it out a little! ;-)
I have owned a previous C4 and C5, now own a C4,5,6. Good comparison, great description of the C6 being on the luxury side. IMHO, I love the nostalgia of the C4, the C5 is definitely the seat spot and the one that really makes me feel like I am in a cockpit. For each of their personalities, I like all 3.
Congrats! Honored to hear I had that kind of sway. As I mention in this video, 94/95/96 are IMO the best years if you want to drive your C4 a lot, so I'm sure you'll enjoy your ride!
@@RetroCarsForever I had never driven a manual before the 1000 mile trip back with it from Montana so that was an experience 😅 I more or less have the hang of it now.
@@DylanHall-es7iw Heh, they're not the easiest manuals to learn on either...Clutch is pretty stiff and has a weirdly high engagement point, and there's the weird 1 to 4 CAGS thing to deal with. But hey, if you can drive a C4 stick, you'll be able to drive ANY manual now! Congrats again, hope you had a great road trip home.
Love the video. Great work, as always! I have an 85 C4, super easy to live with, and IMO the best styling. The thing to consider with early C4s is that they have that cassette futuristic digital dash, and not many cars can give such an amazing 80s aesthetic.
Thanks! And I actually had a section giving the C4 a "positive" in dash design. Both the early digital dash and the later "wraparound" dashes have a ton of great character, compared to the flat/boring look of the C5/C6. (I ended up cutting that section for time/pace)
Great video. Different strokes, for sure. The C5 seems to be the best "all-arounder;" offering very decent performance and reliability, while also a very affordable price point and just enough "retroness" for those looking for something with character.
Thanks Rick! Agreed. I would've happily owned a C5 if the right one would've come around when I was looking. Could even seeing owning one in the future.
Great video! I love my 95! I did go ahead and upgrade my shifter to a ZFdoc short shifter (felt like I was rowing a boat before lol) and beam plates from ZFdoc as well (driveline support reinforcement plates) which have made a world of difference!
Right on, and thanks! I WAS going to mention the different shifter feel between all these cars, as driving these three back-to-back that was something you notice right away (the C4/5 have long throws, the C6 is a factory short-throw by comparison). I only cut it because it IS ultimately a matter of preference...I kinda like "rowing the boat" feel of the C4/5, makes me pretend I'm Steve McQueen in Bullitt or something! Tell me more about these ZFdoc beam plates, I'm not familiar with them.
I have a 1998 C5. Base model. 6 speed manual. It’s been slightly modified. Rear suspension was replaced. LEDs everywhere (including the sleepy eyes which makes the open height much lower). I have the Silverado tape deck unit with a 12 disc CD changer in the trunk. That needs to go! I wish it had HUD and Competitive Drive Mode. The glass targa is great when you roll too close to traffic signals (just look up). The BBS wheels (black on black) make it look menacing. Combined with low profile tires, the ride height is… well, you can’t clear a soda can in the road. Somehow, the TPMS sensors were crisscrossed. So, when I thought I was dropping the pressure on my driver rear wheel… it read it as the passenger. Grrrr! The AC only slightly works, which is more than an inconvenience for a black vehicle in Louisiana. The harmonic balancer was replaced. As was the brake rotors, calipers and soft lines, which are now braided. The Borla Cat-back exhaust with crossover gives a deep rumble, rather than the raspy stock exhaust. The LS1 has plenty of power, even with 105,000 miles.
I have plenty of videos of my C5 on my channel here. I had it over 6 years and I love it. I have driven a bunch of C6s and a couple C4s while working at two Chevy Stores years ago. I love all 3 of those gens. I do have special place in my heart for those C4s. Great video man. I subbed!
I'm 17, about to get a '94 C4 T-top coupe as my daily driver. When I tell you I'm over the moon for this car, I mean it. It gives me the feel and vibe of a classic car from the 80s and 90s (I adore the dash, as well as older japanese cars from that era, which I feel it's kinda reminiscent of) , with a price that doesn't kill me too much, and a drive that's some of the most fun I've ever had. C5 and C6 def have it beat performance wise, but I don't need that right now- I don't exactly plan on drag racing it. Hella excited, been watching videos all night. This is awesome.
Congrats! One heck of a first car. If you haven't already, be sure to check out my C4 Quirks video...Great way to get up to speed on these weird but wonderful machines! ua-cam.com/video/X2-06FbEQxA/v-deo.html
Thanks man! Anytime you want to drive the C6 let me know (IMO it's the Corvette perfected). The GoPro DID survive! Had some scratches on the case but still usable. That said it's a cheap crappy case and I want to replace it anways. I think it fell off because the C5 had some slight spiderwebs on the paint in that section, so it wasn't sticking on to a completely smooth surface. A lesson for the future! 😅
Thank you! Yeah, even as a C6 owner, I'm baffled by those handles and why anyone thought they were a great idea. Actually MOST new high end cars have strange electric handles, so you could say the C6 helped start a trend...But it's a trend I don't care for!
I just bought a Triple black '92 Convertable, only 47,000 miles. Added a fresh set of BFG G-Force tires and I'm loving it as my new daily driver, 6 speeds are awesome ! . I love your videos and hope to get some seat time in a C5 soon. Keep up the great work ! signing out from the great state of New Hampshire.....
Been going back and forth between all three. My ideal situation would be a 96 C4 vert and a manual C6 grand sport but I already have too many cars. Also my first time watching one of your videos and with the production quality I’m definitely subscribing. Great video!
Thank you so much, I appreciate the sub! Enjoy the other videos on my channel, I think they're all pretty good quality (it helps that I make/edit videos for a living, so even my earlier videos are watchable, I thankfully didn't have to "learn" how to make videos when I started like many UA-camrs)
This was a great video! I love how you filmed in my favorite driving area, Azusa Canyon. I never thought much about the C4/5/6 cars. Now I need to maybe get one. RADCRVT - love the pates!
Thanks! That's a reasonable gist of it, AND the newer cars have some new car disadvantages as well, with a few unique quirks sprinkled in amongst all three of them.
You've understated the problems C4s and C5s have with weatherstrip seals. Unless always garaged, and the seals have been regularly conditioned and never replaced, your C4 is going to leak. Your C5 is probably going to leak. And to fix bad seals on either one, you are going to spend lots and lots and lots of money, and there's a decent chance you'll have to try to do it yourself. I had a 96 C4 CE with a six speed that I could not park in a garage, and had bad seals on both doors. I took this car to two of the most reputable corvette specialty repair shops in my area, and both shops refused to do the work of replacing those seals. I then tried to do the job myself, botched it horribly, and ended up having to take it to a third shop which replaced the worst of the seals that I previously tried to replace but refused to warranty the work. My inability to find someone to perform this service was the primary factor in me selling the car. I would not recommend to anyone looking to daily drive a corvette to get a C4 unless you have the ability to make sure the car never sees rain, and you're willing to hand wash it with a spray bottle.
Bummer to hear that! I actually mentioned those door seals in a previous video covering common C4 issues (ua-cam.com/video/9nR3rkZd2bQ/v-deo.html). Not something I had to personally deal with, but it's crazy how many C4's especially have this issue! But that's a great point for this comparison test that I didn't think of...The C6 doesn't have such "puffy" door seals (maybe because of the indexing glass feature).
Can confirm, I have the same problem. Ordered door stripping on Amazon but it didn't fit so I put the old stuff on. I don't have a garage either. What I did was put it under a 10 x 10 canopy, and I keep it covered with a cover if I'm not going to use it a few days. The canopy by itself keeps the water out, it just gets a little water in it when I wash it. And I don't drive it in the rain. I keep one of those moisture absorbers in the back just in case.
@@ObscureStuff420 I have heard that you pretty much NEED to spring for top-of-the-line (expensive) rubber strips or else you'll have fitment issues. Like from Corvette Rubber or a place like that. Either way, doesn't sound like a fun task and glad I didn't have to deal with it on my C4!
FYI, my C5 Z06 is a factory hard top with normal window weather stripping and has never leaked, even in a car wash. You can enjoy Corvette performance again with a C5Z!
Everyone seems to have a different opinion! I think all three look terrific, though I give the slight edge to the C4 for its ultra clean lines and tidy proportions.
DUDE I had that exact same Dale Earnhardt bag when I was a little kid! Great job on the video. I've always loved the C5 and one day I'll have a 2003 ZO6.
Thank you! I love that bag, I inherited it from my Grandpa who got me into NASCAR (btw, stay tuned for the next video, it's about NASCAR and Corvettes...)
From my understanding (I'm not a mechanic)...But in some ways the C5 is easier to fix vs the C4, but in many others its not (as mentioned in the video).
@@RetroCarsForever torque tube related maintenance notwithstanding haha. Also parts are very readily avail for the 5 and 6, not sure if it’s the same on the c4 🤷♂️
Rebuilding a c4, most parts are standard gm. Fancier parts for the more boutique items are harder to get. Such as ZF transmission cars can have issues as it’s a weird transmission in the US. Luckily the transmission is a tank. Or sport seat switches are straight up unfindable, same with some parts of the adjustable suspension. Luckily most of the hard to find systems you can just remove and either go aftermarket or base corvette versions, which are just gm parts. C4s are electricly wonky due to being that transition car between carbs and full electric control, but as long as your are not a purist, replacing it all with a modern aftermarket system is not to bad, but I say that as someone that likes rewiring cars.
Thank you for an amazing video where the information and data presented are second to none, yet presented in a fun and modern format. My heart is with the C4, a 94, and although I have only owned it for 10 months, I absolutely adore the car and it only keeps growing on me. It may have the least amount of power, but I like its style and as you point out, probably the fewest headaches. Thank you Brad for such an in-depth report and your contribution to the car world.
I remember being a kid back in 1997 and watching Good Morning America before school, when they showed the debut of the “all new C5 Corvette” My jaw hit the floor and I thought it was way too nice of a car for me to ever see in person. Hard to believe they’re a bang for the buck, retro car now.
Great memory! I think I first saw the C5 in Motor Trend. Thankfully they made so many of them, and so many have survived, that they’re great values today.
Absolutely love this channel. Just came across it on my recommended today and I’m definitely subscribing. Clear understandable content, good camera work, sound is great, and you make it very easy to understand these machines. Keep it up man, gonna give you a follow on all platforms! Hope to see more from you in the future! Love from Brooklyn NYC!🗽
90 c4 here, love all generations. Wallet said your getting a c4. Love that its 34 years old and running strong, sliding into it is one of the best feelings, smile every time. Enjoy which one you have, theyre all awesom.
19 years with my "87" C4. I kept it in good condition all these years and haven't had any problems with it, which is one of the reasons I haven't traded up to my dream vett, a 2003 50th Anniversary. Maybe some day!
Glad to hear you’ve enjoyed your C4 for so long! I have driven your dream car 50th before, they’re great cars…and the nice interior colors do wonders in dressing up that infamous C5 interior.
Thank you, I appreciate that! If you're interested in the C4, I have several videos on my channel to help with your search, especially my C4 Buyer's Guide... ua-cam.com/video/N0BW_TFzKng/v-deo.html
Excellent cinematography here! When they are all three parked next to each other it is impossible for me to pick a favorite. Last week I saw a dark green C4 convertible with a tan top that was quite the stunner, but the combo of larger interior plus retro-cool pop-ups pushes me towards the C5...without the optional side vent rub strips!
Thank you! Was really cool to see all three gens parked together, especially in these scenic locations. I agree, the C5 looks WAY better without the rub strip, much cleaner without.
I have been lucky enough to own all three. For looks the C5 is hard to beat but.... the C6 is my favorite ! Seat -of the -pants Go Power in the C6 ! My C4 was the 480th Z-R! ever made. It was sneaky fast but just didn't blast like my 08 C-6 . Loved them All ! Need another one even tho' I'm old now, they just get in your blood !
Same here. I really wanted a true winner/loser conclusion here, but honestly, there's no real "loser" in the bunch. Some of the Vettes are just better at some things than others.
Our lead developer has a C6 Grand Sport. He absolutely loves it he always talks about how it is the pinnacle of body designs that were not concept cars. I love the C5 though. from a distance, it looks very exotic. C6 feels more about performance.
Outstanding video comparison betwixt the 3 generations of Corvette. I can drive any car i want however i have always loved theC4 Corvette. Take care and best of luck with this very informative video.
I’m loving these videos, they’re very well made and very informative for someone like me who’s never been around Corvettes. Reminds me of old MotorTrend or the Speed Channel! Coming from mostly European cars, I expect some things to be worse like build quality and ergonomics. But the Corvettes have a lot to offer in the mechanical and driving dynamics departments. You can’t beat a good old American V8 with a manual transmission and open top!
Thanks! I love old Motor Trend/Speed Channel/Motorweek videos, they certainly influence my style of videos. To be fair, there are some ergonomic issues with all these Vettes compared to the best European cars like Porsches...Though it has more to do with the basic control positioning, steering and brake feel, heel and toe downshift pedal positioning, shifting feel...The little bits of polish that Americans don't really get right most of the time. That said, once you get USED to the controls of a vintage Vette, you can really fly!
Great video and one of the most concise, sensible comparisons of these 3 models I've seen anywhere. I have a C4 (96 Collector's Ed.) and a C5 (2003 - 50th Anniv. Ed.). After over 20 years and racking up over 100k miles on EACH of them, I can say that they are both fun, enjoyable sports cars and each fulfills a different need. I take the C4 out when I want a truer, rough & tumble sports car feel. It's smaller, tighter and wraps around the driver better, allowing one to feel better connected to the car and road. The C4 is just plan FUN to drive. The C5 is my long distance car. More power, comfort, storage than the C4, making it the perfect sports car for a trip. I've taken it across the country on Route 66 twice. It's agile and quick, though admittedly it doesn't give me quite the same "connected" feeling with car and road as I get with the C4. Love both; can't give up either one!
@@RetroCarsForever Yes, they get driven a lot, partly out of necessity... Corvettes are the ONLY cars I own! Everyday, everywhere, take the Vette, life is good.
@@wesholt1906 Sounds right! My husband has a beautiful manual daily 04, and I have a beautiful daily 07. We Love Both of them!! I have a Jeep and he has a Silverado Duramax for the winters, or excessive rain storms. My 07 was purchased a year ago with car cover, both tops, and only 8000 miles!! It is an excellent vehicle.
Man this video was great, I've been wondering which Corvette to get and was really leaning into a C7, I just like them. However your video was insightful and made me consider one of the other gens. I like the look of all the generations and wanted a C8 but that C7 looks so nice.
Great video! As for me, it's C5, because I've driven it in NFS 3 long time ago ;) But seriously, best could be C6 with transplanted C5 front, it's most beautiful for me. Thanks again for nice piece of video
In my opinion, the C4 is definitely the best! Because of your channel and insight, owning my '95 has been amazing! I would recommend anyone who wants something fun and affordable to put the C4 on your list! Awesome video!
I've owned all three: 1990 convertible, 2004 Z16 and 2009 Z06. They were all cool in their own way. I miss the C5Z Z16 because it was so raw, but it had a marginal looking/feeling interior. The C4 'vert was fun, but lots of gremlins. The C6Z is one of my favorite cars ever.
Great video as always Brad. Congrats on your beautiful blue C6! Wish I knew your sweet Collectors Edition was available? I love my 92, but your Collectors Edition with the legendary LT4 would be a very nice upgrade! 👍
Thank you! I never put my LT4 on the market. I go into more detail in my last video (about selling the C4 for the C6 here- ua-cam.com/video/QWy1fUrWa4I/v-deo.html) but my good friend offered to buy it before I ever put it up for sale!
Thank you for responding Brad. I will definitely check out that video. This was the first video I’ve seen you posted in a few years. UA-cam sure likes to mess with subscriptions!! Been subscribed for years, your knowledge and passion for our beloved Vettes is inspiring and infectious! Again, congrats on such a beautiful C6. ENJOY it and keep the excellent videos coming! 👍
I was 8 when I first saw and noticed a Corvette (C4). Finally pulled the trigger on a 96 LT4. The kid in me couldn’t be happier! Car just molds to you as you drive!
We had a '99 C5 and we currently have a '13 C6. Both cars are very reliable, easy to modify and relatively cheap to buy. I personally love the LS3 with a 6MT in our C6 and I don't plan on selling it.
I've enjoyed the visuals of your video more than most of what I see hear on UA-cam. Your commentary is great as well, You have a new subscriber. Tom from Houston
Great overview of the 3 models. Would you mind doing a video comparing the high end models? C4 ZR1, C5 Z06 & ZR1, C6 Z06 & ZR1. That would be a good that would get you a lot of views. Remember people like high power, big numbers on cars.
Really Great Video! Thank you! I am on the hunt for my first Corvette and this is the best video I have seen to help me make my decision. Pretty sure I want a 2003 C5 manual that is Not Yellow.
Hey Brad, my son is a mechanic at Bob Brown in Urbandale. He likes working there so far. Nice comparison video. Hoping to acquire a Corvette at some point here, just not sure which one yet. Go Hawks.
Great video! I have a 1994 C4 Vette. For me, by far the biggest problem area is the cooling system. I live in Phoenix and I don't think it was designed for the kind of summer temperatures we have here. I'm thinking of upgrading to a 2 or 3 row aluminum radiator.
Thanks man! I swear I hear about overheating issues with ALL of these Corvettes, they all seem to be designed to run a little hot, and then when you encounter super hot weather it can be an issue.
Nice informative video, which I think will be very helpful for prospective C4/C5/C6 buyers. After driving my friends ‘96 (C4), I knew it would not work for my 6’4” body. I drove a used 2006 Z06 (C6) which hooked me on buying a Corvette. After looking at C5’s, C6’s and new C7’s, I purchased a C6 Grand Sport. After owning it for 8 years, I traded it in on a used Cadillac CTS AWD (2.0L Turbo). In real world day-to-day and winter driving, I do not miss the Corvette. I sometimes miss the horsepower and manual transmission, and if I ever decide to get another ‘just for fun’ car, it would probably be a Cadillac ATS-V or CT4V-Blackwing.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this video and that it could help with your decision. You'll love the upgrade from a C4 to C6 (thats what I did). Same great Corvette flavor with almost none of the pain!
Really nice video, Brad. I might well get one of these if/when I move back to the US. I love the C4 styling and overall engineering though the floppiness and age tells me a C6 is the smarter bet.
Here's more retro Corvette videos that I hope you enjoy next...
C6 BUYER'S GUIDE ua-cam.com/video/QiOZciFMRGE/v-deo.html
C4 BUYER'S GUIDE ua-cam.com/video/N0BW_TFzKng/v-deo.html
WHY I BOUGHT A C6 CORVETTE ua-cam.com/video/QWy1fUrWa4I/v-deo.html
C4/C5 A GOOD FIRST CAR? ua-cam.com/video/dyF5eHPf5sw/v-deo.html
Thank you for watching!
Excellent video as always!
On the saddle gas tank issue - i took my C6 in to bestbuy to have them install new speakers, carplay, and hideaway kicker subs behind the seats. Reasonable request right…. NOPE…. I SPECIFICALLY asked them to mount the subs to a fabricated bracket to bolt to the seat mounts….. instead they DRILLED HOLES through the back wall INTO a fuel tank…..
They paid for the ~$12,000 of damage and work they caused…
@RetroCarsForever
@@tom95001 Woah!! That was a very expensive mistake on their part! I have also had bad experiences with Best Buy car installations in the past, but nothing that serious.
I have My Mom's C-4. It sat, & sat & sat in Her garage for years. Being neglected, I begged Mom for it.
Finally She caved ( I was the reason it was parked) , but Mom folded & said just come & get it, make it run again, take Me for a ride,& it's Yours.......
Thank GOD for Mom's, n Corvettes. I love Mine. My Mom that is, & the Vette too!!!!!!!
Wish you the best in getting the C4 up and running again!
Coolest mom in the world.
Luckily you have a good mom. I've heard of parents saying "yeah, just getting running and it's yours" then they flip and don't give it to their kin.
That’s an awesome story
@ericburton9266 - your "Caps Lock" key is sticking.
I'm 32, about to buy my 3rd C5. I've driven a ton of Corvettes over the years and obviously the C5 is my favorite. Like you said in the video, it's the Goldilocks Corvette for me. As a 90's kid, I get those vibes from the car, which is very sentimental. Apart from sentiment, the C5 for me is the perfect blend of classic and modern. It's the recipe of a classic with just enough technology to satisfy most needs. Plus, with the aftermarket you can address many of it's shortcomings, like the headlights, radio, and interior pieces. There are so many upgrades available now that it's crazy. It has that raw driving feel, the famous LS engine, the stiffness and weight distribution to give you confidence when driving it hard, and it's a very reliable, easy to live with platform overall. I love the styling, with the smooth curves and pop up headlights. But don't get me wrong, I love all Corvettes. There's no denying that each generation takes many leaps, so it will only get better as time goes on. But another huge part of the reason I have such an affection for the C5 is it's story. It has one of the best stories in automotive history. The book "All Corvettes Are Red" is a must read and details the development of the C5 behind the scenes. To summarize quickly, GM was in financial trouble in the 90's and planned on canceling the Corvette. Some diehard Corvette guys at GM moved money around without management knowing and developed the C5 IN SECRET. They had a very limited budget and knew in order for the Corvette to survive, they had to absolutely knock it out of the park. When they were satisfied with the car, they presented it to the executives, who had NO IDEA they were working on it. The executives were so impressed that they gave it the green light immediately and allowed them to continue development. It's an incredible story, and it makes you realize that the Corvette was so close to dying, but the C5 saved the entire brand from extinction. For those reasons it will always hold a very special place for me. Great video, I really enjoyed it!
Thank you! And awesome to hear your thoughts. "All Corvettes Are Red" gave me a whole new appreciation for how difficult and complex it is to design a car, especially at a huge company like GM.
Without question, the C5 was a home run at the time, and the passion of the people who made it shines through!
I enjoy a C5 convertible because of the un-obstructed view when the top is down, and all the room. It actually has the largest interior driver/ passenger space of all the corvettes, and the trunk holds enough for some real decent grand touring.
I had to laugh when I first noticed the particular hood shape as I drove my used car purchase home. Because, when I was a kid, it was very special to go to Disneyland, and I tried for years to master not passing under the " you must be this tall to ride this ride" sign next to the autopia ride. For a kid, although it was an "E" ticket ride, it was worth it , obviously the best ride in the place, before they built the matterhorn. Go carts were a new invention back then, so that helped fuel the coolness factor , and this road, unlike the little kid version of the ride , didn't even have a track in the middle, you could actually drive them.
that generation of kiddie car's body was very loosely based upon the corvette shape, . and the view from behind the wheel of that long gone utopia car just happed to have a startling , almost as if a gift from fate, resemblance to the shape I was now seeing from behind the wheel of the corvette I was now driving home. I also enjoyed when my consumption gauge very briefly hit 99 mpg on the freeway home. Talk about aim high, that is quite a number to shoot for at any time.
R.I.p trans am because of that 😂😂😂😂
@@richardelliott8352 I occasionally get 99 mpg while coasting downhill at slight above usual highway speeds in my '95 C4....
But I also hit 0 mpg under full-throttle acceleration. XD
They are the most unreliable
Heart says c4, brain says c6 as it’s an absolute unit
That's a great way to put it! I think I'm with you on that one.
C4s are cheaper to buy and modify. Shouldn’t be too hard to push some power out of that ole girl. They can get pretty rowdy
@@justinrydar4253 for sure, it’s a great platform. I used to daily a rebuilt 383 c3 and it was a blast, but the newer corvettes are something special. At least for my experience they feel like f16s for the road 😂😂😂
I have an 08 C6 with a cam and long tube headers. It scoots 😀
1-2-3 is enough to put a smile on my face even during the worst days
really consider the age, because parts will be needed , and someone who knows how to work on such an old specialty car, if it is not you. for me the stewardship of an old car was a steep learning curve, it takes some involvement to keep them on the road . New cars are convenient ..
C4 here, absolutely loving it. Still got some stuff to do (headlight repair, stereo, etc.). I can't complain, though, definitely the most fun I've ever had driving.
I do think the C4 is the most outright FUN car of this trio, though that could be nostalgia talking!
BTW if you haven't seen it yet, I have a helpful video here on repairing the headlights...
ua-cam.com/video/A79Np_hxGzo/v-deo.html
agreed! love a C4 for best fun
My next Vette will (hopefully) be a C4 Zr1 or c5 Z06
@@c6corvette Find a 20k mile C4 ZR1 for 30K and less all day long. but Hurry! the more we talk about them the more they go up lol!
C4
I got the c5, tons of tuning potential, easy to work on and those soft curvy body lines that sold me.. From time when cars still had character
I also favor the more organic round shape , it's just more graceful, like a classic sports car. Of course, a kid who grew up with hot wheels and transformer robots is going to favor a more aggressive style statement.
I too liked the more smooth design than all those "creases." The dumb thing that I did though was to buy the auto...I should never have done that and bought the stick instead.
C5 ALL DAY!! THE C5 has the most under-rated body lines in the game truly timeless look 💯
Underrated more like most appreciated, I've seen so many of them, and still love them everytime i see one, especically those anniversary Green C5's those are sick!
@siphious2911 I agree with you 💯 % but most regular casual car people don't respect the C5 around where I live.. I personally own 2- C5 corvette convertibles in rare color combinations.. I'm never selling them brother.
@@KA-te7xk It's hard to respect a C5 once you've driven a C6. The end.
@@eriklarson9137 You're not wrong the C6 is literally better in every aspect, but the C5 for what it is, is your best bang for buck
@@eriklarson9137not really. My c5 Z is modded but everyone that has had a c5 and went to c6 say the c5 feels more alive and in tune with the car. I’ve punished c6 z06s in the mtns of WNC.
i owned a C4 for 22 years and i loved it. i got it in 1999 with 39 k miles on it. i traded it in with 101k miles for an 05 C6 with 34K. in my opinion, the C6 is better. it is comfortable and performs well. it is also easier to get in and out of unlike the C4. good video
Thank you! And I appreciate the comment, especially from someone who has owned all three. The combo of performance and comfort with the C6 is hard to beat.
Of course the C6 is "better" and the C8 much more so but thats not the point. The C4 is now a vintage car and for its period it has a lot of great quirks like the digi dash, pop-ups, clam shell hood....
@@RetroCarsForever having learned to drive via my first car, an old MG "A", I regret that my C5 is not a bit more spartan . And the steering sucks.
Yes. The C6 destroys the C4 or C5. But, just saying that isn't long enough for a video so...
C6 Grand Sport here and can honestly say... these cars are a dream to drive. Even driving a C4 a couple of times in the late 90's... very impressive. C6 is a whole other level. Nice vid!
Thank you! I have a theory that the C6 Grand Sport is the Corvette perfected. I have to drive one someday to verify, along with a few older generations that I’ve yet to pilot!
I have a 2013 GS and well it kicks arse😅. Compliments everywhere I go
@@RetroCarsForever it is great. Drives like a sporty, muscle-y Cadillac, the wider tires stick to the road no matter how I turn or slam on brakes, mag ride suspension is great... hell of a car.
@johnquintmatt1986 Congrats! Really wanted a 2013 anniversary edition really badly, but the 2011 popped up in really good condition and in the right color combo... red two tone interior.
Common sense tells us the C5 and C6 are better cars but my aqua 92 turns a lot of heads. Great seasonal ride.
I love that C4 aqua color! I think C4's had the best/raddest color choices of the group.
Someone owns an aqua blue one where I live and put black wheels on it and I just drool every time I see it. Great color!
I'd get a 2004 C5. Last of the pop-up headlights cars. Also, an excellent sports car. Plus, my childhood dream car.
Nice. I have a ton of childhood nostalgia for the C5 as well, I vividly recall when they came out and were on every car magazine cover!
Agreed! Quick note, the ‘04 Z06 also has revalved shocks after Nurburgring testing in ‘03, and I believe all ‘04s also have a FlexFuel capable ECU! However the fuel pump is C6 style, even more of a chore if it goes.
I've wanted a Corvette since I was kid growing up in the 70's, but I never could afford one, and it just wasn't a practical car as a year round daily driver, especially in the winter up here in the Great White North. Now five decades later, I finally bought my first Corvette, a 2013 60th Anniversary C6 with super low mileage and in excellent condition... And I couldn't be more pleased, it's a life long dream finally realized!!!
Congratulations! You picked up one of the very best. Enjoy!
@@kfh1 Was the C6 a Grand Sport ??
@@Solitude47152 No, it's a base model C6
Performance: C6
Looks: C5
Price: C4
Facts… I own both c4 and 5. I know people rip on the c5 interior but I honestly feel like the c6 interior looks cheaper… and not cockpit style… seems super flat..
C5 with a truck ls would kill c6
@@dntfeedthecnnbls1387not mine. 😁
@danielfair4675 Unless you have a built motor yourself, I wouldn't fuck with those junkyard builds. Those dudes don't play around
I agree with this, but I love the popup headlights so I gotta go with the C5
C4 for me, particularly the early angular bodystyle and digital dash. 80's icon and loads of nostalgia. Best bang for the buck. You can see it's bodyshape influence all the way through the C7 cars.
The C4 is incredibly rad! I actually had a part (that I later cut for time) talking about how cool looking the C4 dash designs are, compared to the rather plain/flat look of the C5/C6 dashboards.
I own and love the C4, but it's funny- I dramatically prefer the looks of the '91-'96 cars; every single alteration made on both exterior and interior was an improvement in my opinion. XD
I do like and want an early C4 as a secondary Corvette though! XD
I would be the opposite, I hate the “bubble butt” rear end. 90 is my favorite. Old exterior, new interior.
A month ago I was C6 shopping and a friend called me and asked if I wanted to look at his low mileage 2003 C5 Z06. I figured what the hell why not. I checked it out and liked it but when I drove it, to me this thing just hit different. I've driven all gens of the Corvette except the C1 and this C5 Z06 (in my opinion) is hands down the most visceral, raw and light on its feet "drivers" car out of the bunch and its the one that captured my heart. I bought it the next day. I love this car. Ill never sell it. :)
Congrats! That's a really cool and special car you got.
Iirc, it's the lightest Corvette ever...
@@EagleScoutmano Never thought about that before, but I think you're right that the C5 Z06 is the lightest MODERN Corvette.
The original C1 did weigh a 100-200 lbs less.
Got a chance to drive a C5 Z06 6 speed recently, amazing vehicle to drive, but the interior just doesn't feel great. Best car I've ever driven and would buy one if the right one came up.
Good review! I own a 2004 commemorative edition C5 vert. I'm 6'7" and this car is the only corvette with enough room to drive. I have made several mods and I'm planning on gifting to my grandson when he turns 21 (6yrs).
Thank you! I love that version of the C5, similar colors to my C6 (and Paul McCartney owns one!)
excellent video. very in depth, you go over important details that actually affect daily life with them. thank you
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Nice details that I haven't seen covered elsewhere. 👍
@@colinbowman8816 Great to hear that, that was the aim! Thanks.
Good info...the rule of thumb should be buy the newest within your price range.
😢😮😢
I've been waiting for this since you teased it on instagram! Awesome!!! I love my '94 a ton and im glad i have it. It may not be as reliable or performance capable as the C5 and C6 but it's weirder and i like that. If i ever get the opportunity to have either of the newer gens I'd take them too. These three gens have been a massive part of my childhood.
High quality video as always Brad!
Thank you! I completely get what you mean. The C4's quirkiness/weirdness is part of its intangible charm.
@@RetroCarsForever on top of that, like you mentioned, it's extremely raw compared to the other gens. my brother has an '07 STi which makes 700 at the crank but he's become convinced to get a Corvette like mine after driving it--the sole reason being the raw feel
@@HippuJiima Totally. "Raw" feeling of the C4 might be imperfect, but it has a lot of character that's completely missing from the smooth/disconnected feeling of most modern day cars.
all his videos are like motor trend or some professional channel on TV or YT. great production. The dude does his homework..
@@gsmith207 Thank you! I make videos professionally so that certainly helps. And I take a LOT of time with my research/homework...I really strive for accuracy, as it bugs me when videos are just parroting incorrect information from untrustworthy sources.
Glad to hear it's all appreciated!
The C4 flexed so much that my Dad stripped out the screw holes on the targa top TWICE while trying to remove it on his uneven driveway. The dealer replaced the panel free under warranty, but we learned that it had to be level when removing/installing the panel!
Ugh, I had that exact same issue on my C4 when I installed the top on an uneven surface! Took me a full day to figure out how to fix the top that started to rattle (ended up taking off the bottom of the halo and bending the hole back a tad).
I should’ve mentioned that in the video come to think of it.
Had an 85 c4 and it was fun, reliable and decent fast. Build quality was nonexistent and rattled and the interior self destructed with every drive. Handling sucked when the roof was off, but was nice on sunny day. I’m older now so wouldn’t own one but in my early 20s it was fantastic! Also had an 81 and 72 c3, those were as good as an S-10 blazer with a body kit, pure trash, but looked fantastic👍
Man, you are a great communicator and the video editing is second to none. How your channel doesn’t have +200k subscribers?! Greetings from Italy.
Thank you! I’m still a pretty small channel and I’m happy for every subscriber that I get. It’s certainly growing!
C6 is the one for me, I’m an 01 baby when I first saw it I thought it was the most beautiful car on the road
Still is, second only to the '69 Camaro.
19 and my first car is an 86 corvette. Have had it for a year now and while its the most basic option and an auto and therefore not as fun as manuals. I still love love the car and driving it gives me life. Its a beautiful car.
Cool first car! And those are still plenty fun with the automatic, especially for a first car where there’s a lot of other stuff to pay attention to beyond worrying about shifting gears.
As much as I am a C4 guy, and dream about the day of owning one again, I have to say the C5 is without a doubt the sweet spot. I think the only thing detracting me from the C6 is that fact that it's a GM (every car has it) steering wheel. My Pontiac G6 had the same one. Even the center stack looks corporate GM.
Personal take-aways
C4 - owned an 85' z51 car. Super awesome when you are in your 20's. Creaks, rattles, cracked black plastic dash and center console parts, but what a console it was!!! That down low insta-torque! Though, dead after 4000rpm. They were quick for the time, still feel good, but won't pin you like a C6.
C5 is a bit soft on the exterior looks side - It's reserved. I like the C5 interior, but then I was used to a new one, and every car was like that. I won't talk about performance, because the only one I drove was a 2000 Lingenfelter 650hp twin-Turbo (my fathers) - it scared me, lol
C6 - I know they're fast, I love the look, but the computerization, and odd things that could go wrong detract. I also am not fond of the interior. I do think they would be nice to own, but gravitate to a C5 for something simpler.
Great thoughts, and sounds like we agree with a lot of what I mention in the video.
As the C6 owner, I'm actually not as bothered by the corporate steering wheel as I thought I would be. It's only noticeable when you drive those other GM cars from the era...On its own, I think its a good looking and very functional wheel.
Funny you should have that opinion, because I share the opinion, about the C5 being the sweet spot of the line. I think it will be easier to keep on the road as it ages, depending on the junkyards computer supply , because of it's, only in comparison, simplicity. while the C6 is easily faster, the C5 is easier to drive fast. Or so I have read, that one car is more forgiving as the limits are toyed with .
I have a 2000 C5. Absolutely love it!
We loved our 96LT4, great video as always! Love the channel keep it up Brad!
Thank you! LT4 was such a special car, I still miss mine somedays.
I have all three generations, 94, 04, and 08. One of the sticklers with the C6 are the shifter problems that won’t shift out of park due the the plastic knob. I think my C5 has the smoothest ride. And in your C4 video you mentioned the headline continues to pulse with the erosion of the plastic gears. Mine has started that now. It’s a great video as usual. Keep it up. And you gotta make it to Carlisle one of these days! You owe it to yourself!
Thank you! I know Carlisle (and also the Corvette Museum) are bucket list trips for me someday.
At some point I'm going to do a video on C6 Common Problems (or maybe included in a Buyer's Guide), definitely gotta mention that shifter issue. I've seen a ton of people in C6 Facebook groups have that issue!
@RetroCarsForever I'm 32, huge Corvette fan. I planned a trip in January to Bowling Green with my brother. We went to the factory and did the tour (HIGHLY recommend) which was incredible. Seeing how advanced the factory has become and watching Corvettes born right from the factory floor was amazing. Then we went to the Corvette Museum which was INSANE. The amount of rare and iconic Corvettes there blew my mind. The Stingray Cafe was really neat as well, with a really cool looking bar top with a giant Stingray logo. My only regret was not going sooner! I definitely plan on going back when the C9 comes out just to compare to my first trip. It's a must-have trip for Corvette lovers.
No shifter issues if you get a proper Vette with manual transmission.
Wanted a corvette all my life. When I was serious I considered a C5 or 6 but for a bit more money I could get a C7. Bought a 2014 C7. A real head turner. Compliments galore.
Nice! I have yet to drive a C7. Might need to do a comparison test with that in the near future!
Great video (again as usual)! I paid just $8k for my 2000 C5 earlier this year. 130k miles, runs and drives great, no issues. I’ve owned a 88 and 92 C4, fun cars but I’ve moved on now. My next door neighbor has a LS3 C6 and I finally drove it a month ago, it’s definitely quicker than my LS1 C5! But I still love my C5 cause it was my dream car when I was a young teen in 1997. The C6 is definitely the best performance bang for your buck right now though if you want to build a real fast car.
Thank you! You got a steal on that C5, especially as its not one of the earlier and more trouble-prone years. Corvette values seem to drop off a slope when they hit 100k miles or so, but if you want to drive it and it doesn't have issues, who cares...What a great value!
Wow what a bargain! Congrats👍🏽 I’d have no concerns with the mileage. Those LS1s are bulletproof. I’d love to get a C5 one day and definitely use it as a weekend cruiser. I have a C7 GS and I get so much anxiety from driving it since it’s more expensive. A broken in C5 I wouldn’t have any concerns getting door dings or running into any rain or racking up more miles
Good overview! I just got my first Vette, a C5 Z06, last year. The LS6 revs eagerly and puts more of the power up top, which is tons of fun with the much shorter geared M12 transmission. The front end especially with aftermarket “sleepy LEDs looks much more sleek and interesting to me than the later models, and it holds value very well!
Thank you! And enjoy your Z06
I bought a c5 z06 about a month ago after wanting one since being kid in the early 2000’s. I am honestly amazed on how well it handles for being a 20+ year old car. I do lots of spirited driving and can say it’s the best handling stock car I’ve ever owned. It was pretty weird driving it for the first week as it feels like a clash of two different era’s. It’s a super raw sports car with pop up headlight, but at the same time it has a heads up display, auto climate control, and memory seats that automatically slide back and forth when you turn the car on/off. I think for the value it’s the best out there currently. C6 will be there soon but I think it still has some depreciation to go while the c5’s especially the z06 will continue to go back up in value as they have been for the past few years.
Awesome! Never driven a C5 Z06 but they do seem like great cars, that often get overlooked by the mammoth performance of the C6 Z06. But that just makes the C5 Z a terrific value!
I have a C5 Z06 and it is my favorite car I’ve ever owned… by a landslide
I have a C5 Z06 as well and while I have never gotten the chance to drive a base model, I hear the difference in performance between the two is big. It also out performs the base C6. I would love to hear your opinion of the C5 Z if you can find a stock one to drive!😀
I got a c5z back in 05 and couldn't believe how awesome it was stock. A few years after i picked up a 99 base c5 and it was definitely a big let down coming from the c5z. It's honestly hard to fathom that its the same car@@darrylsjodin7184
I'm with you...I have the 2002 Z06 and it's just a blast to drive with the six speed.
Loved watching this! My 1995 purple C4 6-speed is currently for sale on the corvette forum. I’ve absolutely loved the car and I’m only selling it due to our recent family addition. I owe you and your channel a huge thank you for inspiring me to buy one 3 years ago. I’m going to miss it dearly when it sells! For those of you considering a C4 - DO IT!
Thank you, and best of luck with your sale. Congrats as well!
@@RetroCarsForeverthanks man! Now the question is what to get next that is family-friendly. Leaning into the Elantra N but the C4 will be hard to replace.
@@Austin_Shredder I've heard nothing but good things about the Elantra N. Great car for the money (and still reasonably sporty)
Did it sell ? I'm currently looking
Rad video! No wrong choices, 5 is my goldilocks between the raw 4 and the cush and expensive 6
Thanks man! "Cush and expensive" is a great way to describe the C6 😅
@@RetroCarsForever We have a C5 and C6. The 5 is my husband's primary ride, and 6 is my primary. We both love them both! C5 manual is So Much Fun to Drive, and the C6 is like a luxury car with the onscreen display and upgraded radio, etc. Plus, I blinged it out a little! ;-)
I have owned a previous C4 and C5, now own a C4,5,6. Good comparison, great description of the C6 being on the luxury side. IMHO, I love the nostalgia of the C4, the C5 is definitely the seat spot and the one that really makes me feel like I am in a cockpit. For each of their personalities, I like all 3.
Thank you, great to hear from someone's who's owned all three!
Love the styling of the C4 so C4 it is for me.
Especially in that spec 😮💨👌🏻
To my eye the C4s styling is the best. So clean and sharp…and the great colors it came with like this one 👍
Very well shot, edited, and informative.
Thank you so much!
Bought a ‘94 manual 3 weeks ago, and your videos were a big part of what made me decide to pull the trigger!
Congrats! Honored to hear I had that kind of sway. As I mention in this video, 94/95/96 are IMO the best years if you want to drive your C4 a lot, so I'm sure you'll enjoy your ride!
@@RetroCarsForever I had never driven a manual before the 1000 mile trip back with it from Montana so that was an experience 😅 I more or less have the hang of it now.
@@DylanHall-es7iw Heh, they're not the easiest manuals to learn on either...Clutch is pretty stiff and has a weirdly high engagement point, and there's the weird 1 to 4 CAGS thing to deal with.
But hey, if you can drive a C4 stick, you'll be able to drive ANY manual now! Congrats again, hope you had a great road trip home.
Love the video. Great work, as always! I have an 85 C4, super easy to live with, and IMO the best styling. The thing to consider with early C4s is that they have that cassette futuristic digital dash, and not many cars can give such an amazing 80s aesthetic.
Thanks! And I actually had a section giving the C4 a "positive" in dash design. Both the early digital dash and the later "wraparound" dashes have a ton of great character, compared to the flat/boring look of the C5/C6. (I ended up cutting that section for time/pace)
Great video. Different strokes, for sure. The C5 seems to be the best "all-arounder;" offering very decent performance and reliability, while also a very affordable price point and just enough "retroness" for those looking for something with character.
Thanks Rick! Agreed. I would've happily owned a C5 if the right one would've come around when I was looking. Could even seeing owning one in the future.
Great video! I love my 95!
I did go ahead and upgrade my shifter to a ZFdoc short shifter (felt like I was rowing a boat before lol) and beam plates from ZFdoc as well (driveline support reinforcement plates) which have made a world of difference!
Right on, and thanks!
I WAS going to mention the different shifter feel between all these cars, as driving these three back-to-back that was something you notice right away (the C4/5 have long throws, the C6 is a factory short-throw by comparison). I only cut it because it IS ultimately a matter of preference...I kinda like "rowing the boat" feel of the C4/5, makes me pretend I'm Steve McQueen in Bullitt or something!
Tell me more about these ZFdoc beam plates, I'm not familiar with them.
I have a 1998 C5. Base model. 6 speed manual. It’s been slightly modified. Rear suspension was replaced. LEDs everywhere (including the sleepy eyes which makes the open height much lower). I have the Silverado tape deck unit with a 12 disc CD changer in the trunk. That needs to go! I wish it had HUD and Competitive Drive Mode. The glass targa is great when you roll too close to traffic signals (just look up). The BBS wheels (black on black) make it look menacing. Combined with low profile tires, the ride height is… well, you can’t clear a soda can in the road. Somehow, the TPMS sensors were crisscrossed. So, when I thought I was dropping the pressure on my driver rear wheel… it read it as the passenger. Grrrr! The AC only slightly works, which is more than an inconvenience for a black vehicle in Louisiana. The harmonic balancer was replaced. As was the brake rotors, calipers and soft lines, which are now braided. The Borla Cat-back exhaust with crossover gives a deep rumble, rather than the raspy stock exhaust. The LS1 has plenty of power, even with 105,000 miles.
How much does a c5 go for with 100k ?
@ I would honestly pay $10-12K for one.
I have plenty of videos of my C5 on my channel here. I had it over 6 years and I love it. I have driven a bunch of C6s and a couple C4s while working at two Chevy Stores years ago. I love all 3 of those gens. I do have special place in my heart for those C4s. Great video man. I subbed!
Thank you, subbed as well, I’ll check em out!
@@RetroCarsForever youre welcome and thank you! Theyre mostly videos of me driving and such. Im tryin to grow my channel.
Been waiting for this one!! Keep the content coming👍🏽👍🏽
Thank you, and will do! Enjoy the video.
I'm 17, about to get a '94 C4 T-top coupe as my daily driver. When I tell you I'm over the moon for this car, I mean it. It gives me the feel and vibe of a classic car from the 80s and 90s (I adore the dash, as well as older japanese cars from that era, which I feel it's kinda reminiscent of) , with a price that doesn't kill me too much, and a drive that's some of the most fun I've ever had. C5 and C6 def have it beat performance wise, but I don't need that right now- I don't exactly plan on drag racing it. Hella excited, been watching videos all night. This is awesome.
Congrats! One heck of a first car.
If you haven't already, be sure to check out my C4 Quirks video...Great way to get up to speed on these weird but wonderful machines!
ua-cam.com/video/X2-06FbEQxA/v-deo.html
Great vid, I've been waiting for this one! I kinda want a C6 now! Also I hope that GoPro survived!!
Thanks man! Anytime you want to drive the C6 let me know (IMO it's the Corvette perfected).
The GoPro DID survive! Had some scratches on the case but still usable. That said it's a cheap crappy case and I want to replace it anways. I think it fell off because the C5 had some slight spiderwebs on the paint in that section, so it wasn't sticking on to a completely smooth surface. A lesson for the future!
😅
Great video! Owner of a C5, and I'm glad you brought up the over engineering of the C6 door handles. But love all Corvettes.
Thank you! Yeah, even as a C6 owner, I'm baffled by those handles and why anyone thought they were a great idea.
Actually MOST new high end cars have strange electric handles, so you could say the C6 helped start a trend...But it's a trend I don't care for!
@@RetroCarsForever I really do appreciate them on my '07. I guess you just have to get accustomed to them.
I would opt for the C5. I think its best middle ground between the retro and modern.
I just bought a Triple black '92 Convertable, only 47,000 miles. Added a fresh set of BFG G-Force tires and I'm loving it as my new daily driver, 6 speeds are awesome ! . I love your videos and hope to get some seat time in a C5 soon. Keep up the great work ! signing out from the great state of New Hampshire.....
Thank you! And enjoy todays local NASCAR race (if you watch)
0:12 Obviously, the C5!!!
C4 might have been the best. But it's too narrow!
Fat Amy? lol! I’ll keep my C6, thanks.
Been going back and forth between all three. My ideal situation would be a 96 C4 vert and a manual C6 grand sport but I already have too many cars. Also my first time watching one of your videos and with the production quality I’m definitely subscribing. Great video!
Thank you so much, I appreciate the sub! Enjoy the other videos on my channel, I think they're all pretty good quality (it helps that I make/edit videos for a living, so even my earlier videos are watchable, I thankfully didn't have to "learn" how to make videos when I started like many UA-camrs)
This guys fault for getting me in to corvettes, which led me to getting a 96 lt4 I love it😭
Heh, I'm so sorry! (I'm not sorry, glad you enjoy one of the best C4's ever made!)
This was a great video! I love how you filmed in my favorite driving area, Azusa Canyon. I never thought much about the C4/5/6 cars. Now I need to maybe get one. RADCRVT - love the pates!
Thank you! And I love these driving roads, and amazing scenic views out there.
C5 is the prettiest Corvette ever made!
I watched the whole video and it was very informative. Basically though, the difference is some are newer and come with newer car advantages
Thanks! That's a reasonable gist of it, AND the newer cars have some new car disadvantages as well, with a few unique quirks sprinkled in amongst all three of them.
C4.....the raddest of them all.
C4 is absolutely PEAK rad!
Kinda bummed that I won't be able to take mine to Radwood this year now that I no longer own it...
I talked to a guy who had managed to stuff a turbo, the plumbing, and the needed coolers, completely under a C4 hood, all by himself.
What a great review! Ive had two C4's and unless i could find an affordable low mileage C5 i wouldn't hesitate on a C4 again.👍
Thank you! Keep drivin 👍
You've understated the problems C4s and C5s have with weatherstrip seals. Unless always garaged, and the seals have been regularly conditioned and never replaced, your C4 is going to leak. Your C5 is probably going to leak. And to fix bad seals on either one, you are going to spend lots and lots and lots of money, and there's a decent chance you'll have to try to do it yourself. I had a 96 C4 CE with a six speed that I could not park in a garage, and had bad seals on both doors. I took this car to two of the most reputable corvette specialty repair shops in my area, and both shops refused to do the work of replacing those seals. I then tried to do the job myself, botched it horribly, and ended up having to take it to a third shop which replaced the worst of the seals that I previously tried to replace but refused to warranty the work. My inability to find someone to perform this service was the primary factor in me selling the car. I would not recommend to anyone looking to daily drive a corvette to get a C4 unless you have the ability to make sure the car never sees rain, and you're willing to hand wash it with a spray bottle.
Bummer to hear that! I actually mentioned those door seals in a previous video covering common C4 issues (ua-cam.com/video/9nR3rkZd2bQ/v-deo.html). Not something I had to personally deal with, but it's crazy how many C4's especially have this issue!
But that's a great point for this comparison test that I didn't think of...The C6 doesn't have such "puffy" door seals (maybe because of the indexing glass feature).
Can confirm, I have the same problem. Ordered door stripping on Amazon but it didn't fit so I put the old stuff on. I don't have a garage either. What I did was put it under a 10 x 10 canopy, and I keep it covered with a cover if I'm not going to use it a few days. The canopy by itself keeps the water out, it just gets a little water in it when I wash it. And I don't drive it in the rain. I keep one of those moisture absorbers in the back just in case.
@@ObscureStuff420 I have heard that you pretty much NEED to spring for top-of-the-line (expensive) rubber strips or else you'll have fitment issues.
Like from Corvette Rubber or a place like that. Either way, doesn't sound like a fun task and glad I didn't have to deal with it on my C4!
@RetroCarsForever ill check out Corvette Rubber, thanks for the recommendation
FYI, my C5 Z06 is a factory hard top with normal window weather stripping and has never leaked, even in a car wash. You can enjoy Corvette performance again with a C5Z!
I do not understand how anyone wouldn't say the C5 is the best looking of all 3, but to each their own, I guess. Good video, thanks
Everyone seems to have a different opinion! I think all three look terrific, though I give the slight edge to the C4 for its ultra clean lines and tidy proportions.
14:34 - Oops indeed! 😮🌀🤣
😅😅😅
haaa! but the freaking camera survived! Someone was given her a hot supper!
DUDE I had that exact same Dale Earnhardt bag when I was a little kid! Great job on the video. I've always loved the C5 and one day I'll have a 2003 ZO6.
Thank you! I love that bag, I inherited it from my Grandpa who got me into NASCAR (btw, stay tuned for the next video, it's about NASCAR and Corvettes...)
C5 is the sweet spot. Half the price of the c6 and way more modern and easier to fix than c4.
From my understanding (I'm not a mechanic)...But in some ways the C5 is easier to fix vs the C4, but in many others its not (as mentioned in the video).
@@RetroCarsForever torque tube related maintenance notwithstanding haha. Also parts are very readily avail for the 5 and 6, not sure if it’s the same on the c4 🤷♂️
@@mannyfox8089 C4 parts are just as easy to find from my experience.
Rebuilding a c4, most parts are standard gm. Fancier parts for the more boutique items are harder to get. Such as ZF transmission cars can have issues as it’s a weird transmission in the US. Luckily the transmission is a tank. Or sport seat switches are straight up unfindable, same with some parts of the adjustable suspension. Luckily most of the hard to find systems you can just remove and either go aftermarket or base corvette versions, which are just gm parts.
C4s are electricly wonky due to being that transition car between carbs and full electric control, but as long as your are not a purist, replacing it all with a modern aftermarket system is not to bad, but I say that as someone that likes rewiring cars.
This video was just amazing, had every info I needed + it was absolutely fun to watch !
Thank you so much! I appreciate hearing that. Have a great day!
Thank you for an amazing video where the information and data presented are second to none, yet presented in a fun and modern format. My heart is with the C4, a 94, and although I have only owned it for 10 months, I absolutely adore the car and it only keeps growing on me. It may have the least amount of power, but I like its style and as you point out, probably the fewest headaches. Thank you Brad for such an in-depth report and your contribution to the car world.
Thanks so much for this touching comment! Made my day, I appreciate it.
I remember being a kid back in 1997 and watching Good Morning America before school, when they showed the debut of the “all new C5 Corvette”
My jaw hit the floor and I thought it was way too nice of a car for me to ever see in person.
Hard to believe they’re a bang for the buck, retro car now.
Great memory! I think I first saw the C5 in Motor Trend.
Thankfully they made so many of them, and so many have survived, that they’re great values today.
Hi Brad. I love your detailed analysis and pleasant manner! Keep up the great work!!!
Thanks so much!
Absolutely love this channel. Just came across it on my recommended today and I’m definitely subscribing. Clear understandable content, good camera work, sound is great, and you make it very easy to understand these machines. Keep it up man, gonna give you a follow on all platforms! Hope to see more from you in the future!
Love from Brooklyn NYC!🗽
Thank you so much! Good to know all the effort I make with these videos is appreciated. New Corvette video coming next week, hope you enjoy it!
90 c4 here, love all generations. Wallet said your getting a c4. Love that its 34 years old and running strong, sliding into it is one of the best feelings, smile every time. Enjoy which one you have, theyre all awesom.
Awesome to hear your C4 is running strong! Enjoy the ride and thanks for stopping by.
19 years with my "87" C4. I kept it in good condition all these years and haven't had any problems with it, which is one of the reasons I haven't traded up to my dream vett, a 2003 50th Anniversary. Maybe some day!
Glad to hear you’ve enjoyed your C4 for so long! I have driven your dream car 50th before, they’re great cars…and the nice interior colors do wonders in dressing up that infamous C5 interior.
This is the BEST video I've seen comparing the three Vettes. Very informative! Thank you!
It is solidifying my desire for a later C4 Corvette.
Thank you, I appreciate that!
If you're interested in the C4, I have several videos on my channel to help with your search, especially my C4 Buyer's Guide...
ua-cam.com/video/N0BW_TFzKng/v-deo.html
Enjoyed the video. Probably needed to chat up the C5 Fixed Roof Coupe as it is the upgraded predecessor to the return of the Z06
Most C5s are the hatchbacks like you see here, and that’s what we had on hand for this test. But those fixed roofs are cool (and rare) cars.
Excellent cinematography here!
When they are all three parked next to each other it is impossible for me to pick a favorite.
Last week I saw a dark green C4 convertible with a tan top that was quite the stunner, but the combo of larger interior plus retro-cool pop-ups pushes me towards the C5...without the optional side vent rub strips!
Thank you! Was really cool to see all three gens parked together, especially in these scenic locations.
I agree, the C5 looks WAY better without the rub strip, much cleaner without.
@@RetroCarsForever Your voice-over narration is superb, too. (I can't even make it thru a minute of the current crop of AI narrated vids.) Stay human!
@@gruntherblendin388 haha, thanks!
I have been lucky enough to own all three. For looks the C5 is hard to beat but.... the C6 is my favorite ! Seat -of the -pants Go Power in the C6 ! My C4 was the 480th Z-R! ever made. It was sneaky fast but just didn't blast like my 08 C-6 . Loved them All ! Need another one even tho' I'm old now, they just get in your blood !
Great video. I personally appreciate all generations and what each offers, including their shortcomings.
Same here. I really wanted a true winner/loser conclusion here, but honestly, there's no real "loser" in the bunch. Some of the Vettes are just better at some things than others.
Our lead developer has a C6 Grand Sport. He absolutely loves it he always talks about how it is the pinnacle of body designs that were not concept cars. I love the C5 though. from a distance, it looks very exotic. C6 feels more about performance.
Outstanding video comparison betwixt the 3 generations of Corvette. I can drive any car i want however i have always loved theC4 Corvette. Take care and best of luck with this very informative video.
Thank you! And congratulations on being the first comment I’ve ever seen to use the word “betwixt!”
I really appreciate your reviews about all 3 Corvettes!!!!! A true perspective:)
Thanks so much!
Peter Forsberg talking about Corvettes is my new favorite channel
Proud C6 and C4 owner here 🤟🏻
Had to look that one up...Forsberg is a new one for me!
I’m loving these videos, they’re very well made and very informative for someone like me who’s never been around Corvettes. Reminds me of old MotorTrend or the Speed Channel!
Coming from mostly European cars, I expect some things to be worse like build quality and ergonomics. But the Corvettes have a lot to offer in the mechanical and driving dynamics departments. You can’t beat a good old American V8 with a manual transmission and open top!
Thanks! I love old Motor Trend/Speed Channel/Motorweek videos, they certainly influence my style of videos.
To be fair, there are some ergonomic issues with all these Vettes compared to the best European cars like Porsches...Though it has more to do with the basic control positioning, steering and brake feel, heel and toe downshift pedal positioning, shifting feel...The little bits of polish that Americans don't really get right most of the time.
That said, once you get USED to the controls of a vintage Vette, you can really fly!
Great video and one of the most concise, sensible comparisons of these 3 models I've seen anywhere.
I have a C4 (96 Collector's Ed.) and a C5 (2003 - 50th Anniv. Ed.). After over 20 years and racking up over 100k miles on EACH of them, I can say that they are both fun, enjoyable sports cars and each fulfills a different need.
I take the C4 out when I want a truer, rough & tumble sports car feel. It's smaller, tighter and wraps around the driver better, allowing one to feel better connected to the car and road. The C4 is just plan FUN to drive.
The C5 is my long distance car. More power, comfort, storage than the C4, making it the perfect sports car for a trip. I've taken it across the country on Route 66 twice. It's agile and quick, though admittedly it doesn't give me quite the same "connected" feeling with car and road as I get with the C4.
Love both; can't give up either one!
Awesome to hear, especially from someone who actually DRIVES their Vettes quite a lot!
@@RetroCarsForever Yes, they get driven a lot, partly out of necessity... Corvettes are the ONLY cars I own! Everyday, everywhere, take the Vette, life is good.
@@wesholt1906 Sounds right! My husband has a beautiful manual daily 04, and I have a beautiful daily 07. We Love Both of them!! I have a Jeep and he has a Silverado Duramax for the winters, or excessive rain storms. My 07 was purchased a year ago with car cover, both tops, and only 8000 miles!! It is an excellent vehicle.
Man this video was great, I've been wondering which Corvette to get and was really leaning into a C7, I just like them. However your video was insightful and made me consider one of the other gens. I like the look of all the generations and wanted a C8 but that C7 looks so nice.
Thank you! I would love to test the C7 against the C6 in a future video (or better yet, have all the gens together!)
Great video! As for me, it's C5, because I've driven it in NFS 3 long time ago ;) But seriously, best could be C6 with transplanted C5 front, it's most beautiful for me. Thanks again for nice piece of video
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it! And yes, I too get major Need For Speed nostalgia vibes with the C5.
I've toyed with the idea of getting a 'Vette. I'm glad I saw this video. Thanks.
Glad this video could help!
In my opinion, the C4 is definitely the best! Because of your channel and insight, owning my '95 has been amazing!
I would recommend anyone who wants something fun and affordable to put the C4 on your list!
Awesome video!
Thanks so much! And glad you're enjoying your 1995 (especially if I steered you towards that year!)
You most certainly did! Thank you!@@RetroCarsForever
Very honest and informative video. Looking at buying a c5
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it. And best of luck with your C5 search!
I've owned all three: 1990 convertible, 2004 Z16 and 2009 Z06. They were all cool in their own way. I miss the C5Z Z16 because it was so raw, but it had a marginal looking/feeling interior. The C4 'vert was fun, but lots of gremlins. The C6Z is one of my favorite cars ever.
Good video and never considered the C5 headlights' expression.
@@danziger69 Thank you!
Great video as always Brad. Congrats on your beautiful blue C6! Wish I knew your sweet Collectors Edition was available? I love my 92, but your Collectors Edition with the legendary LT4 would be a very nice upgrade! 👍
Thank you! I never put my LT4 on the market. I go into more detail in my last video (about selling the C4 for the C6 here- ua-cam.com/video/QWy1fUrWa4I/v-deo.html)
but my good friend offered to buy it before I ever put it up for sale!
Thank you for responding Brad. I will definitely check out that video. This was the first video I’ve seen you posted in a few years. UA-cam sure likes to mess with subscriptions!! Been subscribed for years, your knowledge and passion for our beloved Vettes is inspiring and infectious! Again, congrats on such a beautiful C6. ENJOY it and keep the excellent videos coming! 👍
@@userCoolCris Weird, I've been posting a video every few months. Well, welcome back to the channel! Enjoy the back catalogue 😃
Great video , honest and simple advice. You really can’t go wrong with all 3
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!
I was 8 when I first saw and noticed a Corvette (C4). Finally pulled the trigger on a 96 LT4. The kid in me couldn’t be happier! Car just molds to you as you drive!
Awesome! I loved my LT4. Nothing like driving a childhood dream car.
We had a '99 C5 and we currently have a '13 C6. Both cars are very reliable, easy to modify and relatively cheap to buy. I personally love the LS3 with a 6MT in our C6 and I don't plan on selling it.
We have an '04 and '07. My husband upgraded the 07 to LT4 for my birthday! I love it!!
I've enjoyed the visuals of your video more than most of what I see hear on UA-cam. Your commentary is great as well, You have a new subscriber. Tom from Houston
Thank you Tom! Much appreciated.
Great video! Love my 95 C4 and have no intention of climbing the corvette ladder.
Unusually honest and interesting video. Well done.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
The man himself returns with another banger!
🎸🎸🎸😁
Great overview of the 3 models.
Would you mind doing a video comparing the high end models? C4 ZR1, C5 Z06 & ZR1, C6 Z06 & ZR1.
That would be a good that would get you a lot of views. Remember people like high power, big numbers on cars.
Interesting idea…I’ll think about it! Thank you
Another great video, Brad! Makes me want to buy another Corvette. My choice would be a 1995 ZR-1.
Thank you! That’s a dream car for me as well.
Really Great Video! Thank you! I am on the hunt for my first Corvette and this is the best video I have seen to help me make my decision. Pretty sure I want a 2003 C5 manual that is Not Yellow.
Thank you, glad to help!
Hey Brad, my son is a mechanic at Bob Brown in Urbandale. He likes working there so far. Nice comparison video. Hoping to acquire a Corvette at some point here, just not sure which one yet. Go Hawks.
Thank you, that's great to hear!
Great video! I have a 1994 C4 Vette. For me, by far the biggest problem area is the cooling system. I live in Phoenix and I don't think it was designed for the kind of summer temperatures we have here. I'm thinking of upgrading to a 2 or 3 row aluminum radiator.
Thanks man! I swear I hear about overheating issues with ALL of these Corvettes, they all seem to be designed to run a little hot, and then when you encounter super hot weather it can be an issue.
Nice informative video, which I think will be very helpful for prospective C4/C5/C6 buyers. After driving my friends ‘96 (C4), I knew it would not work for my 6’4” body. I drove a used 2006 Z06 (C6) which hooked me on buying a Corvette. After looking at C5’s, C6’s and new C7’s, I purchased a C6 Grand Sport. After owning it for 8 years, I traded it in on a used Cadillac CTS AWD (2.0L Turbo). In real world day-to-day and winter driving, I do not miss the Corvette. I sometimes miss the horsepower and manual transmission, and if I ever decide to get another ‘just for fun’ car, it would probably be a Cadillac ATS-V or CT4V-Blackwing.
I do love those modern Cadillac sports sedans! Some of them even had actual Corvette drivetrains. They’re sharp looking cars too.
Great video with a lot of info. I have a C4 and C6 in my sights, and this made my decision easier. Thanks!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this video and that it could help with your decision.
You'll love the upgrade from a C4 to C6 (thats what I did). Same great Corvette flavor with almost none of the pain!
Really nice video, Brad. I might well get one of these if/when I move back to the US. I love the C4 styling and overall engineering though the floppiness and age tells me a C6 is the smarter bet.
Thank you! A later C5 could also be a smart bet for you too if you're ever looking.