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Corvette History    1997-2004

 

1997-present: The new 1997 C5 introduced a V-8 called the LS1 that had 345 horsepower at 5600rpm. This new Corvette was considered one of the world's fastest cars with a 4.7 second 0-60 time, and a top speed of 172. 1998 brought a convertible to the lineup with the first traditional trunk since 1962. 

1999 introduced a third and less expensive body style, the hardtop, which shared the 345-hp LS1.  The 1999 Chevrolet Corvette hardtop is the first Vette with a fixed roof since the classic 1963-67 Corvette Stingray. Since then, Corvettes have had a roof with removable panels or a convertible top.

The 2000 Corvette showed redesigned alloy wheels with an optional polished finish and a new millennium yellow color scheme. Optional magnesium wheels were available for an extra $2000. The American legend was now back on top of the sports car scene with 3 production models and a factory-backed racecar called the C5-R. 

2001 brought a new version of the 1963 Z06 Corvette. The Z06 also had a special suspension package, wider wheels, larger tires, special instrumentation and titanium exhaust. In 2002, Chevy added 20 more horses which topped the car out at 405. The '02's wear a badge with the Z06 emblem and 405 listed below it...just large enough to see right before the light turns green.

                                                                                                                              

What's really new in a C5

  • Structure 

  • BrakesTransmission

  • Suspension

  • Wheels

  • Steering

  • TiresAlignment

  • Choices

 

  A Car with Backbone

  • The Corvette structure (consisting of a strong perimeter frame combined with a center backbone) provides an impressive level of rigidity. This robust design allows the independent suspension to be tuned strictly for wheel control from road inputs -- the suspension does not have to compensate for flexing of the structure.

 

  • ABS with Four-Wheel Discs
     A premium four-wheel disc brake system with ABS is standard. The brake rotors are large and braking performance is powerful. Premium, non-metallic linings provide smooth, quiet braking.

 

  • Three Suspension Choices
     The FE1 Suspension (standard on coupe and convertible) is designed to please the majority of Corvette drivers with its outstanding blend of ride and response.

 

 

Front Engine/Rear Transmission
A rear-mounted transmission creates more room for driver and passenger. Hydraulic engine and transmission mounts reduce vibration to the chassis.

Double Wishbone Suspension
An SLA (short-and long-arm) suspension with aluminum wishbones and knuckles is used at each corner. This suspension design contributes to a compliant ride, while providing impressive response, especially during aggressive cornering.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 High Tech Wheels
Lightweight aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight and add to Corvette’s bold appearance.

Variable-Effort Steering
Magnasteer is a speed-sensitive, variable-effort steering system. This computer-controlled system, combined with a rack-and-pinion steering gear, provides maximum steering assist at low-speeds (such as parking) and precise steering feel at higher speeds.

Extended Mobility Tires
Standard Extended Mobility Tires virtually eliminate the need for a spare tire. With EMTs, you can drive up to 200 miles at 55 mph on completely deflated tires. A standard tire pressure monitoring system signals the driver if a tire is in a low- or high-pressure situation. Please see owner’s manual for more information.

Precision Wheel Alignment
A four-wheel geometric alignment machine at the end of the assembly line custom sets each 1999 Corvette to its optimum ride height. All caster, camber and toe alignments are set to exact standards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

          

For those enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in Corvette technology, the optional F45 with Real Time Damping is the suspension that "thinks." F45 features computer-controlled shocks that automatically increase rates in "real time" — 10 to 15 milliseconds — as road conditions dictate. With F45, there are three manual settings — Touring, Sport and Performance — each with a distinct range of ride firmness. (F45 is not available on Corvette hardtop.)

Then there’s Z51 — a suspension option for die-hard performance fans. It’s the racing-inspired package you’ll want if you intend to participate in sanctioned competitive events. (Z51 is standard on Corvette hardtop.)