what does "base" corvette mean

[Familycorvette]

I am trying to purchase a corvette, my first one. I keep seeing the title "base" model? What does this mean? Are there different levels of trim? or does it mean certain options. Thanks.

[Lothar34]

C5 options list:
http://home.fuse.net/corvette/rpo.htm

For the most part, the "1" codes are option packages and the "Z" codes include performance/handling options.

[LoneStarFRC]

It generally refers to any non-Z06 or non-convertible or non-"special edition" (50th Anniversay, Indy Pace Car, etc) car. IOW, it's generally going to be a relatively unoptioned Coupe which is by far, the most popular/common model.

[retired cop]

Mines a base it has all I want

[Vetteman Jack]

To me a base car is one that has just the standard equipment on it - no options. That may or may not be the understanding of others.

[c5BlackBeauty]

Originally Posted by Vetteman Jack

To me a base car is one that has just the standard equipment on it - no options. That may or may not be the understanding of others.

......but what a "base" you would be starting with!

[JuicedZ]

Originally Posted by Vetteman Jack

To me a base car is one that has just the standard equipment on it - no options. That may or may not be the understanding of others.

I agree. It depends on the context. In some cases it may refer to a coupe (non-z06, non-vert, etc).

[ricknyc23]

it typically refers to a coupe. Even if the coupe i optioned out, they still consider it "base"

[tommie]

yep... lots are called "base" cars...

who cares... that is what my was advertised with... and it basically had every option besides hud and power column....

i am more concerned with the engine trans combo than with options anyway...

[jrose7004]

A standard car with no options. Mine was a base car but I've added HUD and many other things that were options available.

[Familycorvette]

Thank you everyone.
I am looking for a vert car, so I appreciate all the information.
It is a big help as I am learning all I can about corvettes.

[02koolC5]

I have a base coupe, hud, mem package, heated mirrors that also dim, high polish alum wheels, f45 shocks ride control, 12 disk changer, power seats driver and pass., tilt and tele steering wheel, ac/ cruise control...So my car is loaded with all kinds of options.Although I have FE1 suspension and thats base for sure...best base model car I've owned

[Jistari]

It typically means a car without any optional equipment.

When you see it in a vette advert it most likely refers to a coupe (even with optional equipment). Mine is a 3LT optioned coupe but if the add was written by a non vette aware person they would say it was the "base" corvette.

[GGEENN]

Originally Posted by Vetteman Jack

To me a base car is one that has just the standard equipment on it - no options. That may or may not be the understanding of others.

[jornahow]

My 02 came with Hud, polished wheels dual zone climate etc. etc, but I consider it base because it has the base, non Z51 suspension and 2:73 rear end instead of 3:15 performance axle (for automatics). I equate base with base suspension, not so much with other goodies. All my initial mods were about suspension improvements - still haven't changed the rear end, but considering it.

[chassed]

Base= Non Z06...

[DeeGee]

I would say that base means the minimum specification for that Corvette model year

Corvette Action Center has a good web page which lists the specifications and RPO codes for each C5 year.

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/c5/

The RPO codes are listed in the glove box so you can check what's fitted to any car you inspect.

[Gigdy]