rbell

Ok, so I'm in the process of purchasing a newer (have a 1972) Corvette and I'm on the fence between an 03,04 C-5, or an 05,06 C-6. Like them both and would like some input on why I should buy a C-5 over the C-6. Including all quirks, performance and handling. Thanks in advance for the advise.

hmmmm16417

Go with the c5 imho. Im glad I did. You can get more car with less miles. Cheaper insurance, and just as many looks. And with some mods, you can have just as much power

Also heard thay the 05s have the typical first year of the new generation issues.

Just go drive both and see which you feel better about

CheezMoe

Went through the same dilemma few years back...needed a stable mate for the 73 Coupe. I chose C5 over C6 because I thought the curves made it a better match for the C3. If I had a C4 I might match it with a C6...

donald4972

In my humble opinion;

You buy a C5 because they can look like this (below) ! Colors may vary, to suit personal tastes.
But the lines of C5 Corvette, are timeless.

You might take the money saved from buying a newer base C6; and install a Supercharger, which allows you to run with most cars. That is, if you ever need more power....

Vetteman Jack

Either generation of the Corvette would be a good choice. However, for probably a bit less money, you can get a really low mileage, loaded C5. The C5 has classic lines, is very reliable and is a hoot to drive.

OnPoint

Don makes a good point on benefit of a good C5 - with money left over from not getting the more expensive C6, you could use some of that cash to mod or personalize the C5. The LS1 and the C5 driveline is robust. Could throw a supercharger on, go with only moderate boost and conservative tune and have a car few could hang with.

bj1k

Definitely the C5 because it is better looking and will always be more in demand and worth more. All you have to do is read all of the comments about the C5 and it's clean lines when people compare it to the C6 which is way to heavy looking on the front. The C5 also has the interior that looks more like a jet fighter cockpit when you look at the dash. Kind of like the old mid year corvettes . ( 63-67 ) In comparison the C6 has a very plain interior.

CQRT

'06 C6...great comparison with the c3...

I've owned a dozen Vettes including an early 2005 C6 that was a great problem free car for nearly 5 years- its now with another forum member up in Oregon. My current C5 is a wonderful car- but keeping a C3 and getting something new? C6 - - but enjoy making the decision !

You don't list criteria or budget... So just my .02.

CINNEMAN

i've owned c3's and c4's, & many of my friends have the c6 and i just bought a c5 and i have to say i like it the best out of all of them, to me the c6 felt cheap. and i say that because my wife has a 2012' malibu LTZ and its alot like the c6 inside same steering wheel dash curves etc... but out of all of them, i have to say that the c5 is probably the sweetest out of all that i have owned, love the lines, the ride, and the performance and not to mention her sweet big azz.

rbell

I do have to agree that the C-6 interior is a little plain. Figured it was more of the "signs of time" to clean it up a little ??? My wife likes the C-5 body lines. I'm leaning more towards the C-6. To me it reminds me a little of my 72 coupe. Wish this was easy lol

OnPoint

Enjoy it Rbell - part of the fun is picking one.

oldschoolvette

and with a SC it will go like a jet fighter

540i 6spd

I have a C5 vert and was thinking of getting a 2012 GS vert. I like the looks of the GS better, but as far as interior and driving.... Very little difference to justify the price. Just my .02

camburger

Wait until you drive a C5...compared to that 72 it will be like a bobsled verses a dogsled...It should provide that final push to get one.

Joe_A

Based on the fact you are looking at early C6's then your budget can more than likely afford a C5 ZO6. I was looking at early C6's in the spring and after driving a C5 ZO6 that became my choice. So for the same price of an early C6 well maybe a little more $ I got an 03 ZO6 with 33K miles and have no regret about my choice.
Go drive a C5 ZO6 good luck with your search and decision

Toque

Either C5 or C6 are nice car's.

Just be careful of the electrical issue quirks on the 05 that I have heard of.
Just something I have heard my C6 buddies talking about.

Toque

mjones871

only my opinion, and my opinion only....

Like your 72, a C5 is a corvette....

a C6 is a car...again, just my opinion

YellowC5Alive

I'm a sucker for C5s

Camjamsdad

I hope you asked this same question in the C6 section. It's the only way you'll get a fair opinion. C5 owners will say buy a C5. C4 owners will say buy a C4. Guess what C6 owners will say? I wonder if the C7 owners will tell you to save some money and just buy a camaro?

kybilt

I've owned (in order) a 2002 1sc coupe, 2006 coupe, 2001 1sc vert.
The 2006 was a loaded "option package 3" A6 and mag ride. It was a better car in every way, except styling, in my opinion. If you are comparing comparably equipped cars, go with the 2006. Considering the Z06 as one choice muddies the water somewhat, since there are lots of differences in body style, interior, suspension, etc. that you really can't compare one to the other.
I would shy away from the 2005 myself, for the reasons already stated.