hamster37

Hi,

Which differences between 2005 and 2009 model years would you call most substantial/noticeable?

If you had to drive a '05 model instead of your '08 or '09, what would you miss most? I read that there were some changes to steering in '08, is that something you can really feel, either in everyday driving or at the autocross?

3.0CS

- HUGE steering wheel in 05 (would change to RAID immediately!!!)
- LS3 vs. LS2
- different steering feel
- interior quality

keyplyr

An empty wallet?

runutzzzzz

Interior Quality? I don't think the quality in a 09 is any better than a 05! Are you talking about a little more sound deadening, new steering wheel and new console?

TANGLVR

Stronger rear differential case in 06+ vs 05

zee_oh_six

Also 6spd auto w/ paddle shift vs. 4spd auto (If you're a 6spd manual guy like me, then it's a mute point).

Mike's LS3

Significant changes most starting in 08

1. LS3 engine 436 hp vs LS2 400 hp.
2. Improved steering feel.
3. Improved interior trim.
4. New transmission and linkage for durability and smoother shifting.
5. Stronger rear end ( double shot peened )
6. Power train warranty 5 yrs. ( not sure when this started?)

peter pan

Also add you can get Bluetooth on 2lt or higher optioned and all will have the raido controls on the steering wheel

mirage2991

I don't buy the "better interior trim" unless we are talking about 4lt full out leather dash and so forth...I think what the perseption is here is that you are comparing a 4 year old car that has been used to a brand new car...of course the brand new car is going to feal "better".
Far as the mechanical end, the LS3 is quite nice, I'm sure, but a 408/412 stroker in an 05 would be too! lol
Far as the blue tooth, simple, buy an aftermarket nav/radio touch screen unit and you're done!
If you a padle shift guy, then yea you're sol on that one

so really, if you are indirectly asking: is the newest model worth the out of pocket $$ you'll be, then definetly not! for that cash, you could build an 05 "your way", including adding a few trim pieces of the latest model (like the carbon fiber/leather trimed center dash piece)

newskatercat

I would miss my 2009's: steering wheel, better looking with increased road feel, radio controls, more comfortable seats, A6 / paddle shift, beefier rear end, LS3 motor, NPP exhaust, but most of all, not having to see that ugly wart ever!

CO Lightfoot

A6 and LS3 are the big changes from 05 to 09. Plus, lots & lots of detail improvements & upgrades:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/1563694469-post5.html

Surprised no one has mentioned the optional NPP dual-mode exhaust. With the M2W, it's just real fun to have it.

What the 09 does NOT have: 1st year foibles.

Crystal Vette

Like on the 2008 and up vs 2005:
Paddle shift,
NPP exhaust,
two tone interior option from factory
steering wheel controls.
Warranty longer.
wheel options better
no wart


Also, little quirky things on the 2005 I had....like passenger visor not staying up....don't miss that. Miss the homelink the 2005 had vs what we get now. Don't miss the under hood light or the pull down handle on the trunk. Don't miss the 2005 steering wheel. Don't miss the roof delam on the 2005. 2005 had slightly better mph, but I drive the 2008 a little differently with the paddle shift. Steering good on both.... but better than 2005. LS3 definitely has more hp.

hamster37

Thanks for answering guys ... The reason I'm asking, I'd like to get a 'Vette, but, even despite the supposed recession, new prices only seem to be going up. '09's with Z51 and HUD are still going for 45k before taxes, just like a year ago. I think I can get a decently loaded '05 for almost half off.

400 hp should be plenty. I don't need paddle shifts. Is it possible to get an aftermarket steering wheel with radio controls for the '05?

What's roof delam?

Crystal Vette

Roof delamination..... roofs were recalled and either fixed or replaced. check the 2005's before buying.

TBonez

What the hell is wrong with this baby! I like my wart!

bagwell

also, note that 07 & up C6's have the 5yr/100K mile powertrain warranty.

I'd at least go for an 06+ for the stronger rear end + better steering wheel.

danl72

SSTEVEGS

If you're looking for a manual tranny...the shorter throw starting in 2008 is significantly superior to the '05! Amazing to me how much better the 08's and 09's are. I wanted a NEW car and the Museum Delivery with no plans to ever sell the car, so I'm just glad I got all the improvements in the new model. I'm sure you'll be thrilled with whichever car you get. Good Luck!

johnnyquest

The paddle shifter is a toy.

The 05 is fine....most wouldn't notice or need the extra hp. Hat's off to the folks who feel a pretty steering wheel is worth 10k to 20k.

newskatercat

[QUOTE=TBonez;1568445067]What the hell is wrong with this baby! I like my wart!

That's all that counts!