47.8 in (1214 mm) (Coupe/Z06), 48.2 in (1224 mm) (Convertible)
Wheelbase:
104.5 in (2654 mm)
Front Track:
62.1 in (1577 mm)
Rear Track:
62.0 in (1575 mm)
Ground Clearance:
4.5 in (114 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3,100 - 3,200 lbs (1406 - 1451 kg) (approx., varies by model)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
3,750 lbs (1701 kg) (approx.)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
13.0 cu ft (368 L) (Coupe), 11.7 cu ft (331 L) (Convertible)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (Front Passenger)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Bosch 5.3 Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Stabiliy Control:
Optional (Active Handling System on later models)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on year)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Security:
PassLock III theft-deterrent system, remote keyless entry
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory Delco-Bose premium sound system, CD player, optional CD changer
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (later models)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Head Up Display:
Optional on some models
Connectivity
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II compliant, crucial for modern diagnostics and emissions testing.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Platinum tipped)
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SL or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (GM 12347025 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (GM 12361422 or equivalent)
Known Issues
Cracked Exhaust Manifolds:
Common issue on LS1 engines, especially earlier models. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Clutch Hydraulic Issues:
Potential for leaks or master/slave cylinder failure. Manual covers bleeding and replacement.
Window Motor Failure:
Power window motors can fail. Manual details removal and installation.
Active Handling System Warnings:
Can sometimes trigger falsely. Manual provides diagnostic routines for the system.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Performance:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, dating back to its earliest days.
Model Evolution
C5 Introduction:
The C5 Corvette was a significant redesign, introduced for the 1997 model year, featuring a new hydroformed steel frame and transaxle layout.
C5 Enhancements:
Key updates included increased horsepower for the LS1 engine in 2002, introduction of the higher-performance Z06 model in 2001, and refinements to suspension and electronics throughout its lifecycle.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
C5 Sales Volume:
Over 200,000 units produced during its lifespan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Corvette C5 was frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best list.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning the overall award, the C5 was a strong contender and highly regarded by MotorTrend.
Ratings
Overall Performance:
Consistently praised for its performance-to-price ratio and handling capabilities.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet US federal emissions standards for its production years.