Before we discuss the differences between C4 and C5 Corvettes, we will examine the history of this iconic sports car. We will then examine both C4 and C5 models separately and discuss their differences.

Top Chevrolet Corvette C4

“The first C4 Corvette was released in 1983. Most sport car users welcomed this transition from the stingray C3 model to the new and improved C4 model.”

The First C4 Corvette

This 1983 model was equipped with an L83 V8 engine and 205 horsepower. This launch was a huge financial success, and Chevrolet changed the design of the C4 considerably.

This was a giant leap compared to early C3 models. In the current market, a well-maintained C4 Corvette costs $10,000.

1985 to 1986

In this 1985 model, the L83 V8 engine was replaced with a fuel-efficient L98 engine. This was a much-needed change after the controversial L83 V8 engine in the previous model. The L98 engine, with its 230 horsepower, was capable of a top speed of 150 mph.

The 1985 C4 was much better than the 1985 model. It had antilock brakes, a third brake light, and electronic climate control. This model also came with the Pass Key feature, an anti-theft system for car doors.

1987 to 1989

The 1987 C4 model gained a roller-hydraulic lifter for its engine, which increased its horsepower to 240.

“Chevrolet released the twin-turbo engine conversion, and customers could buy this supercharger separately.”

This model could reach a top speed of 254mph. In 1987, 30632 C4 models were sold.

In 1988, Chevrolet celebrated the 35th Anniversary of the Corvette. So, they released the Triple White Corvette.

This model was all white, including its interior and wheels, and one of the most admiring features was the removable blacktop engine.

1990 to 1993

In 1990, Chevrolet introduced the C4 ZR1 Corvette model. In the first year, they sold over 3000 ZR1 models, which cost around $58,995. Compared to previous models, this model improved land speed considerably.

“The 1992 Corvette Chevrolet model came with various changes and new features. The LT1 V8 replaced the L98 engine. This new LT1 V8 engine could deliver up to 300 horsepower.”

In 1993, with Lotus’s help, Chevrolet improved the C4’s valvetrain, aluminum cylinder head, and exhaust system, making this 1993 model capable of more horsepower and torque.

1994 to 1996

Although the 1994 model had few changes, the 1995 Corvette model came with a second-generation Optispark ignition system and much-needed exterior improvements.

In 1996, Chevrolet released its last C4 Corvette model. With a new LT4 engine and real-time damping system, it was considered one of the best C4 models of the time.

Also, Chevrolet debuted the OBD2 diagnostic system with this model, one of the most incredible features of the 1996 C4 model.

SEE MORE: C4 Corvette Years To Avoid

Why Should I Buy a C4 Corvette?

If you are looking for a 1990s sports car for a $10,000 or less budget, the C4 Corvette is the best option. After all, this is one of the best sports cars of the 1990s.

For some people, this has more sentimental value. On the other hand, these C4 models were designed to last long, so they are an excellent pick even for 2022.

Top Chevrolet Corvette C5

The fifth generation of Chevrolet Corvettes was manufactured between 1997 and 2004. During this time, Chevrolet released much more advanced models than previous generations.

Here are our top picks. Before discussing the difference between a C4 and a C5 Corvette, you need to know each model better.

1997

Chevrolet debuted this C5 Corvette series with a new 5.7-liter GM V8 engine capable of 345 horsepower.

Also, the transmission improved significantly, giving the C5 model better handling and weight distribution. Furthermore, Chevrolet redesigned the chassis completely.

Instead of the multi-piece welded frame, they use a one-piece hydroformed chassis. Regarding fuel economy, these 1997 models got 25 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in the city.

2001

2001 was a significant year for C5 Corvette. Chevy introduced the high-performance Z06 Corvette model. This successor to the ZR-01 model and the Z06 came with an LS1 engine.

This tuned LS1 engine had 285 horsepower. Although this is less horsepower than the Z-01 engine, because of its lightweight, the Z06 outperformed the older version without any effort.

Also, the Z06 Corvette was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, upgraded FES suspension, different gear ratios, brake cooling ducts, large tires, and wheels.

SEE MORE: C5 Corvette Transmission Rebuild Cost

2004

In 2004, Chevy released the Z16 Corvette. This was a special edition of the previous Z06 model, which used aluminum wheels, carbon fiber hoods, and special edition badges. With tuned shocks, Chevy improved the handling of the Z16 model remarkably.

Why Should I Buy a C5 Corvette?

You can buy a C5 Corvette for around $15,000. This price is very reasonable for an excellent sports car. Also, these C5 models have a higher performance level than the previous generations.

These models are designed to go faster, and the interior design is attractive. In detail, we will discuss the difference between the C4 vs. C5 Corvette sections.

Also, these C5 Corvette models are more comfortable than the C4 models and are lightweight. So, for $15,000, this is one of the best sports cars you can find. It might be a good opportunity for people to make their childhood fantasies come true.

 

Special and Limited Edition – C5 Corvettes

Before debating the difference between C4 vs. C5 corvettes, we must discuss special and limited-edition C5 sports cars.

Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

The 1998 Corvette C5 Convertible inspired the Indianapolis 500 Pace Car. This replica was very similar to the original car. Apart from some exterior changes, there was no functional difference between the replica and the original.

The Pace car had yellow wheels, special paint colors, and decals.

“It also had the Bose sound system. This sound system was a luxury entertainment feature many cars did not have then.”

Also, dual-zone climate control and leather upholstery make this Pace car special.

50th Anniversary Edition

In 2003, Chevy launched the C5 Special Edition to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Corvette. This Anniversary Corvette C5 comes in one color: Anniversary Red Metallic. It also has magnetic ride control, unique badging, and painted aluminum wheels.

Motorsports

The Corvette C5 was used for racing extensively during its time. In 2001, Pratt & Miller built the C5-R for GM Racing. This model had a wider track, longer wheelbase, and a supreme 7L V8 engine.

The Corvette C5-R had a successful and long run on the racing track. This model won eight out of its first ten races during its first year, including the 24 Hours of Daytona and the GTS class at Le Mans.

SEE MORE: Are C5 Corvettes Reliable

Difference Between C4 vs C5 Corvette

We hope you have a better understanding of the C4 and C5 models. This will make your decision easier if you are planning to buy a Corvette sports car.

This section will talk about the difference between C4 vs. C5 Corvette. So, let us get started.

Design

When discussing design, we must give first place to the C5 Corvette. Even though the C4 Corvette has one of the best designs in the Corvette series, its exterior design is very close to a square shape. On the other hand, Chevy designed the C5 to have a more rounded shape.

“Because of this round shape, the C5 Corvette is aerodynamically superior to the C4 Corvette. It is like a bullet, and therefore, more speed to the C5 Corvette.”

For instance, even the mirrors are round on the C5 Corvette.

Regarding space, the C5 has more hood space than the C4. Also, the exhaust pipes are designed differently. Chevy designed the C5 with double exhaust pipes located at the center, while on the C4 model, the exhaust pipes are far away.

RELATED: Aluminized vs stainless exhausts

Fuel Tank Location

Most modern sports cars are curated with a fuel tank located on one side of the vehicle. Right?

It is either left or right. In the C5 Corvette, there is no difference, and the fuel tank is on the left side.

However, the fuel tank on the C4 Corvette is located just behind the hood and is centered. This is one of the unique differences between the C4 and C5 Corvettes.

Because of the fuel tank’s location, you do not have to worry about the sides when you fill up gas in the C4 Corvette.

Weight

The C5 Corvette is lighter than the C4 Corvette in terms of weight. Because of this, C5 models are much faster. In C5 models, most of the parts are made with carbon fiber, so they are lighter.

Horsepower

Even though some C4 models have up to 300 horsepower, they match C5’s 5.7L GM V8 engine. As mentioned, this 5.7L GM V8 engine can deliver up to 345 horsepower.

Also, the C5 Z06 model is one of the most powerful Corvettes, and its LS6 engine can deliver up to 405 horsepower.

Speed

Because of its aerodynamic design and lightweight, the C5 Corvette is much faster than the C4 Corvette. Also, most C5 models have superior engines compared to C4 models. So, more horsepower equals more speed. But this does not mean the C4 Corvettes are slow.

Price

If you plan to buy a C5 Corvette, it will cost you around $15000. On the other hand, the C4 Corvette costs around $10,000 or less. Both of these prices are very reasonable compared to design and performance.

You can forget about the price difference because the C5 model is more advanced than the C4 model. Also, you cannot put a price tag on these iconic C4 and C5 sports cars.

C4 or C5?

Picking one model from these two iconic cars is no easy task. Also, these are two different generations. So, there is no doubt that C5 has the advantage, and you can understand the difference between the C4 vs C5 corvette section.

But what is the better model? C4 or C5?

It depends on your requirements and budget. If you want to purchase a car for under $10,000, the C4 Corvette is the best choice. It has unique features and good performance. Also, these C4 models are iconic and will be an excellent addition to your car collection.

On the other hand, if you are willing to spend around $15,000, you should go for the C5 Corvette. Undoubtedly, C5 models are superior to C4 models, and finding replacement parts will not be difficult.

Also, comparing speed, engine power, and design, the C5 Corvette is the clear winner and is more advanced in every department. So, if you have the budget, you should go for the C5 Corvette.

Wrap Up

We hope this article helps you better understand the difference between a C4 vs. a C5 Corvette. As we have mentioned, the C4 and C5 are iconic and unique.

For some people, driving a C4 or C5 Corvette can be a dream come true; hence, go for it.

But remember to review the differences and features we covered in this article; they will help you decide between C4 and C5.