First C4 interest, requesting comments

[rjcasciato]

I've just joined CAC interested in finding a late C4 and learning more about them along the way. Used to own a '68 coupe long time ago (Kids, college, etc.) and now thinking about getting back into the Corvette seat.

I'm sure this group has individual advice on what's good and "not so good" about the later C4's. Any advice or comments are readily welcome at the risk of opening up a thread that recurs all the time..........then simply guide me to the archive section if this is old stuff............

Probably favoring a convertible, but that may just be a "generational thing.

Thanks in advance,

Ron

 

[koolaid117]

Here is a link that might be helpful. http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs

There is really only your opinion that matters. Buy the one that you like. Will there be some problems with the car, yes, but overall, C4's are reliable if maintained. Buy as much as you can afford. You indicated a later C4, possibly a convertible. Well, if you decide on a 1996 and you get a convertible you have to decide between a LT1 and an LT4. The LT4 was 6-speed only though.

Good luck and keep us posted!!

Jim

 

[Moonunit 451]

Welcome to koolaids advice is solid. Poke around here some, take your time and get the latest model you can afford that you like, and don't forget to

 

[JEFNLSA]

Ron,

Welcome to the CAC! If you do a SEARCH on "buying a C4" you should come up w/ quite a few related threads.

Here's one....http://corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=61620&highlight=buying+C4

This is a great site w/ lots of info and is essential to a 'vette owner or future 'vette owner.

Good luck on the search.

Jeff

BTW...Of course I'm partial to the '96, so that year would get my vote. :dance
Maybe you can get your hands on a low mileage '96 Collector's Edition LT4 convertible....

 

[tyrel]

I think the c4 is a bargain for what you get. The engine is more powerful than most other new cars being sold, and the handling is outstanding, it is light years ahead of the c3. It's a fairly easy car to work on, most things anyway, but there are some things that are hard to replace like power brake booster or heater core, but every car is going to have its bugaboos. Good god some parts are expensive, I pity anyone who needs interior parts like seat covers or carpet or door panels. With this in mind, I'll echo the rule of thumb that everyone else says: buy the newest one you can afford. Also buy the one that the previous owner took care of. You'll probably replace the stereo if the previous owner didn't do it already. Wheel bearings are pricy, so are tires and weatherstripping. Long story short, the car will cost you money to maintain, just like any car, and the newest c4 you can buy will already be nine years old, so lots of stuff to go wrong. Coupe and convertible are both fun, but if you've never owned a corvette convertible, go for it, you won't regret it.

 

[mfi]

I just bought a convertible myself. Do as much homework as you can. Search this website and others like it. Tons of information out there, as I've discovered. This can save you a lot of money and headaches. I got mine real cheap because it was abused for the last 15 or 20 thousand miles. Still got a pretty good car though. Tranny shop visit next. Get any car you plan to buy checked out real well before hand.

 

[Toms007]

I'd recommend that you buy the book "Vette Specs 1984-1996" By Mike Antoine (I think I spelled it right). It takes each year and breaks it down with what were the features, changes from previous year etc. It was a great help in my decision process.


Good luck with your search. Not to be pushy but the for sale section has some pretty good buys.This one looks to be a steal http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=69327
not a vert, but appears to be a nice car for the money.

 

[rjcasciato]

Thanks, Jim: RE: the ZR-1.........is there sufficient reliability on service and repair, etc. for that model since it was a "short lived" version......and compared to the LT4, is there a real difference? Ron

 

[rjcasciato]

Thanks for the feedback and information on my interest in a late C4. I'll stay tuned for more related links and coments.

Incidentally, did any of the LT4's come with an auatomatic transmission or is that a dumb question?

Ron

 

[GS Diva]

Thanks for the feedback and information on my interest in a late C4. I'll stay tuned for more related links and coments.

Incidentally, did any of the LT4's come with an auatomatic transmission or is that a dumb question?

Ron

Ron,

There's no such thing as a dumb question...but, no, LT4's only came with a 6-speed!

Elaine

 

[vee93]

WELCOME TO THE !!!!!!
Got a color in mind? Got a year in mind--'84-'96? LT1? LT4? LT5-ZR-1? Auto? Stick? Covertible? Hardtop? Targa topped coupe? Removeable convertible hardtop?
Options? Will mileage (on odometer) be a factor?
Sit down with a legal pad and answer these question. Get your $$$$ in order and go out and GIT YOU ONE!!!!!

 

[tigmaned]

one thing i would say, if you know cars its kind of o.k to get one needing some work to save a little. but if not get one already finished, they are a better deal already finished. myself i am doing it the hard way, got one need a little work but it was in my price range, what ever that is some times?? i saw a 1989 for sale near by one time, really sweet and not needing a thing, guy wanted $9500. i got a 1986 needing a few things for $4500, and the more i think about it, to be as nice as that 1989 i'll be that high, well maybe? but with mine i can say i got it that way? so its how you look at things??

 

[markone]

Hi:

Well here is my two cents worth. If you buy a C4, do not wash the engine compartment, especially if it is a '92 through '94. If you have not heard about the "opti-spark" ignition system do some research, there are plenty of threads in this Forum. Water under the hood of a C4 is your enemy. My only other recommendation is that if you can afford to, buy a low mileage unit with limited owners, of course that advice goes for any vehical. Otherwise happy hunting. I bought my '92 last year after not owning one for 22 years (bought 1980 new). I love the car and they are definately the most high performance bang for you buck out there.

markone