How to get started in the Vette World?

[ArkShark]

How did most of you get started off liking/owning Corvettes?

I will be in the market for a convertible next spring, and I think I want a vette. However, I don't know anyone that owns one. How do I get a better feel for what I want, what I don't want, etc.? I have never even driven a C5 vette before. How can I say I want one and not even know what its like to drive one? I know I will not be able to purchase new, so I can't have a dealer help me, I'm thinking of a '97 or '98.

There is a local corvette club around, could I just show up at a meeting and tell them this and get some help? Would a dealer be willing to help me if he knew that in a few more years I might upgrade to a new vette?

I guess what I need is wheel time, and people at the local vette club would not likely hand over their keys to a stanger to take their baby around the block.

Any suggestions?
Thanks

Mike

 

[johnl]

You have made a good start. There is a lot of information here. There are a lot of “what corvette should I get” posts. Do a search and start reading. There will be information about common problems, performance upgrades, difficulties finding parts for restoration etc…
This would get you started in collecting knowledge about the basics. Ask questions here and the collective will respond with their thoughts. Some will be favorable and some not so favorable depending on their own personal experiences. Take it all in and come to your own conclusion.

As far as driving a few, I would shop some of the used car outlets in your area and tell them you are looking for a Corvette and they will probably let you give it a test drive. You don’t have to tell them you are not going to be ready until spring. I looked for more than a year for mine and drove a lot of different types.

Contact a local Corvette club. I think most of the members will be glad to tell you about their cars and maybe after they get to know you even, let you drive theirs. You never know, I’m sure there are good and not so good clubs out there.

If all that fails come on out to the SF bay area and you can take my 97 for a spin through some of the nicer cruising roads out here. This will, however cost you lunch.

Good luck. And welcome to the CAC.
John