Michel73
On the C4 generation Corvette, the latter the model year, the more refinements have made their way into the car. Each new model year, GM had chiseled away at as many original flaws as they could. Everything from squeak and rattle control to adding venting to the infamous opti-spark in the 95 model.
Depending on how much you wish to spend is another factor. You could find a pampered 91, 92, or 93 for that matter and be totally satisfied with it. They may not have the latter refinements, but if cared for, they would make fine drivers.
I personally have never come across stress cracks in any of my C4’s, I’ve owned an 86, 93, 94, and now a 96. I put the most mileage on my 94, 66, + thousand miles, I had not detected any signs of cracks.
If I was in the market for a C4, I would look at 95’s and 96’s. Mainly because of the venting added to the opti-spark. Also, I think squeak/rattle quality control finally started showing there results. My 96 seems to have a quieter cockpit than the 94 I owned. Only on the cold mornings do I hear some “itching” from the rear hatch area. Not bothersome, but there at times.
One of my biggest gripes about the C4 is the weather stripping. It is bound to crack in the B pillar area on the sides . Even if maintained, the strips will give into the cracking at some point. No problem, there are plenty of weather strips available, OEM and aftermarket. I have yet to see a regularly driven C4 that does not have some type of degradation on the weatherstrip.
If the car comes with the transparent top, check it for cracks or delamination.
Seats were of similar design from 91 to 93. In 94 a newly designed seat was introduced. Personally, I find the 94 on up seats more comfortable, they seem wider and more comfortable. That is subjective of course.
Engines are a factor too, the L98 (250 hp) bowed out in 91, it was replaced by the LT1 (300 hp) on the 92. The 300 hp LT1 was used up until 96. Note that the 96 LT1 only came with an automatic transmission. If you wanted a manual in 96, you’d need to look at an LT4 (330 hp) car.
There are a few common oil leaks that occur on LT1 and LT4 cars, the intake manifold gasket, look your prospective cars over for these kind of leaks. If properly repaired, it should not haunt you for some time. Also, check out the front and rear main seals. I highly recommend having a knowledgeable unbiased Corvette mechanic/tech look the car over. Get it on a lift and have him go over the car, it’d be great if you were present so he could show you first-hand any problems.
Happy Hunting
B17Crew
