Chevrolet Corvette (C5)
| Chevrolet Corvette (C5) | |
|---|---|
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Chevrolet Corvette C5 Convertible
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| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Chevrolet (General Motors) |
| Production | 1996–2004 |
| Model years | 1997–2004 |
| Assembly | United States: Bowling Green, Kentucky |
| Designer | John Cafaro |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Sports car |
| Body style |
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| Layout | FMR layout |
| Platform | Y-body |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 104.5 in (2,654 mm) |
| Length | 179.7 in (4,564 mm) |
| Width | 73.6 in (1,869 mm) |
| Height |
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| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Chevrolet Corvette (C4) |
| Successor | Chevrolet Corvette (C6) |
The Chevrolet Corvette (C5) was the fifth generation of the Chevrolet Corvette sports car, produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors for the 1997 through 2004 model years.
A major change from its predecessor the C4, the C5 featured a hydroformed box frame, a design that offered an improved structural platform, especially for a convertible body style. To improve handling, the transmission was relocated to form an integrated, rear-mounted transaxle assembly. Connected to the all-new LS1 engine via a torque tube, the engine/transmission arrangement enabled a 50-50% front-rear weight distribution. The LS1 engine initially produced 345 hp (257 kW), subsequently increased in 2001 to 350 hp (261 kW). The 4L60-E automatic transmission carried over from previous models, but the manual was replaced by a Borg-Warner T-56 6-speed capable of a 175 mph (282 km/h) top speed. Relative to the C4, the new platform and structural design substantially reduced squeaks and rattles.
In the inaugural model year (1997), only the fastback coupé (more like a hatchback coupé) was offered, with the convertible – the first to offer a trunk since 1962 – following in 1998. 1998 also saw the C5 convertible pacing the Indianapolis 500, and a replica pace car edition was sold and the 1998 Corvette was named "Motor Trend Car of The Year"; C5 Corvettes subsequently paced the 2002 and 2004 Indianapolis 500 races, but no replica pace car versions were offered during those model years. In 1999, a third body style, the hardtop (also referred to as the "fixed-roof coupé" or "FRC"), was added to the lineup. This body style, as its name suggests, featured a fixed top (no removable targa top panel as with the fastback coupé) with a roofline shape and trunk space similar to that of the convertible, as well as a distinctive notchback-style rear window.
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