1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1996 Chevrolet Corvette
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1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette ▼
- Price Range: $5,500 - $18,400
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Steering/handling
- Antilock brakes
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Price
- Entry/exit
- Noise
- Ride
Vehicle Highlights
Chevy's sports car got its first facelift since the two-seater was redesigned as an '84 model, though its basic structure remained the same. All models got a convex tail and square taillamps, previously installed only on the hyper-performance ZR-1 coupe. A tapered lower nose held wraparound inserts for fog lamps and turn signals. A cooler for power-steering fluid went into all Corvettes. All models had a driver-side airbag. Both engines drove a 6-speed manual transmission, with 4-speed automatic optional only on base models. The L98 V8 developed 245 horsepower, versus 375 for the ZR-1.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Corvette convertible Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 9 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 36 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette.
Year to Year Changes
1992 Chevrolet Corvette:
A new LT1 base engine delivered 55 more horsepower than the prior L98, peaking at 5000 rpm (1000 above the L98). Torque dropped a bit, to 330 pound-feet. All Corvettes gained traction control. A dash button can switch it off. "ZR1" fender badges now decorated that model.
1993 Chevrolet Corvette:
The ZR-1 gained strength for 1993, making 405 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque (up from 375 and 370, respectively). Base models got narrower front tires and wider rears. To mark the Corvette's 40th birthday, an anniversary trim package included Ruby Red paint, leather sport buckets, and headrest embroidery.
1994 Chevrolet Corvette:
A passenger-side airbag went into 1994 models. Corvette's automatic transmission gained electronic shift controls and an interlock. The revamped interior featured a knee bolster and new seats with leather upholstery. Convertibles received a heated glass rear window. The ZR-1 gained new 5-spoke aluminum wheels.
1995 Chevrolet Corvette:
Base-model Corvettes got the heavy-duty brakes that had been standard on the high-performance ZR-1. Automatic-transmission Corvettes gained a transmission-fluid temperature gauge. The ZR-1 disappeared in spring 1995, after which a 330-horsepower Grand Sport would assume its role as hottest Corvette of them all.
1996 Chevrolet Corvette:
Two special models arrived in this generation's final season, as did a new high-output engine. Chevrolet planned to build a thousand Grand Sport coupes and convertibles. Each got blue paint with a white stripe, and black 5-spoke alloy wheels. Grand Sport coupes rode wider tires with small rear fender flares. Collector Edition Corvettes came in both body styles, with silver paint and 5-spoke alloy wheels. A new LT4 engine developed 330 horsepower, offered only with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Our road test for the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Since the beginning, Corvettes have been cars for those who enjoy life in the fast lane--and are willing to sacrifice some comfort for the privilege. Improved assembly has greatly reduced the number of squeaks and rattles. The '90s suspension no longer jars your teeth while passing over bumps, but it's still quite firm. Corvettes offer great grip and ultraquick reflexes, though bumpy roads upset the composure of the stiff suspension. On the positive side, wide tires, a firm suspension, and a low center of gravity allow Corvettes to handle like a race car as long as the pavement is reasonably smooth. Getting in and out of the deep bucket seats in the pitlike cabin tends to be a challenge. Luggage space and interior room are at a premium, and visibility could be better. Noise levels are high. A husky exhaust note is prominent at all times, accompanied by abundant tire noise at highway speeds. Acceleration is sheer magnificence: lusty and bold, whether from the standard LT1 engine in 1992-96 models, the prior L98, or the super-powered ZR-1. Each engine delivers a seamless rush of power from virtually any speed, causing the car to vault ahead under moderate to hard throttle. An LT1 pushes you back in your seat all the way to its 5500-rpm redline and feels discernably smoother than its predecessor. Fuel economy is nothing to boast about. There's an undeniable performance advantage in the ZR-1 package, but not enough to justify the huge prices that model still commands. Acceleration Slip Regulation in 1992-96 models squelches the wheel spin that nearly incapacitated earlier Corvettes when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
Value for the Money
Rivals such as a Nissan 300ZX Turbo and Toyota Supra are more refined, but simply cannot match a Corvette's all-American macho flavor. To those who love them, there's simply nothing like a Corvette.
Rivals such as a Nissan 300ZX Turbo and Toyota Supra are more refined, but simply cannot match a Corvette's all-American macho flavor. To those who love them, there's simply nothing like a Corvette.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Corvette convertible Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 9 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 36 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Corvette includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Corvette .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
Unless the shift-detent ball roller has been replaced, it may be hard to shift the manual 6-speed into reverse. (1995)
Climate control:
The CD player may skip when driving on rough roads unless foam tape was applied to the top and bottom of the radio. (1991-94)
Engine misfire:
The distributor-vacuum vent-wiring harness might rub the power-steering pulley. This can be fixed by tie-strapping the harness to the throttle body coolant hose. (1995)
Engine misfire:
If the engines with a manual 6-speed transmission surge or sag at engine speeds below 2500 rpm, there is a revised PROM to correct it. (1995)
Transmission leak:
Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $820 |
| Alternator | $280 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $890 |
| Brakes | $365 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $785 |
| Exhaust System | $995 |
| Radiator | $495 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $730 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $990 |
| Universal Joints | $305 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Corvette details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| Convertible | $12,200-13,500 | $11,000-12,200 | $6,800-7,600 |
| Corvette | $10,500-11,500 | $9,500-10,400 | $5,600-6,100 |
| 1995 | |||
| Convertible | $11,000-12,000 | $9,900-10,800 | $5,900-6,500 |
| Corvette | $9,400-10,400 | $8,500-9,400 | $4,900-5,400 |
| Corvette ZR-1 | $18,000-20,000 | $16,600-18,400 | $11,500-12,800 |
| 1994 | |||
| Convertible | $10,000-11,000 | $9,000-9,900 | $5,200-5,700 |
| Corvette | $8,500-9,500 | $7,700-8,600 | $4,400-4,900 |
| Corvette ZR-1 | $16,000-18,000 | $14,600-16,400 | $10,200-11,500 |
| 1993 | |||
| Convertible | $9,000-10,000 | $8,100-9,000 | $4,700-5,200 |
| Corvette | $7,700-8,600 | $6,900-7,700 | $3,900-4,300 |
| Corvette ZR-1 | $14,000-15,500 | $12,700-14,100 | $8,500-9,500 |
| 1992 | |||
| Convertible | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
| Corvette | $7,000-7,900 | $6,200-7,000 | $3,300-3,700 |
| Corvette ZR-1 | $12,500-14,000 | $11,300-12,600 | $7,100-8,000 |
| 1991 | |||
| Convertible | $7,000-8,000 | $6,200-7,100 | $3,300-3,800 |
| Corvette | $6,300-7,200 | $5,500-6,300 | $2,800-3,200 |
| Corvette ZR-1 | $11,000-12,500 | $9,900-11,300 | $5,900-6,800 |
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Corvette include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase, in. | 96.2 | 96.2 |
| Overall Length, in. | 178.5 | 178.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.1 | 70.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 47.3 | 46.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3360 | 3298 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 6.6 | 12.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 20.0 | 20.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.0 | 36.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.0 | 42.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Corvettes in 1991 still employed the L98 V8 engine, rated at 245 horsepower, which had served through the 1980s. A dual overhead-cam, 32-valve V8 of the same size went into the ultraperformance ZR-1 coupe. That engine whipped up 375 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. A 6-speed manual gearbox was the sole choice for the ZR-1. Other Corvettes might have a 4-speed automatic. For 1992, the new LT1 engine made 300 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Output of the ZR-1 engine grew in 1993, to 405 horses and 385 pound-feet. The 330-horsepower LT4 engine introduced for 1996 was standard on the Grand Sport and optional on others.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 5.7 / 350 | 375-405 | 370-385 | 6-speed manual: 17/25 | 6-speed manual: -- |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 350 | 300-330 | 330-340 | 6-speed manual: 16/27 4-speed automatic: 17/25 |
6-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 16.6 |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 350 | 245 | 340 | 6-speed manual: 16/25 4-speed automatic: 16/24 |
6-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Corvette include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1991-1996 Chevrolet Corvette directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1992-93 w/LT1 engine:
Power-steering gear-inlet hose can fracture, causing flammable fluid to spray into engine compartment.
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