1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2004 Chevrolet Corvette
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1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette ▼
- Price Range: $11,600 - $28,400
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Steering/handling
- Standard traction control
- Acceleration
- Standard antilock braking
- Instruments/controls
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Ride (Continuously Variable Real Time Damping Suspension)
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Corvette fans had been waiting a long while for an all-new model. When it arrived during 1996, the fifth-generation rear-drive sports car delighted some enthusiasts but dissatisfied others. Arriving on the market in January 1997, the latest Corvette was practically a different breed of sports car. Again fiberglass-bodied, the 2-seater was 1.2 inches longer than its predecessor, on a wheelbase that gained a whopping 8.3 inches. The transmission moved from behind the engine to the rear axle. That change was intended to create a more even front/rear balance, and also to improve interior packaging. A removable roof panel was standard on the new hatchback coupe. Analog gauges replaced the prior mix of digital and analog instruments. No spare tire was included, due mainly to lack of space. That wasn't exactly a drawback, since the standard tires could run for up to 200 miles with no air pressure at all. A 5.7-liter LS1 aluminum V8 engine produced 345 horsepower. A 4-speed automatic transmission was standard, with 6-speed manual shift the optional choice. Traction control was standard. Corvettes were in short supply for a while. At first, only high-volume Corvette dealers got cars at all.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Corvette base convertible, automatic Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 9 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 9 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette.
Year to Year Changes
1998 Chevrolet Corvette:
Big news for Corvette fans was the arrival of a convertible to join the initial fifth-generation coupe. Chevrolet's designers had engineered the latest Corvette to accommodate a convertible body with no additional structural bracing. Convertibles were expected to account for about 45 percent of sales. They were equipped with a manual folding top, containing a glass rear window and defroster. Not since 1962 had a convertible Corvette been sold with a traditional trunk. Magnesium wheels joined the option list, and the engine was revised to quiet the fuel pump. This year's Corvette also got a provision for the automatic transmission to start in second gear, for cleaner getaways on slippery surfaces.
1999 Chevrolet Corvette:
A new hardtop body style joined the removable-roof coupe and the convertible. Not available with some of the new options, the hardtop weighed about 90 pounds less than its mates and shared the convertible's trunk. Hardtops came only with 6-speed manual shift and the sport-tuned Z51 suspension. Other models could have the standard suspension or an optional driver-adjustable setup with soft, medium, and firm settings. Among the options unavailable on the hardtop were a head-up display that projected instrument-panel readouts into the windshield, and a power-telescoping steering wheel. All models could have an optional Active Handling chassis control, which used the brakes to keep the car on line during severe cornering maneuvers.
2000 Chevrolet Corvette:
The base-model fixed-roof hardtop gained some standard equipment for 2000, including visor mirrors and a remote trunk release. Hardtops could now be equipped with the optional head-up instrument display, as well as dual-zone climate control, fog lamps, and magnesium wheels.
2001 Chevrolet Corvette:
Corvette gained an extreme-performance variant for 2001, and all models got standard antiskid control. The coupe was renamed Z06 and given special performance tuning including additional horsepower, upgraded suspension, and larger brakes.
2002 Chevrolet Corvette:
The Z06 model got 405 horsepower for 2002--up 20 hp from '01. It now came with the head-up instrument display that was optional on other 'Vettes, plus revisions to its unique chassis tuning. Other models were no longer available with magnesium wheels, and a CD player replaced the cassette deck as standard equipment.
2003 Chevrolet Corvette:
All '03 Corvettes wear 50th anniversary insignia. The convertible and hatchback offered a 50th Anniversary Special Edition Package (1SC) with red paint, champagne-colored wheels, and unique trim and badging. Available for the convertible and hatchback and included in the Anniversary package was new Magnetic Selective Ride Control.
2004 Chevrolet Corvette:
Trim packages commemorating racing Corvette's are the main additions to the '04 Corvette.
Our road test for the 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Simply put, the "C5" Corvette is one of the world's fastest cars. While most late-model 'Vettes accelerate to 60 miles per hour in a fierce 4.7 seconds, the powerful Z06 model introduced in 2001 is said to make it to 60 in just 3.9 seconds. Gas mileage is about as expected for a performance machine. We've averaged 16.5 mpg with an automatic-transmission coupe, and 16.4 in an automatic convertible. Steering and smooth-road handling are race-car sharp. Unlike some prior models, however, the tail is now less likely to skitter sideways when encountering bumps during a turn. It can still tail-hop in bumpy corners, however. A stiffened chassis allowed engineers to fit softer springs to this Corvette, so ride quality is good enough to qualify it as everyday transportation. Three suspensions have been available, and we recommend the base setup as best all-around choice, furnishing a firm but not punishing ride. The Z51 suspension is harsh for everyday driving. Chevrolet's Continuously Variable Real Time Damping option tends to feel either too soft or too rigid. Corvettes are not quiet. You can expect a booming exhaust note, plenty of engine roar during hard acceleration, plus copious tire noise. Because of its inner-lined soft top, at least the convertible is hardly noisier overall than the coupe. Entering an earlier Corvette could be difficult, due to their tall door-frame sills. Those are gone in this generation. So, getting in and out is about as easy as with certain less-racy sport coupes--though it's still essentially a crouch-and-crawl proposition. Space is generous for two adults. Instruments and controls are sensibly designed and conveniently located. The convertible's soft roof folds neatly beneath a hard tonneau, which flows into an intriguing body-colored panel between the seats. Thick roof pillars impair visibility to all corners, but a low cowl creates a clear field of vision straight ahead. Both bodies have sufficient cargo room to hold two sets of golf clubs. Cockpit storage is limited to a tiny glovebox and a minuscule center console compartment. Test Corvettes have had solid structures, but detail flaws have turned up repeatedly even when the cars were close to new.
Value for the Money
Big, bold, and brawny. That's the kind of high-performance driving you get from a Corvette. If that sounds appealing, there's no better all-around performance value, whether new or used. On the downside, some of the trim isn't really finished with sufficient richness for a car in the Corvette's price league.
Big, bold, and brawny. That's the kind of high-performance driving you get from a Corvette. If that sounds appealing, there's no better all-around performance value, whether new or used. On the downside, some of the trim isn't really finished with sufficient richness for a car in the Corvette's price league.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Corvette base convertible, automatic Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 9 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 9 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
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.
Accessory belt:
The dust shield for the serpentine belt bends easily. If bent it could cause belt squeal. (1997-99)
Climate control:
The rear defroster fails because the Velcro that holds the wires in place does not hold. (1998)
Dashboard lights:
If the steel belts of replacement tires extend into the sidewall the tire-inflation monitoring system could become inoperative. (1997-01)
Doors:
The audible key reminder continues to sound after the key is removed from the ignition accompanied by power door locks not working due to a problem in the lock cylinder. (1997-99)
Engine knock:
Engine knock and/or check-engine light could be cause by corrosion on the rear knock sensor. (1998-02)
Engine noise:
The serpentine belt is noisy due to a problem with the idler pulley and/or the belt tensioner. (1997-99)
Paint/body:
On white cars, the door handles turn yellow from the lock-cylinder grease staining them. The company will replace the cylinders under warranty and there is a colorless grease available for service. (1997-99)
Water leak:
Water leaks from above the door windows. (1997-98 coupe, 1998 convertible)
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 | $550 |
| Alternator | $300 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,350 |
| Brakes | $900 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $1,640 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,190 |
| Exhaust System | $1,500 |
| Radiator | $710 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,395 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $870 |
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 |
|
|
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| 2004 | |||
| Corvette Z06 coupe | $27,000-29,000 | $25,100-27,000 | $18,100-19,400 |
| Corvette convertible | $28,500-30,500 | $26,500-28,400 | $19,400-20,700 |
| Corvette coupe | $25,000-27,000 | $23,300-25,100 | $16,500-17,800 |
| 2003 | |||
| Corvette Z06 coupe | $24,000-25,500 | $22,300-23,700 | $15,600-16,600 |
| Corvette convertible | $25,000-26,700 | $23,300-24,800 | $16,500-17,600 |
| Corvette coupe | $22,000-23,500 | $20,200-21,600 | $14,300-15,300 |
| 2002 | |||
| Corvette Z06 coupe | $21,300-22,800 | $19,600-21,000 | $13,800-14,800 |
| Corvette convertible | $22,000-23,500 | $20,200-21,600 | $14,300-15,300 |
| Corvette coupe | $19,500-21,000 | $17,900-19,300 | $12,700-13,700 |
| 2001 | |||
| Corvette Z06 coupe | $19,000-20,500 | $17,500-18,900 | $12,400-13,300 |
| Corvette convertible | $20,000-21,500 | $18,400-19,800 | $13,000-14,000 |
| Corvette coupe | $17,500-19,000 | $16,100-17,500 | $11,200-12,200 |
| 2000 | |||
| Corvette convertible | $18,500-20,000 | $17,000-18,400 | $11,800-12,800 |
| Corvette coupe | $15,700-17,000 | $14,300-15,500 | $10,000-10,900 |
| 1999 | |||
| Corvette convertible | $17,200-18,500 | $15,800-17,000 | $11,000-11,800 |
| Corvette coupe | $14,600-15,800 | $13,300-14,400 | $9,100-9,800 |
| 1998 | |||
| Corvette convertible | $15,800-17,000 | $14,400-15,500 | $10,100-10,900 |
| Corvette coupe | $13,700-14,700 | $12,500-13,400 | $8,200-8,800 |
| 1997 | |||
| Corvette coupe | $12,800-14,000 | $11,600-12,700 | $7,300-8,000 |
|
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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 | 2-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 104.5 | 104.5 | 104.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 179.7 | 179.7 | 179.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.6 | 73.6 | 73.6 |
| Overall Height, in. | 47.7 | 47.7 | 47.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3246 | 3245 | 3212 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.9 | 24.8 | 24.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.1 | 19.1 | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.6 | 37.8 | 37.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.8 | 42.7 | 42.7 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
Constructed largely of aluminum, the Corvette's 5.7-liter V8 engine originally produced 345 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Either a 6-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic might be installed. In 2001, the same engine gained in horsepower and torque. All models have traction control. The 2002 Z06 gained 20 horsepower, bringing it up to 405.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 346 | 385-405 | 400 | 6-speed manual: 19/28 | 6-speed manual: 19 |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 346 | 345-350 | 350-375 | 6-speed manual: 18/28 4-speed automatic: 17/25 |
6-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 16.5 |
|
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 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1997:
Seatbelt's energy-management loop is inadequate.
1997:
Torn fuel-tank seal can cause fuel odor and/or leakage.
1997-04:
Due to a manufacturing error, vehicles may be able to be driven when the steering wheel is locked, resulting in dangerous driving conditions. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
1997-2000:
Lap-belt webbing can twist, allowing webbing to become jammed in retractor.
2004:
Washers for ball stud assemblies on lower control arm of some cars could fracture and loosen; separation of control arm from its knuckle will cause a corner of the vehicle to drop, and control arm may contact the wheel, resulting in dragging action and unwanted tendency to turn.
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