The Chevrolet Corvette, an iconic American sports car, has a long and storied history of continuous improvement and evolution. The C5 generation, produced from 1997 to 2004, marked a significant leap forward in design, performance, and technology. Understanding the changes implemented each year can be crucial for enthusiasts, buyers, and those involved in Corvette repair. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the Corvette C5’s evolution year by year, highlighting the key differences and upgrades that defined each model year.
1997 Corvette
The 1997 Corvette marked the beginning of the C5 generation, a complete redesign from the previous C4. This inaugural year introduced significant changes under the skin. Key features of the 1997 Corvette included:
- Redesigned Platform: A completely new platform and hydroformed frame offered improved structural rigidity and handling.
- Suspension Packages: Available with base (FE1) and Z51 (FE3) suspension options to cater to different driving preferences.
- Z51 Specifics: Z51-equipped models came standard with a Power Steering Cooler for enhanced track capability.
- LS1 Engine Debut: The introduction of the legendary LS1 engine. In 1997-2000 C5 models, the LS1 produced 345 horsepower at 5600 RPM and 350 lb-ft of torque at 4400 RPM, offering a substantial power increase over previous generations.
1998 Corvette
The second year of the C5 generation brought expanded options and refinements to the Corvette lineup:
- Convertible Option: The highly anticipated convertible body style became available, broadening the Corvette’s appeal.
- Active Handling: Late in the 1998 model year, the sophisticated Active Handling system was introduced, enhancing vehicle stability and control, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
- Subtle Design Change: A minor visual tweak was implemented where the two slots on the front fascia curved towards the rear at the bottom, a detail that can help distinguish a ’98 from a ’97.
1999 Corvette
The 1999 model year brought a series of detail-oriented improvements and a new body style to the Corvette:
- Injector Change: Fuel injectors were revised, moving from 28# to 26# injectors.
- Fuel Pump Revision: The fuel pump was modified to reduce operational noise, improving cabin comfort.
- FRC Model Introduction: The Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), also known as the hardtop, debuted. These models were performance-focused, coming exclusively with the MN6 6-speed manual transmission and the Z51 suspension, and were approximately 60 lbs lighter than standard coupes.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD): The innovative Heads-Up Display (HUD) became available, projecting key vehicle information onto the windshield for the driver.
- Fuel Rail Update: The driver’s side fuel rail cover was simplified to a single line, possibly indicating changes to the fuel return system.
- Power Telescoping Wheel: A power telescoping steering wheel became an optional feature for enhanced driver comfort.
- Steering Improvement: Steering hardware was modified to address reports of “wandering,” improving straight-line stability.
- Door Sill Trim Plates: Door sill trim plates were added, enhancing the interior’s finish.
2000 Corvette
The turn of the millennium brought cosmetic and functional updates to the 2000 Corvette:
- Millennium Yellow: The striking Millennium Yellow exterior color was introduced, becoming an iconic shade for this era.
- Wheel Design Update: The “Thin Spoke” wheel design became standard, replacing the previous “wagon wheel” style.
- LEV Emissions Compliance: To meet Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards, “pup cats” (small pre-catalytic converters) were added to all models. This change resulted in a minor power reduction of approximately 5 horsepower compared to 1997-1999 models.
- Suspension Upgrade: Z51-equipped cars received steel swaybar endlinks, replacing the previous plastic components for increased durability.
- Swaybar Diameter Increase: Z51 sway bar diameters were increased, particularly the front bar, further enhancing handling performance.
- Passenger Door Handle Change: The passenger side door handle lost its keyhole, streamlining the exterior.
- Passenger Airbag Switch: A passenger airbag ‘off’ switch was added to the center console, accompanied by an indicator light near the Traction Control/Active Handling buttons.
2001 Corvette
2001 was a year of significant mechanical and technological advancements for the Corvette C5:
- Injector Return: A return to 28# injectors for all models, reversing the change made in 1999.
- Second Generation Active Handling: The introduction of Second Generation Active Handling provided further refinement to the vehicle’s stability control system.
- Nassau Blue Discontinued: The Nassau Blue exterior color was discontinued.
- Alternator Clutch Pulley: A4 (automatic transmission) models received an alternator ‘clutch’ pulley, potentially for noise or vibration reduction.
- Improved Soundproofing: Enhanced soundproofing and foam were added throughout all models, improving cabin quietness.
- Smaller Keyfob: A more compact keyfob design was introduced.
- Electrochromic Mirrors: Electrochromic dimming rearview and driver’s side mirrors became standard, reducing glare.
- Lighter Battery: A lighter AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery was adopted, contributing to weight savings.
- Convertible Top Material Change: Changes were made to the thickness and material of the convertible top.
- Chrome Exhaust Tips: Coupe and Convertible models received chrome exhaust tips, adding a touch of visual distinction.
- 85MM MAF Sensor: A larger 85mm Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor with an integrated temperature sensor replaced the previous 74mm unit with a separate IAT sensor.
- LS1 Camshaft Profile Change: The LS1 camshaft profile was revised, resulting in new specifications: .500/.500 lift, 198/208 duration on a 115.5 LSA. This was a change from the previous 0.472/0.479 lift, 202/210 duration on a 117 LSA.
- LS6 Intake Manifold: All Corvettes now utilized the higher-flowing LS6 intake manifold, previously exclusive to the Z06.
- LS6 Engine Block: All Corvettes adopted the LS6 engine block, featuring windage passages and a beefier oil pump.
- LS1 Performance Increase: These LS1 engine changes resulted in a power increase to 350 HP at 5200 RPM and 375 lb-ft of torque at 4400 RPM (for MN6 models).
- Hardtop/FRC Discontinued: The Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC) model was discontinued after a short run.
- Transmission Synchro Upgrade: Stronger synchros were implemented in all transmissions for improved durability and shift quality.
- Exhaust Manifold Revision: Exhaust manifolds were revised to thin-wall cast units, replacing stainless steel manifolds, and regaining the 5hp lost in 2000.
- Metal Valve Stem Caps: Late in the year, metal valve stem caps were introduced.
- Torque Tube Upgrade: The torque tube material changed from metal-matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, and its diameter increased from 55 to 63 mm for increased strength.
- Driveshaft Coupling Upgrade: Driveshaft couplings on manual transmission models were upgraded for enhanced strength and durability.
- Z06 Introduction: The high-performance Z06 model was introduced, marking a significant expansion of the Corvette lineup. Key Z06 features included:
- Hardtop body style for increased rigidity and reduced weight.
- Functional rear brake ducting for improved brake cooling.
- Unique front fascia with screened inlets and without fog lights for enhanced airflow.
- F1 Supercar tires (265-17 front, 295-18 rear) on wider wheels (17×9.5 and 18×10.5 inches).
- Upgraded LS6 engine top-end with new head design (10.5:1 compression, 64cc chambers), and LS6 camshaft (0.525/0.525 lift, 204/211 duration on a 116 LSA), resulting in 385 horsepower.
- M12 transmission with shorter gear ratios, analogous to the MN6 with a 3.90 rear differential for enhanced acceleration.
- Lightweight titanium exhaust system.
- Lightweight windshield.
- New, stronger clutch with redesigned master and slave cylinders.
- Stronger rear differential with a shot-peened ring gear for increased durability.
- Red brake calipers.
- Transmission over temperature warning light on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
- 6500 RPM redline gauges with special checkering and Z06 font.
- Redesigned PCV system to mitigate oil burning issues.
- Red LS6 Fuel Rail Covers.
- FE4 Z06 suspension with uprated springs, bars (30mm front/23.6mm rear), and shocks.
2002 Corvette
The 2002 model year continued to refine the Z06 and offered new features across the Corvette range:
- Z06 Camshaft Upgrade: The Z06 LS6 camshaft was further upgraded to specifications: 0.551/0.547 lift, 204/218 duration on a 117.5 LSA, further boosting performance.
- Less Restrictive Intake: The Z06 received a less restrictive intake airbox lid and a descreened MAF sensor for improved airflow.
- Pup-Cat Removal (Z06): Pup-cats were removed from the Z06 model, contributing to an overall power increase to 405 horsepower for the Z06.
- Z06 Shock Revision: Z06 shocks were revised with reduced rebound for improved launch characteristics.
- Z06 Brake Pad Upgrade: Z06 brake pads were upgraded for enhanced stopping power, though noted to generate more brake dust.
- Engine Component Upgrades (Z06): The Z06 engine received lighter, sodium-filled valves with stronger valve springs and higher tension piston rings to address potential oil burning concerns, along with a slight piston redesign.
- Clutch Strength Upgrade: The clutch across all models was upgraded for increased strength.
- HUD for Z06: The Heads-Up Display (HUD) became available on the Z06 model, a feature not offered in 2001.
- Wheel Supplier Change (Z06): The Z06 wheel supplier changed to Speedline, moving from forged to cast wheels, though the weight remained nearly identical.
- Electron Blue Color: The Electron Blue exterior color was introduced.
- Aluminum Endlinks: Steel endlinks were replaced with aluminum endlinks, likely for weight reduction on some models.
2003 Corvette
The 2003 model year was relatively quiet in terms of major changes, but included a significant mid-year update:
- C6 Fuel System Introduction (Late 2003): Late in the 2003 model year, a new fuel system design from the upcoming C6 generation Corvette was implemented. This was a significant under-the-skin change for late 2003 models.
2004 Corvette
The final year of the C5 generation saw minor refinements before the introduction of the C6:
- Z06 Shock Refinement: Z06 shocks were further refined, accompanied by changes to the upper front control arm bushing and rear swaybar bushing, continuing the incremental improvements to the Z06’s handling dynamics.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Corvette C5 generation underwent substantial evolution from its introduction in 1997 to its final year in 2004. Each year brought a series of refinements, performance enhancements, and new features, culminating in the highly capable and desirable models of the early 2000s. Understanding these year-to-year changes is essential for anyone looking to buy, maintain, or appreciate the C5 Corvette. From engine upgrades and suspension tweaks to technological advancements and stylistic changes, the Corvette C5’s journey reflects Chevrolet’s commitment to continuous improvement and its dedication to delivering a world-class sports car.
