The Chevrolet Corvette C5 generation, produced from 1997 to 2004, marked a significant leap forward for America’s sports car. This generation brought about substantial changes and improvements year after year, refining performance, handling, and features. For enthusiasts and potential buyers, understanding these year-by-year updates is crucial. This guide provides a detailed look at the evolution of the C5 Corvette, highlighting key changes and upgrades for each model year.
1997 Corvette
The 1997 model year heralded the arrival of the C5, a completely redesigned Corvette. This new generation featured a hydroformed box frame, rear-mounted transmission, and a revolutionary LS1 engine. The base model came with the FE1 suspension, while the Z51 package (FE3) offered enhanced handling capabilities. Z51-equipped Corvettes included a power steering cooler for improved performance under demanding conditions. The 1997 C5 LS1 engine produced an impressive 345 horsepower at 5600 RPM and 350 lb-ft of torque at 4400 RPM, setting a new benchmark for Corvette performance.
1998 Corvette
The Corvette lineup expanded in 1998 with the introduction of the convertible model, adding open-top exhilaration to the C5 experience. Late in the model year, Active Handling became available, a significant advancement in vehicle stability and control. A subtle visual cue for 1998 Corvettes (and possibly late 1997 models) is the design of the two slots on the front fascia, which curve towards the rear at the bottom, unlike the straight-down slots of subsequent years.
1999 Corvette
Several refinements marked the 1999 Corvette. Fuel injector capacity was adjusted with 26# injectors replacing the earlier 28# units. The fuel pump was revised to reduce noise, addressing a minor NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) concern. The Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), also known as the hardtop, was introduced, offering a lighter and more rigid body style. All FRC models came standard with the MN6 6-speed manual transmission and the Z51 suspension, and were approximately 60 pounds lighter than the standard coupe. A Head-Up Display (HUD) was introduced as a new feature, projecting key driving information onto the windshield. A power telescoping steering wheel became an available option, enhancing driver comfort. Steering hardware was modified to improve on-center feel and reduce wandering. Door sill trim plates were added, improving interior aesthetics and durability.
2000 Corvette
The color palette expanded in 2000 with the availability of Millennium Yellow, a distinctive and celebratory color option. Wheel designs were updated, with the “thin spoke” wheel replacing the earlier “wagon wheel” design as standard. California models received pup catalytic converters to meet Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards, resulting in a minor 5 horsepower reduction compared to 1997-1999 models. Z51-equipped cars benefited from steel sway bar end links, replacing the previous plastic components for increased durability. The diameters of the Z51 sway bars were also increased, enhancing handling performance (front: 25.4mm to 28.6mm, rear: 21.7mm to 23.6mm, with the new rear bar matching the Z06 specification). The passenger side door handle lost its keyhole, streamlining the exterior. A passenger airbag ‘off’ switch was added to the center console, with an indicator light near the Traction Control/Active Handling button, improving safety for situations with child passengers.
2001 Corvette
The 2001 model year brought a mix of performance enhancements and refinements. Fuel injector capacity returned to 28# for all models, reversing the change made in 1999. Second Generation Active Handling further improved the system’s sophistication and effectiveness. Nassau Blue was discontinued as an exterior color option. An alternator ‘clutch’ pulley was added to automatic transmission (A4) models, reducing noise and vibration. New soundproofing and foam were added throughout all models, further reducing NVH. The key fob was made smaller, and both the rearview and driver’s side mirrors gained electrochromic dimming functionality. A lighter AGM battery was introduced. Convertible models received changes to material thickness for improved rigidity. Chrome exhaust tips became standard for coupe and convertible models, adding a touch of visual distinction. The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor was upgraded to an 85mm unit with an integrated temperature sensor, replacing the previous 74mm MAF with a separate Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor plug. The LS1 camshaft profile was revised to specifications of .500/.500 lift, 198/208 duration on a 115.5 LSA (Lobe Separation Angle), compared to the previous 0.472/0.479 lift, 202/210 duration on a 117 LSA, contributing to improved engine performance. All Corvettes now featured the LS6 intake manifold and the LS6 engine block, which included windage passages and a beefier oil pump. These LS1 engine changes resulted in an increased output of 350 horsepower at 5200 RPM and 375 lb-ft of torque at 4400 RPM for manual transmission (MN6) models. The Hardtop/FRC model was discontinued. Pup catalytic converters were added to all models to meet emissions standards nationwide. Stronger synchronizers were implemented in all transmissions for improved durability and shift quality. Exhaust manifolds were revised, switching from stainless steel manifolds back to thin-wall cast iron, regaining a claimed 5 horsepower. Metal valve stem caps were introduced later in the model year. The torque tube material changed from metal-matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, and its diameter increased from 55mm to 63mm, enhancing drivetrain rigidity. Driveshaft couplings were also upgraded on manual transmission models for increased strength. The high-performance Z06 model was introduced in 2001, featuring significant differences from the base Corvette, including a hardtop body style, functional rear brake ducting, screened inlets on the front fascia without fog lights, and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires (265/17 front, 295/18 rear) on wider wheels (17×9.5 and 18×10.5 inches). The Z06’s LS6 engine featured a unique top-end with new cylinder head design (10.5:1 compression, 64cc chambers), a specific LS6 camshaft (.525/.525 lift, 204/211 duration on a 116 LSA) and produced 385 horsepower. It was equipped with the M12 transmission with shorter gear ratios, analogous to the MN6 with a 3.90 rear axle ratio. A titanium exhaust system and a lightweight windshield further reduced weight. A new, stronger clutch with redesigned master and slave cylinders, a stronger rear differential, red brake calipers, a transmission over-temperature warning light on the Driver Information Center (DIC), 6500 RPM redline gauges with special checkering and Z06 font, a redesigned PCV system to mitigate oil burning, red LS6 fuel rail covers, and the FE4 Z06 suspension with uprated springs, bars (30mm front/23.6mm rear), and shocks completed the Z06 package.
2002 Corvette
The Z06 model received further enhancements in 2002. The LS6 camshaft was again revised to .551/.547 lift, 204/218 duration on a 117.5 LSA. A less restrictive intake airbox lid and a descreened MAF sensor improved airflow. Pup catalytic converters were removed from the Z06, resulting in a total output increase to 405 horsepower. Z06 shocks were revised with less rebound for improved launch characteristics. Z06 brake pads were upgraded for better stopping power (albeit with increased brake dust). Lighter, sodium-filled valves with stronger valve springs and higher tension piston rings were implemented to address potential oil burning issues. A slight piston redesign and an upgraded clutch further enhanced durability. The Head-Up Display (HUD) became available on the Z06 model. The wheel supplier changed to Speedline, moving from forged to cast aluminum wheels, though the weight remained nearly identical. Electron Blue was introduced as a new color option. Steel end links were replaced with aluminum end links, and the automatic transmission cooler case was changed to aluminum on all models, contributing to weight reduction. An AM/FM stereo with an in-dash CD player became standard on Coupe and Convertible models. An AM/FM/Cassette player was only available in conjunction with the 12-disc CD changer on Coupe and Convertible models.
2003 Corvette
The 2003 model year was relatively quiet in terms of major changes, but late in the year, a new fuel system design from the upcoming C6 generation was implemented in some models. A 2003 Anniversary Edition was offered, featuring special Anniversary Red paint and unique badging and trim.
2004 Corvette
The final year of the C5 generation, 2004, saw further refinement of the Z06 suspension, with revised shocks, upper front control arm bushings, and rear sway bar bushings. A 2004 Commemorative Edition was released, celebrating Corvette’s racing heritage. The Commemorative Edition Z06 featured a carbon fiber hood and unique commemorative graphics.
This year-by-year breakdown illustrates the continuous improvement and evolution of the C5 Corvette throughout its production run. From the revolutionary launch in 1997 to the refined and powerful models of 2004, the C5 Corvette cemented its place as a performance icon.
