1997 Corvette Overview
Do you have a need to go fast, even when standing still? There are few cars these days that can do this and more for an attractive price tag. Get in, sit down, and hold on because we are going for a ride in the 1997 C5 Corvette.
In 1997, Chevrolet redesigned the Corvette, completely. This car is beautiful from the inside out, and especially underneath the hood. This car can still turn heads, even today in 2010. Be careful though, this car isn’t for the week kneed.
Part of the redesign was the incorporation of the LS1 engine. Gone was the funky design of the reverse cooled LT1-LT4. The LS1 was an all aluminum engine that cranked out 345 horsepower and 350 pound feet of torque. This powerful pushrod engine helped to bring the 3,230 pound car to 60 mph in about 4.7 seconds. That isn’t too bad for a car going on 13 years old.
The comfort level in this Corvette is matched by none—except other Corvettes—as the driver’s side seat wraps around you like your favorite Aunt giving you a hug during the holidays. The inside of this Corvette is bigger than previous years, making it more comfortable for larger people. It is also slightly easier to get into than previous years due to a redesigned doorsill. However it should be noted that the bigger the person, the harder it is to get into ANY Corvette.
For the C5’s sake, let’s see how well it would hold up against a 2010 Corvette. The 2010 Corvette produces 430 horsepower and 424 pound feet of torque. That seems like a big difference right? When you take into account the fact that a brand new Corvette can be had at just under $50,000; compared to a used 97’ Corvette for under $20,000 which seems like the better deal? You could throw on some bolt on parts to make up the power difference, for a lot less money.
The C5 Corvette is the perfect choice for the car enthusiast who wants to go fast without having to pay new Corvette prices. Owning a Corvette of any year throws the owner into a certain status. If you own a Corvette, you are looked upon differently by your peers. With a $20,000 price tag, this still modern enough Corvette is just what the doctor ordered.
