This page contains information on the fifth generation in the Corvette marquee. This generation spans from 1997 to 1999 and beyond. Most information used on this page comes from the “Corvette Black Book”, a book published every model year. Another source of information on this page comes from the Official C5 Registry.
1997, C5 becomes a reality.
Unlike most “all new” models which had carry over drivetrain and engine designs, the “all new” Corvette was just that for 1997. The new 350 small block LS1 engine was mated to a new rear mounted transmission, a Corvette first. This relocation allowed for nearly equal weight distribution in the front and rear. Interior space also benefited from this design, as the footwells became more spacious. The 1997 Corvette was a full 80 pounds less than the Corvette of the previous year. The digital dash of the fourth generation were replaced with blacklit analog instruments. The parking brake relocated to the center, in between the seats, and the door sills were nearly three inches lower than the previous year. The engine was designed of an aluminum alloy, and was 44 pounds lighter than the 1996 LT4 when fully assembled. I new intake manifold reduced weight while increasing airflow. Structurally, the new Corvette was much more rigid than any of its predecessors. Actic White, Sebring Silver Metallic, Nassau Blue, Black, Light Carmine Red Metallic, Torch Red, and Fareway Green Metallic were the list of exterior color options. Interior choices were limited to black, red, and light gray. Total production was 9,572, all Coupes.
1998
After being absent for the 1997 model year, a convertible was once again available for 1998. Unlike previous models, the new Corvette was designed first as a convertible, and therefore required no more structural support than the coupe. Though 144 pounds less than the 1996 convertible, the new convertible was torsionally more than four times as rigid. Manual lowering of the soft top saved added weight of electronically controlled models. For the first time since 1962, a trunk that had rear access was standard for all convertibles. A Radar Blue Convertible was the 1998 Indianapolis Pace Car, and Chevrolet built just over 1000 replicas to commemorate the event. Outside noise was reduced due to interior refinements. All exterior and interior colors carried over. Two new colors, Light Pewter Metallic and Medium Purple Metallic, were offered in addition to the Pace Car (Radar Blue with black top, yellow wheels, and black and yellow interior). Light Oak was the added interior color option. Soft tops were offered in black, light oak, and white. No official production numbers are posted as of yet.
1999
For the third time in three years, a new model was introduced to the Corvette line-up. The newest model, dubbed by Chevrolet as the Corvette Hardtop, was essentially going to be a base model Corvette with fewer options and a lighter price tag. Rumors are flying left and right, but as of now, sources suggest that this will have all of the drivetrain and engine beef of its larger siblings. It will have fewer standard options, but the guts will remain the same. The coupe and convertible will be essentially the same as the year before with a few more options available, such as power tilt steering column, twilight sentinel headlights, and a heads up display. Only time will tell about this newest addition to the Corvette marquee.
