My favorite color on the C5 is the Electron Blue! It for me, its just beautiful! I wanted a C4 corvette in the 90s but as a teen there was no way I could afford one. When the C5 came out it was over for me. I knew one day I would own one. Granted it took me about 25 years to get it but I'm one of the happiest people on earth! The trunk space is awesome. My only wish and if there was a way to do it I would and that is to change the dash from a C5 to a C6. I love the interior from the C6. I would have gone with a C6 but when they dropped the pop up headlights that did me in. I still smile every time when I get in and drive. Had mine for 2 years and won't sell it!
Nice review. Seat belts on the C5 can be locked by pulling the belt all the way out from the belt tensioner and letting it go. When you pull it again, the seat will be locked around your body. One special feature not many know about the C5 is the instrument lumination is provided by black lights on both sides of the display hidden behind the instrument control panels.
I am a Corvette Newby; just bought (October 2023) a 19995 Polo Green Convertible w/53k miles. I love the classic, ICONIC feeling of my Classic Corvette. I'm 63 and have always dreamed about it and can't believe I finally have one!
I'm 49 and just bought my first Vette...a 1998 convertible in Nassau blue with black top, 6 speed manual and 86K on the odometer. It's super clean for it's age. One owner...only mod he did was cat back Corsa Extreme exhaust package. Sounds awesome under acceleration but quiet at highway cruising speeds.
@JaysRandomnessChannel That's a great color for it and personally my favorite. I'm saving for one now as I was originally saying for a c4 94 to 96 and figured it would probably be better to save more for a 97 to 2000.
I'm a 6"2" and 230ish pound old dude. At max setting I fit in my C4 ruby red convertible. With good technique I can get out, a yelling out "I ain't old!" Cotton, button down collar shirt, denim jorts, White socks and NEW BALANCE KICKS! SO COOL!
In 6'3 and I fit in it well. I was a bit smaller back then lol. I bought it when I turned 18! It was my first car! I literally slept in it the first night 😂😂
I'm 75 and still get in and out OK but I don't take it when I have half a dozen errands but prefer it when it's a longer cruise in and out only a couple of times.
The C5 might be better in nearly every way than the C4. But the C4 looks special, where as the C5 has no appeal. Love a C4 , wouldn't look at any other Corvette.
Both are great cars. Sadly I lost my C4 and C5 at the same time in a tornado. I had to buy a C6 Z06 to console myself. Once the heads are done I will be a happyd river.
I cant remember the year of my Corvette I had years ago, 94 or 96, had over 300,000 miles and I drove it from Arizona to Indiana and it drove fine! It looked great also for a car with those miles!!
I think Robert's going to be the only one I could really trust to go and buy a Corvette from because his knowledge and his enthusiasm and I appreciate that as a consumer I was in retail for over 40 years and I know a great salesman when I see one and hear one God bless you
I've had both. The ease of taking the targa top off on the C5 make it a better buy. But I love everything else about the C4 including the show off reverse flip up headlights, the whole front end that opens up, the cockpit style driver seat, and that its smaller and lower to the groud and you sit lower to the ground. The C5 lost the cockpit feel. The C5 is the best looking Vette of all times. Its a curvier C4. After owning a C4, C5, C6 and my still owned C7, I went back and bought another C4.
Have had c4s and c5 in my opinion the c5 is definitely the better car construction wise and also the ls1 motor more power but both ran well and both were dependable good cars 8:23
Currently own both (even had a 66 327 nassau blue vert for about two weeks a zillion years ago) and love both for different reasons. The C4 is a much nimbler car. The C5 simply has great aesthetic appeal. Cant go wrong with either one. Oh, and the plastic buttons (door locks and whatnot) on the C4 are much more of a pain to address than the rubber C5 buttons. Good stuff guys!!
What exactly do you mean by nimbler? Feels smaller, or handles better, more of a neutral/oversteery car than c5? Im thinking of getting a c5. The ls1, stiff aluminum chassis, and smooth body have me pretty sold
@@connor3288 Definitely smaller car feel and the handling feels tighter (check turning radius of C4 vs C5 and im sure C4 is much smaller/tighter, but its not like a C5 is a boat). I have been spending a lot of time in the seat of the C5 lately and its just a little better overall. Its cliche, but you cant go wrong with either. GL!!
So awesome love both these! What a coincidence because I just bought a Black C4 ZR1 in Dallas Texas today! I bought it over the phone. They are shipping it to Maine. Go check it out for me! The dealership said he would love that if you showed up and did a video on it! Great Vid. Robert is the man
i am happy to have to met rob last year at Carlisle PA. This video emphasizes the knowledge that Rob has on corvette's is unbelievable!! So great video as thoroughly enjoyed this one!!
It's always a pleasure to hear Robert talk about Corvettes! He may know more details about more Corvettes than anyone. Thanks for sharing with all of us. We appreciate all of your time and effort!
Outstanding video of the differences. I am glad that the C-5 is my first Corvette. i am 6 foot, 2 inches tall. I was not aware of the difference between interior room between the two designs.
I happen to own both a C4 ('88) and a C5 ('03). They are both automatics. My C4 is semi-retired because it can't pass the California smog test. At 216k miles it needs a new engine. My C5 is in for repairs right now. The harmonic balancer and the rear main seal are being replaced at 150k miles. For me, the LS-1 in the C5 is a huge plus. I love the fact that each cylinder has its own coil. No more mechanical distributor. The LS-1 pulls very hard all the way to redline and idles glass smooth. I replaced the original plugs and wires just this year even though there were no signs of any problems.
I've owned two C4s, a 95 and a 96 collector's edition, bought a C5 I love four years ago, and bought a C6 last month. No contest to me, each generation is better than the last IMO. Loved my C4s, but my C5 is just a superior car, and I'm amazed at how much better than that my C6 Z51/3LT is. They've all got plenty of power, but handling is my top priority, and my Z51 is the best handling car I've ever driven. I have a bunch of favorite twisty roads I drive on regularly and I can hit them 10-15 mph or more faster in the C6 than I can in my other cars. I've owned literally dozens of performance cars, have a 2000 WS6 TA I can't part with in addition to my Vettes and while I know there are many better handling cars to choose from I'm quite happy with the C6. If I'm hitting twisties at 70 and 80 and the occassional 90-100 that's enough of an adrenaline rush fix for me. I'd love to upgrade to the C7 Z51 or even better the Z06 but that's just too much coin for this peasant.
Great and informative video. You are the first to mention the lack of passenger foot room on the C4. It is sadly why I don't have one, knowing my wife would never be happy riding with me in one. How does your wife feel about traveling yours? You can thank a friend of mine for your excellent C4 brakes. He stopped at the Bowling Green plant in late '89 and Tom Hill took him out to brag on the ABS brakes. My friend was impressed by how well behaved the brakes were, stopping under control on high center crowned roads in the wet while driving around curves and changing lanes. But then, he began out-stopping the ABS without the ABS kicking in. Tom said that was impossible, because he wasn't hitting the brakes hard enough to get the ABS to kick in. My friend replied but he was stopping in a shorter distance without the ABS than with the ABS, with Tom said was also impossible. Tom said he was going to contact engineering on this and find out why. A few months later, Motor Trend (I think) had an article with Danny Sullivan who was also out-braking the ABS on their test car, but was informed that Chevrolet was already making changes on that.
I love my 2002 C5 Coupe. Have been driving it for 21 years, including (for the first 11 years) on the autobahn in Germany (175mph, check!). Great car. No issues whatsoever with the rubber buttons. Love the cargo space.
own a 99c5 mn6 and several c4’s. daily drive both. track both. c5 does have cinch. simply pull belt all the way out, it will now cinch on retract same as c4. c5 seats, be it for track or road trip, suck hard. C4 seats designed by Lear better in every situation. 89-93 sport seats being best, followed by 84-88 sport. 94+ was a step towards c5 seats, however the 94+ sport seats can be ok with a harness. other than the targa top removal, i prefer everthing about the c4.
Nice video and enjoyed the comparison. I have a 1991 triple black fully loaded coupe including the FX3 suspension. I added a Borla exhaust, an aftermarket pioneer sound system, tinted windows, and black z06 replica wheels. I still get compliments every time I drive it and have owned it for 29 years.
A great video review on those two models. Showing the many subtle differences and yet very important ones when it comes to making a decision on which model you might prefer.✌️
Thanks for that comparison Rob and Mike. I like the Jet stream blue and the C5 lights better. On my 97 Firebird I always left my lights up during the winter to prevent them from breaking because of the plastic parts on the lights.
I put three weeks worth work/school/play cloths and boots in my C5 and drove Indy to Vegas,and back. I still had room for souvenirs and a bag full of gear from HD Cafe to bring home w/me!
Got to go c4 the start of it all for these cars and the 1984 version might not be the best motor but it's an easy motor to work with, that thing was the fastest out there during that era.
When I was Parking cars at a Restaurant in April 1983 I parked a light Blue 84 C4 and it was like getting put into a Space Capsule. it took me Four years to buy a 1986 C4 Convertible for $23 K due to a defect no one could fix it only had 1400 miles and no power to the Tail lights. Drivers side fog light bulb was the cause, six Chevy dealers failed to find this and was fixed by old school mechanic Jim Clark R.I.P.
Great video. I have been a Corvette fan for most of my 57 years. I have owned five C4's one C5, two C6's and two C7's. The current Vette is a 2019 Grand Sport. I have loved all of them but my favourite was the 96 Collector Edition convertible with the six speed standard transmission. Without a doubt each year and each generation brought improvements, my C7 is absolutely a better car than the older ones and I'm sure the C8 is better yet, but I'm considering going back to a C4. There is something special about the road feel and rawness in the C4 that you don't get with the newer versions. As I see it the refinement took away some of the thrills.
I've got a '94 "Brickyard 400" convertible, with a ZR-1 tire setup, and Fikse forged aluminum racing wheels. Still have the original "sawblade" wheels stacked up in a corner of the gargage...I also added Baer brakes with cross-drilled and slotted rotors. Larger than stock on the front. I also removed the air box, and have a K&N filter held in place by a metal frame. The car handles incredibly with 275's in front, and 315's on the back, and can stop great...
Good content. Last July I started looking into the Z06 and in EVERY Corvette forum there were multiple people that said the same thing……. You’re too late to the game, might as well just pay the markup. Since I have nothing but time I placed my request with MacMulkin and almost 1yr to the day I was told to place my order. Now here we are in August and I’m doing a R8C delivery soon. You should note that us common folk can get one but not right away. Gotta be patient. Specially since we aren’t using them for content creation.
Great video guys! While I thoroughly enjoy all the videos on the C7 and aggressively awesome new C8s, it's new to get a good overview of the prior generations as well. So thanks for doing these! Although I have one, it's nice to learn a few things I didn't know. While I am not in the market, currently, for a new C8, I find it informative going through your videos nonetheless and greatly enjoy them. Keep up the good work!
I owned a C3-1973 and now owning a C5 -2004 . I love the transmission in the rear on C5 where the weight distribution is more on a 50/50 ratio. C5 is definitely a game changer over my C3 in every respect.👍❤️
Excellent video guys! I owned a ‘93 red on red, 6-speed years ago and still miss that old girl. Funnest, most beautiful car I’ve ever owned and I’ve owned many cars and trucks. I removed that stupid center resonator and installed 40 series Flowmasters, but kept the factory tips. That not only woke it up a little, but gave it more of a big block sound, yet quieter in the cabin. Never had an ounce of trouble with that car either. I love all the generations, but the C4 still looks fast even sitting still. Also, the fact that it’s the only generation to offer that wrap around race car hood just makes it more appealing. It was built for serious business. The C5 is much better as far as engineering and performance, but the styling for some reason just bores me very quickly. They fixed that in the C6 though. I love that Z06 parked there and that’s exactly the type I’d like to buy soon. They’re all beautiful cars though. Thanks again for the very informative video!
I’ve been recently considering selling my red 96 c4 and buying a c5. You described to detail how I feel about my c4… I truly love the interior feel over the looks of the c5, but the exterior look of the car often seems to bore me quickly. It seems as if the c5 is more appealing from the outside. I know I’ll miss my c4, and I don’t know what to do
I like that C6 but the C5 is nice as well as Robs C4. I did similar mods to my 02 Electron blue Corvette. C5 seats need rebuilding @ times. I had taken my headlights & used a clear after it light. C5 is in nice shape & a decent price too.
I started my Corvette journey with the C6 generation so never had a C4 or C5. The C5 is a real bang for the buck though, you can find them pretty reasonable. The C4 seems like it would be tough to get in and out with the way the door sill is but maybe not for some.
@@BrinkofSpeed Yep, the C4 was like a bathtub getting into it with my bad back. That in and out of C4 needs hi lighted. I believe I was a Steering Wheel grabber and imagine I had a lot of company!
The first C4 I had I bought from a gentleman who was selling it because it hurt his knees to get out. I am fortunate to be nimble and flexible and can drop right in. I think I will use the ability to get in an out of it as a health marker 😆 The nice thing about it is that you really feel IN the car and surrounded by it, like you are in a cockpit.
@Everjeff hah I was watching a Scotty Kilmer video about the C4 and he called it a "giant Go Kart, it kind of does feel that way when you are riding around with the top off
C5 Owner here. You could get tape and CD in a C5..it's just with the CD changer in the back (as you mentioned later in the video). My wife decided that she likes driving my Denali Pickup more than her old Acura, so I've been driving my Vette more often. It has to been THE MOST practical sports car even made (and I've owned 3 4th Gen F-Bodies). It's perfect for everything from grocery shopping to cruising with the Targa top off to spirited driving in the hills.. hard to beat for the price.
I like Nassau Blue, but my all time favorite Corvette color is the 2002-2003 Electron Blue! My father's 2002 C5 Z06 that he Procharged, among many other mods, was Electron Blue. I loved the color of his Z06 so much that the modified 2003 C5 Z51 Targa MN6 I used to own, which I bought after my father bought his Z06, was also Electron Blue... It's such a beautiful Blue IMO 👍
mine might not look that shiny or beautiful but i think my old c4 looks greate in white coulor and red interior, having the glass removable roof + the 6 manual gearbox :) super fun to drive
The c5 is easier to get in and out of and the electronics is more modern but the plastic gets creaky sounding and the headlights are noisy. I’m good with my C6 with Corsa Sport, the exhaust system purchased at Corvette World.
I have a 93 40th anniversary color and love it. Bought it as my project vette and just love it. Its my third vette. Owned a C3 back in the day, then a C7 which was traded, and now a C4.
Owned a 1990 C4 'vert A4 that I eventually put a mild 383 into as well as a cam/bolt on 2004 Z16 that made 420rwhp. Completely different cars. The C4 was a powersliding giggle machine and the C5Z was a serious exotic-car destroyer.
Interesting video. It just so happens that I owned each of these 2 cars (1995 C4 and 2001 C5) as my first two corvettes. The C4 was a removable top coupe and the C5 was a convertible. Both had white exteriors (C4 with red interior and C5 with black interior). I really felt fortunate to own these two cars. I haven't owned a Corvette since I traded in my C5 in 2004, but I dream about owning a new Corvette someday if the availability ever improves. Like a lot of people, I'm wondering if we will ever see new C8s listed at MSRP on dealer lots in the future.
Well done Robert, nice comparison. OK, I'm going to be "that guy" for a minute ( sorry). Robert mentioned (I believe) that the C4 and C5 could come with a Tremec 6 speed. The '89-'96 C4 came with a ZF 6 speed (long German name). Prior to '89 the C4 had a Doug Nash 4+3. I have a little personal experience since I've owned an '87 , '96 LT4 and '02 Z06. I believe GM went to the T56 Tremec in the first year of the C5 1997. 😊
No, you are right, caught my mistake. The 89+ had the Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen MN6 option. Early ones built in Germany (Black Tag) later made in US (Blue Tag). And yes, the Borg Warner later Tremec T56 started in 1997.
Correct, I was about to point that out myself. Which do you prefer of the 3 Vettes you've had? I currently have a 96 lt4 collector and a 92 zr-1. To me, the C4's are just so much more fun to drive. And I prefer the zf6 over the t56.
The video is amazing. Thank you very much. But what I miss is that you didn't show how to put the roof in the back and just test how the mechanism work and so..
For me C5 is better than C4 in every way except looks. Everything, even the door handles on C5 are rounded and the car looks bloated as compared to C4 especially the enormous butt used to cover the transaxle.. For me it's C4 or C6. The C4 cockpit is as close as one can get to the feel of a F16 without joining the airforce.
@@darrenbrown896 "Except looks?" I don't like the jellybean treatment or the fat a$$. For me the only Corvettes I would never own from a styling perspective are 73 to 77 C3 and all years C5.
I would love to have both and add a C-6 in for good measure 😊 I currently own a 93 C-4 artic white, with just over 70,000 miles on it. It's all stock except for the wheels the previous owner had installed. I absolutely love it, and I also love the look on peoples faces when climbing out, I'm almost 6'4" and 285 lbs (yes, I actually fit in the car) tight but comfortable. My other car is in a 95 Z28 Camaro, also white pushing almost 200,000 miles and still running strong. The LT1 engine is very underrated, claiming 300 hp it actually has more hp than the 1970 LT1(365 hp), the difference is the way that the hp was measured, 1970 no accessories or air filter, headers dyno-tune, ect... 1992 all accessories and factory exhaust.
Thanks for the video guys I own 2 anniversary c4 convertibles both with factory hardtops and a c5 anniversary convertible love them both will never sell both you guys are spot on on information congrats Robert on your c4 saw your purchase video beautiful car
Never getting rid of my 98 Nassau Blue Tigershark C5 with LPE twin turbos. Too bad the C5 you reviewed had the base seats in stead of the sport versions.
Nice vidio and understanding of the 2 cars. I do have both and c4 1994 is a torch red coupe and my c5 is a 2002 Newtron blue and a black convertible top which I like the best of the 2 blues. I like the black c4 very sharp. Keep up the good work and show.😀
I owned an 87 Vette. I absolutely loved it! I beat the hell out of it and never had one since issue with the cluster or really anything else. I did somehow crack the intake manifold, and the tranny started slipping around 130k. But like I said, i beat the hell out if it! My buddy was a gm mechanic and he worked it over !with just about every bolt on available. Plus I made a cai for it, had an off road exhaust put on it😊 custom tune and it would almost hang with a 90 ZR-1 but the 93 would walk me 😂😂
I almost forgot to tell you... I'm sure you already know by now, but the C5 Z06 has 265 mm wide front tires, not 255 mm mentioned in the video. You're right about the 295 mm rear tire width of the C5 Z06 though. By the way, excellent video! Thanks guys!
Happy Sunday everyone. I hope you enjoy Robert's take here. Which one would you choose? Enter into the BOS HUGE Giveaway here: thebrinkofspeed.com/
I like that C4.The C4 was the beginning of the modern day vettes.
Good to know C5 convertible is the most roomy Corvette to date.
Had one since 04, and this fact motivates me to keep it being 6'3". Still love it.
My favorite color on the C5 is the Electron Blue! It for me, its just beautiful!
I wanted a C4 corvette in the 90s but as a teen there was no way I could afford one. When the C5 came out it was over for me. I knew one day I would own one. Granted it took me about 25 years to get it but I'm one of the happiest people on earth! The trunk space is awesome.
My only wish and if there was a way to do it I would and that is to change the dash from a C5 to a C6. I love the interior from the C6. I would have gone with a C6 but when they dropped the pop up headlights that did me in.
I still smile every time when I get in and drive. Had mine for 2 years and won't sell it!
C4 “Salad Shooter” rims were rad! 😎
Yep. Known them as salad shooters also.
Not really lol. All c4 rims are ugly as dog turd
I will take a C4 any day. I love these cars.
C4 is way better looking and more aesthetic imo
I agree!
Nice review. Seat belts on the C5 can be locked by pulling the belt all the way out from the belt tensioner and letting it go. When you pull it again, the seat will be locked around your body. One special feature not many know about the C5 is the instrument lumination is provided by black lights on both sides of the display hidden behind the instrument control panels.
I am a Corvette Newby; just bought (October 2023) a 19995 Polo Green Convertible w/53k miles. I love the classic, ICONIC feeling of my Classic Corvette. I'm 63 and have always dreamed about it and can't believe I finally have one!
Welcome to the Vette club. It’s called bowling green!
Congrats!
I'm actually saving for a corvette as we speak. How much is a 95 going for ?
I'm 49 and just bought my first Vette...a 1998 convertible in Nassau blue with black top, 6 speed manual and 86K on the odometer. It's super clean for it's age. One owner...only mod he did was cat back Corsa Extreme exhaust package. Sounds awesome under acceleration but quiet at highway cruising speeds.
@JaysRandomnessChannel That's a great color for it and personally my favorite. I'm saving for one now as I was originally saying for a c4 94 to 96 and figured it would probably be better to save more for a 97 to 2000.
I'm a 6"2" and 230ish pound old dude. At max setting I fit in my C4 ruby red convertible. With good technique I can get out, a yelling out "I ain't old!" Cotton, button down collar shirt, denim jorts, White socks and NEW BALANCE KICKS! SO COOL!
In 6'3 and I fit in it well. I was a bit smaller back then lol. I bought it when I turned 18! It was my first car! I literally slept in it the first night 😂😂
I'm 75 and still get in and out OK but I don't take it when I have half a dozen errands but prefer it when it's a longer cruise in and out only a couple of times.
I love the location of the gas filler on the C4.
The C5 might be better in nearly every way than the C4. But the C4 looks special, where as the C5 has no appeal. Love a C4 , wouldn't look at any other Corvette.
Both are great cars. Sadly I lost my C4 and C5 at the same time in a tornado. I had to buy a C6 Z06 to console myself. Once the heads are done I will be a happyd river.
Black 96 tuned Z-51 here...thanks for the C4 content!🤟
Awesome and you’re welcome 👍😊
Rock on the C4’s!
I cant remember the year of my Corvette I had years ago, 94 or 96, had over 300,000 miles and I drove it from Arizona to Indiana and it drove fine! It looked great also for a car with those miles!!
I think Robert's going to be the only one I could really trust to go and buy a Corvette from because his knowledge and his enthusiasm and I appreciate that as a consumer I was in retail for over 40 years and I know a great salesman when I see one and hear one God bless you
You have Robert pegged perfectly. He is excellent at his job and 100% trust worthy as well. 👍😊
I've had both. The ease of taking the targa top off on the C5 make it a better buy. But I love everything else about the C4 including the show off reverse flip up headlights, the whole front end that opens up, the cockpit style driver seat, and that its smaller and lower to the groud and you sit lower to the ground. The C5 lost the cockpit feel. The C5 is the best looking Vette of all times. Its a curvier C4. After owning a C4, C5, C6 and my still owned C7, I went back and bought another C4.
You've never...seen anything.. like this before.. 👌
Have had c4s and c5 in my opinion the c5 is definitely the better car construction wise and also the ls1 motor more power but both ran well and both were dependable good cars 8:23
I have a C-4
Nice, I paid $19,5 (22k miles) for my 00 in Dallas (Arlington) in April 2011
I just paid 17 grand for my 98 convertible with 86K
Roberts insight on corvette is second to none , love his commentary
Excellent review ! HAVE A C4 I BOUGHT NEW. TORCH RED 6 SPEED SHOWROOM CONDITION
Currently own both (even had a 66 327 nassau blue vert for about two weeks a zillion years ago) and love both for different reasons. The C4 is a much nimbler car. The C5 simply has great aesthetic appeal. Cant go wrong with either one. Oh, and the plastic buttons (door locks and whatnot) on the C4 are much more of a pain to address than the rubber C5 buttons. Good stuff guys!!
Thanks Curtis, I’m glad you enjoyed it. 👍😊
What exactly do you mean by nimbler? Feels smaller, or handles better, more of a neutral/oversteery car than c5? Im thinking of getting a c5. The ls1, stiff aluminum chassis, and smooth body have me pretty sold
@@connor3288 Definitely smaller car feel and the handling feels tighter (check turning radius of C4 vs C5 and im sure C4 is much smaller/tighter, but its not like a C5 is a boat). I have been spending a lot of time in the seat of the C5 lately and its just a little better overall. Its cliche, but you cant go wrong with either. GL!!
Both are beautiful Vettes. It is hard to communicate what a revolution C4 was in 80s Indiana growing up. The C4 handled like it was on rails.
So awesome love both these! What a coincidence because I just bought a Black C4 ZR1 in Dallas Texas today! I bought it over the phone. They are shipping it to Maine.
Go check it out for me! The dealership said he would love that if you showed up and did a video on it!
Great Vid. Robert is the man
Excellent camparo. Appreciate your honesty and encyclopedic knowledge of these cars.
Well done. I enjoyed the deep dive into nearly all aspects of the two cars.
My preference is the C5 or C6. But hey, they are all beautiful.
i am happy to have to met rob last year at Carlisle PA. This video emphasizes the knowledge that Rob has on corvette's is unbelievable!! So great video as thoroughly enjoyed this one!!
It's always a pleasure to hear Robert talk about Corvettes! He may know more details about more Corvettes than anyone. Thanks for sharing with all of us. We appreciate all of your time and effort!
👍
Get yourself a "black book"
Jet Stream blue all day!
Outstanding video of the differences. I am glad that the C-5 is my first Corvette. i am 6 foot, 2 inches tall. I was not aware of the difference between interior room between the two designs.
I happen to own both a C4 ('88) and a C5 ('03). They are both automatics. My C4 is semi-retired because it can't pass the California smog test. At 216k miles it needs a new engine. My C5 is in for repairs right now. The harmonic balancer and the rear main seal are being replaced at 150k miles. For me, the LS-1 in the C5 is a huge plus. I love the fact that each cylinder has its own coil. No more mechanical distributor. The LS-1 pulls very hard all the way to redline and idles glass smooth. I replaced the original plugs and wires just this year even though there were no signs of any problems.
Mike and Robert thanks for the excellent vlog!! You guys are great Corvette people!!👍🏾
You’re welcome, thank you for your kind words and support. 👍😊
I've owned two C4s, a 95 and a 96 collector's edition, bought a C5 I love four years ago, and bought a C6 last month. No contest to me, each generation is better than the last IMO. Loved my C4s, but my C5 is just a superior car, and I'm amazed at how much better than that my C6 Z51/3LT is. They've all got plenty of power, but handling is my top priority, and my Z51 is the best handling car I've ever driven. I have a bunch of favorite twisty roads I drive on regularly and I can hit them 10-15 mph or more faster in the C6 than I can in my other cars. I've owned literally dozens of performance cars, have a 2000 WS6 TA I can't part with in addition to my Vettes and while I know there are many better handling cars to choose from I'm quite happy with the C6. If I'm hitting twisties at 70 and 80 and the occassional 90-100 that's enough of an adrenaline rush fix for me. I'd love to upgrade to the C7 Z51 or even better the Z06 but that's just too much coin for this peasant.
Great and informative video. You are the first to mention the lack of passenger foot room on the C4. It is sadly why I don't have one, knowing my wife would never be happy riding with me in one. How does your wife feel about traveling yours?
You can thank a friend of mine for your excellent C4 brakes. He stopped at the Bowling Green plant in late '89 and Tom Hill took him out to brag on the ABS brakes. My friend was impressed by how well behaved the brakes were, stopping under control on high center crowned roads in the wet while driving around curves and changing lanes. But then, he began out-stopping the ABS without the ABS kicking in. Tom said that was impossible, because he wasn't hitting the brakes hard enough to get the ABS to kick in.
My friend replied but he was stopping in a shorter distance without the ABS than with the ABS, with Tom said was also impossible. Tom said he was going to contact engineering on this and find out why. A few months later, Motor Trend (I think) had an article with Danny Sullivan who was also out-braking the ABS on their test car, but was informed that Chevrolet was already making changes on that.
Nassau blue is absolutely gorgeous, same with JSB on the C6. Love the video and a great comparison. 👍
I love my 2002 C5 Coupe. Have been driving it for 21 years, including (for the first 11 years) on the autobahn in Germany (175mph, check!). Great car. No issues whatsoever with the rubber buttons. Love the cargo space.
C5 lights got stuck.... while C4 worked flawlessly 😂
Those gears for the pop up headlights are made of plastic.
They aren't stuck once they change to led the eng has to be running ti close, it's a resistance difference
@@rolsguitars Still stuck until engine runs 🤷♂
All he had to do is bump the high beam function and they go down. I do it everyday in mines...no big deal.
Great review! I owned a C5 Z06 but am an 80s teen, so the C4s always hold a soft spot for me.
own a 99c5 mn6 and several c4’s. daily drive both. track both. c5 does have cinch. simply pull belt all the way out, it will now cinch on retract same as c4. c5 seats, be it for track or road trip, suck hard. C4 seats designed by Lear better in every situation. 89-93 sport seats being best, followed by 84-88 sport. 94+ was a step towards c5 seats, however the 94+ sport seats can be ok with a harness.
other than the targa top removal, i prefer everthing about the c4.
Good to know, thank you. Agreed on the seats for track use, but for me I find the 94-96 seats more comfortable for the street drives.
Nice video and enjoyed the comparison. I have a 1991 triple black fully loaded coupe including the FX3 suspension. I added a Borla exhaust, an aftermarket pioneer sound system, tinted windows, and black z06 replica wheels. I still get compliments every time I drive it and have owned it for 29 years.
Sounds like my Dad's 1st Vette. Did it come from Illinois?
Always enjoy the videos with Robert😀 For some reason, he has a calmness about him. Hope to meet him in person someday.
Thank god for buddy in the blue polo. Give us some energy!
I love all Corvettes❣ But I have a 1998 C5 coupe. Had her 14 years and kept her pretty much original.
A great video review on those two models. Showing the many subtle differences and yet very important ones when it comes to making a decision on which model you might prefer.✌️
Thanks for that comparison Rob and Mike. I like the Jet stream blue and the C5 lights better. On my 97 Firebird I always left my lights up during the winter to prevent them from breaking because of the plastic parts on the lights.
You’re welcome. 👍😊
Great video. Not only is the C4 thinner but also lower in height. I love my 94 six speed and look forward to purchasing a C5 down the road.
Hard to pick, because both blues are gorgeous and my favorites!!!!
Yep, they are both so pretty.
I put three weeks worth work/school/play cloths and boots in my C5 and drove Indy to Vegas,and back. I still had room for souvenirs and a bag full of gear from HD Cafe to bring home w/me!
Got to go c4 the start of it all for these cars and the 1984 version might not be the best motor but it's an easy motor to work with, that thing was the fastest out there during that era.
WoW!!! Nassau blue was always my favorite color, but could never find one at a decent price!, so I got a C5 in black.
Well here’s one at a nice price 👍😊
@@BrinkofSpeed Thanks I'll pass, but I will spread the word👍
Yes, at last some c4 and C5 content 👏🤘🏻And Nassaublue is the best colour there is 😎
I’m happy you enjoyed it. 👍😊
ELECTRON BLUE !!! I LOVE IT WISH YOU COULD'VE SHOWN IT TOO!
Jet stream blue has it hands down!
When I was Parking cars at a Restaurant in April 1983 I parked a light Blue 84 C4 and it was like getting put into a Space Capsule. it took me Four years to buy a 1986 C4 Convertible for $23 K due to a defect no one could fix it only had 1400 miles and no power to the Tail lights. Drivers side fog light bulb was the cause, six Chevy dealers failed to find this and was fixed by old school mechanic Jim Clark R.I.P.
Great video. I have been a Corvette fan for most of my 57 years. I have owned five C4's one C5, two C6's and two C7's. The current Vette is a 2019 Grand Sport. I have loved all of them but my favourite was the 96 Collector Edition convertible with the six speed standard transmission. Without a doubt each year and each generation brought improvements, my C7 is absolutely a better car than the older ones and I'm sure the C8 is better yet, but I'm considering going back to a C4. There is something special about the road feel and rawness in the C4 that you don't get with the newer versions. As I see it the refinement took away some of the thrills.
I've got a '94 "Brickyard 400" convertible, with a ZR-1 tire setup, and Fikse forged aluminum racing wheels. Still have the original "sawblade" wheels stacked up in a corner of the gargage...I also added Baer brakes with cross-drilled and slotted rotors. Larger than stock on the front. I also removed the air box, and have a K&N filter held in place by a metal frame. The car handles incredibly with 275's in front, and 315's on the back, and can stop great...
Good content. Last July I started looking into the Z06 and in EVERY Corvette forum there were multiple people that said the same thing……. You’re too late to the game, might as well just pay the markup. Since I have nothing but time I placed my request with MacMulkin and almost 1yr to the day I was told to place my order. Now here we are in August and I’m doing a R8C delivery soon. You should note that us common folk can get one but not right away. Gotta be patient. Specially since we aren’t using them for content creation.
Great video guys! While I thoroughly enjoy all the videos on the C7 and aggressively awesome new C8s, it's new to get a good overview of the prior generations as well. So thanks for doing these! Although I have one, it's nice to learn a few things I didn't know. While I am not in the market, currently, for a new C8, I find it informative going through your videos nonetheless and greatly enjoy them. Keep up the good work!
I owned a C3-1973 and now owning a C5 -2004 . I love the transmission in the rear on C5 where the weight distribution is more on a 50/50 ratio. C5 is definitely a game changer over my C3 in every respect.👍❤️
Excellent video guys! I owned a ‘93 red on red, 6-speed years ago and still miss that old girl. Funnest, most beautiful car I’ve ever owned and I’ve owned many cars and trucks. I removed that stupid center resonator and installed 40 series Flowmasters, but kept the factory tips. That not only woke it up a little, but gave it more of a big block sound, yet quieter in the cabin. Never had an ounce of trouble with that car either.
I love all the generations, but the C4 still looks fast even sitting still. Also, the fact that it’s the only generation to offer that wrap around race car hood just makes it more appealing. It was built for serious business. The C5 is much better as far as engineering and performance, but the styling for some reason just bores me very quickly. They fixed that in the C6 though. I love that Z06 parked there and that’s exactly the type I’d like to buy soon. They’re all beautiful cars though. Thanks again for the very informative video!
I’ve been recently considering selling my red 96 c4 and buying a c5. You described to detail how I feel about my c4… I truly love the interior feel over the looks of the c5, but the exterior look of the car often seems to bore me quickly. It seems as if the c5 is more appealing from the outside. I know I’ll miss my c4, and I don’t know what to do
I like that C6 but the C5 is nice as well as Robs C4. I did similar mods to my 02 Electron blue Corvette. C5 seats need rebuilding @ times. I had taken my headlights & used a clear after it light. C5 is in nice shape & a decent price too.
👍😊
Excellent video plain n simple not too technical I just bought a 2002 with 20k on it it's in the garage doesn't come out much
I started my Corvette journey with the C6 generation so never had a C4 or C5. The C5 is a real bang for the buck though, you can find them pretty reasonable. The C4 seems like it would be tough to get in and out with the way the door sill is but maybe not for some.
Nice 😊
@@BrinkofSpeed Yep, the C4 was like a bathtub getting into it with my bad back.
That in and out of C4 needs hi lighted. I believe I was a Steering Wheel grabber and imagine I had a lot of company!
The first C4 I had I bought from a gentleman who was selling it because it hurt his knees to get out. I am fortunate to be nimble and flexible and can drop right in. I think I will use the ability to get in an out of it as a health marker 😆
The nice thing about it is that you really feel IN the car and surrounded by it, like you are in a cockpit.
@@ObscureStuff420 Yeah it always reminded me of the old style go carts that I had when I was a kid. You feel like you are really low to the ground.
@Everjeff hah I was watching a Scotty Kilmer video about the C4 and he called it a "giant Go Kart, it kind of does feel that way when you are riding around with the top off
I have been fortunate to have owned a couple of C3s, C4, and currently a C5, I personally think the C4 was the most solid and / or nimble car
I think when I eventually get my corvette, Im going to Texas and buying from Robert
C5 Owner here. You could get tape and CD in a C5..it's just with the CD changer in the back (as you mentioned later in the video). My wife decided that she likes driving my Denali Pickup more than her old Acura, so I've been driving my Vette more often. It has to been THE MOST practical sports car even made (and I've owned 3 4th Gen F-Bodies). It's perfect for everything from grocery shopping to cruising with the Targa top off to spirited driving in the hills.. hard to beat for the price.
For $400 you can put wireless CarPlay in a C4...
I like Nassau Blue, but my all time favorite Corvette color is the 2002-2003 Electron Blue! My father's 2002 C5 Z06 that he Procharged, among many other mods, was Electron Blue. I loved the color of his Z06 so much that the modified 2003 C5 Z51 Targa MN6 I used to own, which I bought after my father bought his Z06, was also Electron Blue... It's such a beautiful Blue IMO 👍
Love the C4 cockpit.. like being part of the car itself
mine might not look that shiny or beautiful but i think my old c4 looks greate in white coulor and red interior, having the glass removable roof + the 6 manual gearbox :) super fun to drive
I’d love to get all the different blue corvettes together. Mine is electron blue and it looks a lot like those blue ones in the video!
I like the white Corvette in the background. It'll look great next to my '99 C5 Corvette in Artic White.
The c5 is easier to get in and out of and the electronics is more modern but the plastic gets creaky sounding and the headlights are noisy. I’m good with my C6 with Corsa Sport, the exhaust system purchased at Corvette World.
Great Video, we need more Robert on the channel!
This was a great video by you and Rob - it would be awesome to see a comparison from C6 to C7
I have a 93 40th anniversary color and love it. Bought it as my project vette and just love it. Its my third vette. Owned a C3 back in the day, then a C7 which was traded, and now a C4.
Love the c4 can’t wait to get a zr1
Jet stream blue for me guys ✌️👍🇬🇧
Heck yeah!
Owned a 1990 C4 'vert A4 that I eventually put a mild 383 into as well as a cam/bolt on 2004 Z16 that made 420rwhp. Completely different cars. The C4 was a powersliding giggle machine and the C5Z was a serious exotic-car destroyer.
Interesting video. It just so happens that I owned each of these 2 cars (1995 C4 and 2001 C5) as my first two corvettes. The C4 was a removable top coupe and the C5 was a convertible. Both had white exteriors (C4 with red interior and C5 with black interior). I really felt fortunate to own these two cars. I haven't owned a Corvette since I traded in my C5 in 2004, but I dream about owning a new Corvette someday if the availability ever improves. Like a lot of people, I'm wondering if we will ever see new C8s listed at MSRP on dealer lots in the future.
I've seen the inshane design logo on the c4. What upgrade did he do?
✌️👍🇬🇧
He went out of his way to help me get my C4 Home. He and his guys over there in PA are super awesome!
@Corvette World Rob thanks for the reply Rob 👍
Well done Robert, nice comparison. OK, I'm going to be "that guy" for a minute ( sorry). Robert mentioned (I believe) that the C4 and C5 could come with a Tremec 6 speed. The '89-'96 C4 came with a ZF 6 speed (long German name). Prior to '89 the C4 had a Doug Nash 4+3. I have a little personal experience since I've owned an '87 , '96 LT4 and '02 Z06. I believe GM went to the T56 Tremec in the first year of the C5 1997. 😊
No, you are right, caught my mistake. The 89+ had the Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen MN6 option. Early ones built in Germany (Black Tag) later made in US (Blue Tag). And yes, the Borg Warner later Tremec T56 started in 1997.
Correct, I was about to point that out myself. Which do you prefer of the 3 Vettes you've had? I currently have a 96 lt4 collector and a 92 zr-1. To me, the C4's are just so much more fun to drive. And I prefer the zf6 over the t56.
The video is amazing. Thank you very much.
But what I miss is that you didn't show how to put the roof in the back and just test how the mechanism work and so..
There's ABSOLUTELY NO COMPARISON!!! I've had both...C5 ALL DAY EVERYDAY. Helllloooo 😂
For me C5 is better than C4 in every way except looks.
Everything, even the door handles on C5 are rounded and the car looks bloated as compared to C4 especially the enormous butt used to cover the transaxle..
For me it's C4 or C6.
The C4 cockpit is as close as one can get to the feel of a F16 without joining the airforce.
@@jeffspicolli593 you might want to re read your first sentence 😆
Also...C6 is almost identical to C5.
@@darrenbrown896 "Except looks?"
I don't like the jellybean treatment or the fat a$$.
For me the only Corvettes I would never own from a styling perspective are 73 to 77 C3 and all years C5.
I would love to have both and add a C-6 in for good measure 😊
I currently own a 93 C-4 artic white, with just over 70,000 miles on it.
It's all stock except for the wheels the previous owner had installed.
I absolutely love it, and I also love the look on peoples faces when climbing out, I'm almost 6'4" and 285 lbs (yes, I actually fit in the car) tight but comfortable.
My other car is in a 95 Z28 Camaro, also white pushing almost 200,000 miles and still running strong.
The LT1 engine is very underrated, claiming 300 hp it actually has more hp than the 1970 LT1(365 hp), the difference is the way that the hp was measured, 1970 no accessories or air filter, headers dyno-tune, ect...
1992 all accessories and factory exhaust.
yes, LT-1 dynos better than LS-1, so GM underrated to sell LS-1 to public
JETSTREAM BLUE all the way!!
Thanks for the video guys I own 2 anniversary c4 convertibles both with factory hardtops and a c5 anniversary convertible love them both will never sell both you guys are spot on on information congrats Robert on your c4 saw your purchase video beautiful car
Never getting rid of my 98 Nassau Blue Tigershark C5 with LPE twin turbos. Too bad the C5 you reviewed had the base seats in stead of the sport versions.
Great comparison have more please
Thank you, I’m happy you liked it.
Great video guys love the comparison
Thank you 😊
Nice vidio and understanding of the 2 cars. I do have both and c4 1994 is a torch red coupe and my c5 is a 2002 Newtron blue and a black convertible top which I like the best of the 2 blues. I like the black c4 very sharp. Keep up the good work and show.😀
very good information
Excellent video, thanks for posting!
21:00 the C5 doesn’t need all the bolts to hold the top in because it has a chassis that is 4x stiffer than the C4.
Very true, but also more practical and simplistic for the average owner.
Great comparison video Mike! Keep them coming!
My C5 convertible is in that same blue. 1998 model with only 86K on the odometer. 6 speed manual.
I owned an 87 Vette. I absolutely loved it! I beat the hell out of it and never had one since issue with the cluster or really anything else. I did somehow crack the intake manifold, and the tranny started slipping around 130k. But like I said, i beat the hell out if it! My buddy was a gm mechanic and he worked it over !with just about every bolt on available. Plus I made a cai for it, had an off road exhaust put on it😊 custom tune and it would almost hang with a 90 ZR-1 but the 93 would walk me 😂😂
That's a beautiful C5, but that exhaust has got to go. Without the quad tips, it looks like it's missing something. The LED lights are a nice upgrade.
I almost forgot to tell you... I'm sure you already know by now, but the C5 Z06 has 265 mm wide front tires, not 255 mm mentioned in the video. You're right about the 295 mm rear tire width of the C5 Z06 though. By the way, excellent video! Thanks guys!
I have it tied 2-2
C5
Dream Car Looks ✅
LS Performance ✅
C4
Weird 80’s interior ✅
See front tires with hood up ✅