Used Chevrolet Corvette Models

The present-generation (C6) Corvette debuted for 2005 and boasted improvements in performance, build quality and styling compared to the earlier Corvette. A revamped suspension, especially if equipped with the available Magnetic Ride Control, provided both sharp handling and a compliant ride. Design changes included the return to exposed headlamps (first time since '62), crisper fender peaks and a visual slimming of the big rear end. The cabin was upgraded with better materials and the convertible's top could be power-operated. At its debut, it had a 6.0-liter V8 developing 400 hp.

The following year brought the 7.0-liter, 505-hp Z06 model as well as a new six-speed automatic transmission. For 2007, America's sports car received larger brakes (for Magnetic Ride-equipped versions), available two-tone leather interior and a couple of special editions including an Indy Pace Car convertible and the Ron Fellows (a successful Corvette race driver) Z06. More power came about for the base versions in 2008 thanks to the now-current 6.2-liter V8. Chevy also made interior, manual transmission and steering improvements this year.

The previous Chevy Corvette (the C5) was built from 1997-2004 and marked the Corvette's transition from a capable but flawed (in terms of comfort and ergonomics) to world-class sports car. Easier to get in and out of than the C4, the C5 also boasted a new chassis that had nearly 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, a more compliant suspension, a much roomier cockpit with more supportive seats and a new "LS1" 5.7-liter V8 that made 345 hp. The transmission choices were a six-speed manual and four-speed automatic.

With a 0-60-mph time of fewer than 5 seconds and a top speed of around 175, there wasn't much that could touch this Vette short of a few big-dollar exotics from Europe. That first year saw just the hatchback body, whose styling drew barbs for its rather large hindquarters. But the benefit of the big butt was more than 20 cubic feet of cargo capacity under the rear hatch. A convertible joined the lineup for '98 and the following year brought a fixed-roof coupe. For 2001, the mighty Z06, a reincarnation of an earlier "Z06" performance package from the '60s, debuted, bringing 385 hp to an already impressive chassis. As if that weren't enough, the Z06 gained 20 hp the very next year.