Technology changes rapidly, and in by 1997, the Corvette was ready for an update. The C5 Corvette, introduced for the 1997 model year, was the Corvette's answer to changing technology. The design was all-new, but included elements familiar to those that loved the C4. The skin was sleek and curvy and underneath was an all-new unibody structure designed as a roadster for additional structural integrity.
New technology meant that the C5 Corvette could ascend to the status of world-class sports car while still retaining its muscle-car heritage. An all-new all-aluminum V-8, the LS1, produced 350 horsepower and was reliable enough to boast 100,000 mile tune-up intervals. The all-new transmission was moved to the rear axle for better weight distribution. The interior got an all-new look with lower door sills for easier entry. The 1999 model year begat a new coupe model to go along with the open-roof hatchback and convertible. This coupe, the first solid-roofed Corvette since 1967, was the prelude to the reintroduction of the Z06. The Z06 version of the C5 Corvette offered superb handling and a new 375-hp version of the LS engine. A version of this LS engine was also used in the C5R that had great success in ALMS and Le Mans racing. |