5th Generation | Corvette C5 Generation | 1997-2004

Not since 1953 had the Corvette had such a head-to-toe makeover; even the redesign of the fourth generation paled in comparison. The entirely new frame was reinforced to provide extra rigidity, and the skin that covered the frame in many ways was somehow reminiscent of both the 2nd and 3rd generation of Corvettes, only with a modern twist that further smoothed its lines and rounded its contours.

A brand-new all-aluminum engine was introduced for the very first time, making it lighter but still heavy on horsepower output - a respectable 345 horses. Motor Trend, always a fan of the Corvette, lauded the new model as "unfathomably good" and an amazing performer on and off the track. Throughout the late '90s the Corvette continued to offer new features and emerging technologies, most notably a head-up display that projected certain driving information on the windshield so the operator could focus on the road.

The 2000s brought about legends like the Z06 hardtop model, which generated 385 horsepower and a durable FE4 suspension system. The subsequent release of the '02 ZO6 upped this speed demon to a raunchy 405 horsepower and further improved upon its suspension, making it what some call one of the best Corvettes ever.

2003 marked the 50th anniversary of the now legendary Corvette. Chevy acknowledged this incredible milestone with a special edition model for the ages. This car capped off what some people refer to as some of the best years for the Corvette ? the 5th generation.

But the 6th generation was tight on its heels?

• 1997 - Coupe only, Corvette frame now hydroformed full-length rails replacing the 14 piece frame previously used.
• 1998 - 45th Anniversary, convertible available again, Indy Pace Car Available for 4th time (1978, 1986, 1995, 1998)
• 1999 - Corvette hardtop added to coupe and convertible lineup, HUD introduced.
• 2000 - Millennium yellow, honoring Y2K.
• 2001 - Z06 introduced in the hardtop model with L56 V8 385 HP.
• 2002 - ZO6 405 horsepower.
• 2003 - 50th anniversary.
• 2004 - LeMans Edition Corvettes Commemorate 24 LeMans wins-last of the C5 Corvette.