When it debuted in 1997, the C5 had the distinction of being the first Corvette designed as a convertible first, and then as a coupe. That design decision made the fifth-generation 'Vette the most structurally sound drop-top in Corvette history to date, making it feel safe and secure with or without a roof. This 2001 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, decked out in its (believed) original Torch Red paint, and complementary manual black convertible top is still every bit the head-turner it was a quarter of a century ago.
Inside, we find a plush, original-looking black leather interior, featuring dual power bucket seats complete with lumbar support, separated by a beautiful center body-color teardrop that displays the iconic Crossed Flags emblem. A four-spoke padded steering wheel sits in front of a six-pod analog gauge cluster, featuring a large 7,000-rpm tachometer and a matching 200-mph speedometer, each flanked by a pair of auxiliary gauges. The convertible top was made for manual operation to keep weight down, but the locks, windows, and mirrors are all power-assisted. Another C5-introduced feature is the trick Heads-Up Display, which allows the driver to keep an eye on both speed and the road at the same time. The original-looking AC Delco AM/FM/CD player is situated above the push-button dual-zone HVAC controls, allowing both the driver and passenger to customize the soundtrack and temperature easily.
Underneath that signature front-hinged fiberglass hood, we find a 5.7-liter LS1 V-8 engine. One of the most advanced overhead valve engines to date, the LS1 made use of a lightweight aluminum block and heads setup, a 10.1:1 compression ratio, and a composite intake manifold to crank out an advertised 350 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque when equipped with a manual transmission. That transmission is a rear-mounted Tremec T56 six-speed manual transaxle that transfers power to the pavement via a limited-slip differential. A staggered set of 17-inch chrome C6-style wheels shod in new 245/45ZR-17 Continental rubber, while a larger set of 18-inch wheels wrapped in wider 285/40ZR-18 meats out back, giving this sports car an aggressive stance and look from any angle.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Manual Top LS1 V8 350 HP 375 LB FT Tremec T56 Six Speed 3.42 Rear Transaxle Power Steering Power Windows Power Locks Power Mirrors Power Seats Telescopic Wheel Heads Up Display AC Cruise ABS Four Wheel Discs Chrome C6 Wheels Owner's Manual
This 2001 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible rides on a fully independent suspension, with a set of four-wheel power disc brakes ready to scrub off speed at a moment's notice. If you missed your chance the first time around, this extremely low-mileage C5's fun factor is still a ten, thanks to its drop-top setup and tried-and-true manual transmission. The C5 was a revolutionary design that remains impressive all these years later. But don't wait because this one won't be around here long. Call today!
