Best C4 Model Year To Buy

[Corvsport.com Administrator]

Every day it seems that more and more C4 Corvettes hit Craigslist, Ebay, etc., with a price tag that makes them easily affordable for just about anyone. Of course you see a lot of early C4's (1984-1986) at rock-bottom prices, but I know that, at least on the 1984 model, you also have to deal with the troublesome cross-fire injection.

Since there are so many C4's for sale out there, I was wondering if anyone could recommend what they think is the best year of the C4 Corvette?

Personally, I am leaning toward the 1996 (the last year) since it was the only year they offered the LT4 engine. However, I have also seen some great deals on 1993-1995 models, and would not pass one up if I could find the right options and the right mileage.

[Michael]

I purchased a low-mileage 95 LT1 14 months ago. It is my daily driver and I love it.

Replaced a water pump and changed the oil. Nothing more.

It's dependable, fun and a few people have told me they thought it was new.

You can get this year for $10-12k

[Corvsport.com Administrator]

Michael,

It seems like the 1995 and 1996 Corvettes seem to be fan favorites for the most part...they have the most horsepower, the best options, and seem to be (overall) the most reliable of all the C4's. At the same time, they do both feature the Opti-Spark ignition which I know has caused some issues for Corvette owners.

We are glad to hear that you enjoy your 1995 Corvette. One other question though, does the 300 horsepower of the LT1 give you adequate performance to satisfy your "need for speed"?

[vette2100]

The C4 is about the most economical way to get it Corvettes, I found a good post that is worth reading

radicalcorvettes.com/looking-for-your-first-corvette/

[etm]

The C4 got better each year. The 95 and 96 models have the opti but they are vented which helps somewhat.