Description

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!