1995 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 LT-5 from North America
Summary:
Sublime
Faults:
When I got the car it needed a few little items to be road worthy.
I replaced the vehicle speed sensor, the radiator cap, and the reverse light switch in the transmission.
Also some fluids.
Otherwise nothing.
General Comments:
The Corvette ZR-1s from 90-95 are probably the best bang for your buck sports car you can buy as of writing this review.
I have driven all of Japan's 90s sports cars and nothing comes close to the ZR-1 in terms of performance out of the box. It punches into Euro and Italian exotic territory. The only car in my opinion that gives a close experience is the gen 1 NSX. Just the NSX has no power stock.
The amount of power the LT-5 delivers is like no other. The way it pulls all the way through the RPM range to how much 2nd gear punch it has! Also it sounds SO sweet with an exhaust system on it!
People generally have NO clue what it is other than it's a C4 Corvette that's likely slow and from the 80s, until you drop the hammer next to someone and you're GONE! The car just pulls like a freight train whenever, wherever. It's hard to explain the power band of it without you being there. I literally could talk about the engine forever.
The 90-95 ZR-1 is one of the best cars period I have driven, and it's criminal how affordable it is. How long this lasts is is unknown. And if you're on the fence about buying a ZR-1, just do it. You will NOT regret it.
It might not be the fastest, hottest new sports car on the block, but it sure puts a massive smile on my face when I drive it.
I will keep my ZR-1 till the day I die, I love it so.
Also never forget the original "King of the Hill" is the C4 ZR-1.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th July, 2018
28th Jul 2018, 13:47
For the same money used I would personally buy a C5 405hp Z06 and be street and/or track ready. I would call it the used super car bargain of the moment. Your ZR1 pick is not bad as a limited production investment return as well. And a piece of history from that period. But they look like any others, and anyone can change out their tail light assemblies.
I have owned quite a few Corvettes older than yours and newer. But left the Corvette camp. The C5 Z06 however has so many more advantages over C4s. Technology, handling, braking, less electronic issues and far better styling. In fact any C5 is in my opinion the best bang per buck of all Corvettes. Drive trains are excellent. The Z06 fixed roof setup and harsher ride being the only downside over other C5s.
I also drove a new NSX back then. Great mid engine, well balanced handling, but a severe lack of power. Did not detract from its fun to drive factor and the great Honda reliability even on long trips. The aluminum body is expensive to repair. The one I drove had the driver's door vandalized (was kicked in once). Not pleasant.
We have a 500hp Viper in the family; raw and powerful, now 16 years old. They are another bargain used. Low production at 5000 or so a year. And track ready. Not really streetable as much, especially in traffic.
So take your pick, they're all fun.