1997 Chevrolet Corvette
Fifth generation · C5 1997–2004
A clean-sheet C5 with the new LS1 V8 and a rear transaxle for balance. The hardcore Z06 returned for 2001 with the LS6, reviving the badge after a 38-year absence.
Photo: Cutlass / Wikimedia Commons — CC0 1.0 . Cropped to 16:9.
The 1997 model year
Overview
The fifth-generation Corvette arrived for 1997 as a clean-sheet design with the new aluminum LS1 V8 and a rear-mounted transaxle for near-50/50 weight distribution. It was a major leap in refinement, structural rigidity, and everyday usability.
Specifications
- Engines
-
- 5.7L LS1 V8 345 hp
- Body styles
- Coupe
Year over year
What changed
- All-new C5 platform with the first-generation LS small-block (LS1).
- Rear transaxle layout for improved weight balance.
Living with it
Reliability & ownership notes
- The LS1 is a famously durable engine; C5s are among the more usable classic-era Corvettes.
Worth knowing
Notable
- Introduced the LS engine family that defined modern GM performance.
Sources
Other Fifth generation years
Explore the C5 generation → All Fifth generation · C5 years →