For Sale: 1997 Chevrolet Corvette in Concord, North Carolina

This 1997 Chevrolet Corvette represents the first year for the C5, and while that makes it a great low-mileage vintage coupe, the real appeal here is the right hints of custom style. There's an added sportiness inside and out that makes this one quite distinct, and the right way to present a stick-shift V8 car that's made to be driven.

Red is always one of those colors we love on a performance machine. This has a touch of a deeper tone and a good gloss to give it distinction. And speaking of distinction, this one has the right additions that seem to pay tribute to some of the coolest Corvettes of the past. The rear spoiler extends beyond the sides and reminds us of the later C3 Corvettes, The stripes on the hood outline the power dome just like you could get on those Stingrays, too. The wheels are upgraded to high-polish Cray Scorpion units that remind us of the C6 Z06. Plus, the vents behind the driver's door, upgraded brakes, and overall speedy style give us plenty more Z06 vibes.

This one comes with both the color-matched targa top and the tinted glass one. But of course, the best way to enjoy this is with no roof at all. That way you can show off the distinctly upgraded two-tone interior. The door handles, dash, shift boot, and center console have all been upgraded with red accenting. Even the leather sports bucket seats are now finished with detailed red contrast stitching. There's a nice exterior-matching waterfall of color behind the seats. It's the kind of piece that reminds you of the hard tonneau on convertibles. It makes for the kind of individuality we love in a Corvette. But more than just the investment, this one has the look you want in a well-respected and low mileage car. It has a clean and smooth style that's inviting. Plus, this is loaded with all the best features. It includes dual-zone automatic A/C climate control, power seats, dual airbags, power windows, power mirrors, power locks, keyless entry/alarm, a tilt steering column, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo with CD changer and Bose speakers.

One of the reasons why we love the 1997 car is that it launched the C5, and that's the debut of the LS1 motor. The 5.7-liter V8 ignited a new level of passion in enthusiasts' hearts with the way this fuel-injected powerhouse provides useful power in practically all conditions. You have such low mileage (averaging under 3,200 annually) and there are the right investments like K&N air filters, a new water pump, and a new battery. So it remains a hardy powerhouse. And the Cosa cat-back dual exhaust gives it that kind of V8 tone that's perfect for driving all day with the targa top out. Best of all, you have full control over the V8 power and soundtrack thanks to the six-speed manual transmission. Plus, the fully independent double-wishbone suspension, four-wheel power disc brakes (drilled & slotted front calipers), and BF Goodrich gForce tires make for quite a nice driver's car.

Complete with owner's manual, this car has a terrific speedy style, but it's also coming off a decade of responsible ownership. It makes for the ideal mix of a true performance machine with the solid feeling of a well-respected modern classic. That's what makes this first-year C5 an all-around great driver's car. Call now!