Market Position:
Performance sports car, representing Chevrolet's flagship performance model during its era.
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Ferrari 348/355, Dodge Viper, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction, advanced chassis design, powerful V8 engine, groundbreaking aerodynamic styling.
Value:
Essential tool for owners and technicians seeking accurate, dealership-level repair and maintenance information.
Authenticity:
Directly mirrors information used by authorized Chevrolet service centers.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but indicates comprehensive coverage.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Likely printed book format, as it's for dealership technicians.
Format Detail:
Designed for professional use, providing detailed diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step instructions.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), torque converter clutch (TCC) operation, transmission (automatic and manual).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, driveline (driveshaft, axles, differential), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels, tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control, HVAC, lighting, wipers/washers, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), instrument panel, audio system, security system, airbags, diagnostic connector (OBD-II), wiring diagrams.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, general inspections.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, power steering system service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, wiring harness continuity checks, diagnostic scan tool procedures.
Depth:
Vehicle-specific, technician-level detail. Includes specifications, tolerances, procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts for accurate repairs.
Engine Type:
V8, naturally aspirated
Engine Displacement:
5.7L (350 cu in)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower 1997 98:
345 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1997 98:
350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower 1999:
345 hp @ 5600 rpm (standard), 350 hp @ 5600 rpm (optional Z51)
Torque 1999:
350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (standard), 355 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (optional Z51)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
Type 1997 98:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)
Type 1999:
6-speed Manual (Tremec T-56) standard on most models, 4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) optional.
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) for manual transmission cars, 6-speed Manual (Tremec T-56) for automatic transmission cars.
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter clutch (TCC) for overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Synchromesh fluid (e.g., Castrol TWS, Red Line D4 ATF for some applications, specific GM specification required).
Length:
179.7 inches (4564 mm)
Width:
73.1 inches (1857 mm)
Height:
47.8 inches (1214 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
3,200 - 3,300 lbs (1450 - 1500 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR varies by model and options, detailed in manual.
Cargo Volume Rear Hatch:
13.5 cu ft (382 L)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (driver and passenger, for models equipped with airbags).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard).
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bar behind seats (part of windshield frame structure).
Seatbelts:
3-point active-locking seat belts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio system.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional dual-zone automatic climate control (HVAC).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry and remote start.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), with oil life monitoring system.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for original equipment (ACDelco).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, meeting GM specification GM6094M (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 synthetic is often recommended).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange or Pink Extended Life Coolant) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Clutch Wear:
Early models with manual transmission could experience clutch wear. Flywheel issues also reported.
Rear Main Seal:
Potential for rear main seal leaks, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Evaporation Purge Solenoid:
Faulty EVAP purge solenoid can lead to rough idle or Check Engine Light.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional power steering pump leaks or noise.
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its iconic sports car since 1953.
Generation Introduction:
The C5 generation was a complete redesign, introduced for the 1997 model year, marking a significant leap in performance and technology.
Key C5 Advancements:
Hydroformed frame rails, rear transaxle for better weight distribution, LS1 engine, significantly improved aerodynamics and interior.
Production Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
Production Years C5:
1997-2004
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1997 and 1998.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not awarded MotorTrend Car of the Year in these specific years, but highly regarded.
Performance Credentials:
Recognized for its sports car performance and handling capabilities within its price segment.
