The 2004 Chevrolet Corvette represents the tail end of the C5 generation, a line known for bringing Corvette performance into the modern era. Available as a coupe or convertible, the C5 Corvette spanned model years 1997-2004. Key trims included the base Corvette, Z06, and Commemorative Edition (in 2004). New prices ranged from around $44,000 to $53,000. Its blend of powerful V8 performance, relatively comfortable ride, and iconic styling made it a popular choice.
The Good
The 2004 Corvette offers exhilarating V8 performance that appeals to driving enthusiasts. It balances that with surprising comfort for long cruises. Reliability is generally good, making it a practical choice. The sleek design turns heads, and it offers excellent value for the performance you get, satisfying both the heart and the head.
The Bad
Weaknesses include the sometimes-dated interior materials. The Active Handling system can be prone to issues, and the column lock issue is a known problem. Watch out for oil consumption, particularly in earlier model years. Targa top squeaks and leaks are common complaints.
2004 Chevrolet Corvette: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.7L LS1 V8 (Base Corvette): 350 horsepower
- 5.7L LS6 V8 (Z06): 405 horsepower
- Horsepower:
- Base Corvette: 350 hp @ 5,200 rpm
- Z06: 405 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- Base Corvette: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (automatic), 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (manual)
- Z06: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (manual only)
- 0-60 Times:
- Base Corvette: Around 5.1 seconds
- Z06: Around 4.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base Corvette: Dual-zone climate control, power driver's seat, leather seats, CD player, cruise control, power windows and locks, keyless entry, ABS, traction control.
- Z06: Upgraded suspension, lighter wheels, specific gear ratios, more aggressive styling, fixed roof, and performance-oriented interior upgrades.
- Commemorative Edition: (2004 only) Special paint, badging, and interior trim to celebrate Corvette's racing heritage. Available on base and Z06 models.
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door Coupe |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BOWLING GREEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1456.03 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 121.41 cm |
| Overall Length | 456.44 cm |
| Overall Width | 186.94 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 265.43 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.7-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $50,835 USD |
| Invoice Price | $44,481 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $800 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
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Accident
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Theft
Check
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette Have?
The 2004 Corvette, like other C5 models, has some frequently reported problems. The steering column lock issue is a common concern, potentially causing the car to not start. This was subject to a recall in earlier C5 years, but it can still affect 2004 models. The Active Handling system can also experience failures, leading to warning lights and potentially affecting braking and handling. Oil consumption, particularly in earlier C5 models (though less prevalent in 2004), is something to monitor. Targa top models often develop squeaks and leaks.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around electrical issues, such as sensor failures. The harmonic balancer can also be a potential point of failure over time, especially on higher-mileage examples. While the LS1 and LS6 engines are generally robust, proper maintenance is key to longevity. Listen for unusual noises and check for any signs of fluid leaks. The seats can also show wear and tear over time, particularly the leather upholstery. Finally, be mindful of the condition of the tires, as performance tires tend to wear more quickly.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around electrical issues, such as sensor failures. The harmonic balancer can also be a potential point of failure over time, especially on higher-mileage examples. While the LS1 and LS6 engines are generally robust, proper maintenance is key to longevity. Listen for unusual noises and check for any signs of fluid leaks. The seats can also show wear and tear over time, particularly the leather upholstery. Finally, be mindful of the condition of the tires, as performance tires tend to wear more quickly.
How long will the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette last?
With proper maintenance, a 2004 Corvette can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report trouble-free service for 15+ years. Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely replacement of wear items are crucial. Long-term durability largely depends on how the car was driven and maintained. Weaknesses that can emerge over time include the aforementioned electrical gremlins, suspension component wear (especially bushings and ball joints), and potential clutch issues (on manual transmission models). The LS1/LS6 engine itself is very durable if properly cared for.
Positive Owner Reviews
JW Richards
My dream car. I purchased my first in 05 and drove it to 120k miles and she was still going strong but had to sell her and get a more client friendly ride. Fast forward to today, I bought my second 04 with less than 10k miles on it. Spent a little money on paint correction and ceramic coating, on bringing the motor back up to speed with new fuel injectors and plugs and wires and she drives like a dream and looks better than off the showroom floor. This is my favorite body style ever and if you're looking for a sporty ride with get up and go along with handling and a classy look that demands attention look no further.
Vet's Vette
This car is just what we were looking for. After all these years of working hard, raising a family and retiring it was OUR time. Is she used-yes, does she have a few dings-yes, does it matter-no! Dream come true.....
Rob D
The car is my retirement gift for my wife and to take fair weather day trips around the state. The convertible was the ace that sealed the deal. The car runs like a dream.
Negative Owner Reviews
potential buyer
Was impressed by cars' exterior, however the interior & engine compartment were filthy. In fact they didn't even take the obvious dust/dirt off. Waste of time to present this on such a visual media. Makes you consider "what lies beneath". Any thinking consumer would shy away. The dealerships would do themselves a great favor if focused on the BASICS. The camera person MUST have seen the dirty condition of the engine, carpets, upholstery, even the close up of the Chevy emblem. Car buyers are more discerning than this. If you truly want to meet the customers needs...and sell vehicles ... CLEAN them before presenting them to the public. Being honest with you, I was sincerely interested. Thanks for listening .
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Corvette's built-in tech, while decent for its time, is relatively basic by today's standards. Standard features included a CD player, dual-zone climate control, and cruise control. Optional features included a Bose sound system, head-up display (HUD), and power telescoping steering column.
Driver-assistance features were limited, mainly consisting of ABS and traction control. The Active Handling system (stability control) was available. Safety features included dual front airbags. Side airbags were not available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are as follows for the 2004 Corvette coupe: Frontal Driver: 5 stars, Frontal Passenger: 5 stars, Side Driver: Not Rated, Side Passenger: Not Rated, Rollover: Not Rated (as of my knowledge cut-off, more recent data may exist).
The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) did not perform crash tests on the 2004 Corvette. The car lacks modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Driver-assistance features were limited, mainly consisting of ABS and traction control. The Active Handling system (stability control) was available. Safety features included dual front airbags. Side airbags were not available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are as follows for the 2004 Corvette coupe: Frontal Driver: 5 stars, Frontal Passenger: 5 stars, Side Driver: Not Rated, Side Passenger: Not Rated, Rollover: Not Rated (as of my knowledge cut-off, more recent data may exist).
The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) did not perform crash tests on the 2004 Corvette. The car lacks modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Torch Red
Millennium Yellow
Machine Silver Metallic
Dark Bowling Green Metallic
Navy Blue Metallic
Light Pewter Metallic
Arctic White
Interior Colors
Ebony
Light Oak
Red
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Corvette ranged from approximately $44,000 to $53,000 depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices generally range from $15,000 to $30,000+, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. Z06 models command a premium. The Corvette depreciated significantly in its early years, but prices have stabilized and even started to creep up slightly for well-maintained examples. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, originality, options, and the presence of a manual transmission (often preferred by enthusiasts).
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2004 Corvette can be moderate to high, depending on your driving record and location. Fuel costs are moderate, considering the performance, but can add up if you drive aggressively. Maintenance and repair costs are generally reasonable, especially if you perform some work yourself. Parts are readily available and relatively affordable. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own, but it's also not excessively expensive compared to other sports cars.
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
68.14 liters
City Mileage
7.65 km/l
Highway Mileage
10.63 km/l
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Recalls & Defects
Steering:linkages
Recall date
2004-06-09
Recall no.
04v273000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign, THE Lower Control ARM Ball Stud Nut/Washer Assemblies With Washers Were Made OF THE Wrong Material. THE Washers MAY Fracture and Become Loose or Fall Away From THE Vehicle, Reducing Clamp Load. Separation OF THE Control ARM Ball Stud and Steering Knuckle, DUE TO Disengagement OF THE Tapered Attachment and Retaining Nut, IS Possible.
Consequence
IF THE Control ARM Separates From THE Knuckle, THE Affected Corner OF THE Vehicle Will Drop and THE Control ARM Would BE Forced Downward, Contacting THE Wheel. THE Affected Wheel Could Tilt Outward and Create A Dragging Action That Would Tend TO Slow THE Vehicle and Create A Tendency FOR THE Vehicle TO Turn IN THE Direction OF THE Affected Wheel. IN Extreme Situations, THE Affected Wheel Assembly Could Separate From THE Vehicle. Separation OF THE Wheel Assembly Would Also Sever That Wheel;s Hydraulic Brake Hose and Result IN Diminished Braking Performance OF THE Vehicle, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Ball Stud Joints and Measure THE Torque OF THE NUT FOR All Front Lower Control Arms IN All Models Affected AS Well AS THE Rear Lower Control Arms ON THE XLR and Corvette. IF THE Torque IS NOT AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Ball Stud, THE Knuckle, and THE Nut. IF THE Torque IS AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Nut/Washer Assembly Only. THE Recall Will Begin ON August 25, 2004. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339 or Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04043. Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:column Locking:anti-Theft Device
Recall date
2004-02-09
Recall no.
04v060000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Electronic Column Lock Systems (Ecl), When THE Ignition Switch IS Turned TO "lock," THE ECL System Prevents Turning OF THE Steering System. When THE Vehicle IS Started, THE ECL Unlocks THE Steering System. THE Vehicle IS Designed SO That IF THE Column Fails TO Unlock When THE Vehicle IS Started and THE Customer Tries TO Drive, THE Fuel Supply Will BE Shut OFF SO That THE Vehicle Cannot Move When THE Vehicle Cannot BE Steered. IF Voltage AT THE Powertrain Control Module IS Low or Interrupted, However, THE Fuel Shut OFF MAY NOT Occur and THE Vehicle CAN BE Accelerated While THE Steering System IS Locked. Also When THE Control System Shows That THE ECL IS Unlocked and THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, THE Lock PIN Location CAN Vary. Depending ON THE Location OF THE Lock Plate Relative TO THE Switch Transition Point, There Could Then BE Contact Between THE Lock Plate and PIN Causing THE Steering TO Lock While Driving .
Consequence
IF This Occurs, A Crash Could Occur Without Warning.
Remedy
ON Vehicles Equipped With AN Automatic Transmission, THE Dealer Will Disable THE Steering Column Lock BY Removing THE Column Lock Plate. When THE Ignition KEY IS Removed, THE Transmission Shifter Will Lock BUT THE Steering Column Will NOT Lock. ON Vehicles Equipped With A Manual Transmission, THE Dealer Will Reprogram THE Powertrain Control Module, Perform A Dimensional Check OF THE Column Lock And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Lock Plate. THE Steering Column ON These Vehicles Will Continue TO Lock When THE KEY IS Removed. Owner Notification TO Owners OF 1997 Vehicles Equipped With Automatic Transmissions Began ON April 26, 2004. Owners OF 1998 Through 2004 Vehicles (Except 1997-1998 Manual Transmission Vehicles) Will BE Notified Beginning ON August 2, 2004. THE Remaining Owners (1997-1998 Manual Transmission Vehicles) Will BE Notified Later IN 2004, When Parts ARE Available. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04006.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette Compare to Other Coupe?
Key rivals to the 2004 Corvette include the Porsche 911, BMW Z4, and Nissan 350Z. The Corvette offers superior performance for the price compared to the 911. The 911 offers a more refined interior and arguably better handling, but at a significantly higher cost. The BMW Z4 provides a more luxurious experience but lacks the raw power of the Corvette. The Nissan 350Z is a more affordable option with sporty handling, but it doesn't match the Corvette's overall performance or iconic status.
In terms of reliability, the Corvette is generally comparable to the 350Z and Z4, and arguably more reliable than some contemporary 911 models. Feature-wise, the Corvette is adequate for its time, but lacking compared to newer models in general.
Alternatives worth considering include the later C6 Corvette (2005-2013), which offers improved performance and features. The Cadillac XLR, based on the same platform, provides a more luxurious take on the Corvette formula. If budget is a major concern, the Nissan 350Z remains a compelling choice for sporty handling.
In terms of reliability, the Corvette is generally comparable to the 350Z and Z4, and arguably more reliable than some contemporary 911 models. Feature-wise, the Corvette is adequate for its time, but lacking compared to newer models in general.
Alternatives worth considering include the later C6 Corvette (2005-2013), which offers improved performance and features. The Cadillac XLR, based on the same platform, provides a more luxurious take on the Corvette formula. If budget is a major concern, the Nissan 350Z remains a compelling choice for sporty handling.
Ranks #230 Coupe
| 1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
| 230 | 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette a Good Coupe?
The 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is ideal for enthusiasts seeking affordable V8 performance and iconic styling. It's worth buying if you're looking for a fun weekend car or a relatively reliable sports car. Buying used is the only option, of course. A well-maintained Z06 offers the best performance bang for your buck, but even a base model provides a thrilling experience. Look for examples with documented maintenance history and be prepared to address potential issues like the column lock or Active Handling system. Be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection.
GRN on January 3, 2024
C5 is a performer at a great price.I had my 2004 for 10 years. Great car and performance. At 6'2" the C5 provides me with comfort which its predecessors do not. Only issues have been the ignition switch a common problem which I changed out fairly easily, and the climate control lighting which I fixed by resoldering the board.
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JW Richards on March 7, 2023
I'm on my second 2004My dream car. I purchased my first in 05 and drove it to 120k miles and she was still going strong but had to sell her and get a more client friendly ride. Fast forward to today, I bought my second 04 with less than 10k miles on it. Spent a little money on paint correction and ceramic coating, on bringing the motor back up to speed with new fuel injectors and plugs and wires and she drives like a dream and looks better than off the showroom floor. This is my favorite body style ever and if you're looking for a sporty ride with get up and go along with handling and a classy look that demands attention look no further.
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Chris B on October 24, 2022
Best muscle for the price!!!Absolutely love this car! For the price, hands down the best deal on 4 wheels in regard to performance, styling and reliability! Also, a ton of great parts and mods available to make it your own.
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Vet's Vette on June 2, 2021
Dream CarThis car is just what we were looking for. After all these years of working hard, raising a family and retiring it was OUR time. Is she used-yes, does she have a few dings-yes, does it matter-no! Dream come true.....
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Insp Dan on August 10, 2020
Super carI drove this car home and must say it was the greatest drive of my life, wanted this car all my life shame it took so long, but feel at this point working with this dealer was worth the wait
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Rob D on June 24, 2020
Weekend travelerThe car is my retirement gift for my wife and to take fair weather day trips around the state. The convertible was the ace that sealed the deal. The car runs like a dream.
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J. Q. on April 24, 2020
Best Corvette I have Ever OwnedGreat driving and running car all around! I have owned four corvettes over the years and this 2004 is by far the best yet. It has 32000 miles and everything works as it should.
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Rockwall Higg on March 9, 2020
Best corvette for the dollarI am 69 years old. 6’2â€tall and weight 265 lbs. My wife and I returned from our 2nd. Trip to Eureka Springs and enjoyed every mile. Average fuel mileage was 26.6. If your looking for a great used corvette don’t overlook the C5 mine is a 2004 convertible. KH
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04 blue driver on January 30, 2020
Yes it is ,,somewhat my drivers side window wont wI wouldnt have any other,, great styling ,, I get alotta complments on her // eye catcher/they should already came out with a k& n air filter much better than stock
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Tim B on November 10, 2019
Nice carPaint or finish coming off of the heater control buttons but everything else is nice for the year of the car. Lots of fun to drive!
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Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.