The Chevy Corvette is an iconic sports car with roots dating back to the 1950s.
It is one of the top-performing models in its segment in terms of performance, style, and reliability.
In this article, we’ll be checking out all of the best and worst model years of the Corvette.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Corvette Are:
The best Chevrolet Corvette model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010. The worst model years of this model are 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2017, 2004, and 2019. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Corvette?
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2024 to 2020 Corvette models are the most technologically advanced units produced so far. There aren’t any major differences between them aside from shuffling of features although a new electrically assisted E-Ray model made its debut for the 2024 model year.
All of these are part of the eighth generation, beginning with the 2020 model year which was fully redesigned with a new mid-engine layout.
These sports cars have impressive power, outstanding acceleration, and sharp handling, all for a very affordable price point (relative to its direct competition).
When purchased brand new, base pricing starts at around $66,000.
There are only 2 main versions: Stingray and Z06 and 3 main trim levels: 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT.
The most popular variant is the Stingray, with a starting price of $65,895.
All are powered by a massive 6.2-liter V8 engine (490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque) paired to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels.
A Z51 performance package is available for all 3 trims. This package provides a slight bump in power (additional 5 horsepower and 5 pound-feet of torque) thanks to a performance exhaust system.
Other additions include:
- Heavy-duty cooling system
- Z51-specific suspension tuning with adaptive dampers
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- Grippier tires
2023 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 87 / 100
2022 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 87 / 100
2021 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 5.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 86 / 100
2020 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 5.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
2022 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“I love my new Vette. This is my 8th Vette since 2000 .The ride is great, quieter, smoother but you feel the power. Love layout of interior.”
2018 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2018 Corvette is the second-to-last seventh-gen model.
New for this model year are the following:
- New and improved optional performance data recorder
- Magnetorheological adaptive dampers as a standalone add-on
- An all-new Carbon 65 Edition trim appearance package
There are 4 main body types: Stingray, Z51, Grand Sport, and Z06.
The Stingray, Z51, and Grand Sport have 3 trim levels: 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT.
The Z06 also has 3 trims but named differently: 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ.
The base and midrange models come with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that outputs 455 horsepower while the performance-oriented top-spec Z06 has the same engine but has more power at 650 horsepower.
According to the EPA, the base and midrange models can achieve approximately 19 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 85 / 100
2018 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“I’ve had my white Grand Sport convertible with 8-speed auto transmission for eight months now and I still absolutely love her. I’ve put 9,300 miles on her; the first 2,000 a very careful break-in, then 7,000 miles of grand touring driving: from Austin, Texas to Key West, Florida and back by way of the southern Appalachian mountains, then a quick trip from Austin to Denver and back…”
2016 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2016 Corvette has spectacular engine power, racetrack-ready braking, sharp (and beginner-friendly) handling, and an extremely well-built interior.
New for this model year are the following:
- Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel
- Power-closing trunk
- Apple CarPlay smartphone integration (as a standard feature)
- Front-view parking cameras (for higher trims)
Owners have praised the following aspects of this model year: interior, exterior appearance, fuel economy, handling, steering, comfort, engine power, and acceleration.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 85 / 100
2016 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“After a year my Stingray seems to get better with time. It’s a blast to drive and now that winter is over, the open air option of the targa top adds to the delight of having it…”
2015 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2015 Corvette is a seventh-gen model that oozes style, power, and comfort.
Revisions for and additions to this model year include:
- 8-speed automatic transmission option (replacing the previous year’s 6-speed transmission)
- Updated OnStar functionality with 4G LTE data and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities
- Optional performance data recorder with an in-car video feed
- Newly updated 650-horsepower Z06 model (for all body styles)
On top of an already stellar power output, the new Z06 model can also hold its own in terms of fuel efficiency.
According to the EPA, this variant can reach around 18 MPG for combined and city driving, a figure that is rarely heard of in the luxury sports car segment.
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 80 / 100
2015 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“I have owned this C7 for five years, it is a great car. I have had several Vettes for a 40 year span. Each generation is better than the previous. I have driven this one 36000 miles. It can be very comfortable in Touring or Eco mode or it can be set for track and drive like a race car. I have taken 2000 mile trips and been very comfortable and I have taken it to track days to have a blast…”
2013 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2013 Corvette is feature-packed. It has tremendous acceleration, advanced mechanics (for handling, steering, and suspension), and fantastic braking.
On top of all of these great qualities, it also has quite commendable cargo capacity.
New for this model year are the following:
- An all-new 427 Convertible Collector Edition
- 60th Anniversary design package
- Black-painted wheels and a ZR1-style rear spoiler (for the base model and the midrange Grand Sport).
The base trim and Grand Sport (GS) trim are available as either a hatchback coupe or a convertible roadster and are further broken down into 4 sub-trims: 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT.
The Z06 and ZR1 variants, on the other hand, are only available as coupes.
Owners of this model praised the sports car for the following aspects:
- Appearance
- Value for money
- Engine power
- Overall driving experience
- Transmission
- Interior
- Comfort
Safety was also ensured, regardless of variant or trim level. Each version has anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and side airbags.
OnStar is also available, which allows drivers to request for roadside assistance, manage door locking/unlocking remotely, and precise navigation.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 80 / 100
2013 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“I bought my manual transmission 2013 red coupe used, with only 8,000 miles on it, and it now has 49600 miles, as I drive it daily. It’s always with expectation and excitement that I get into the car and turn on the engine, with that exhaust roar making me smile ear to ear. I get compliments, thumbs up and waves wherever I go, from old and young alike…”
2012, 2011, and 2010 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2012, 2011, and 2010 Corvettes may not hold up as well in terms of modern exterior design and interior styling, but we have no doubt in their capability to perform even up to this day.
Important additions, upgrades, and revisions include the following:
- Launch control for all manual transmission variants
- Various performance and appearance packages
- USB port and auxiliary audio jack (for the navigation system)
- 9-speaker Bose sound system
The base time and midrange Grand Sport (GS) trim can achieve a respectable 19 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
On the other hand, the EPA claims that the Z06 can achieve 18 MPG (combined) while the ZR1 can reach 17 MPG (combined).
2012 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 81 / 100
2011 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2010 Chevrolet Corvette:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2012 Corvette, Edmunds Review:
“This is my 1st Corvette. I’m impressed with the car – better than any of the competition at a much cheaper price. Didn’t realize the car would have such a cool factor. Good gas mileage, comfortable and rides reasonably well…”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Corvette Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | J.D. Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Chevrolet Corvette | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.8 / 5.0 | 3.7 / 5.0 | 87 / 100 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.8 / 5.0 | 3.7 / 5.0 | 87 / 100 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Corvette | 5.0 / 5.0 | 3.7 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Corvette | 5.0 / 5.0 | 3.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2018 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Corvette | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
Related: 14 Top Sports Cars with a Sunroof (With Pictures)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Corvette?
2005 and 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2005 and 2006 Corvette models were riddled with numerous electrical issues.
Several reports indicated that the headlights would occasionally fail during trips.
Specifically, the low beam lights would fail to work while driving, forcing owners to resort to using high beam lights for visibility.
“Low beam headlights wouldn’t come on after driving. I parked the car and when I went to drive that evening the low beams wouldn’t go on.” – CarProblemZoo.com
Numerous owners complained about battery issues as well, citing excessive battery drain even when the vehicle was used on a regular basis.
“It has been reported numerous times of the excessive battery drainage of these vehicles… This causes the battery to drain excessively, I have replaced 4 batteries in a year…” – CarProblemZoo.com
There were also structural issues with these models.
There were numerous complaints regarding the alignment of the Corvette’s roof, causing abnormal grinding and cracking noises from the removable section of the top.
“While driving at a moderate speed, the roof panel detached from the vehicle. The outer shell was separated from the inside. The contact has taken the vehicle to the dealer and they keep replacing the roof panel… The current mileage is 16,000 and failure mileage was 3,000…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2005 Corvette had a total of 27 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 662 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 Corvette had a total of 5 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 461 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Electronic column lock (ECL) failure
- Shifter stuck in park
- Faulty airbag harness
- Chalky residue on interior
- Oil pressure sensor failure
2007, 2008, and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette
The fuel systems of the 2007, 2008, and 2009 Corvette models were problematic, forcing owners to make constant visits to the dealer.
Owners reported a strong fuel odor and excessive fuel leakage.
“Very strong fuel smell from driver side wheel well and inside of car. When car is parked inside garage it is unbearable.” – CarProblemZoo.com
One owner even stated that this fuel leakage may lead to a fire or explosion, as stated below:
“Fuel leaks out the top of the tanks, and will then drip down the back side onto the hot exhaust. If parked overnight in a garage, the vapor will fill the garage and could easily be triggered into an explosion and fire from a gas water heater or other ignition source.”
- The 2007 Corvette had a total of 17 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 453 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Corvette had a total of 19 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 633 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2009 Corvette had a total of 13 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 161 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Fuel level sensor failed
- Gear shift lockup
- Shifter gets stuck in park
- Strong fuel odor
- ABS and traction control lights flashing
- Will not start
- Blemish on factory paint
2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
Numerous owners of any Corvette model year from 2000 to 2003 reported a variety of steering-related issues.
The most commonly reported issue is steering wheel lockup, totally preventing the vehicle from being driven.
“Shortly after the contact placed the key into the ignition and started the vehicle, the steering wheel locked and prevented the vehicle from being driven. The contact had to try different keys in order for the steering wheel to unlock. The failure occurred intermittently…” – CarProblemZoo.com
This issue typically occurs while driving. According to reports, the lockup of the steering wheel column is the result of a defective anti-theft module.
Recall campaigns were initiated but repairs and parts replacements took long periods of time.
“ … The contact stated that the failure recurred within five years. The vehicle was not further repaired nor diagnosed for the failure. The contact was concerned with the steering wheel locking while driving and the failure potentially causing a crash. The failure and current mileages were 130,068.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2000 Corvette had a total of 297 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 Corvette had a total of 11 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 222 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 Corvette had a total of 21 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 171 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 Corvette had a total of 14 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 108 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Air conditioning not working
- Seats are separating at the seams
- Roof leakage
- Transmission failure
- Gas tank sending unit failure
- Valve spring failure
- Airbags deployed while driving
- Window will not go down
- Electronic column lock (ECL) failure
2017 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2017 Corvette could have been one of the better models to come out if not for one major blunder – extremely fragile stock wheels and rims.
Complaints talked about cracking, warping, bending, discoloration, and other similar forms of damage to the wheels and rims, requiring immediate attention.
“Upon tire replacement an inspection of the right rear wheel has shown inside wheel lip cracks in 2 places as well as an out of round condition. There has been no associated tire damage with this defect.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2017 Corvette had a total of 28 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 245 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Cracked or bent rims
- Cracked or bent wheels
2004 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2004 model year had a mix of problems similar to some of the previously discussed Corvettes.
The most reported issue is fuel leakage due to cracks in the tubes and weld joints.
“Smell of gas is noticeable when the car is just sitting in the garage. Service engine light also came on. Vehicle brought in for service and found to have the right fuel tank leak…” – CarProblemZoo.com
The second most-reported issue is steering wheel lock-up due to anti-theft system false detections.
“The contact stated that the steering column was malfunctioning. The locking pin for the anti-theft device for the steering column was not working and stopped the vehicle from moving…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2004 Corvette had a total of 8 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 235 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Transmission slipping
- Gasoline leakage
- Cruise control shut off automatically
2019 Chevrolet Corvette
Like the 2017 Corvette, the 2019 model year suffered from widespread issues to the stock wheels and rims.
If left unattended, damaged wheels and rims could lead to bad accidents or collisions.
- The 2019 Corvette had a total of 20 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 128 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Cracked or bent rims
- Cracked or bent wheels
- Clicking noise while turning
Related: 10 Sports Cars With High Ground Clearance (With Pictures)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Chevrolet Corvette | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Corvette | – | 10 | – |
| 2022 Chevrolet Corvette | – | 12 | – |
| 2021 Chevrolet Corvette | 3 | 8 | 2 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Corvette | 1 | 26 | 4 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Corvette | 20 | 128 | 1 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Corvette | 1 | 51 | 0 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Corvette | 28 | 245 | 3 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Corvette | 18 | 97 | 2 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Corvette | 26 | 66 | 5 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Corvette | 9 | 84 | 0 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | 3 | 61 | 1 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Corvette | 3 | 84 | 1 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Corvette | 3 | 85 | 0 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 13 | 161 | 0 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | 19 | 633 | 0 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Corvette | 17 | 453 | 2 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Corvette | 5 | 461 | 5 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Corvette | 27 | 662 | 6 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | 8 | 235 | 4 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | 14 | 108 | 3 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | 21 | 171 | 3 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Corvette | 11 | 222 | 3 |
| 2000 Chevrolet Corvette | 0 | 297 | 4 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Corvette Have?
- Cracked or bent rim
- Strong fuel odor
- Cracked or bent wheel
- Clicking noise while turning
- Windshield cracked
- Paint bubbles
- Transmission failure
- Driver screen radio flickers on and off
- Column lock failed
- Shifter stuck in park
- Faulty airbag harness
- Gas tank unit failure
- Valve spring failure
- Will not start
- Blemish on paint
- ABS and traction control lights flashing
- Fuel level sensor failed
- Gear shift lockup
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Corvette?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Chevrolet Corvette | 9.3 | $64,500 – $126,150 | City: 12 – 16 /Highway: 19 – 24 |
| Audi R8 | 9.0 | $158,600 – $222,100 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 18 – 23 |
| Porsche 911 | 8.9 | $106,100 – $272,300 | City: 14 – 18 /Highway: 18 – 25 |
| Porsche Boxster | 8.9 | $65,500 – $103,400 | City: 17 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 27 |
| BMW 8-Series | 8.7 | $87,500 – $144,900 | City: 15 – 21 /Highway: 22 – 29 |
| BMW M2 | 8.7 | $62,200 | City: 16 /Highway: 23 – 24 |
| Porsche Cayman | 8.7 | NA | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| BMW M4 | 8.4 | $74,700 – $139,900 | City: 16 /Highway: 22 – 23 |
| Lexus LC | 8.3 | $94,450 – $102,500 | City: 15 – 26 /Highway: 25 – 33 |
| Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | 8.3 | NA | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 21 – 22 |
| BMW Z4 | 8.2 | $52,800 – $65,300 | City: 23 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 33 |
| Toyota Supra | 8.2 | $43,540 – $58,345 | City: 23 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 32 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 17 Sports Cars with Ventilated Seats (With Pictures)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/corvette
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/corvette
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/corvette/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/corvette/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/corvette
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Corvette/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/corvette/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-corvette/recalls/
