Skip to main content

1998
Chevrolet Corvette

Starts at:
$37,995
Shop options
New 1998 Chevrolet Corvette
See ratings
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Shop Cars.com
Browse cars & save your favorites
Dealers near you
Find & contact a dealership near you
Listings near 43272
Change location See all listings

Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Cpe
    Starts at
    $37,995
    18 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Convertible
    Starts at
    $44,425
    18 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

The good & the bad

This vehicle doesn't have any good or bad insights yet.

Use our comparison tool to look at this model side-by-side with other vehicles or view the full specifications list .

Start your comparison

Expert 1998 Chevrolet Corvette review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

I didn’t realize just how visually arresting the Corvette convertible was until my sister-in-law and I stopped at a small-town fast-food drive-through for a soda.

Two young guys stared at us intently, but it took a minute for us to realize that the object of their attention was our electric-blue Corvette convertible. Now, it is axiomatic that Corvettes attract young guys like wildflowers attract bees, and our experience only reinforced this notion.

We cranked out a 250-mile round trip that Sunday with ease. Our emotions were spent from saying our final farewell to a favorite uncle who might well have chuckled had he seen us in such a flashy car, but the car didn’t wear us out at all.

A few more days with this handsome roadster confirmed my first impressions: Chevrolet’s latest version of its famous sports car is one of the hottest two-seaters you can buy. Its rounded-wedge styling is both aggressive and smooth. The forward-leaning nose rises to a chopped-off tail that symbolizes high-speed efficiency. The non-functional side scoop harkens back to Corvettes of the 1960s.

The wheelbase is 8 inches longer, and most of the extra room can be found inside the cabin. Although it not as spacious as a family sedan, occupants no longer feel crowded, and the trunk will actually hold two sets of golf clubs or enough luggage for a week’s vacation.

Situated in a large pod behind the steering wheel is a handsome instrument cluster. Large simple dials are mounted at a slightly different levels to create a strong three-dimensional effect. The gauges for all functions are easy to read, and each time you start the car you’re treated to a show as the needles do a complete sweep of each gauge.

If a convertible is not easy to use, it rarely will be. Although this one is manual, it took only a few seconds to unlatch, fold and store it under a handsome plastic cover with two small headrests molded into it. It intrudes on luggage space a little, but not enough to force changes in your packing for weekend trips. A heated glass rear window is a nice touch for winter driving.

The body structure is four times stiffer than the previous car and accounts for the Vette’s solid feeling. A convertible was planned from the beginning so the structure was designed to be rigid even without a top. Squeaks and rattles are nil, and the ride is reasonably supple, despite the fact that our test car was equipped with the optional Z51 suspension package of stiffer springs, larger stabilizer bars and bigger shocks. The Z51 is designed for competition use and the driver who wants the ultimate in handling. The ride was firm, to be sure, but far from punishing over some of the worst stretches of I-70 in Missouri.

The test car was also equipped with Active Handling, a computer-controlled electronic stability program that works in concert with traction control and anti-lock brakes to keep the vehicle from sliding out of control in turns. When I accelerated around a turn in the rain it kicked in to keep the car from fishtailing. While this item is most useful in slippery conditions, it is also beneficial in dry conditions should you get too vigorous with the throttle.

Using the throttle is something you want to do a lot because the heart of the new Corvette is an all-new Las aluminum 5.7-liter V8. Even though this engine does not have overhead cams or four valves per cylinder, it is a delight to drive. Throttle response is immediate, and it snaps to attention when you want to go. When mated to the six-speed manual transmission it leaps to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to Chevrolet. Horsepower output is 345, yet the energy level is so high it feels like more.

The fully electronic, “drive by wire” throttle is one of the first on a production car and has both traction control and cruise control integrated into it as well.

The automatic transmission is standard, while the six-speed manual is an $815 opt n. Our test car was so equipped. The manual allows the driver more control of the vehicle, but it has one maddening feature. If you drive slowly, it automatically skips second gear and makes you shift from first to fourth. This skip-shift program is intended to raise fuel efficiency, but what it raised most was my ire.

Run-flat tires, mounted on 17-inch wheels in front and 18 in back, require no spare because they can be driven without air for up to 50 miles. A pressure sensor in each wheel signals any loss of air.

Convertible sports cars are enjoying a renaissance. BMW, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz each have one, and others are rumored to follow. The Corvette’s performance, however, gives it a distinct advantage.

For 1999, a hardtop coupe, priced in the neighborhood of $35,000, will be one of the performance bargains of the year.

Price

The base price of our test car was $44,425. Options included the Z51 handling package, six-speed manual gearbox, adjustable bucket seats for driver and passenger, dual-zone air conditioning, fog lamps, active handling system, AM/FM stereo with CD player, floor mats and memory system for the keyless remote.

The sticker price was $48,294.

Warranty

The standard warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles.

Vehicles for The Star’s week-long test drives are supplied by the auto manufacturers.

Point: Corvette’s convertible is delightful. Its top drops in seconds, the aluminum LS1 V8 is strong and smooth and the optional Z51 performance suspension gives it the reflexes of a go-kart without a punishing ride.

Counterpoint: The skip-shift feature of the six-speed transmission is aggravating and almost enough to force me to select the automatic.

SPECIFICATIONS:

ENGINE: 5.7-liter, V8

TRANSMISSION: Six-speed

WHEELBASE: 104.5 inches

CURB WEIGHT: 3,246 lbs.

BASE PRICE: $44,425

PRICE AS DRIVEN: $48,294

MPG RATING: 18 city, 27 hwy.

1998 Chevrolet Corvette review: Our expert's take
By

I didn’t realize just how visually arresting the Corvette convertible was until my sister-in-law and I stopped at a small-town fast-food drive-through for a soda.

Two young guys stared at us intently, but it took a minute for us to realize that the object of their attention was our electric-blue Corvette convertible. Now, it is axiomatic that Corvettes attract young guys like wildflowers attract bees, and our experience only reinforced this notion.

We cranked out a 250-mile round trip that Sunday with ease. Our emotions were spent from saying our final farewell to a favorite uncle who might well have chuckled had he seen us in such a flashy car, but the car didn’t wear us out at all.

A few more days with this handsome roadster confirmed my first impressions: Chevrolet’s latest version of its famous sports car is one of the hottest two-seaters you can buy. Its rounded-wedge styling is both aggressive and smooth. The forward-leaning nose rises to a chopped-off tail that symbolizes high-speed efficiency. The non-functional side scoop harkens back to Corvettes of the 1960s.

The wheelbase is 8 inches longer, and most of the extra room can be found inside the cabin. Although it not as spacious as a family sedan, occupants no longer feel crowded, and the trunk will actually hold two sets of golf clubs or enough luggage for a week’s vacation.

Situated in a large pod behind the steering wheel is a handsome instrument cluster. Large simple dials are mounted at a slightly different levels to create a strong three-dimensional effect. The gauges for all functions are easy to read, and each time you start the car you’re treated to a show as the needles do a complete sweep of each gauge.

If a convertible is not easy to use, it rarely will be. Although this one is manual, it took only a few seconds to unlatch, fold and store it under a handsome plastic cover with two small headrests molded into it. It intrudes on luggage space a little, but not enough to force changes in your packing for weekend trips. A heated glass rear window is a nice touch for winter driving.

The body structure is four times stiffer than the previous car and accounts for the Vette’s solid feeling. A convertible was planned from the beginning so the structure was designed to be rigid even without a top. Squeaks and rattles are nil, and the ride is reasonably supple, despite the fact that our test car was equipped with the optional Z51 suspension package of stiffer springs, larger stabilizer bars and bigger shocks. The Z51 is designed for competition use and the driver who wants the ultimate in handling. The ride was firm, to be sure, but far from punishing over some of the worst stretches of I-70 in Missouri.

The test car was also equipped with Active Handling, a computer-controlled electronic stability program that works in concert with traction control and anti-lock brakes to keep the vehicle from sliding out of control in turns. When I accelerated around a turn in the rain it kicked in to keep the car from fishtailing. While this item is most useful in slippery conditions, it is also beneficial in dry conditions should you get too vigorous with the throttle.

Using the throttle is something you want to do a lot because the heart of the new Corvette is an all-new Las aluminum 5.7-liter V8. Even though this engine does not have overhead cams or four valves per cylinder, it is a delight to drive. Throttle response is immediate, and it snaps to attention when you want to go. When mated to the six-speed manual transmission it leaps to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to Chevrolet. Horsepower output is 345, yet the energy level is so high it feels like more.

The fully electronic, “drive by wire” throttle is one of the first on a production car and has both traction control and cruise control integrated into it as well.

The automatic transmission is standard, while the six-speed manual is an $815 opt n. Our test car was so equipped. The manual allows the driver more control of the vehicle, but it has one maddening feature. If you drive slowly, it automatically skips second gear and makes you shift from first to fourth. This skip-shift program is intended to raise fuel efficiency, but what it raised most was my ire.

Run-flat tires, mounted on 17-inch wheels in front and 18 in back, require no spare because they can be driven without air for up to 50 miles. A pressure sensor in each wheel signals any loss of air.

Convertible sports cars are enjoying a renaissance. BMW, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz each have one, and others are rumored to follow. The Corvette’s performance, however, gives it a distinct advantage.

For 1999, a hardtop coupe, priced in the neighborhood of $35,000, will be one of the performance bargains of the year.

Price

The base price of our test car was $44,425. Options included the Z51 handling package, six-speed manual gearbox, adjustable bucket seats for driver and passenger, dual-zone air conditioning, fog lamps, active handling system, AM/FM stereo with CD player, floor mats and memory system for the keyless remote.

The sticker price was $48,294.

Warranty

The standard warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles.

Vehicles for The Star’s week-long test drives are supplied by the auto manufacturers.

Point: Corvette’s convertible is delightful. Its top drops in seconds, the aluminum LS1 V8 is strong and smooth and the optional Z51 performance suspension gives it the reflexes of a go-kart without a punishing ride.

Counterpoint: The skip-shift feature of the six-speed transmission is aggravating and almost enough to force me to select the automatic.

SPECIFICATIONS:

ENGINE: 5.7-liter, V8

TRANSMISSION: Six-speed

WHEELBASE: 104.5 inches

CURB WEIGHT: 3,246 lbs.

BASE PRICE: $44,425

PRICE AS DRIVEN: $48,294

MPG RATING: 18 city, 27 hwy.

Available cars near you

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 1998
    4.7
    Chevrolet Corvette
    Starts at
    $37,995
    18 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 1996
    5.0
    Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
    Starts at
    $78,300
    -
    MPG
    -
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 1997
    4.6
    Pontiac Firebird
    Starts at
    $17,174
    19 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 1994
    4.6
    Chevrolet Corvette
    Starts at
    $36,285
    -
    MPG
    -
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    -
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 1999
    4.6
    Chevrolet Camaro
    Starts at
    $16,705
    19 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2005
    4.5
    Cadillac CTS-V
    Starts at
    $49,490
    15 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • Compare more options
    Use our comparison tool to add any vehicle of your choice and see a full list of specifications and features side-by-side.
    Try it now

Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.8
Value 4.8
Exterior 4.9
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • Lots of fun in my 22 year old convertible. A+

    We use this vehicle for weekend outings and for just having fun. Very reliable, very comfortable and very fast. I think everyone should own one.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    43 people out of 44 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 1998 Corvette Pace Car Doesn't Disappoint

    There's nothing like driving a Corvette, and the 1998 Corvette Pace Car is no exception. With its remarkable sleek styling and bold looks, this car demands attention and will have heads turning as it glides down any street or highway. The interior is build for comfort with more than ample leg room for any sized person. The seats are adjustable and make even long trips a pleasure as they hug your body in comfort. The sound of the engine begs you to drive this car. There's nothing else like it. I've driven the most expensive sports cars and always go back to the Corvette. Having owned seven other Corvettes, the 1998 is on the top of my list.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    34 people out of 34 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great shape for 22 years old

    I absolutely love it ! It is my dream car abs at 50 years old I was finally able to purchase it ! Cars.com was very helpful in finding the perfect car tor me !
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    19 people out of 20 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car but not the most reliable one

    What can I say about the car other than its pretty great. mine sat for 4 to 5 years before being drove quite a lot again as I inherited it from my grandfather. With the time it sat, it had a lot of parts go bad on it. The windshield wiper motor needed replaced as well as the Transmission, cv rear axle, and the ac blower fan. The speakers are also blown from its age as well as the shocks are bad. But overall, I find it an amazing car to have as it was and still is my first car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 3.0
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Dream Car come true!

    I have had my eye on the 98 Corvette Pace Car for years. The Verrillo Motor Car Co., caught my attention with their fabulous website and then the listing of a pristine 98 Corvette Pace Car. It had never been titled and only had 1300 miles, in Excellent condition. I would go to their website every night for weeks to admire this car. I hesitated to pull the trigger and buy it. Then one day I noticed the car being sent to online auction and I called Joe Verrillo to plead my case for the car. Joe was so friendly and kind and agreed to pull the car from the auction. This was the beginning of a great friendship with Joe and Sunday Verrillo. My wife and I had never bought a car across the country and over the phone before, so we had to be walked through the process. It has always been my dream to receive my own collector’s car from an enclosed carrier right in front of my house in Michigan. Joe and Sunday knew exactly how to get all the necessary paperwork and permits done, even during all the COVID 19 restrictions. In less than two weeks my dream came true with the car delivered to my front door. Joe and Sunday Verrillo both assured me that the car was in immaculate condition. I can tell you I am a true car guy and so very picky, but I couldn’t of been more pleased when the car arrived. It was just like it drove off the showroom floor, it had all the original accessories including the corvette flashlight, the window sticker, and the corvette notecards, all inside a 22 year old pace car. There is a reason why Verrillo Motor Cars has been in business for 40 years. They’re service and kindness overflows and you can trust what you see online is truly what you get! Thank you Joe and Sunday Verrillo and all the staff at Verrillo Motor Car Company. I couldn’t of asked for a more professional dream car experience! Todd & Cheryl
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • SHOWROOM CONDITION!!!

    This beautiful car is super fun to drive, very comfortable, very powerful (fast) and reliable. Never had any trouble with it. Everything works perfect. Awesome car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Elegant for the ladies a chick magnet for the men

    Fun to drive, great lines, C5 is a comfortable ride, great performance. I do not speed but it will get out of peoples way if boxed in.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Time for someone else to enjoy this wonderful car

    We got this car for our anniversary 10 years ago. Just a fun car and great on mileage on our trip from Oregon to Reno.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car for the money!!

    This car is my daily driver and just love driving it. Very dependable and a very sleek, beautiful look. May buy another one so I can take turns driving each one. Lol
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Looks great in my garage and performance is great

    Great acceleration w/no handling issues. I'm 6 foot tall an entering and exiting the vehicle is more demanding. Gas mileage (especially highway cruising) with MPH in the mid 20's.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best sports car in the world for the money.

    I owned one for 4 years. Only put gas in it and changed the oil and tires. In all that time. 345 hp. 3250 lb. Top speed over 170 mph. Handled like a go-cart with air conditioning. 18 and 27 mpg. With 20 year old technology. Is the rest of the world kidding me?
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • S0 far its dependable for a 20 year old corvette

    I?d say for one it is in good running condition looks good inside and outside of the car. And it comes with extra stuff like car seat covers.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from cars.com

See all news

Chevrolet dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is available in 1 trim level:

  • (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 1998 Chevrolet Corvette offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 27 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 1998 Chevrolet Corvette compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette reliable?

The 1998 Chevrolet Corvette has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1998 Chevrolet Corvette owners.

Is the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette a good Coupe?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. 95.6% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.8
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 4.9
  • Reliability: 4.6

Chevrolet Corvette history

Your list was successfully saved.
 
 
 
 
Save list Compare
[{"cat":"coupeconvertible_coupesport","stock_type":"used","bodystyle":"Coupe","page_type":"research/make-model-year","oem_page":false,"search_fuel_types":["Gasoline Fuel"]}]