Chevrolet - Corvette (1998)

Chevrolet Corvette – the iconic American sports car that continues to captivate enthusiasts across generations. When you hear phrases like “Chevrolet Corvette price” or “Chevrolet Corvette 1998 price”, you’re likely comparing the allure of this legendary model against its market value, condition, and the inevitable decline in worth through time. Below, we break down the key aspects of the Corvette’s price landscape so you can quickly grasp where this car stands in today’s automotive market.

Whether you’re scouting for a used Chevrolet Corvette, or wondering what is a 1998 Chevrolet Corvette worth, understanding the car’s Chevrolet Corvette depreciation and its spec profile is essential. The following sections provide a concise, yet comprehensive, overview that incorporates both technical details and market context.

• Model Year: 1998
• Engine: 6.2 L V8 (5.7 L in some early ’98 models)
• Horsepower: 300–325 hp
• Torque: 335–380 lb‑ft
• Transmission: 5‑speed manual or 4‑speed automatic (Rokko‑Worx N93)
• Drivetrain: Front‑engine, rear‑wheel drive (FR)
• Fuel Type: Regular gasoline (88 octane or higher)
• Dimensions: Length 172.0 in, Width 69.5 in, Height 48.8 in, Wheelbase 92.6 in
• Weight: 3,370 lb (manual)
  3,395 lb (automatic)
• Performance: 0–60 mph in 5.0–5.3 s (depends on transmission & trim)
• Top Speed: 180–190 mph (stock)
• Fuel Economy: 12–16 mpg city, 18–23 mpg highway
• Standard Features: R-Design interior, Bose audio, dual‑zone climate control

Chevrolet Corvette price insights: The Corvette’s value varies significantly based on year, mileage, condition, and market trends. While new models in the 2020s can surpass $90,000, a 1998 Corvette’s price range is typically between $18,000 and $35,000. The spread reflects factors such as time in service, maintenance history, and any significant modifications.

Depreciation Overview

All cars lose value as they age, but the Chevrolet Corvette follows a distinctive depreciation pattern due to its brand prestige and performance heritage:

• Initial Year: Typically the Corvette loses 15–20% of its value in the first year after purchase. For a used 1998 model acquired in 2000, this would have translated to an estimated loss of $1.5–$2.0 k.
• Years 2–5: Depreciation slows, generally dropping 5–10% per year. By the fifth year, a well‑maintained Corvette may retain 40–45% of its original value.
• Beyond 10 Years: The rate of decline continues but at a reduced pace, with the vehicle often holding its value better in the classic and collector segments.

In the context of the Chevrolet Corvette depreciation, it’s worth noting that models like the 1998 “Z28” and performance‑enhanced “RST” variants tend to depreciate more slowly thanks to scarce production numbers and a loyal collector base.

Comparative Context

When evaluating a Chevrolet Corvette