1997 Chevrolet C5 Corvette – Black on Black | Tastefully Updated, Largely Original - Mark Gehringer
This 1997 C5 Corvette has been one of those cars that reminds you why you love cars in the first place.
I purchased it at a Mecum auction when they came to Houston. I was actually there hunting for a Firebird, but everything changed when I rounded a corner and saw this C5 sitting there. My heart genuinely started racing. The bidding was fast, intense, and winning the auction was absolutely exhilarating. I knew immediately this car was coming home with me.
The car is finished in classic black over a black leather interior, a combination that never goes out of style. Yes—keeping a black car clean is a challenge, but when it’s freshly detailed, it’s 100% worth the effort.
When I bought the car, it still had the original aluminum wheels, which I personally never cared for. I replaced them with black C6 Corvette wheels, which dramatically modernize the look and suit the car perfectly. Other than that, I’ve made a point to keep the car largely original.
One known issue with early C5s is the factory adjustable shocks—they were not functional when I acquired the car. I’ve since upgraded the shocks, restoring proper ride quality while maintaining the spirit of the original setup.
Inside, the car retains its original cassette deck and 12-disc CD changer, which is a great throwback. To make it more usable today, I added a Bluetooth adapter that plugs directly into the CD changer wiring, giving modern audio functionality while preserving a clean, factory appearance—no aftermarket head unit, no cut wiring.
One of my favorite things about this Corvette is taking the targa top off on a sunny spring day. Few experiences compare to cruising with the roof off, LS power under your right foot, and that unmistakable C5 silhouette stretching out ahead of you.
