The infamous C4. A Corvette generation called unprofitable and “a dark time” by General Motors even though its production ran for twelve years. Still, and despite the ZR1 trim and other perks, the C4 may have been the last Corvette model we ever saw, had it not been for the vision and perseverance of Russ McLean.

For years, this generation Corvette carried its own stigmas, from looks to performance, but now it’s being called a “classic,” and affordability is making it the new sought after Corvette of 2016. So, we couldn’t help but take a look at the reasons why we would want to own a Corvette C4, and there are plenty.

1. It’s a ‘Vette. Need we say more? So let’s get this one out of the way first. In the past, some may have had much to say about its looks or performance, and GM may have had much to whine about regarding its dropping sales, but the C4 is still a ‘Vette. And, since there’s no ‘Vette discrimination in the Corvette community, you’ll be joining the elite of Corvette owners across the world who enjoy the Sunday rides, the shows, and the praise that comes with owning America’s favorite sports car.

2. It’s a Part of History. You could end up driving an authentic NASCAR Pace Car Replica on the C4 models 1986 and 1995.

In fact, all of the 7,315 1986 convertibles produced are pace-car replicas complete with decals. Corvette once again paced the Indy 500 in 1995, and 527 white special-edition convertible replicas were produced.

The C4 final year also included a Collector’s Edition featuring Sebring Silver paint, emblems, and the LT1 engine, and a Grand Sport special model featuring blue metallic paint with white striping, and the LT4 engine.

3. It’s What’s Under That Matters. Introduced in March 1983, the first C4 featured a 205 horsepower engine with 290 lb-ft of torque, seven second 0–60 acceleration and 138-mph top speed, a one-piece removable roof panel, and a video-game instrument panel with liquid-crystal bar graphs and digital displays. In 1990, the ZR1 made its debut sporting a 5.7-liter V8 engine boasting 375 horsepower. In 1993, the ZR1 power was increased to 405 horsepower.

4. It is Affordable. Let’s be honest. We love Corvettes but, how many of us can go to a dealer and shell out the big bucks for a souped-up C7? The C4, on the other hand, offers an affordable alternative to Corvette pride ownership with numerous bargains offered for sale in the $15,000 range – modifications included!

5. You Can Do The Wave! There is an underlying acknowledgement that comes with owning a Corvette. That is, every other Corvette owner will acknowledge you on the road with the friendly “Corvette Wave.”

• 
• 

According to the “Lost Caravan Corvette Club,” The Corvette Wave is an integral part of the mystique and culture of the Corvette owner experience. Corvette owners who wave at fellow Corvette owners when they pass on the road, show a mark of recognition that you are among the elite group of intelligent people who are driving America’s True Sports Car.”

So, whether you are driving a C3, a C7, or your new beloved C4, go ahead and Do the Wave! You’ve earned it!