C5-R History
The Test Mule and Homologation Car
By: David Palmeter
Above - October 5, 1998 - Autoweek - The first C5-R was a converted production
1997 Corvette Coupe. After being used for initial testing it was further converted
to an "Homologation Car". This was to show that the C5-R could be used
as a street car. The car shown below is that Homologation Car.
Above - This is the Homologation Car in an early picture.
Above - Note the first generation hood.
Above - June 7, 2000 - Sears Point
Above -
This is the Homologation Car when the second generation hood and fixed
headlights were added.
Photos I took at Pratt & Miller - September 14, 2001 - David Palmeter
Above -
This is the VIN sticker (not a VIN plate) that appeared on the Homologation Car as of a photo
session on September 14, 2001. It is NOT the actual VIN of the original 1997
Coupe upon which this car is based. (To
see the real 1G1YY12G9X5100051 click here.)
Above - September 14, 2001 -
This is, possibly, the VIN plate that belongs on the Homologation Car. It is
from a very early "Experimental" C-5 test car that would have been a
likely candidate for use as a C5-R test mule. Further, it was shown to me by a
person, and in a location, very involved in the C5-R program.
Above -
This is the Homologation Car in the "old" Pratt & Miller facility on September
14, 2001. The other car is C5R-002 in 2000 Le Mans #64 colors.
Above -
Headlight close-up.
Above -
Front splitter.
Above -
Rear view - note luggage compartments under tail lights.
Above -
"Street" version of the C5-R 366 cubic inch LS1.
Above - February 20, 2002 - The Homologation Car in the
"New" Pratt & Miller facility lobby.
Above 3 pix - 2005-04-21 - The Homologation Car now at the National Corvette
Museum.
Above - 2005-10-27 - The Homologation Car still at the National Corvette
Museum.
Last update to this page: 09/15/06
Copyright from 2001 to current date - David W. Palmeter