Owning a retro car like a 1996 C4 Corvette Collector Edition is a dream for many, but what’s the real cost of such an experience? Brad Hansen, the enthusiast behind Retro Cars Forever, takes us on a journey through his four years of ownership, revealing every dollar spent on purchase, maintenance, repairs, fuel, and more. With his love for 80s, 90s, and early 2000s cars, Hansen shares valuable insights into what it takes to keep a retro ride on the road.
Finding the Perfect C4 Corvette
Brad’s journey began in 2019 when he was searching for a fun and reliable car that could double as a daily driver and a canyon carver. Initially skeptical about C4 Corvettes, he test-drove one and quickly fell for the style, performance, and affordability of later models. Eventually, he found a one-owner, 1996 Collector Edition with a manual transmission and the LT4 engine—an irresistible combination for any Corvette fan.
Ownership Costs: The Breakdown
Owning a C4 Corvette wasn’t just about cruising the canyons—it came with responsibilities. Brad meticulously tracked his expenses, which totaled $16,389 over 52 months. After selling the car for $22,600, his net cost was $11,009, or $211 per month. While maintenance costs averaged 55 cents per mile—higher than modern cars—Brad argues that the joy of driving such an iconic vehicle made it worth every penny.
Maintenance Lessons Learned
Brad emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance for older cars, highlighting how timely fluid replacements and small DIY fixes saved him from costly breakdowns. He also learned the hard way about the impact of uneven surfaces on the C4’s targa top and why driving the car regularly kept it in great shape.
The Joy of Driving a Retro Corvette
From spirited canyon drives to everyday commutes, Brad made the most of his C4. He shares that the car’s ability to combine fun and financial sense made it a standout in his garage. Despite a few hiccups, the Corvette delivered countless memories and lessons in car ownership.
Final Thoughts
As Brad passes the torch to the C4’s new owner, he reflects on the rewarding experience of caring for and driving a piece of automotive history. His advice? Choose your retro car carefully, maintain it diligently, and drive it often.
If you’re curious to learn more about Brad’s ownership journey and the financial math behind his C4 experience, be sure to check out more of his videos on is YouTube: Retro Cars Forever.
For more retro car adventures and practical advice, follow Brad Hansen on Instagram: @bradhansenmedia
About Brad Hansen
