The C5 was unveiled on January 6, 1997 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.[6] The fifth generation was originally intended to debut in 1993 to celebrate the Corvette's 40th anniversary, but it was delayed by financial troubles and changes in staff within GM.[7] A major change from its predecessor the C4, the C5 had a hydroformed box frame, a design that offered an improved structural platform, especially for a convertible bodystyle. To improve handling, the transmission was relocated to form an integrated, rear-mounted transaxle assembly. Connected to the all-new LS1 engine via a torque tube, the engine/transmission arrangement enabled a 50-50% front-rear weight distribution. The LS1 engine initially produced 345 hp (257 kW), subsequently increased in 2001 to 350 hp (261 kW). The 4L60-Eautomatic transmission carried over from previous models, but the manual was replaced by a Borg-Warner T-56 6-speed capable of a 265 km/h (165 mph) top speed.[8] Relative to the C4, the new platform and structural design substantially reduced squeaks and rattles