Fan Friday: Steve Nelson’s 2002 C5 Corvette “Red Rita”

This week’s CorvetteStoreOnline.com Fan Friday highlights a Corvette that’s built for thrills, courtesy of Steve Nelson from Ankeny, Iowa!

Nicknamed “Red Rita”, Steve and his wife Christy’s 2002 C5 Corvette Convertible is more than just a car — it’s a show-stopping piece of Corvette passion. This custom build has been displayed at shows all across the state of Iowa, where it has earned well over 150 awards, each a testament to the detail, creativity, and pride that went into making it one of a kind.

One of the most striking custom touches is the hood graphic, designed by Steve in collaboration with a designer. It’s not only bold in appearance, but it also pays tribute to Corvette heritage: look closely and you’ll see a red line pointing to 175 mph, which was the top speed of the 2002 Corvette. It’s a detail that Corvette fans appreciate — subtle, accurate, and perfectly integrated into the design.

Beyond the exterior, Red Rita boasts extensive custom work throughout. The engine bay has been meticulously dressed with polished and painted accents, echoing the car’s vibrant red exterior. Inside, the cabin is equally impressive, featuring custom red seating and trim pieces that continue the bold theme. From every angle — under the hood, inside the cockpit, or across the show floor — Red Rita leaves an impression.

But what truly makes this Corvette special isn’t just the modifications or the awards. It’s the fact that Red Rita reflects the passion and dedication of its owners. Steve and Christy have turned their 2002 C5 into something unforgettable, a Corvette that stands proudly as a symbol of creativity and love for the brand.

While some of their upgrades are one-of-a-kind, you can capture a similar look and feel with Corvette accessories available at CorvetteStoreOnline.com.

• Corvette Wind Deflectors – A standout feature on Red Rita, this custom wind restrictor keeps top-down driving comfortable while adding a sleek, personalized touch. Shop Wind Restrictors ›

• Polished Engine Bay Covers & Trim – From valve covers to coil covers, polished or painted accents transform the engine bay into a showpiece. Shop Custom Engine Accessories ›

• Custom Interior Trim & Seat Accents – Red Rita’s interior pops with bold custom seating and trim. You can get the same wow factor with interior trim kits, seat covers, and headrest options. Shop Interior Accessories ›

• Corvette Logo Floor Mats – Tie your interior theme together with logo floor mats that add both protection and style. Shop Floor Mats ›

• Decals, Stripes & Emblem Overlays – Red Rita’s hood graphic tells a story. Add your own personality with stripes, decals, and emblem overlays designed for Corvette pride. Shop Decals & Overlays ›

Bring a touch of Red Rita’s show-car style to your own Corvette—explore these accessories and more today at CorvetteStoreOnline.com!

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