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C6 Z51 vs C6 Standard Handling Package

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Old 02-10-2005, 09:28 PM
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Noleman
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Default C6 Z51 vs C6 Standard Handling Package

I'd like some opinions...

How much "harsher/stiffer" is the Z51's ride. I will mostly use this car for cruising; maybe take it to the track 2-4 times per year.

Is the Z51 noticably stiffer than the regular C6 (with the performance axle - I know this doesn't affect ride) when you hit the average pothole and other road bumps???

How different are they on the track as well?
Old 02-10-2005, 10:05 PM
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ivan111
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Originally Posted by Noleman
I'd like some opinions...

How much "harsher/stiffer" is the Z51's ride. I will mostly use this car for cruising; maybe take it to the track 2-4 times per year.

Is the Z51 noticably stiffer than the regular C6 (with the performance axle - I know this doesn't affect ride) when you hit the average pothole and other road bumps???

How different are they on the track as well?
From what i have heard the Z51 is not much stiffer than the base setup actually testers have complain that it lacks some body control.....
Old 02-10-2005, 10:27 PM
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redvetteC6
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All I know is that I got the Z51 and wouldn't have any other way. Feels stiff but not uncomfotably bumpy. Plus the other extras are a great bang for the buck. I don't know if it's the tires or noise reduction, but rough roads sound terrible, easily fixed with the little **** on the radio, VOLUME!
Old 02-10-2005, 11:53 PM
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Short-Throw
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I not sure stiff is the right word. I think communicative better sums up the Z51. And no, it's not too 'stiff'.
Old 02-10-2005, 11:53 PM
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N2DEEP
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I just traded my C6 base suspension in on a Z51 package there is a noticable difference but if I would have never had the base suspension I wouldnt be able to tell. The ride is still quite and nice
Old 02-11-2005, 01:59 AM
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SA734
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My C6 with Z-51 , MN6, lowered rides the same or better than my C5 with base suspension. Would not order a Vette without it. Anticipated track time: 0
Old 02-11-2005, 02:00 AM
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If you even have the slightest inclination of ever taking that car to the track then get the Z51...it's a no brainer.

I bought mine with MN6 and Z51 because it's a sports car.
Old 02-11-2005, 02:27 AM
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LS WON
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Default Go with the F-55 option Magnetic Ride Suspension

Originally Posted by Noleman
I'd like some opinions...

How much "harsher/stiffer" is the Z51's ride. I will mostly use this car for cruising; maybe take it to the track 2-4 times per year.

Is the Z51 noticably stiffer than the regular C6 (with the performance axle - I know this doesn't affect ride) when you hit the average pothole and other road bumps???

How different are they on the track as well?
Old 02-11-2005, 06:30 AM
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THECORVETTEMANN
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Default Standard suspension is 99.9% ok.....

This topic gets discussed often. I ordered my C6 WITHOUT the Z51 option package, and I am very pleased.
The base suspension is very compliant over uneven roads, quiet and the brakes don't squeek. I think the handling is excellent and stopping power is terrific. The base tires will last longer, and from what I'm told, they will perform better in winter weather. (I have no clue as I live in Miami, where today we will have the coldest day of the year at 45 degrees for a few morning hours)
For 99.9% of us who will never take the car to track, I doubt that you'll need the Z51 setup.
Old 02-11-2005, 07:19 AM
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I've owned a 99 with the base suspension and now a 03 Z upgraded with better 04 Sachs shocks. Have no doubt that the Z's FE4 suspension and Z51 are world class and can be used as a daily driver with ZERO sacrifice, unless you track the car or drive at 9/10th's on public roads your not going to miss the suspension. Now for you C6 folks the tighter gearing of the transmission and upgraded brakes makes the package worth it all by them selves.

But since you can't pick and choose these individual options, I'd get the Z51 for the reasons stated, you won't regret it. The added benefit of the suspension is a bonusm but it's the gearing and brakes that you'll appreciate with every drive.

Tom
Old 02-11-2005, 07:23 AM
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c606
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It's a bargin for $1495. For about the same price as polished wheels .
Old 02-11-2005, 07:26 AM
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bangbgC6
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I bought base. I've ridden in the Z-51 equipped cars. They aren't harsh, get the Z-51!
Old 02-11-2005, 07:40 AM
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TRAIL BOSS
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Originally Posted by N2DEEP
I just traded my C6 base suspension in on a Z51 package there is a noticable difference but if I would have never had the base suspension I wouldnt be able to tell. The ride is still quite and nice
Can't speak to the base, but my C6 Z-51 vs my C5 Z-51 is a much nicer ride. If you plan track days, in my opinion the Z-51 is the way to go!
Old 02-11-2005, 10:09 AM
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sal3coach
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Ride is not the only issue, If you go to the track once (even a track that is straight) you will want the Z51. It goes and stopc better too.
Old 02-11-2005, 10:15 AM
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The look of Cross Drill rotors with the Z-51 package is worth the money.
Old 02-11-2005, 10:16 AM
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LS WON
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Default This is true

Originally Posted by THECORVETTEMANN
This topic gets discussed often. I ordered my C6 WITHOUT the Z51 option package, and I am very pleased.
The base suspension is very compliant over uneven roads, quiet and the brakes don't squeek. I think the handling is excellent and stopping power is terrific. The base tires will last longer, and from what I'm told, they will perform better in winter weather. (I have no clue as I live in Miami, where today we will have the coldest day of the year at 45 degrees for a few morning hours)
For 99.9% of us who will never take the car to track, I doubt that you'll need the Z51 setup.
Old 02-11-2005, 10:18 AM
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Violet
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if in doubt... get the Z51. it's NOT "stiff" and it's sooo much more than just shocks and springs.
Old 02-11-2005, 10:55 AM
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catbert
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I can't notice a difference with the C6 Z51 and my base C5. I think a lot of that is the run-flat tire improvements.

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