C6 Corvette General Discussion General C6 Corvette Discussion not covered in Tech
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:

LS6 to an LS3??

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 02-23-2010, 02:46 PM
  #1  
JohnnyQ's Z06
Racer
Thread Starter
 
JohnnyQ's Z06's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 2008
Location: Bakersfield Ca
Posts: 346
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default LS6 to an LS3??

Hello fellas. I wanted to get some input on trading in my C5Z. Now I would really love to buy a C6Z but its out of my price range right now.
So I was debating on getting an 08 C6.
No I want to know from people who have made to switch,
Is the LS3 better than the LS6?
Also how do the suspensions compare from the C5Z to the C6?
Any reviews or suggestions would help out alot with my decision.
Old 02-23-2010, 02:47 PM
  #2  
EDinPA
Le Mans Master
 
EDinPA's Avatar
 
Member Since: Aug 2009
Location: Bucks Co. / outside Philadelphia PA
Posts: 5,437
Likes: 0
Received 4 Likes on 3 Posts
Default

Have you driven any yet?
Old 02-23-2010, 02:49 PM
  #3  
JohnnyQ's Z06
Racer
Thread Starter
 
JohnnyQ's Z06's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 2008
Location: Bakersfield Ca
Posts: 346
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

No I have not
Old 02-23-2010, 02:57 PM
  #4  
C6NRED
Le Mans Master
 
C6NRED's Avatar
 
Member Since: Apr 2006
Location: The Beautiful Inland Empire WA.
Posts: 5,933
Likes: 0
Received 11 Likes on 7 Posts
Default

My quick comment would be that the LS3 is 30 to 40 HP better than the LS6.......that, and the C6 is so much more refined than the C5 --- you need to go drive one back to back with you C5, then decide......
Old 02-23-2010, 02:59 PM
  #5  
JohnnyQ's Z06
Racer
Thread Starter
 
JohnnyQ's Z06's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 2008
Location: Bakersfield Ca
Posts: 346
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

Very true I need to get down to the dealership and test drive one.
Old 02-23-2010, 03:21 PM
  #6  
bob guzzy
Safety Car
 
bob guzzy's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jan 2006
Location: shavertown Pa.
Posts: 3,940
Received 41 Likes on 37 Posts

Default

Whatever you do don't go the auto trans route, I sold my c5Z and bought an 08 1lt with an auto. nice but it was still an auto and the gear ratio was disapointing.

I fixed that buy buying the gs with a standard trans, the 08 was nice and it was quick but the auto trans just didn't make it.

One thing you will notice is the idle is a little smoother on the ls3, I do miss the sound and slight rocking of the ls6, but the power is there.
Old 02-23-2010, 03:40 PM
  #7  
Thrillhouse
Racer
Support Corvetteforum!
 
Thrillhouse's Avatar
 
Member Since: Aug 2009
Location: WA
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

The Z51 package on the C6 was designed to match the capabilities of the C5Z, so a C6 with Z51 will probably be as capable as your C5, but with a nicer interior and ride.
Old 02-23-2010, 03:44 PM
  #8  
peter pan
Life Time NCM #2196

Support Corvetteforum!
 
peter pan's Avatar
 
Member Since: Sep 2004
Location: Converse TX
Posts: 81,771
Received 1,099 Likes on 810 Posts

Default

I have a 09 A6 with the LS3 and it rocks, I had the base suspension that I upgraded with Z51 bars and Koni FSD shocks that I took off my C5 and this combo rocks on our daily driver. The C6 with the Z51 package is firmer than the C5Z as the bars are bigger and the front is the same size as the C6Z. Oh the LS3 rocks and lots of TQ off idle to the end of the power band, you need to drive one to see if you really like the C6, I am glad I have one of each generation
Old 02-24-2010, 03:57 PM
  #9  
JohnnyQ's Z06
Racer
Thread Starter
 
JohnnyQ's Z06's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 2008
Location: Bakersfield Ca
Posts: 346
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

appreciate the input
Old 02-24-2010, 04:09 PM
  #10  
QUAKEJAKE
Le Mans Master
 
QUAKEJAKE's Avatar
 
Member Since: Dec 2007
Location: Milford NH
Posts: 5,740
Received 80 Likes on 54 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by Thrillhouse
The Z51 package on the C6 was designed to match the capabilities of the C5Z, so a C6 with Z51 will probably be as capable as your C5, but with a nicer interior and ride.
Stock for stock ,you'll find a more refined difference with a C6 w/Z51 suspension. More responsive power w/the LS3, better shifting, more precise steering feel and slightly better handling. Without the Z51 option the C5Z would handle slightly better.
Old 02-24-2010, 04:17 PM
  #11  
3 Z06ZR1
Team Owner
 
3 Z06ZR1's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2005
Location: salem OR
Posts: 20,936
Received 900 Likes on 742 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by peter pan
I have a 09 A6 with the LS3 and it rocks, I had the base suspension that I upgraded with Z51 bars and Koni FSD shocks that I took off my C5 and this combo rocks on our daily driver. The C6 with the Z51 package is firmer than the C5Z as the bars are bigger and the front is the same size as the C6Z. Oh the LS3 rocks and lots of TQ off idle to the end of the power band, you need to drive one to see if you really like the C6, I am glad I have one of each generation
I think the C-5Z is a stiffer ride than a Z-51!
Old 02-24-2010, 04:18 PM
  #12  
H2LS3
Pro
 
H2LS3's Avatar
 
Member Since: Dec 2007
Location: Minnetrista MN
Posts: 647
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

I've had a '04z , '08 coupe, and now an '09 Z06. Looking back I would NOT have gotten the '08 coupe. I really liked the C5Z and felt more raw and racey then the '08. The '08 was much more refined (C6s are a lot more refined and nicer driving then the C5 IMO). The LS3 is a great motor and is prob a hair quicker then the C5Z. I had the F55 though and the handling and feel of the car was a little numb compared to the C5Z. I havent driven a Z51, so maybe if I went that route my opinion would be different.

I too wanted the C6Z and I dont want to say I "settled" for the '08, but I kind of did. Since hindsight is 20/20 I would have waited and skipped the '08. It cost me a pretty penny to trade the '08 so soon after getting it.

IMO you should go drive a LS3 and see what you think, but if what you might want a z06 make sure you really like it.
Old 02-24-2010, 04:18 PM
  #13  
3 Z06ZR1
Team Owner
 
3 Z06ZR1's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2005
Location: salem OR
Posts: 20,936
Received 900 Likes on 742 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by bob guzzy
Whatever you do don't go the auto trans route, I sold my c5Z and bought an 08 1lt with an auto. nice but it was still an auto and the gear ratio was disapointing.

I fixed that buy buying the gs with a standard trans, the 08 was nice and it was quick but the auto trans just didn't make it.

One thing you will notice is the idle is a little smoother on the ls3, I do miss the sound and slight rocking of the ls6, but the power is there.
Old 02-24-2010, 07:58 PM
  #14  
samurai
Advanced
 
samurai's Avatar
 
Member Since: Sep 2002
Location: Amarillo Texas
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

I had a 2002 C5Z06 then went to a 2006 LS2 Z51 with 6 speed auto. Although the two cars were supposed to be comparable in speed and power, the gearing on the C5Z06 was more aggressive and seemed quicker than the C6 Z51. I missed the manual. The 30-36 HP advantage of the LS3 over the LS2 or C5Z is hard to beat and the difference is noticeable. But instead of buying a LS3 Grand Sport, I instead opted for a low mileage 2007 Z06 2LZ for a little less money than the GS LT1.
Old 02-25-2010, 04:05 PM
  #15  
nwc6
Melting Slicks
 
nwc6's Avatar
 
Member Since: May 2004
Posts: 3,017
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes on 2 Posts
Default

The rear spring rate on the C5Zis 714lbs compared to 645lbs on the C6 with Z51 option. I helped a friend by a C5 Z last spring, and actually drove it home for him. The ride is stiffer in the C5Z. The LS3/Z51 gearing pulls on the LS6 starting about mid 2nd and really opens the gap in 3rd.. My 3 LT car is 80lbs heavier than a 03 C5Z..This was with same amount of fuel, plus I have added 2 layers of Dyna mat to the hatch area.
Old 02-25-2010, 07:41 PM
  #16  
JTS97Z28
Melting Slicks
 
JTS97Z28's Avatar
 
Member Since: Nov 2003
Location: Plainfield, IL
Posts: 2,898
Received 5 Likes on 5 Posts

Default

For sure get the C6 LS3 you will never look back at the C5's. I to had a Z it was a 03. Then I bought a 05 C6 Z51 6spd. The car was soooo much more refined and the LS2 with Z51 6spd was closely matched performance wise. The C6 LS3 will be quicker than a C5Z.
Now a word of caution. DO NOT go test drive a C6Z because it will blow your mind and your going to want that!!! I bought a C6Z last week and the acceleration is mind blowing.

James
Old 02-25-2010, 08:00 PM
  #17  
3LZZ06
_"SCOTT"_
Support Corvetteforum!
 
3LZZ06's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2009
Location: South Florida
Posts: 6,874
Received 53 Likes on 43 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by JohnnyQ's Z06
Hello fellas. I wanted to get some input on trading in my C5Z. Now I would really love to buy a C6Z but its out of my price range right now.
So I was debating on getting an 08 C6.
No I want to know from people who have made to switch,
Is the LS3 better than the LS6?
Also how do the suspensions compare from the C5Z to the C6?
Any reviews or suggestions would help out alot with my decision.
Let me start by saying that I loved my C5Z Z16 but I got a great deal on a new C6Z "MONSTER" and never looked back. The car is by far the best thing I've ever experienced on 4 wheels.

With that said, if you think you want a C6Z, go out there and test drive one against a C6 with the Z51 option if possible. When you finish comparing and decide on the Z, just be patient until all of your ducks are in a row financially, do your shopping for the bargains that are out there and go for it!!! (you won't be sorry)

If you buy something less than what you "really" want...you'll pay for it in the end in many ways!!!

Good luck with your search...

Get notified of new replies

To LS6 to an LS3??

Old 02-25-2010, 10:02 PM
  #18  
Chets LS3
Melting Slicks
 
Chets LS3's Avatar
 
Member Since: Apr 2009
Location: Lake Charles Louisiana
Posts: 2,432
Received 77 Likes on 62 Posts

Default

I also had an 03 Z

I now have an 08 base LS3

03 Z weighed 3040 lbs without me
08 C6 weighed 3160lbs without me

now as far as handling the Z outhandled the LS3, but Im a non Z51. All my z51/suspension stuff will be in tomm.

power: IMO 1st gear was more aggressive in the Z, top end would run circles around the z06. These are stock for stock comparisons imo.

better car, c6 Ls3, interior is the ****!
Old 02-25-2010, 10:11 PM
  #19  
JerriVette
Race Director
 
JerriVette's Avatar
 
Member Since: Nov 2003
Location: Bergen county NJ
Posts: 15,826
Received 3,948 Likes on 2,177 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by JohnnyQ's Z06
Hello fellas. I wanted to get some input on trading in my C5Z. Now I would really love to buy a C6Z but its out of my price range right now.
So I was debating on getting an 08 C6.
No I want to know from people who have made to switch,
Is the LS3 better than the LS6?
Also how do the suspensions compare from the C5Z to the C6?
Any reviews or suggestions would help out alot with my decision.
had a C5 Z06 and bought a c6 z51 with the ls3..

As great as the LS3 and the C6 is.....I have to say....Keep your C5 Z06 and don't look bad..

If I had to do it over again? I'd just replace the LS6 in my C5 Z06 and call it a day...

Again...I dig the LS3 C6 Z51 with NPP....but the C5 Z06 is more of a raw race car for the street..

The C6 Z51 with NPP M6 is a luxury car compared to the c5 z06.. More torquey motor.. and I swapped out the runflats for a set of hankook evo's and the car rides even better..

I miss my C5 Z06 and don't recommend you buy an ls3 C6...to replace your ride...

The C6 Z51 ls3 with M6 is the better street car...better daily driver...but for B@lls out fun? No question in my mind.... the C5 Z06 was the better choice..IMO

HTH

Last edited by JerriVette; 02-25-2010 at 10:16 PM.
Old 02-25-2010, 10:14 PM
  #20  
JTS97Z28
Melting Slicks
 
JTS97Z28's Avatar
 
Member Since: Nov 2003
Location: Plainfield, IL
Posts: 2,898
Received 5 Likes on 5 Posts

Default

^^^ Wow thats for sure different from what most here say. I have had both as well and couldnt imagine myself back in a C5. To each his own I guess


Quick Reply: LS6 to an LS3??



All times are GMT -4. The time now is 05:39 PM.