Rave

Hello all. This is my first post. After wanting a Corvette for many years, (and as with many of us... life throwing every possible financial obstacle in the way of having fun), I'm finally at a point in life where I can purchase one. I'm planning on buying a used C6. I'm pondering the decision between the standard model and the ZO6.

I'm aware of the technical and physical differences between the models, (aluminum vs steel space frame, power differences, tires, 1/4 mile times, etc). My questions are more aimed at noted performance and fun factor between the two models, for the average joe driver like myself.

I'd be interested in hearing from those of you who have been lucky enough to drive both standard and ZO6 models, to provide comparisons between the two. Can you really feel the difference between 400hp (or 430) and 505hp? And given the difference in price (and I assume insurance rates), and setting the ego factor aside, is the fun factor of the ZO6 worth the extra $$$?

And for you that bought one or the other - what drove your decision?

Also are there any particular model year C6's I should steer away from (tech problems)?

Any opinions or help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

ZBoater

There is nothing quite like driving topless. After 400hp and 0 to speed limit in 3 seconds, anything over that (outside of a race track) is pointless...

IMHO.

1FASTVERT

Except you could add a supercharger and get the 400 hp up over the Z06 and have the best of both worlds!!!!

Eppieguy

Z06 is a great car but you need to think about what you will be doing with the car, where do you live, what type of roads will you be driving on, will you be tracking the car. If you're looking for just a fun and fast cruiser a base coupe with the removable top is your best option IMO and you have plenty of options to upgrade the power. If you want to race, track and have a faster car a Z06 is the way to go but you lose the removable top and I wouldn't want a Vette unless it was a coupe or vert, well unless it was a ZR1, i'd suffer though that if I had to. Just think about what you want to do with the car and you'll basically answer your own question.

Just my .02

dgrant3830

I've got both a C-5 and C-6, both coupes. I've never driven a Z06 or ZR1 but frankly, any of these cars will give you a thrill you just can't compare with. Any of the Corvettes will leave a large grin on your face when you get out of it. Get whatever you can afford and enjoy.

sweeper

2008 and up best warranty.NPP exhaust alot of fun. Z06 top does not come off.I enjoy an adult beverage at end of day, wife can't drive straight shift, so we have automatic.There are many options and colors,its just what you want and how much you can spend. We started with a 2005 Artic White Z51 and now have a 2010 Torch Red Grand Sport. The GS is awesome.Whatever you choose, post pics,

Rave

Wanted to add. I have no plans for the track. Mostly planning to cruise eastern North Carolina country roads, and the occasional Vet rally.

Torchsport

GS will give you more than you need. If you want used, 2010 was the 1st year of the current example. That being said, you will be more than satisfied with a" standard" Coupe, as well.

Eppieguy

What is a straight shift?

ZBoater

Then the base model is great for you, or a GS if you like the wide body look. Either one you cant go wrong!

Larry/car

I have driven both the standard 2006 cp and the 2006 Z06. You can feel the power difference. I have a 2006 Cp. LT3 six speed manual, with the F55 suspension. I have the standard brakes, they added bigger drilled rotors in 2007. I have never had any brake fade issues with the standard system. GM increased the the horsepower by 30 with the 2008 model. The 2005 is the first year the C6 was produced and there are some differences that some don't like.

jackhall99

aka manual.

Eppieguy

Never heard it called that before, I guess ya learn something new everyday.

sweeper

Mechanic all my life, guess my age is showing.

jackhall99

Any base coupe will meet your needs in spades.

The first year (2005) had a few recalls, but the issues should have been addressed by now. The 2006 or up is a better choice in many folks mind.

The vert and higher option packages are up to you and your budget. But the basic C6 will put a grin on your face, and scare the hell out of you if you are not careful.

jackhall99

Hey, ya gotta be 68 to know these old terms.

laconiajack

What you want is the standard Vette; NOT the Grand Sport which is intended for autocrossing on smooth parking lots in dry Summer conditions, but which is less suitable for your intended use.

ZBoater

Or unless you like a big booty... (which is why I bough my GS...)

Eppieguy

If I knew on Sept 08 when I ordered my 09 that 10 was gonna offer the GS I would have waited, if you can get a GS I'd do it!

Rebel Yell

Sweeper, that's what I was thinking. BTW, I knew exactly what you were talking about

OP, I agree with ZBOATER. There's nothing like a drop top on a sunny day in the North Carolina mountains. I speak from the experience of the Blue Ridge Parkway, my lovely Wife, and a great Corvette convertible on a perfect day.