andy1

Hi all, first time poster here. I've been doing research in preparation for a decision I plan to make in a few months-- do I get a C7 and supercharge it with the upcoming Callaway package, or do I get a C6 ZR1? First world problems, I know. This would be a weekend ride with occasional track use.

The C7 is about $70,000 with the options I want, plus I figure the Callaway package will be $25,000-$30,000 and add 150-200 horsepower. Call it $100,000 even. If we're comparing with the base ZR1, that leaves $15,000 for other upgrades and accessories, like carbon ceramic brakes. The way I see it, if I spent $115,000 I would end up with a C7 that has around the same horsepower as the ZR1 and the same brakes and tires, plus a bunch of racing accessories.

Or I could get a stock ZR1, but I would have no money left for extras. The factory warranty would be a big plus. Downside would be outdated technology and a questionable interior compared to the C7.

What should I do?

Gary '09 C6

I wouldn't say that the LS9 is "outdated technology," as there is not yet a "counterpart C7" high-performance model.
The pending specifications of the latter, if/when such a model is released, is still unknown...

Callaway is known to warranty their builds, so you'd likely have warranty either way.

Either would be an excellent choice, but the two cars would not be the same. This also assumes that the new
Callaway C7 package is as stout as their C6 packages.

FWIW, I really like my 3ZR interior. The new C7 interior looks like a very nice upgrade, but I've not yet seen
one in person.

mrrrkva

I have been thinking of this alot lately. The C6 ZR1 is an excellent value used for about 75k! However, let Calloway supercharge a c7 z51 package, WOW! Stiffer chassis, possibly more HP. Weight concerns me though. I got a 1lt package, hoping to save some weight. Lots to consider

kozmic

Adding my $.02, so take it as worth that....lol

I can absolutely see the OP's dilemma... They say that the C7 as shipped in base form is safely strong enough for more power (chassis, etc), and coupled with the Callaway package, that would be one very nice ride! There is always the exclusivity and/or notoriety argument, but the Callaway badge carries just as much of that as the ZR1.

For this particular "vs", I think it comes down to one's personal taste in looks, external and internal... I would be proud to own/drive either, but I personally prefer the looks of the ZR1 (wide body, wide tires, etc).

I think you will be super happy with and very proud of either one...

eta: The one thing that I would do some research on is longevity of the LT1 with the Callaway package added. I have not researched it, but I would hope they are doing some forged internals and lowering the compression a bit before just slapping on a supercharger? While there are indeed safe upper limits and windows of safely adding power to play with, one thing the ZR1 has going for it is that the LS9 was built with FI in mind from the get-go...

mammoth713

I would buy whatever one looks better to you given they are both great cars.. buy the one that you like looking at the most, seriously.

OnPoint

Hhmm. Tough call. And don't forget the upcoming Z model C7, which might be around the same price as a decently optioned Callaway. So now you have three of them to compare.

If you like the 7 but are intrigued by the new C7 Z hi-po variant coming down the line (and whether is has any widebody styling), then waiting to at least see what it looks like might be worthwhile. Of course, as Gary pointed out above, we know close to nothing about its specs, hp etc.

I have a Callaway GS and a C6 ZR1. I'm looking forward to seeing what Callaway does with the 7, as well as what the new Z variant of the 7 is all about. Don't need 3 vettes, so if I go with one of them, then my current Callaway gets sold or traded for the new Callaway or new Z. But my ZR1 stays. I love that car. I enjoy the Callaway as well, but if I get a 7, one of them has to go (I've got other rides in the garage as well, and 5 cars are all that'll fit). The ZR is simply a masterful machine. But, a Callaway package on the 7 would likely be very close in performance (we're still waiting on them to announce perf specs) and maybe even superior in perf. Plus you'd have the new body style and interior if you like those. And I assume the Callaway package will fully integrate with the new PTM system, e-diff, etc of the 7, all systems that have been improved over the C6. Thus, I wouldn't be shocked if a Callaway 7 actually outperforms the C6 ZR. We'll have to wait and see. And we'll have to wait to see what the new C7 Z is all about and looks like. The flip side is you can probably pick up a C6 ZR for significantly less than a loaded Callaway C7, and have a tremendously impressive sports car. The ZR really is an impressive machine and is proving out to bullet-proof reliable as well.

Not much help I know. I don't think you could make a mistake either way.

kozmic

Absolutely this ^^

musclecar6

Everyone knows the C6 ZR1 is the ultimate street super car. As Tadge said quite well however, the C6 is now obsolete cause the C7 is such a quantum leap forward. Go with the Callaway. You know they will do it right and downstream when GM comes out with a Z variant that rings your bell, you can always go in that direction at the time. Most of us vette junkies do with vettes what some guys do with women. No matter how happy they are with their present love, they are always looking for the next hot item( vettes are cheaper).

0Callaway Chris

Thank you for considering the Callaway Corvette in your purchase options

2vetteEd

Options in a ZR1! What options? I had a 2010 with everything but the kitchen sink. What options are you referring to?

I've had two Callaways. The SC580 in 2009, and now a 2011 Grand Sport SC606. I also had a 2010 ZR1. I loved them all, but I love my Callaway the best. You might find out that GM doesn't plan on producing a C7 ZR1. The bean counter's as well as the new CAFE standards will likely kill any new "Supercar".

pcguy2u

djpatrick35

Like you I've been STRONGLY considering a used ZR1 or even a loaded up 427 Convertible or a Callaway C7. Now, I've wanted a Callaway my entire life (basically since the B2K cars were around when I was a kid) but the idea of having a barely used ZR1 or a 427 with all the goodies for the same price has been quite tempting.

However, I have to believe that the C7 is going to be a quantum leap in terms of quality and even if I have to skimp on a few options to afford the Callaway package, it'll be well worth it because of the interior and the electronics.

So I'm thinking I'm ordering a:

Callaway 3LT (hopefully) or 2LT (probably) Artic White Coupe
Black Aluminum Rims w/ Red Brake Calipers
7 spd Manual Z51
Adrenaline Red Interior w/ Carbon Fiber Interior Trim
Carbon Fiber Roof
Magnetic Ride

Now, Callaway Chris, GIMME MORE INFO!!! Namely, will the costs be in line the SC606 package or the SC652 package or more?

0Callaway Chris

I hear you! As one who has personally owned four Callaways over the years, I've loved them all! Especially the AeroBody B2K

Pricing and addl. details will be released VERY soon to our dealers. We're working hard to deliver, exceeding expectations on all accounts Thank you for considering Callaway

CORVETTEZL1001

Get the C7 with the new technology and the Callaway Package.

Destrukt

I would wait for the new C7"Z" coming out next year. Price would be right and you will have the upgraded chassis, suspension, tranny? , clutch?, and brakes. Supercharge that beast and watch how many heads you'll turn at a car meet. A S/C C7 Stingray is nice and all, but I'll be drooling over the C7Z that is S/C even over the C6 ZR1. Just my opinion though....

I'm bias though, because I am waiting for the C7 Hi-Po model.

FAUEE

That Aerowagon is badass. The profile reminds me a lot of the Ferrari FF, which is also badass.

jnv255

couple different HP and body packages from Hennessey

http://www.hennesseyperformance.com/cost.html

C7pimp

I'll just SC my base C7 to 600whp and be done with it. All for less than $60K.

Destrukt

Also, what about Lingenfelter?

Destrukt

Hopefully warranty won't be an issue for you. Personally, I'd be scared to S/C my stingray as a first year model...wait until all the issues and recalls are dished out first. Just my .02 cents.