99vettewsnc

Greetings Everyone,

It has been a while since I have posted but I have recently sold my C5 and now in the market for a new car. I am considering the Z06, Grand Sport, and the ZL1. I know this has been discussed but wanted to get some fresh view points and opinions. I owned my C5 for almost 12 years and only took it to the track (VIR) 3 times. I would like to take the new car to the track but by no means would I consider it a track car. Main purpose for the car would be to enjoy on the weekends and drive to work when the weather is nice. Not a daily driver but also not a garage queen.

Z06 - I can afford the car but would not be able get all the options if I were to get the Grand Sport or ZL1. Some options I would have to have would be 2LZ Package, 7 Speed Manual, carbon flash painted ground effects, and competition seats. No PDR or Nav to save costs. Budget would be around 80K from a forum dealer. So basically a Z06 with less options.

Grand Sport – Similar options as Z06, maybe with PDR and Nav, 2LT package, carbon fiber interior trim, dual top option, red calipers. Not interested in the Z07 package with either car. Probably around 70K with the GS.

ZL1- Not sure if I would go with the 6 Speed Manual or 10 speed auto. The C5 I had was a 6 speed and I enjoy rowing through the gears like most people do. But I have heard great things about the 10 speed auto. Could get the ZL1 for mid 60’s and save some money. There are visibility issues with the ZL1, but I guess one would get used to it after owning the car.

Removable top – Z06 and Grand Sport has it, ZL does not. I would miss this option.

Gas Mileage…..I know I know, but it is something to consider since I plan on driving the car on more than just weekends. The ZL1 has the worst MPG of the three cars but cost less. The Grand Sport has the best MPG numbers (but lacks the LT4), and the Z06 falls in the middle.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find....37871&id=37870

I am posting this in the Z06 and C7 general forums to get a different perspective from both owners.

thegame

If I am keeping them stock or bolt ons I'd go Camaro. If I planned to mod I would go vette.

GR Jay

Have you considered looking for a low mileage used? There are several Z06's in the classifieds with ridiculously low miles that could probably be had for what you would pay for a new GS.

thill444

The Z06 sounds like overkill to me based on your needs and the Grand Sport really seems like it would check the boxes.

ZL1 offers a ton of performance but, for me, it comes down to the exterior and visibility and I much prefer the Corvette. But this is a personal thing.

One thing to consider is to look into low mileage Z06's. There are lots of them out there for reduced prices so you might score one for a GS price.

Michael A

I have a C5, and have driven a number of late model Camaros. I'm not sure you would be happy going from a Corvette to a Camaro. The 6th Gen Camaro is nice, but it still doesn't have that sitting low, sports car feel you get in the Corvette. I have been trying to convince myself to get a new Camaro, but I'm just not getting there. For me, I would go for the Z06, even without the extra options. I think you would forget all about a few options after getting the amazing driving experience of the Z06.

Michael

ersatz928

Get a Grand Sport...Z06 is overkill....and why buy a Camaro if you can afford a C7?

joemosfet

The ZL1 is one hellova car.

mountainears

Based on how you described it, GS

WaxWeekly

Do you have kids? Back seat can make or break the ZL1

If the Z06 is a stretch where options can put the car out of reach, I recommend the GS.

The cost of ownership on the Z06 is going to be significant between insurance, gas, tires, and track days. You never know what's going to sneak up on you and put a dent in the budget.

The GS is going to have all the handling and street-able performance. While it's not quite the adrenaline dispenser of the Z06, it's a wonderful track toy and great for groceries and tooling around town.

Sometimes you have to live for today, but not at the expense of tomorrow. Only you can measure that limit.

EDIT - Added note... I used to have a 2000 Z28. Hated the build quality and plastics in the interior. If that doesn't bother you, the ZL1 is a helluva bargain.

joemosfet

^The 6th gen Camaro's interior quality is much better than the 4th or 5th gen cars, on par with a 1LT C7 Corvette, imho.

Phanni

In your situation I'd do the GS. It is considered by many, to be as good as the Z06, for all but the most demanding racing. I'd do the Camaro only if I needed the back seat.

dvilin

Z06 the most important option is under the hood and it is the top of the line Corvette. Nothing against the Camaro but after owning a Corvette for me it would feel/seem like a step down.

Red C8 of Jax

ZO6 without a doubt!!!

Davids65

For me is wasn't even a question I went with the GS with all the options I wanted!

C5North

It was an easy choice for me.
.

BJ67

Depends on what the main purpose for the car is, GS is a non overpowered manageable track monster, the A10 ZL1 will be a blast on the street and the 1/4 mile for about 15 thou less than the Z06

Mordeth

All 3 are superb cars. You could pick one out of a hat and be "right". That said, you need to narrow it down to two cars.

The GS is a excellent sports car, and does exactly what it is supposed to do. I love the GS and if the Z06 didn't exist I would own one. That said, there is nothing a GS can do on the street that a Z06 can't. But the opposite is not true. Never met a Z06 owner that wishes he had a GS. Being that you have to rule out something, I would take the "least of the best" and rule out the GS. The Z06 wins here in everything but price.

So you have Z06 vs ZL1. ZL1 is also a fantastic car. I have owned 8 Camaros, and loved them all. But no Camaro compares to a Corvette. Not in looks, not in styling, not in feel. The Vette is a show-stopper. It is borderline an exotic supercar. It is the pinnacle of American sports cars (and plus this is a Vette forum ). Vette wins.

So there you have it. Buy a discounted 2016 or 2017 Z06, with 2LZ, Competition seats, Carbon Flash ground effects and the M7 manual (no brainer on the manual - unless you are old or disabled).

p3pilot

I owned a Camaro for 6 years and never got used to being blind. So much happier with the Vette.

Bunk

Z51 M7 is my choice for touring and going to the beach. GS is ok, too.

mpuzach

Why start two identical threads?

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...amaro-zl1.html