RedSkull3000

the c6 z06 is my favorite, though I still like the c6 base a lot. I was wandering if I should buy a c6 ls2 or ls3 coupe first, since it's significantly cheaper than the z06. Or should I save up more, and buy the z06. Which would be best? ls2, ls3 or ls7 z06?

capevettes

I've owned base and Z06 models and currently have a C6 Z06. If roof off motoring isn't important to you, go with the Z06. It's a completely different animal both in handling and acceleration.

JerriVette

As an owner of a c6 z51 m6 and it's been a great car....still if your asking for advice....I'd recommend the c6 z06.

I wouldn't be afraid of mileage. These things are validated for 300k miles,

Of course if you want roof off motoring then get the 2008 c6 coupe z51 m6 with npp exhaust..

Jmo

JoesC5

If you prefer the aggressive styling of the Z06 and having a Z51 but with the huge Z06 brakes/wheels/tires, and like the targa top or even a convertible, then consider getting a Grand Sport(for less money than a Z06) and drive it for a while. Then, if you feel 436 HP isn't enough, install either an Edelbrock E-Force or a Magnuson Heartbeat supercharger on it(for 600+ HP), after you have saved up the additional money.

Getting the very reliable LS3 in the GS will save you around $3,000(approximate cost to do the heads on the Z06's LS7) that can then be applied towards the supercharger.

bob guzzy

All LS7's have valve guide problems, keep that in mind, just go to you tube and look for LS7 head problems.

If you don't mind removing the heads every 10K and spending a good buck on guides then buy one, otherwise I would buy an LS2 or LS3 any day.

kverges

My 2008 C6z gave me no trouble with valve guides and I know others with no problem.

hawkgfr

BS......and if they did have the valve guide problem once its not a reoccurring problem after the upgrade. geez Luise.




OP get the z06 an 08 or later....imo. I've had four base c6's and they all were good BUT I wish I had a c6 z....its on the list.

NytmereZ

Get any year c6 Z, have the heads done, do a cam while you are at it and call it a day, you will hate yourself for not going with the better looking, much faster car.

White Out

I've considered a C6Z multiple times and never considered the base car. The bodywork and motor are big pluses for me.

billyboy47

I have a 012 GS but would rather have the Z any day in the week. I very seldom drive with my top off so for me it doesn't matter.

Leon.

If you can afford it, meaning everything being more expensive on the C6Z, then it is a easy choice. But if you are looking for a value, the standard c6 or even a GS is still offers great performance for the dollar.

JoesC5

What if your GS had 125 more horsepower than the Z06 and yet it drove like it now does?

billyboy47

even 75 more hp would be sufficient.

JoesC5

Instead of spending $3,000 for a head job on a Z06, spend another $6,000(you will save more than that buying a GS over a Z06) for a Magnuson Heartbeat supercharger and end up with another 125 HP(over the 505 HP Z06).

And the supercharger will have the mild street manners of a stock LS3, but the low end torque will surely impress you when you want to play around.

I have a Z06 that I love, but for the money, a supercharged GS coupe is hard to beat. Except for the front fenders and wheel design, there is no difference in appearance between the GS and the Z06, and the additional 125 horses(over the Z06) under the hood more than make up for the heavier steel frame in the GS.

For the OP, he can get into a GS today(vs saving up for a Z06) and then add the supercharger later(after saving up the money while driving his GS in the meantime).

JerriVette

The ls7 valve guide occurance is less then one half of one percent.

Most aftermarket testing of valve guide issues was done incorrectly which incorrectly showed the heads needed a refresh benefiting the company to sell refreshed heads,

There were so many heads that were refreshed that didn't need them that it actually makes the c 6 z06 an impressive preowned vehicle to purchase.

The false testing procedures as well as the interweb negative concerns makes the c6 z06 the one to buy...as long as you don't mind not being able to take the roof.

Since I love taking the roof off...I don't have a c6 z06. For me it's really become a large part of enjoyment of owning a corvette. I keep the roof off all summer and a good part of the spring and fall.

As I get older the more I enjoy the roof off driving experience...

But if I didn't...no question the c6 z06 is the sports car I'd buy. I also wouldn't worry about mileage...I'd go higher mileage and lower price. I like to use my cars

capevettes

I agree completely on your assessment of the "head issue". Myself and many others drive these cars with no issues and haven't touched the heads. The sky isn't falling but the internet myths have affected the values of these cars.

~Josh

As your only car? LS2 or LS3

Otherwise Zo6. I have both a c5z and c6z and personally I'd prefer the c5z as a daily driver over them all. Hard to explain.

SLO VETTE

Get the Z.

Makes for better bench racing.

Crabbers

ZR1

sam90lx

I have had 3 C6's in the last 5 years, Started with a base, then a GS, now my current Z06......should have just done the Z06 from the start.