nadirah9

Does a 1987 corvette automatically come with the Z51?

89onlyZ51

No, it was an option. Option codes can be found on the service parts identification label/sticker under the center console armrest cover.

nadirah9

Thank you I appreciate the reply. Would you say it's an important option?

CREWZIN

Things you get with the Z51 (as far as I know) are faster steering (lock to lock only needs two full turns), slightly different suspension (harder ride than the Z52) and I believe the Z51 only came with a manual trans ...but don't quote me on that.

Is it important? That's up to you. I love the way my Z52 handles and rides but I suppose if your into auto-cross or something like that, the Z51 would be better.

ex-x-fire

Yep, by that time the z51 option was paired with the 4+3 tranny.
Here's an article on the 87s.
http://www.caranddriver.com/features/vette-variations

nadirah9

Great article and thanks for the info, got my question answered.

C4gold

FWIW I have an 86 with the Z51 option and it is an automatic. Also my service parts option sticker is located in the storage compartment behind the seat.

kael

As a fellow '87/z52 owner, I agree! Nice car as well!

84wuzmy1st

Did Z51 cars stop coming in Automatic trim starting in 87? I guess another reason to love my 85 Z51.

KYC4

Interesting that the author noted that the car of choice (to order) would be a base coupe with the Bilsteins and 'vert body stiffners. My '88 is a base coupe with the DNE 4+3 that got the Bilsteins checked off. Perhaps the original owner of mine read the article and was on to something.

Later,

Lee

Kevova

Automatic transmission was popular with autocossers.z51 was only on coupes, the z51 was a better track car. Z52 was a better road car and available on convertible. Convertible bracing would make it's way into later models except x brace which remained only used on convertible. I'm sure showroom stock racing lead to bracing being added. X brace limits ability to lower car.