[Z06] question about design
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 58
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From: Salina Kansas
question about design
Why do you think GM hasn't made a Z06 with removable roof panels? Cuz I'd be all over that like white on rice! Do you think it has to do with the fact the Z06 puts out more HP and the hardtops are more stable and are better equipped to handle it? Just curious. But it would still be f*ckin' kick @ss if they made 1 and I owned it! 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 2,275
Likes: 5
From: Lake Oswego, Near Portland Oregon
One answer only....Increased total assembled chassis stiffness. .....but lots of Coupe owners are running Z springs, sways and even better shocks. I can feel the difference with my targe top removed, less control, not a lot mind you, but perceptable as you enter into a turn fast enough to slide around. I have ZO6 sways, bilstein Sports and BFG KDs, 255/40 in the front on 9.5 wide rims and 275/40s on the back, also on 9.5 inch. Much better than stock ..but I really need a set of ZO6 springs to finish it out. I know what you mean about top-off. I drove around all day in the sunshine, spent about 3 hours going to and fro on errands enjoying the air!
Pro
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 552
Likes: 0
From: Meadows Place Texas
The answer is... Higher Performance. Just like anti-sway bars, the fixed roof increases the stiffness of the chassis. Less chassis flex under load (lateral g's, acceleration, braking) means better handling.
FWIW, there are a couple of aftermarket shops out there that, for a fee, will turn your Z06 into a ragtop. It adds weight and reduces performance. However, it looks hot.
dave
FWIW, there are a couple of aftermarket shops out there that, for a fee, will turn your Z06 into a ragtop. It adds weight and reduces performance. However, it looks hot.
dave
Pro
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 645
Likes: 1
From: Hillsdale NJ
It was developed as a competition car, especially on road circuits. As a result stiffness is required.
Chevy, as you are aware, makes other models for those that need their cars for other needs, more refined driving, less noise, etc. etc.
Chevy, as you are aware, makes other models for those that need their cars for other needs, more refined driving, less noise, etc. etc.
Pro
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 532
Likes: 0
From: Chino Valley AZ
Originally Posted by deputy_dog1192
Why do you think GM hasn't made a Z06 with removable roof panels?
We've been ALL OVER this question in far more detail before.
Unfortunately, I can't get the search engine to work and provide links right now.
If you really want my opinions that I wrote, email me and I'll send you the text files of "my replies".
Four of them, with some overlap.
