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Hatchback vs. FRC: any major reasons to buy one or the other?

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Old 08-15-2006, 01:10 AM
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Conv389drv
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Default Hatchback vs. FRC: any major reasons to buy one or the other?

Are there any major reasons why you would choose the coupe over the hatchback, or vice versa? I read that the FRC is supposed to be a bit lighter and stiffer; does it make any noticeable difference?

Also, on the coupe, is the roof really part of the car's main structure, as in, no part of it removable? It looks like if so, it would be much more water proof than the targa-top roofs. I don't know if I could get past the styling of the FRC though; the hatchback looks more sleek to my eyes.



Old 08-15-2006, 01:18 AM
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Gonzo
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Its a beauty's in the eye of the beholder thing to me. I love the lines of the FRC, and when I had my 96 with a targa, I never took it off, but the glass top was great.

Also the interiors are set up smewhat different, and if you are talking about a Z, the coupe has better interior with sport seats etc.

The FRC is that a "Fixed Roof Coupe" and is about 12 % stiffer, that does affect ride, but unless you alooking for the maximum performance the coupe is more than most will ever need.

I went with the Z but have been in a really beuatiful 2002 EB coupe with and automatic, that just blew me away, it was so nice. Made me wonder about my choice. (Blademakers new ride)

Go with what gives you the best "Wow" factor, granted its really close for most of us, or get one of each !!!
Old 08-15-2006, 01:36 AM
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Conv389drv
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Originally Posted by Gonzo
Go with what gives you the best "Wow" factor, granted its really close for most of us, or get one of each !!!

One of each?? Right now I'll be happy when I can get just ONE.
Old 08-15-2006, 01:40 AM
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Gonzo
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Originally Posted by Conv389drv
One of each?? Right now I'll be happy when I can get just ONE.
I know that feeling well, good luck picking the one that "WOWS" you.

Gonzo
Old 08-15-2006, 01:49 AM
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Conv389drv
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Thanks!
Old 08-15-2006, 02:15 AM
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TroutFisher
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If your gonna mod it, I think it comes down to looks, and personal taste. They all can be as fast as you want, and can afford..
That aside the coupe has a bit more rear storage room.
Either way you will be happy....
Old 08-15-2006, 03:00 AM
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Fastin4th
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My vote is for the FRC for one major reason: lack of flex in the vehicle which translates to a better ride and much better handling, IMHO.

Drive a hatch, a vert and an FRC and you will understand when I say: frame flexing, squeaking and excess noise. The FRC seems much better qualified to handle mods with less noise and flexing.

The lines of the FRC are more attractive, in my eyes, also.
Old 08-15-2006, 07:35 AM
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Tom/99
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Since I travel in my C5, I went with the coupe. The extra room comes in handy. It's also good for grocery shopping.
Old 08-15-2006, 08:28 AM
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JTJ
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Originally Posted by Fastin4th
My vote is for the FRC for one major reason: lack of flex in the vehicle which translates to a better ride and much better handling, IMHO.

Drive a hatch, a vert and an FRC and you will understand when I say: frame flexing, squeaking and excess noise. The FRC seems much better qualified to handle mods with less noise and flexing.

The lines of the FRC are more attractive, in my eyes, also.
But of course I own an FRC
Old 08-15-2006, 08:34 AM
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vafirevet
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I agree: "It's also good for grocery shopping." Nothing like watching the food roll/bounce around as you make the tight corners!!!
Old 08-15-2006, 08:35 AM
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tnsyty
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I love the look of, and wanted, the FRC, but I wanted to be able to enjoy open top cruising. I didn't want to drive around in a race car all day, and thought it would be nice to take the top out every once in a while.
Old 08-15-2006, 08:43 AM
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Vetteman Jack
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I bought the coupe because I wanted the removable targa top and the extra storage space. If that is not a concern, the FRC is a good choice.
Old 08-15-2006, 09:10 AM
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Fastbird
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Originally Posted by JDs00PewterCoupe
I bought the coupe because I wanted the removable targa top
Ditto.
Old 08-15-2006, 09:12 AM
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tompugh
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I can travel with two full size golf bags, golf shoes and a cooler in my coupe, with room to spare. Tom
Old 08-15-2006, 09:15 AM
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tompugh
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Get a yellow coupe, lower it, puit on HREs and squint real hard = instant C5R
Tom
Old 08-15-2006, 09:18 AM
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gdphillipsvette
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Does anyone else have a problem with their coupe being called a "hatchback?"

Maybe I'm just being too sensitive! Gordon
Old 08-15-2006, 09:25 AM
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NJ Vette Guy
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Originally Posted by tompugh
I can travel with two full size golf bags, golf shoes and a cooler in my coupe, with room to spare. Tom
Exactly........

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To Hatchback vs. FRC: any major reasons to buy one or the other?

Old 08-15-2006, 10:50 AM
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I went with the Coupe so I could take the top off. I have it off about 50% of the time.
Old 08-15-2006, 11:07 AM
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I HAVE to have the roof off the car. I would have gone convertible if they were affordable at the time I bought mine. For a daily driver <which mine is> The FRC would have been far too small.


Chris
Old 08-15-2006, 11:41 AM
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ronssito
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Never liked the hatchback/Coupe look...the FRC is near perfection...




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