[Z06] Z06 Vs. C5
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 273
Likes: 0
From: Sacramento California
Z06 Vs. C5
I just sold my 93 C4 vette and now iam looking to move up to a2002 C5 fast back or Z06, but i need to know the answers to these simple questions.
#1. what's the enternal differences between the LS1 engine vs. the Z06's LS6 Engine.
#2. Do they have the same INT,EX valve size?
#3. do both engines have a (5QT) engine oil capacity?
#4. do they share the same manual transmission?
#5. how dose both body styles weight?
thanks boonie.
you can email me at: mbbriggs@softcom.net
#6. how much can i expect to pay for a low mileage 02-04 Z06?
#1. what's the enternal differences between the LS1 engine vs. the Z06's LS6 Engine.
#2. Do they have the same INT,EX valve size?
#3. do both engines have a (5QT) engine oil capacity?
#4. do they share the same manual transmission?
#5. how dose both body styles weight?
thanks boonie.
you can email me at: mbbriggs@softcom.net
#6. how much can i expect to pay for a low mileage 02-04 Z06?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 2,491
Likes: 1
From: prescott AZ
The Z06 block is somewhat different than the reg C5. It has windows cast into the lower block so there is less trubulence and air drag as the pistons are driven down, the intake and MAF are different, exhaust in the Z06 is very efficent and light. The Zis about 200-250 lbs less than coupe. Valve size I believe is the same but the Z has hollow valves and the exhaust valves are filled with liquid sodium alloy to transfer heat better. Billet hollow cam, upgraded pistons. My Z takes 6 1/2 gts of oil. The Z has a 6 speed, MN12, that is geared more for acceleration than the standard MN6 coupe tranny. You can get a nice low mile (6K) Z 2002-2004 for $31,000 to $34,000.
If you appreciate what you drive you will like the more rigid frame and better handling of the Z. The brakes work much better and the larger wheel/tires not only help handling they look better. The non Z51 C5 coupe in my opinion is way too softly sprung for a sports car but then again I grew up racing go-carts.
I have driven both cars and the Z is what I think a Corvette should have been all along. Do yourself a favor and get the Z06- I think resale value in years to come will more than return the extra you may pay now.
If you appreciate what you drive you will like the more rigid frame and better handling of the Z. The brakes work much better and the larger wheel/tires not only help handling they look better. The non Z51 C5 coupe in my opinion is way too softly sprung for a sports car but then again I grew up racing go-carts.
I have driven both cars and the Z is what I think a Corvette should have been all along. Do yourself a favor and get the Z06- I think resale value in years to come will more than return the extra you may pay now.
Pro
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 649
Likes: 3
From: Georgia
Originally Posted by skeet
The Z06 block is somewhat different than the reg C5. It has windows cast into the lower block so there is less trubulence and air drag as the pistons are driven down, the intake and MAF are different, exhaust in the Z06 is very efficent and light. The Zis about 200-250 lbs less than coupe. Valve size I believe is the same but the Z has hollow valves and the exhaust valves are filled with liquid sodium alloy to transfer heat better. Billet hollow cam, upgraded pistons. My Z takes 6 1/2 gts of oil. The Z has a 6 speed, MN12, that is geared more for acceleration than the standard MN6 coupe tranny. You can get a nice low mile (6K) Z 2002-2004 for $31,000 to $34,000.
If you appreciate what you drive you will like the more rigid frame and better handling of the Z. The brakes work much better and the larger wheel/tires not only help handling they look better. The non Z51 C5 coupe in my opinion is way too softly sprung for a sports car but then again I grew up racing go-carts.
I have driven both cars and the Z is what I think a Corvette should have been all along. Do yourself a favor and get the Z06- I think resale value in years to come will more than return the extra you may pay now.
If you appreciate what you drive you will like the more rigid frame and better handling of the Z. The brakes work much better and the larger wheel/tires not only help handling they look better. The non Z51 C5 coupe in my opinion is way too softly sprung for a sports car but then again I grew up racing go-carts.
I have driven both cars and the Z is what I think a Corvette should have been all along. Do yourself a favor and get the Z06- I think resale value in years to come will more than return the extra you may pay now.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 2,920
Likes: 2
From: North Bend WA
I believe there is some great reading material in the FAQ section that will get you up to speed on the differences between the C5 and the C5 Z06 also. My vote is definitely for the Z if you really like to drive! 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 7,788
Likes: 6
From: Winchester TN
Cruise-In III Veteran
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St. Jude Donor '03-'04-'05-'06-'07-'11
Hi Boonie -
The LS engines take 6.5 quarts of oil, the LS6 is essentially a mild head/cam ls1, and the Z is ~150# lighter.
The Z06 has a mn12 with more agressive (for acceleration) gearing in the first three gears as compared to the mn6.
I have both a 99 a4 coupe and a 2002 Z06.
The coupe is a relaxed, yet powerful cruiser. It is more comfortable due to sport seats and many optional amenities.
The Z is a ton more fun to drive in my opinion, and that is what it is all about to me.
If I could have only one, it would be the Z.
The a4 is my wifes car as she prefers the more relaxed "power crusier" feel of her coupe.
best regards -
mqqn
The LS engines take 6.5 quarts of oil, the LS6 is essentially a mild head/cam ls1, and the Z is ~150# lighter.
The Z06 has a mn12 with more agressive (for acceleration) gearing in the first three gears as compared to the mn6.
I have both a 99 a4 coupe and a 2002 Z06.
The coupe is a relaxed, yet powerful cruiser. It is more comfortable due to sport seats and many optional amenities.
The Z is a ton more fun to drive in my opinion, and that is what it is all about to me.
If I could have only one, it would be the Z.
The a4 is my wifes car as she prefers the more relaxed "power crusier" feel of her coupe.
best regards -
mqqn
Racer
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 331
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta, GA
Since the tech questions are answered I'll put in my .02. I've had a C5 Z51 and now a Z. I really was surprised at the power and handling difference in the 2 models. Drive them both back to back and your decision will be obvious.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 447
Likes: 0
From: San Jose Ca
Originally Posted by RAMMAN
To know all the differences in the specifications is good, but you simply must drive a Z06 to feel the difference. For me they just couldn’t put that on paper! 
A c5 will give you a nice smile and a warm tingly feeling.
A Z06 will leave you like you just drank about 8 cups of coffee, and needing a new pair of shorts after your first "spirited" drive.
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Racer
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 488
Likes: 42
From: Valley Lee MD
I'm a young old man (59 years young) and drove an 05 Z51 glass top. For my first Corvette drive that was OK. Then I drove an '04 Z. Guess which one made me change my shorts and I bought? The Z is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ed
Ed
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 43,084
Likes: 33
From: Raleigh / Rolesville NC
Driven lots of each. A coupe could be as powerful at the Z, but needs $$$$$$ to do so.
I prefer the MN6 coupe trans to the MN12 Z trans based on the same power outputs.
Get the Z and put a few dollars in modding the Z, Your
will just get wider and wider.
I prefer the MN6 coupe trans to the MN12 Z trans based on the same power outputs.
Get the Z and put a few dollars in modding the Z, Your
will just get wider and wider.