I went with a C6Z shifter from Fred Beans. I love it.... Nice throw to it.

 

I agree with MDS24K. It really depends on what you look for in a shifter. If you like the numb, knife-in-butter feel of a BMW, no aftermarket shifter is going to meet your needs. However, if you like rifle-bolt precision (like an old Ferrari 308/328), there are several good aftermarket options for you. I have done a lot of work with manual transmission shifters, both in my personal cars and development vehicles GM. I prefer a precise shifter with feedback, so I installed a Hurst shifter in my '99 C5. It REALLY shortens the shift throw (from 130mm to 78mm when using the stock ****), increases shift effort and is a little notchy. I installed the lightest springs and made an threaded adapter so I could use a '98-'02 Camaro SS Hurst leather shift ****. This **** is 25mm taller than the OEM C5 **** and really fits my hand well. With this ****, my shifter travel increased to 88mm and it reduced the shifter effort to a tolerable level. This setup is still shorter than I like: 95-110mm is what I feel is optimal. I've had this set-up in the car for 2 years. I would like to try the B&M Ripper shifter, but I have not spent the money for it yet.

I'm sure if you search these forums you read a lot of opinions. Just keep in mind how YOU want the shifter to perform.

 

interesting to note B&M now owns Hurst.