I was just thinking the other day why I didn't see a section for a C5 ZR1 like I do for the C4 and C6. I am assuming they didn't make one for the years 97-04 and I was just wondering why. This may be an old question but since I have own my one and only vette so far (July 09) and been lurking around here I haven't seen it discussed. Anyone got any info on that?

Thanks,
Russell

 

No section because they didn't make a C5 ZR1. Why? Who knows!

 

If I had the cash I would love to put an LS9 motor in my C5 and then I would have my own C5 ZR1!

 

Guess GM figured the Z06 was good enough for the C5.

 

GM LS9 = About $22,500.00 = 620 Flywheel HP

Good Supercharger for your own stock engine = About $7500.00 = 650 Flywheel HP

Depends on parts, etc.. but point is just because the ZR1 has a supercharger and has high HP does not mean you couldn't just supercharge your own setup and get better results than the ZR1 engine. Some people Much, Much more HP than 620 flywheel HP.

 

The ZR1 is so much more than simply the LS9 - suspension, brakes, tires, etc. Just like the Z06 is so much more than just the LS6.

Don't get me wrong - I own two C5's and love them both, but even with forced induction upgrade and a built motor, it will never be a ZR1.

I have had the pleasure and honor to drive two ZR1's and I was totally impressed by the complete package.

I have also had the chance to drive modded C5's and C6's, including S/C C6 Z06's, TT Z06's (both C5 and C6) some putting down equal power and even greater to the wheels to a ZR1, but there is something to a factory engineered supercar that no modded car can ever match. The ZR1 purrs like a kitten, and even with it's dual plate clutch - your grandmother could easily drive this car and never know that nearly 550RWHP is lurking under the hood. It is a completely civilized Corvette, until you let loose of the reins and let 'er go!

Those carbon ceramic Brembos stop on a dime and give you nine cents change - the idle is smooth like warm butter but really wakes up when you give it throttle. All of the hype and praise is well deserved and true.

As to why no C5 ZR1 - can't say for sure, but it was different economic times from 1997-2004, and there didn't seem to be a need to have so many different models and option packages to sell cars like they need today for the C6. The C6 will be at least ten model years old when and if the replacement C7 comes out in 2014. There is also a lot more performance competition today than there was back during the C5 generation, so I believe in order for the Corvette to remain competitive for consumer dollars they have to remain at the top of the performance heap to continue to draw customer interest. I doubt if we'll ever see anything like the ZR1 again after they cease production. With new CAFE standards coming and the current government involvement with GM - I think the days of 638hp Corvettes from the factory are numbered. JMHO of course.....

 

Compared to the current C6, the C5 had very limited options. Coupe, Vert, Hardtop/Z06. I know they had the Z51 options, magnetic ride options, etc., however I really like that GM has more options with the C6, i.e. coupe, vert, Z06, ZR1, Grand Sport Coupe, Grand Sport Vert, Carbon chassis Z06 or Z07 as some are calling it, special limited edition version, the ability to swap light well colors, etc. A lot of options. Hopefully this trend will continue into the C7.

 

Well they didn't make a C4 Z06 either.

 

But my comment was to the idea of just putting an LS9.

 

There are guys putting LS9's in the new Camaro, so I can't think of a compelling reason why it wouldn't work.....all it takes is $$$$$$! (Lots of it!)

http://www.feslerbuilt.com/2010LS9engine.html

 

or you could just put ZR-1 emblems on and never open your hood in public.

i have to say that it is a little strange that a corvette owner and forum member for 2 years that you wondered why no ZR-1 section in C5s.

 

Well I have only owned a vette for little less than a year and I have seen it before and just never though about asking about it.

 

The C4 ZR-1 was such a marketing failure that they didn't dare repeat themselves.

A C4 ZR-1 can now be had for pennys on the dollar. The C5 Z06 is a MUCH better sports car.

 

And they were right. The C5 Z06 whooped ****. There wasn't any need at the time for more power. The LS6 was already way head of the curve when it came out.

 

And 15 years from now a C-6 ZR-1 will also sell for 'pennys on the dollars'. Same goes for just about any current Vette. Except a very few 'special' cars..celebrity owner, real pace car,,,etc..

 

The C4 ZR1 sold for 50K, correct? They're still selling for 20-25K. So not exactly pennies on the dollar unless you're talking about 40-50 pennies on the dollar. I think they kept their value pretty well, especially compared to C5Zs which sold for the same and are worth the same. So for a car that is 6-15 years older (depending on the years you're comparing) I'd say they held their values VERY well.

 

From a space perspective; will the LS9 fit under the OEM hood on a C5?

 

Perhaps because they made the z06 instead? Good question tho.

 

As for holding value, I've seen some C-4 ZR-1s for less than $20,000. (yes, thay were high mileage)
C6 ZR1s are now being discounted at a local dealer. My point is,, buying any new Vette as an investment is pretty much a bad financial investment,. Buy 'em and drive 'em.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevr...fCarsQ5fTrucks

 

Probably not. The ZR1 required a raised hood vs the Z06 because of the intercooler/supercharger "stack" on top of the engine. I'd assume the same on the C5.

As for the comment about the C4 Zr1 not holding its value, well, its doing a whole hell of allot better then 06 Z06's... lol.