Pacecar78

Z-51 Question?

I am looking at a 1998, Red C-5 coupe, for sale. It is in excellent condition, has only 28,000 miles on it, and priced reasonably. ---- It is equipped with the Z-51 package. I assume the base suspension would be a much softer ride, but I don’t really know that to be a fact. -- Does the Z-51 effect ride quality a great deal? Is Z-51 so stiff, that it is an uncomfortable ride?

Macleod52

Ride comfort is subjective. You really need to test drive the car and see how you think it feels. I have a 2001 w/Z51 and I replaced the factory shocks with 2013 Z06 shocks. I think the ride is just fine. It's stiff but it doesn't jostle you by any means. My fiancee thinks it's too harsh though. You really need to drive one and see what you think.

I can say having driven a few C3's and C4's that the C5 feels like you're floating on a cloud compared to the stiff suspensions in the previous generations.

blacksedan87

Z51 on a C5 is higher rate (firmer) springs, different shocks and a thicker set of sway bars. It doesn't make the ride harsh - it is firmer, yes.

Shakeydeal

I agree with what's been said. Keep in mind, it is a sports car, so you don't want it to ride like your daddys cadillac.

That said, I had a 2011 CTS Coupe and installed Eibach lowering springs. My 2004 Z ride quality is about the same as the caddy with the aftermarket springs. Actually the Z is less "bouncy" than the CTS was.

Bottom line is it depends on what you want from the car.

Shakey

Gordy M

Since it is a 98, the Z51 was not that harsh a ride. The sway bars are slight larger and will give you a firmer cornering car than stock, the shocks are slightly firmer and the spring is somewhat firmer. Also, if it is an automatic you receive a 3.15 rear axle gear for quicker acceleration.

There was another thread a month ago that listed all the suspension specs for a C5

coia96vette

My '04 has the Z51 package and I can drive it all day on road trips with no discomfort. Plus if you want to play in the corners, it is a blast. Last trip we drove for 16.5 hours straight with only stopping for gas, food and pee breaks.

Sinister-one

Z-51 suspension is barely one step below the Z06 suspension package. One of the leaf springs is different as are the shocks.

Corvette#2

The '00 Z-51 is firm but still comfortable.

I think the FE-1 suspension is pretty soft. Unless you're just touring, I'd go with the Z-51. The magnetic F55 shocks on later C5s are cool but expensive to replace when they eventually wear out.

Pacecar78

Thanks to all, who replied to my question. As Macleod52 said: Ride Comfort is subjective. But, the comments here indicate the Z51 is not a bone jarring rough ride. And, is said to be a much better ride than the old C-3. I know what that is like! I think I will drive the 150 miles to check this car out.