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I was asking the same question a few months back. I decided to go ahead and take advanage of the zero interest and big discounts available now. I am real happy that I did. I can tell you, if you can't get out of this car with a grin on your face, something wrong. :yesnod:
There will always be a reason to wait for next year's model. The best reason to go for this year's model is that you could be driving now :cheers: You would think that they will have to do something to entice people to buy 2004, knowing the C6 will be just around the corner. The 2003s have the bonus of the 50th Anniversary badging.
If it helps any at all, I picked up a 2003 Z06 weekend before last and I couldn't be happier with the car. It's way fun to drive. :thumbs:
The only thing I find lacking in the car so far is the stereo system. But that is an easy thing to fix. I wonder if 2004 will go to the new GM head unit like the trucks and the Cadillacs? Looking at a few of those I've noticed they are XM ready. Don't know if they are any better sound wise than the current head unit in the Vette though. I have heard they are much more integrated with the car's computer than previous head units.
I was going to wait cause i herd rumors and then thought even if it does go to 425 hrs, ill just get an air intake and there i got it. I would buy now and enjoy the car. now if it was just a few months away I might wait, but pick out the color and the options you want and go get it and drive it, do a few mods and be happy. I am exstemly happy that i didnt wait, everyday is so much fun driving it.
I heard no power change from my "friend" due to the model change for the C6 :(
Kind of like they didn't add any horsepower on the 96 because of the upcoming C5? (can you say "LT-4").
While at the factory over Labor day, Dave Hill told us there would be a nice surprise for the 04 C5. Take that for whatever you want. I'm guessing there will be some increase on either base for Z06's or both. But I don't have any "inside" information. Just my guess.
I would tend to say that from a marketing standpoint there will be some kind of HP increase to spark some sales with people wanting to wait for the new C6.
Cars, computers, home electronics....there's always something better waiting around the corner. For me, 2003 is badged 50th year of the Corvette, and I could afford it. Done deal!
There is always room for a HP increase IMHO. Check out the Chevy mags. They can make 500 FWHP with an old school iron block / carb 350. So, there is no question in my mind that the Gen III can make up to 450 HP emission legal and smooth idle. The problem is the gas guzzeler tax.
Go ahead and buy your car, there are alot of dyno sheets around that are showing 380 to 400 RWHP I make that roughly 440 FWHP. ;)
You won't be disappointed in the HP the 03 makes, but if you can wait until May or June Chevy will announce any HP increases they are planing for 2004. Happy Hunting.
If the '04 Z06 does indeed turn out to be sporting 425 ponies, I'll be getting one. I'm thinking that since the '04 model will be the last C5 and the last Z06 (for a year or so), GM will produce a 'special' C5, hopefully based around the Z06. Let's all hope that it's not yet another appearance package with no added muscle!! :crazy: :crazy: For me, 425 hp == a new Z06!
I agree with the consensus that they will definitely do something. If not a horsepower upgrade, then maybe different wheels, etc. But they will have to change it up somehow.
I considered waiting but went ahead and picked up a new Z06 earlier this week. I love it. The only thing wrong with it is I have to wait for the 500 mile break in period to see how it really goes. I am up to 365 now... Come on 500.
-s