When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
So I am about to buy a C5 from another state and someone on this forum was nice enough to inspect it for me. He said it turns out the car has the z51 package. The current owner, being the 3rd owner, didn'te even know. I don't know much about it except that it has better suspension, sways, etc. I've searched the forum and can't find any info on what is actually included in the package.
So can you guys please shed some light on what the z51 package includes? Or provide me with a link to a website with the info. Like I said I searchd but failed.
Z51 Handling Package is designed for appropriate, sanctioned competitions, or for the driver who desires the ultimate in a suspension system. Tuned on road racing courses and autocross tracks, Z51 offers a top level of handling. Z51's highly controlled ride stems from stiffer springs, larger stabilizer bars and larger monotube shock absorbers than the standard suspension. When Z51 is ordered with MXO Automatic Transmission It Requires the G92 Performance Axle Option which has a ratio of 3:15 The only way to get the Power Steering Cooler is with the Z51 package. Basically, the Z51 Package is the combination of the "Heavy Duty Suspension" and the "Power Steering Cooler".
I also did not know I had the z51 option until I ordered my window sticker from the museum and noticed it was on the sheet. The previous owner didn’t know what he had (and I would have paid more if I knew what I was buying). I just knew it was much peppier than the other c5's I test drove and it handled a little more precise. Now that I know what I have I would never buy another vette without the z51 package (that is if I ever decide to part with my black beauty).
I hope your buddy didnt tell the owner what he had so you can get the best price possbile.
thanks guys. unfortunately the guy did mention it to the owner so we'll see what happens. I'm going to call tomorrow and hopefully work out a deal and fly out there next week to get it.
I think the front spring is the same, the rear spring has a slightly higher rate on the Z06. It's in the Weights & Measures sticky.
Shocks may differ too. Sways are bigger in the Z51 IIRC.
I've always heard the Z51 was designed to emulate the feel of the Z06 to the average driver, but not an all out track car like the Z06, which brings some compromises.
Last edited by jedblanks; Jul 31, 2008 at 09:27 AM.
I recently purchased a 4000 miles coupe with Z51. It's my first C5, and before buying the car I was concerned that the suspension might be harsher than I might like. Turns out that it was no problem at all, a firm but decently compliant ride that was MUCH improved once I ditched the run-flat tires. Enjoy
The Z06 suspension (FE4 I believe) shares the same front spring as the Z51. The rear spring on the Z06 is different (I've seen it listed as stiffer and softer depending on the source). The Z06 has better shocks and slightly stiffer/thicker bars. The differences between a Z51 car with metal sway bar endlinks and non runflats vs. a Z06 are very slight (it comes down to the driver).
I recently purchased a 4000 miles coupe with Z51. It's my first C5, and before buying the car I was concerned that the suspension might be harsher than I might like. Turns out that it was no problem at all, a firm but decently compliant ride that was MUCH improved once I ditched the run-flat tires. Enjoy