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I would reccomend test driving them both. Keep the condition of the two cars in mind as well as your budget.But the goosebumps and hair standing on the back of your neck when you jump on the Z06 will probably sway you in that direction!
I have a 2000 coupe that has been outfitted with the suspension of a Z and increased the horsepower. I like having a targa and I prefer the look of the tailgate rather than a trunk.
Me personally? If you're going to modify the engine then the base Corvette is probably a better bet but you should also upgrade the suspension too.
I think it depends on which body style that you like better. Based on what your are thinking about doing to the Coupe if you went that direction(402, TT), you will probably mod the Z06 as well. Both can be made to be super fast and handle well. It just takes $$$.
The Z06 will perform better (Stock vs. stock); lighter, better gearing, better suspension & of course, 50+ more hp.
get the coupe and spend the thousands you saved in mods. Heck, just throw a blower and clutch on it and smoke a stock zo6. You can get an A&A kit, monster clutch, and tune for the difference and be sitting around 485rwhp. Thats about 120 more at the wheels than a stock z.....
It all boils down to whether or not you want to take the roof off. The coupe can be made comparable to the z's performance for a very small cost. (suspension, exhaust, tune, etc)
I have a Z06 with a 408 and the STS kit, and trust me it cost more than the 7 grand you would save purchasing the '98 over a Z06. Like other members have said, if you don't like the Z06 style any more than the coupe, or if you just want to get a few more hourses, get the coupe and mod it. Just know that going forced induction is an expinsive move and there are always hidden cost involved.
I have driven both and currently own a 99 vert. Trust me, if you want the whole package, buy the Z06. If we had not wanted a drop top so badly, I would be in a Z06 in a heartbeat.
I think it depends on which body style that you like better. Based on what your are thinking about doing to the Coupe if you went that direction(402, TT), you will probably mod the Z06 as well. Both can be made to be super fast and handle well. It just takes $$$.
The Z06 will perform better (Stock vs. stock); lighter, better gearing, better suspension & of course, 50+ more hp.
Lets clarify this. They are both pretty fast and handle well in stock trim, with the Z being better at both. Unless you plan on taking it to the track they both deliver way more performance than can be safely reached on the road. So get the body style you like and enjoy it. If your gonna mod the crap out of it and track it, then get the coupe.
Once you own a Z06, you will never want to go back to the base model. I would buy the best car I could afford without having to put money into modifications.
I also got the Z06 because I prefer the hardtop and separate trunk lid.