Gonna replace my 90,000 mile Z51 shocks.

Does anyone have experience with both of these ( Bilstein B6 and C6 Z06 ) ?

Wondering how the two compare on ride quality, stiffness, and handling...

I've read everything I could find about the two shocks info already. It's gonna be one of these two.

TIA

 

I put the B6’s on earlier this year. Ride quality is fine. It’s a corvette. It’s going to be a stiff ride no matter what shocks you use, unless you have mag ride with touring mode. I also did c6z51 sway bars. Sway bars make your car feel more planted around corners. And honestly, you’re not going to notice a difference unless you drive on a road course or autoX. I do HPDE about twice a year, and car felt planted with the new sway bars and B6 shocks.

If you look up shocks for a C6Z06, rock auto lists the B6 shocks an upgrade on the C6Z06, B6 shocks might be slightly stiffer than the C6Z06. I don’t have any experience with C6Z06 shocks, but you probably won’t notice a difference except for price. Last time I looked, rock auto had the B6 shocks for 102 a piece.

 

When I had the rear drive replaced (new 3.73, WaveTrack differential) in April 2016 I also put in Doug Rippie Motorsports valved Bilsteins all four corners. 17 track days and 20,000 miles later -- I like them.

I don't know how they compare to B6's.

The ride is stiff -- as it should be for a track car.

 

I would stick with OEM C6 Z06, that is what I had on my '99 in lieu of the F45.

 

Not to hijack, but are the 2004 c5 z06 shocks still accessible? Lot of threads say those are good too

 

Does bilstein have dyno charts for both shocks in question?

 

I run the B8...

BILSTEIN B8 - BILSTEIN Workshop

 

I have original shocks on my '98 base. 72K on it. I don't think any attention has been given to the suspension before I bought it. I have had it aligned twice and have added new wheels and stock size BFG rubber. It is skipping sideways in corners over rough road. Would you guys know what to start with shocks probably?? I like Bilsteins on my other vehicles.thanks.

 

LOL.. This recent post answers a lot of your questions

Grinding Noise from Rear Right Suspension - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette Forum Discussion

 

Googles Bard AI says C6Z06 shocks are stiffer than B6 Bilstein's. Is the AI right?

From Bard:
Both Bilstein B6 and AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are high-quality options for your Corvette, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Bilstein B6 shocks are designed for a balance of comfort and performance. They are stiffer than the stock shocks, so they will improve handling, but they will not give you a harsh ride. They are also a good option for lowered cars.[Image of Bilstein B6 shocks] AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are designed for performance. They are stiffer than the B6 shocks, so they will provide even better handling, but they will also give you a harsher ride. They are a good option for track cars or daily drivers who want the best possible handling performance.[Image of AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks] Ultimately, the best shock for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a comfortable ride with good handling, then the Bilstein B6 shocks are a good option. If you are looking for the best possible handling performance, then the AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are a good option. Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the two shocks: | Feature | Bilstein B6 | AC Delco C6 Z06 ||---|---|---|| Comfort | Good | Fair || Performance | Good | Excellent || Ride Height | Stock | Stock or lowered || Price | $100-200 per shock | $300-400 per shock |

 

When asked differently I get this response:

Yes, Bilstein B6 shocks are stiffer than AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks. Bilstein B6 shocks are designed for performance and handling, while AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are designed for comfort and ride quality. Bilstein B6 shocks will provide a more responsive and controlled ride, while AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks will provide a more comfortable and compliant ride. Bilstein B6 shocks are a good choice for drivers who want to improve the handling of their C6 Corvette. They will provide a more responsive and controlled ride, and they will also help to reduce body roll and improve cornering performance. However, they may also provide a stiffer ride than some drivers prefer.AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are a good choice for drivers who want a comfortable and compliant ride. They will provide a smooth and comfortable ride, and they will also help to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). However, they may not provide the same level of handling performance as Bilstein B6 shocks.Ultimately, the best shock absorbers for your C6 Corvette will depend on your individual driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and handling, then Bilstein B6 shocks are a good choice. If you prioritize comfort and ride quality, then AC Delco C6 Z06 shocks are a good choice.

 

http://farnorthracing.com/autocross_secrets6.html

Very good and honest from a shock rebuilding guy

 

Doug

I tried to reach that link. Page not found.

 

I have driven a C5 on track with the C6Z shocks and it was horrible. Too bouncy in the rear because the C6 shocks are longer and on a lowered C5 you hit the bumpstops constantly. Driving on the street they felt fine though.

For good handling and on a budget its tough to beat the Doug Rippie valved Bilstein.

DRM Valved Bilstein Shocks C5 (dougrippie.com)

For all out track performance and street friendliness the Viking double adjustable are amazing! I have them on my track car with a 1000lb/in front leaf spring and they can be stiff for the track or turn them down and ride like a caddy on the street.

 

Thanks very much for your replies and the dyno chart article!!! I learned a lot. Fun getting a look into racing theory and results on shocks!!

 

I've had Doug Rippie Motorsports Valved Bilsteins on my C5 since April 2016, 14 track days and 20,000 miles ago. I love them.

 

Thanks for your input I will check out the products!

 

I've been looking into shocks as well these past couple weeks as I was in the same exact scenario. Personally, in Texas, I simply could not find a set of c6 Z06 shocks nearby from my Austin/Houston dealers so I went a pair of bilstein B6s.
If you're still looking for a set of shocks after this weekend, I'll let you know how they feel.

 

I love my Bilstein B6 shocks. It's like a whole new car along with C6 Z06 anti sway bars.

 

I agree. it was a lot to learn. I'm more interested in a comfort ride as I used too use it on TOUR mode, So I think I;'n going to go with AC DELCO https://a.co/d/0gVfVPp

Did anyone on here use these??
I have a 2004 C05 with the F45 shocks that cost an arm and a leg.
Glad they are disco'd , just have to replace rear now.
​​​​​​​Fronts were done 3 years ago at $1200 each as I was pretty ignorant then, still learning now too. thanks