Thinking about getting into a corvette
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2,472
Likes: 75
From: Cleveland, OH
The only thing I'd add is that mileage differs from one driver to another and recent posts on this subject verify that. My '08 coupe, Z51, dual mode exhaust, 6sp manual, 3LT got 29.5 mpg to Charleston, SC and back to Cleveland.My '09 Z got 27.5mpg to the NCM and back in June. I get around 18 in the city with the Z.
Buy the best you can afford without strapping yourself financially. In the future as income picks up you can always trade up.
Pro
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 641
Likes: 36
From: Midhurst Ontario
I just picked up an 08 Z06.....I was in the same position as you except I had a bad experience with my last new vette a 1979 L82 which was a piece of crap. I drove many cars before testing out a Z06....05 Viper (hated it instantly), Boxters ( Nice), GT3...nice too but too many $$$, Acura NSX, Carrera, Gallardo 04...what a piece of crap, Ferrari 360 (nice but not too much power), Ferrari 328 (Dated and slow), etc. One drive in the Z06 blew me away, even the reg vette was awesome....Ya just gotta drive them......
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 149
Likes: 0
From: Charleston SC
I'm a total Nissan fan-boy. When I was ready to buy, I thought I'd end up with a 370z for sure. I hated Corvette! Well, I test drove both, and the 370z is one of the worst cars I've ever driven. On the flip side, the Corvette surprised me. Now I have an 08 Vette in my garage.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 5,394
Likes: 281
From: cumming ga
Hello all,
I'll try to keep this short. I currently drive a 2010 Nissan 370Z, and am looking for something with more power (isn't everyone
). Totally not a ricer by any means, but I really liked what the 370Z had to offer for the price.
I've looked into going with a supercharger or a twin turbo setup, which would put me around 400-450whp, but I really don't want to lose my warranty, and I also won't be able to sell my car for near what I put into it ($10+ for a forced induction kit). Reliability is also another important thing for me. I figure with a corvette, I'll be close to that amount of power, I'll still be stock, and also be able to retain a warranty. I do daily drive my vehicle, but don't have to sit in traffic, so I can get spirited driving in on most days.
I've had my eyes on the C6 for several months now, preferably a LS3 based one. I'm glad I started out with my 370Z as I've learned how to drive a RWD vehicle without being dumb and totaling it and was able to adapt to the new drivetrain and power that came with it (previously drove a FWD vehicle). I'm not even close to a professional driver by any means, but I do try and respect power and driving conditions. I owe around $29k on my Z, and think I could basically break even and get into a C6 for around $35k or so. I've ridden in a buddies LS2 C6, and I think the sound and acceleration of the V8 is intoxicating.
I've heard from 370Z forum members their opinions on 370z vs corvettes, and now I want to hear from you guys. Go with the 'vette? Pros/cons you could point out to someone new to corvettes? Stick with my setup, keep making car payments, and go forced induction once I run into the cash?
I've read a LOT of forum posts and reviews across the web and tried to do as much research as I could before hand. Thank you very much for your input and let me know if you would like any further clarification.
I'll try to keep this short. I currently drive a 2010 Nissan 370Z, and am looking for something with more power (isn't everyone
). Totally not a ricer by any means, but I really liked what the 370Z had to offer for the price. I've looked into going with a supercharger or a twin turbo setup, which would put me around 400-450whp, but I really don't want to lose my warranty, and I also won't be able to sell my car for near what I put into it ($10+ for a forced induction kit). Reliability is also another important thing for me. I figure with a corvette, I'll be close to that amount of power, I'll still be stock, and also be able to retain a warranty. I do daily drive my vehicle, but don't have to sit in traffic, so I can get spirited driving in on most days.
I've had my eyes on the C6 for several months now, preferably a LS3 based one. I'm glad I started out with my 370Z as I've learned how to drive a RWD vehicle without being dumb and totaling it and was able to adapt to the new drivetrain and power that came with it (previously drove a FWD vehicle). I'm not even close to a professional driver by any means, but I do try and respect power and driving conditions. I owe around $29k on my Z, and think I could basically break even and get into a C6 for around $35k or so. I've ridden in a buddies LS2 C6, and I think the sound and acceleration of the V8 is intoxicating.
I've heard from 370Z forum members their opinions on 370z vs corvettes, and now I want to hear from you guys. Go with the 'vette? Pros/cons you could point out to someone new to corvettes? Stick with my setup, keep making car payments, and go forced induction once I run into the cash?
I've read a LOT of forum posts and reviews across the web and tried to do as much research as I could before hand. Thank you very much for your input and let me know if you would like any further clarification.
z51vett
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
Just thought I would update everyone -- I went and rented a 2008 Z06 for the day, and holy hell, am I hooked. The acceleration was nothing short of insane. With traction control on, I found the torque not to be too overwhelming, and thought it to be a very drivable car.
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 10,468
Likes: 1,149
From: Wayne Township WI
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 2,304
Likes: 4
From: foothills of Northern California
Like the other poster said, if you are looking at TT type power on your 370Z then IMO you need the Z06.
The LS3 doesn't really wake up until 4K revs, nothing like huge low end grunt of a TT rig.
The Z06 will get you huge torque and giant HP to boot. No mods necessary.
You can get great deals on a good used Z06.
The LS3 doesn't really wake up until 4K revs, nothing like huge low end grunt of a TT rig.
The Z06 will get you huge torque and giant HP to boot. No mods necessary.
You can get great deals on a good used Z06.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
Every 2027 Corvette Engine Explained
Joe Kucinski
Designer Imagines A Corvette That Looks More Like a Corvette Than the Corvette
Verdad Gallardo
10 Ugly Corvettes That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Most Expensive Corvettes Ever Sold on Bring A Trailer
Brett Foote
10 Things Every Corvette Owner Needs (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
8 Most "Only Corvette Owners Understand" Quirks and Problems
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Reasons the C6 Z06 is Still A Performance Benchmark After 20 Years
Joe Kucinski
How Much Horsepower Every Corvette Engine "LOST" in 1972
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts for Protecting Your Convertible Top!
Michael S. Palmer
Racer
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 306
Likes: 0
From: Orlando Florida
I also owned a 370Z for about 3 years, it was a great car, and I can see buying a next-gen Z if the performance matches what I'm looking for. That said, I love my GS Vette. Pretty much everything about it. It probably doesn't get as much attention as my Z did (they are pretty rare around here), but I don't really care about that sort of thing anyway.
I was initially going to wait for a C7, but between seeing the spy photos, not wanting to get the first model year, and the crazy deals on the current models, I decided not to bother waiting. I'm very happy with my decision. I'm sure I'll be even more happy once I make it back down to Sebring.
I was initially going to wait for a C7, but between seeing the spy photos, not wanting to get the first model year, and the crazy deals on the current models, I decided not to bother waiting. I'm very happy with my decision. I'm sure I'll be even more happy once I make it back down to Sebring.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 813
Likes: 1
From: Middle Tn
Just thought I would update everyone -- I went and rented a 2008 Z06 for the day, and holy hell, am I hooked. The acceleration was nothing short of insane. With traction control on, I found the torque not to be too overwhelming, and thought it to be a very drivable car.
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 41,062
Likes: 9,825
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
It is usually best to deal with a credit union. You will consistently get better rates and treatment from them than banks although some local banks are competitive.
My credit union provides me the bill of sale form they want to see so all I have to do is get the seller to fill it out and sign it.
Bill
Racer
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 306
Likes: 60
From: AZ
Also look into tax savings (if any buying private). No sales tax here in AZ for a private used sale. Can save you thousands over buying at a dealership. Check on your states laws.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,779
Likes: 491
From: Shits Creek NY
Just thought I would update everyone -- I went and rented a 2008 Z06 for the day, and holy hell, am I hooked. The acceleration was nothing short of insane. With traction control on, I found the torque not to be too overwhelming, and thought it to be a very drivable car.
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
)all praises due to da bounty hunter...
8th Gear
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 8
Likes: 3
Instructor
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 207
Likes: 0
Just thought I would update everyone -- I went and rented a 2008 Z06 for the day, and holy hell, am I hooked. The acceleration was nothing short of insane. With traction control on, I found the torque not to be too overwhelming, and thought it to be a very drivable car.
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
Also, dealers are in dire need of used cars. I would imagine the Z would get decent money on trade if it's in good-great condition. Depending on your state you'll only pay sales tax on the difference in trade and the money saved w/ the 0% for five years should more than make up for the initial increased cost. Run the numbers and I think you'll be surprised how it shakes out.
Pro
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 642
Likes: 11
From: Reno, NV
Both are great cars. If you can test drive a Vette, go for it. If you live in an area where you can rent one for a day; even better. Only you can tell "which you'll like more." Heck, it may even be a tie. Forum members are biased! (I say go for the Vette!) but actuall behind-the-wheel experience is the only thing that will convince you. Good luck and post pics of your Vette soon! 
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,452
Likes: 1
From: Richmond Heights OH
Just thought I would update everyone -- I went and rented a 2008 Z06 for the day, and holy hell, am I hooked. The acceleration was nothing short of insane. With traction control on, I found the torque not to be too overwhelming, and thought it to be a very drivable car.
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
I've been reading a lot of used corvettes are for sale, as this is the last summer before the C7 comes out. I've seen spy photos of the C7, and it doesn't really seem all that (to me), so I don't think I'll wait around for that to come out. I'm thinking I'll look for a 2008+ Z06 in the $45-$55k range.
What an amazing vehicle...
On a side note, does anyone have any experience obtaining financing for an auto purchase through a private seller vs a dealership?
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 3,667
Likes: 159
They could not believe i was "stock" and they still thought I had internal mods, when I showed them my motor at the next filling station.
They had just spent $17k (according to them) and I bet they are still talking about the modded vette they ran with.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 161
Likes: 0
From: North East North Carolina
I'm on the bandwagon of "buy a new one". I have personal opinions like anyone else, I tend to offend Corvette owners because I hold a slight disdain for "vette owners" who've never bought at least one "new". GM built an absolute dream ride in the Corvette; The price tag is a bit much for middle America living on a budget. It's not used Corvette owners I feel don't have the "right" to be Corvette owners or anything like that. I just think if you're going to enjoy the ride, at least pay some appreciation to the company that built it for you. If you buy it used, or from a private seller you get to drive the dream without at least paying a thank you to GM for it. It's my opinion sure; it's how I feel about it. So if you can actually finance 50k+ do GM a favor and buy one new.
These opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of anyone on this webforum other than myself.
These opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of anyone on this webforum other than myself.