Being a newbie looking to get into a high performance Corvette with a budget of 45k, is the C6 generation (Z06 and GS) outdated with technology and handling characteristics compared to a 2015 model for the price point? I see many C6 Z06 models from 2007, with only 15k miles. Wouldn’t the suspension and mechanical abilities of the car be considered old compared to the newer vehicles out there or are they that desired because the performance is that good? Convince me 45k will get me a good performing C6 vs a new car!

 

I just had an experience at an auto parts store where a black C7 was parked in the spot I usually park. I slowed up as he was pulling out and as he passed by me we gave each other the approval “hang loose“ sign. We both had black Corvettes. So if a C7 owner was giving me props on my C6… I’m going to say no, they are not outdated yet. Per se.
From what I understand the C7 is a lot more technologically advanced than the C6. But it’s all a matter of individual preference. Personally, I prefer the C6 look over the C7 and the C8.

 

Words I would use to describe a C7 - newer, fancier, updated, more technology

Words I would not use to describe a C7 - better

For 45K, your money will get you an extremely good performing C6 vs a Kia or most other cars on the market. Your 45K will likely get you a place in line for a new corvette. In todays market, your 45K will possibly get you a base C7, doubtful on a Z06 or GS unless it has been abused.

 

Depends on what you are looking for. Sure the newer vehicles will have nicer tech especially in the interior environment. But the C6 is still a VERY capable performance platform and a well setup C6 can still compete, especially if you are talking the Z06, but any with the LS2/3 can be modified to make you not need additional performance.

For 45k if you want a Vette, that is pretty much the C6. Don't see you getting much nicer in that price range in a C7, and there were some quirks with the 2015 that you would want to check out. I got my 2012 GS in 2019 and not planning on upgrading anytime soon, and still puts a smile on my face. Now that I have a new head unit with wireless Car Play and backup camera, I am very set with my baby. Unless I find a 427 Convertible in Red and would swap my C6 for that C6.

 

Anything since the c5z is more car than you can use on the street. A c6 gs or c6 is beyond the driving capabilities of 99% of car guys/gals.

It's outdated in terms of tech, sure. No fancy colored hud, no customizable gouges, and it's clearly from the late 2000s interior design wise. But it does almost everything you could ask for in a sports car, and in terms of power and ha doing, there's not an appreciable difference from the newer stuff except more computers and less driver involvement. A HUGE part if the difference between the c6 and c7 is tire quality, the tires that came stock on the c7 make the stock c6 tires look like stone wheels. The other thing is aero, but frankly, that comes in to play on a track and beyond the skill of even advanced drivers.

Short version, c6 with modern tires is a driver difference car from the c7.

 

I think when it comes to Corvettes, age or technology level doesn't mean much. Who wouldn't want to drive around in a 1957 Corvette with a 4 speed, or a big block 67 coupe? If there is a particular style or year that you like, just go for it. There are many to choose from, and you can't make a bad choice.

 

You could just leave room your budget for some new performance shocks, sticky tires, etc. if the car you like isn't quite up to task.

 

In track performance the C7 is the superior car.

Car & Driver "Lightning Lap" results:

2019 Corvette ZR1 2:39.5
2015 Corvette Z06 2:44.6
2017 Corvette Grand Sport Z07 2:47.1
2012 Corvette ZR1 2:50.7
2009 Corvette ZR1 2:51.8
2011 Corvette Z06 2:53.5
2014 Corvette Stingray Z51 2:53.8

 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ this right here...

 

Show us which one he is getting for 45k? Only one close is the 2014 Stingray and I would take a C6 over it personally as I like the curves and not the lines as much.

 

Just buy what makes you smile....my 05 is a dinosaur compared to new cars but it still makes me smile every time I drive it. More car than I will ever use. I have never had buy`s remorse.

 

My Denali HD diesel has as much or more technology than a C7 and cost more but why does it matter?

 

See my post about tires and aero. The fact that the c6 models are that close with the drastically improved tires on a c7 is testament to how good the c6 is.

That said, there's only a ha.dful of people on this forum that could come close to replicating those times.

 

I decided last summer that I wanted a Corvette. I'd paid my mortgage off several years ago and had no other debt. Which one? I was considering c5 through c8. I did a lot of research on these generations, and maybe more importantly, thought about the role my Corvette would play in my life and what I liked. At the end of the day: 2008-2013 base C6 with manual transmission, very low miles, and excellent original condition. To me, the lines of the C6 are beautiful. The LS3 engine produces good power and has a reputation for reliability. The 0-60, quarter mile times and top speed are still pretty impressive in 2022, and I have neither the skills nor desire to push to those limits. In early August I found a 5,011 mile 2009 for $38k+ with everything I wanted and nothing I didn't. It doesn't have the tech my 2018 Mazda3 has, but I like it that way. When I'm driving - I'm focused on driving. Most of the time when I'm driving my Corvette I don't even have the radio on - it just detracts from the sound of the LS. I'm fortunate to live in a hilly rural area with countless twisty roads and very little traffic. It is soul enhancing to just go out for a drive.

Think about how you see yourself using your Corvette, what do you want to do with it. Corvette prices still seem pretty strong, actually up a little from last summer. For $45K, you're probably looking at a C6, did I mention its a great car? A lot of the the Zs I see online with reasonable miles seem at or above your current budget. Previous members have mentioned the flexibility of the LS engines for modifications. One path may be to look for the best quality car you can find and make modifications as you go. This approach will allow you to focus on your dream Corvette and not searching for a car that has been someone else's dream that happens to match yours. Best of luck!

 

C6 is the best bang for the buck, tons of low mileage C6 i.e. garage queens available. I love the size compared to the C5's, throttle power is awesome and again the cost per hp verses all others is outstanding. Personally, I prefer to KISS when it come to technology. In fact I like zero controls on the steer wheel, forget the magnetic ride Id rather feel the road and exhaust.

 

That’s it!
My 09 does have radio volume up/down on the wheel. Problem is, my Mazda’s on the other side. Same thing with reverse - one right side, the other left. There’s lots of electronics on the C6, cutting back on the optional ones is where I’m at too.

 

I traded in my 2013 GS (bought new) for a 2019 GS also bought new. Both cars manuals. Honestly the C6 will more than hold it's own against the C7. When I drove my C7 home on the 3 hour trip I said to myself what's the big deal, it's not much different than the car I just gave them. Handling, speed pretty much the same in my book. I actually like the driving experience in the C6 better, it's just more engaging and you feel better connected to the car.

 

Go for what looks good to you... to me the C7 is a ugly fancy Camaro - with an *** end that make me hurl. C6 is a lot simpler - but one helluva ride and beauty from all sides.
if you like the looks of a c7 -- I would go with that. you can have the direct injection and 7 speed manual, cylinder deactivation crappola the C7 has and a smaller cabin.

 

Honestly also, what does a C7 have that the C6 doesn't. Apply Car play? And that wasn't even offered till later years. Oh and a PDR recorder if you want to pay the money.

 

Thank you for sharing your Corvette experience, definitely has given me some insight!!!