WARNING the following is based on inuendo, rumors, and just plain blatant speculation.

If the goal for the C6 Z51 was to better C5 Z06 performance while riding better than a C5 Z51,
would not the following stand to reason?

The goal for the C6 FE1 would be to better C5 Z51 performance with better ride than a C5 FE1.

Just not sure I am ready to spend the $2000-2500 Z51 price some have speculated on.
Especially if the base suspension is much better than the current cars.





[Modified by Gene K, 2:00 AM 4/10/2004]

 

I don't think so. The term "better" has to be defined. By "better", do you mean it handles better, less body roll, ect? Or do you mean it handles bumps better, i.e. smoother? I know some will disagree with me but those two are almost mutually exclusive. To corner better, it's gotta ride stiffer. I think the FE1 will continue to compromise cornering a bit to achieve a more comfortable ride and the Z-51 (currently includes FE3) will continue to ride a little stiffer to improve cornering. And the Z-06 (currently includes FE4) will take that a little further. My C5 w/ Z-51 is not harsh at all. It's the perfect compromise betweem comfort and cornering. What I wonder is if the C6 Z-51 will have the same level of stiffness as the current FE3 or wil it be more like the current FE4? I'm hoping it maintians the same "stiffness" as in the FE3 in C5. The improved suspension travel and geometry should allow them to improve cornering w/o making the ride stiffer.

Also, the Z-51 pkg includes more than just springs, shocks and larger stabilizer bars. As you may know, it includes power steering, oil & tranny coolers, close ratio gearing, and larger brakes.




[Modified by need-for-speed, 10:05 AM 4/10/2004]

 

I just sold a C5 Z51. I just don't like the speculation about Z51 price. At one point in the past (C4) the Z51 pkg has included everything that it includes on the C6 except the modified trans ratios. The current $395 is still the highest price it has ever had.

My thought is that the Z51 pkg with manual trans (autos are available) has $75 extra in trans costs + $25 extra in brake cost + $25 extra in tire cost + $100 in development over the current C5, Anything over $620 is just extra profit for GM. My thought is that the price for the new Z51 pkg should run not over $795 costing the same for the MN6 and MXO with the G92 Axle included free on automatics.

This is the FAIR price in my estimation. I do not believe I will be ordering a Z51 if it is the $2395 price some have speculated. I simply do not like feeling I am am being ripped off.

At the present time I am leaning toward a 1SX Coupe with MN6 (As can be seen in my sig I am a minimalist - Less is More!). FE1 vs Z51 will depend on the price and the relative capability of each suspension.

 

$25 extra in tire cost seems a bit light. $100 seems closer.

Hey need-for-speed, looks like my rumor is getting around! (The $2395 price)


[Modified by Lazerwolfe, 10:20 PM 4/10/2004]

 

shame shame shame on you ........

 

At GM's cost? I seriously doubt there is that much difference between the std RF and the HP RF. The primary reason for the different tires would be lower rolling resistance, less noise, and longer wear, and better comfort for the std tires. Not a difference in cost.

I expect the Z51 Option to run about $1395-1695 but I think that is overpriced. I hope I am wrong but I think GM will be looking to recover the money on the Z51 / MN6 combo which previously added $1310 to the price of the car. Since the MN6 is std the cost of Z51 increases to compensate.

Why did GM make the MN6 std? So they can charge a premium when the new auto (6L-80E) becomes available. I expect the current MXO (4L-65E ) is going to be a no cost option until then.

 

My guess is that the standard C6 suspension will be better than the C5 FE1 (way too soft). The C6 Z51 will cost more because of the upgraded brakes, tires, oil cooled rear end, engine oil cooler, and more. Just look at how much more GM charges for the C5 polished wheels.

 

Here's a link to the new front/rear stabilizer bars for the C6:

http://www.c6registry.com/Hot_News/index.htm