Notices
C6 Corvette ZR1 & Z06 General info about GM’s Corvette Supercar, LS9 Corvette Technical Info, Performance Upgrades, Suspension Setup for Street or Track
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by: Kraken

[ZR1] Your thoughts on my dilemma -- a short read

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 02-17-2016, 05:37 PM
  #1  
cruzr6
Instructor
Thread Starter
 
cruzr6's Avatar
 
Member Since: Dec 2008
Location: Indian Harbour Beach FL / Basye VA
Posts: 174
Received 7 Likes on 6 Posts

Default Your thoughts on my dilemma -- a short read

Good evening everyone.

I’m in a dilemma, of my own making, and would appreciate some owner input. Hoping for a broad response I’ve posted this query in the C6/Z06, C6/ZR1, and C7/Z06 Threads.

At 68 years of age, I’ve decided to replace my wonderful 06 Z06 with either a C6 Z06/Z07 (2011?), a 2012-2013 ZR1, or a C7 Z06. To my mind, each of these vehicles represents the finest Corvette engineering for that particular model run, and taken in total, I believe these three models represent the best Corvettes made; at least for the masses. My problem? I’ve done all the quarter mile, roundy-round, and HPDE I want to do, and I’ve now concluded for my last Corvette I’m searching for that superb “driver” that provides both an emotional and performance solution to my search. Clearly, any of the cars I’m considering have the necessary performance DNA built in, but which one?

We know the C7 Z06 and the C6 ZR1 are so close in real-world capabilities that the performance winner depends upon a myriad of factors that seldom present themselves in normal driving experiences. Question: any owners feel an emotional tug when you drive these two beasts? My guess, probably not, but I’d be interested in your responses. And ear-to-ear grins don’t count!

We also know newer is generally better and yes, the C7 Z06 is no-doubt Corvette’s pinnacle model, but why then do we still lust for the C2 67 427/435? Is it just an old guy thing? To me, if the 67 427/435 doesn’t represent the marque, then nothing epitomizes Corvette except … maybe … the C6 Z06, in Z07 trim. To my thinking, these two models are everything you need to know about Corvettes. No disrespect meant nor saying ZR1s and C7 Z06s aren’t super cars … they are.

But my question to you … which performance Corvette tugs at your emotional strings, and why?

Thanks, Jeff / cruzr6
The following users liked this post:
DANZ06 (05-30-2016)
Old 02-17-2016, 07:07 PM
  #2  
kozmic
Burning Brakes
Support Corvetteforum!
 
kozmic's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jan 2013
Location: Houston TX
Posts: 1,147
Received 609 Likes on 273 Posts
Default

I say...

- If you are on a budget... go with the C6 Z06

- If you want the tech and a fancy interior... go with the C7 Z06/Z07

- But if you want... one of about only 4700 made... timeless lines... and brags that you can go 200mph if you ever found the opportunity, go with the C6 ZR1.

Really can't go wrong either way...

Last edited by kozmic; 02-17-2016 at 07:07 PM.
The following 2 users liked this post by kozmic:
Supersonic_ZR1 (02-24-2016), vetintheblood (02-18-2016)
Old 02-17-2016, 07:09 PM
  #3  
vetteb_96C
Pro
 
vetteb_96C's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2002
Location: Michigan mi
Posts: 729
Received 270 Likes on 121 Posts

Default

Coming from an '08 Z06 I decided on a 60th anniversary ZR1. That was my dream car. C7 Z06's were out but I found a new leftover ZR1.
Much more rare and I think the performance is almost the same (I don't track my car) no regrets here. I always say there will be something newer, better and faster. Just pic something and enjoy it.
Old 02-17-2016, 07:29 PM
  #4  
Gary '09 C6
Race Director
Support Corvetteforum!
 
Gary '09 C6's Avatar
 
Member Since: Aug 2010
Location: Houston TX
Posts: 12,633
Received 454 Likes on 399 Posts

Default

OP, your 2006 C6 Z06 is no slouch...lightest version of the model run...possibly address the cylinder heads if not done...
could be a keeper in its own right a la' that '67 427/435...

Alternatively, I agree with kozmic above.

Last edited by Gary '09 C6; 02-17-2016 at 07:29 PM.
The following users liked this post:
Supersonic_ZR1 (02-24-2016)
Old 02-17-2016, 08:00 PM
  #5  
Jimnc
Drifting
 
Jimnc's Avatar
 
Member Since: Nov 2015
Location: Just passed you.
Posts: 1,660
Received 139 Likes on 98 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by kozmic



- if you want... one of about only 4700 made... timeless lines... and brags that you can go 200mph if you ever found the opportunity, go with the C6 ZR1.
:

agreed
Old 02-17-2016, 08:23 PM
  #6  
kevakasper
Melting Slicks
 
kevakasper's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2010
Location: Hawthorn Woods Illinois
Posts: 2,966
Received 42 Likes on 28 Posts
2017 C4 of the Year Finalist
No-IL Events Coordinator
St. Jude Donor '12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17

Default

They built more C7 Z06's last year than the entire run of C6 ZR1's. The Z06's are a dime a dozen now. You see them at every stop light. The reliability is questionable also. Go with the King, ZR1 and be done!
The following users liked this post:
Supersonic_ZR1 (02-24-2016)
Old 02-17-2016, 08:55 PM
  #7  
camiv
Pro
 
camiv's Avatar
 
Member Since: Feb 2003
Location: st. cloud mn
Posts: 650
Likes: 0
Received 10 Likes on 9 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by kevakasper
They built more C7 Z06's last year than the entire run of C6 ZR1's. The Z06's are a dime a dozen now. You see them at every stop light. The reliability is questionable also. Go with the King, ZR1 and be done!
Agreed !
Old 02-17-2016, 09:09 PM
  #8  
ROCKGT
Instructor
 
ROCKGT's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jan 2011
Posts: 216
Likes: 0
Received 11 Likes on 9 Posts

Default

I don't see myself doing a lot of gear changing at 68 any more. Heck, I'm 52 and being stuck in traffic now-a-days drives me crazy !
I would go with the new car, no doubt.
Old 02-17-2016, 09:09 PM
  #9  
LGK-SD
Pro
 
LGK-SD's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jul 2015
Location: Cincinnati OH
Posts: 647
Received 20 Likes on 16 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by cruzr6
Good evening everyone.

I’m in a dilemma, of my own making, and would appreciate some owner input. Hoping for a broad response I’ve posted this query in the C6/Z06, C6/ZR1, and C7/Z06 Threads.

At 68 years of age, I’ve decided to replace my wonderful 06 Z06 with either a C6 Z06/Z07 (2011?), a 2012-2013 ZR1, or a C7 Z06. To my mind, each of these vehicles represents the finest Corvette engineering for that particular model run, and taken in total, I believe these three models represent the best Corvettes made; at least for the masses. My problem? I’ve done all the quarter mile, roundy-round, and HPDE I want to do, and I’ve now concluded for my last Corvette I’m searching for that superb “driver” that provides both an emotional and performance solution to my search. Clearly, any of the cars I’m considering have the necessary performance DNA built in, but which one?

We know the C7 Z06 and the C6 ZR1 are so close in real-world capabilities that the performance winner depends upon a myriad of factors that seldom present themselves in normal driving experiences. Question: any owners feel an emotional tug when you drive these two beasts? My guess, probably not, but I’d be interested in your responses. And ear-to-ear grins don’t count!

We also know newer is generally better and yes, the C7 Z06 is no-doubt Corvette’s pinnacle model, but why then do we still lust for the C2 67 427/435? Is it just an old guy thing? To me, if the 67 427/435 doesn’t represent the marque, then nothing epitomizes Corvette except … maybe … the C6 Z06, in Z07 trim. To my thinking, these two models are everything you need to know about Corvettes. No disrespect meant nor saying ZR1s and C7 Z06s aren’t super cars … they are.

But my question to you … which performance Corvette tugs at your emotional strings, and why?

Thanks, Jeff / cruzr6
Jeff- My thought process (except for C2 consideration) was similar. About a year ago I (re) fell in love with the C2's and had to have one. But I wanted a great one. Didn't have to be NCRS but close. Like you said..the epitome of Corvettes are those midyears. But then I started to (re)familiarize myself with the ZR1, its' incredible attributes, and remember what an IMSA fan I am as well. I'm thinking...for the money..which was comparable... I wanted something with awesome performance, some of the modern tech features, and I could hop in and drive 200 miles without thinking about it. The ZR1 won.
But make no mistake. They both have the rarity factor and If I could afford it and had the space, the C2 would absolutely be in my garage. At the end of the day...they are two different categories of cars and pull on the auto-emotions in 2 different ways. PS- This is a good dilemma to have, and at the end go with your gut.

Last edited by LGK-SD; 02-17-2016 at 09:10 PM.
Old 02-18-2016, 02:20 PM
  #10  
jbp8653
Drifting
 
jbp8653's Avatar
 
Member Since: Mar 2006
Location: Gibsonton FL.
Posts: 1,516
Received 31 Likes on 25 Posts

Default

No bad choice here. If you want the one that will probably hold it's value the most I think it's the ZR1. I have a 60th Ann. and I don't see selling it anytime soon. It is my 27th Corvette since 1974. I work for a large dealership chain (27 years) with 2 Chevy stores. I can get a new C7Z at cost. Although I think it is a cool car I haven't even driven one yet. So I guess it's easy to see which one I prefer. If you don't want to shift then you only have one choice. Pretty sure you will be happy with what ever you pick!
Old 02-18-2016, 02:51 PM
  #11  
ufaj26
Le Mans Master
Support Corvetteforum!
 
ufaj26's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jul 2005
Location: Hoschton Georgia
Posts: 6,345
Received 267 Likes on 134 Posts

Default

You should at least test drive a ZR1.
Old 02-18-2016, 03:40 PM
  #12  
SweetZO6
Racer
 
SweetZO6's Avatar
 
Member Since: Aug 2006
Location: Valley Lee MD
Posts: 488
Likes: 0
Received 42 Likes on 37 Posts

Default

Jeff, I'm 68 also and had a '04 Z06. It was a great ride. But a year ago I got a '10 C6 ZR1 3ZR in cyber gray. WOW!!!! What a ride. The BEAST certainly deserves it name. I have put 12,000 miles on it and I can truly say it is the most fun I've EVER had in a car with my clothes on. I drive to Myrtle Beach 3 times a year from MD and I can't wait until the next trip. I would go with the ZR1 but I guess I'm a little bias.

Ed
Old 02-19-2016, 12:31 PM
  #13  
Crabbers
Le Mans Master
 
Crabbers's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jun 2014
Location: Over there
Posts: 7,474
Likes: 0
Received 116 Likes on 79 Posts
Default

Zr1, ezpz
Old 02-19-2016, 03:15 PM
  #14  
DONR
Pro

 
DONR's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 2005
Location: AMARILLO TEXAS
Posts: 691
Received 139 Likes on 74 Posts

Default

I purchased a 09 ZR1 about a year ago. They are super cars. The only issue I have is the front splitter is so low you really have to watch going up driveways or over dips in the road. I had to build ramps in order to get into my driveway.
May be selling it soon though to get a 4 seater camero so I can take the 2 grandsons riding. My other vette is a 66 conv. so I still have the corvette fun covered.
Old 02-19-2016, 03:49 PM
  #15  
Jimnc
Drifting
 
Jimnc's Avatar
 
Member Since: Nov 2015
Location: Just passed you.
Posts: 1,660
Received 139 Likes on 98 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by DONR
I purchased a 09 ZR1 about a year ago. They are super cars. The only issue I have is the front splitter is so low you really have to watch going up driveways or over dips in the road. I had to build ramps in order to get into my driveway.
May be selling it soon though to get a 4 seater camero so I can take the 2 grandsons riding. My other vette is a 66 conv. so I still have the corvette fun covered.
I feel your pain about the driveway scrapes. I never considered that when I bought my ZR1 last year. Tried a 2x10" plank but it kept floating away when it rained. Bought a Bridgit curb transition and all is good.
Old 02-19-2016, 10:15 PM
  #16  
Vernon
Drifting
 
Vernon's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jun 2000
Location: Pickering Ontario
Posts: 1,615
Received 480 Likes on 338 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by cruzr6
Good evening everyone.

I’m in a dilemma, of my own making, and would appreciate some owner input. Hoping for a broad response I’ve posted this query in the C6/Z06, C6/ZR1, and C7/Z06 Threads.

At 68 years of age, I’ve decided to replace my wonderful 06 Z06 with either a C6 Z06/Z07 (2011?), a 2012-2013 ZR1, or a C7 Z06. To my mind, each of these vehicles represents the finest Corvette engineering for that particular model run, and taken in total, I believe these three models represent the best Corvettes made; at least for the masses. My problem? I’ve done all the quarter mile, roundy-round, and HPDE I want to do, and I’ve now concluded for my last Corvette I’m searching for that superb “driver” that provides both an emotional and performance solution to my search. Clearly, any of the cars I’m considering have the necessary performance DNA built in, but which one?

We know the C7 Z06 and the C6 ZR1 are so close in real-world capabilities that the performance winner depends upon a myriad of factors that seldom present themselves in normal driving experiences. Question: any owners feel an emotional tug when you drive these two beasts? My guess, probably not, but I’d be interested in your responses. And ear-to-ear grins don’t count!

We also know newer is generally better and yes, the C7 Z06 is no-doubt Corvette’s pinnacle model, but why then do we still lust for the C2 67 427/435? Is it just an old guy thing? To me, if the 67 427/435 doesn’t represent the marque, then nothing epitomizes Corvette except … maybe … the C6 Z06, in Z07 trim. To my thinking, these two models are everything you need to know about Corvettes. No disrespect meant nor saying ZR1s and C7 Z06s aren’t super cars … they are.

But my question to you … which performance Corvette tugs at your emotional strings, and why?

Thanks, Jeff / cruzr6
Jeff/cruzr6,
Your thread reads like you have an emotional tug for the C6 Z06/Z07.

My greatest Corvette emotional tug was the '63 coupe - the styling of the car was, and is, beautiful to my eye. The driving experience for this car in the 21st century was far less appealing due to four wheel drum brakes and the C2 antiquated powertrain and suspension technology. I sold the car in 2014 and purchased another beautiful C2 coupe, a '67 427 (L36/390). The driving pleasure with this car was improved over the '63 primarily because of four wheel disc brakes. And the cleaned up C2 body design of the '67 was still very much eye candy in my opinion.
Fast forward to today's C6 and C7 vehicles and you have all that has come with the manufacturing evolution/revolution of America's sports car...many would characterize qualities of the C6 Z06 & ZR1 and C7 Z06 as super car. So, as others have said, which car tugs at your heart strings...is it the C6 Z06/Z07?
How about a C7 Z06 convertible where you can lower the top to sense more of the driving experience sights and sounds? Or remove the top from the C7 Z06 to add to your driving pleasure?

The C6 and C7 are both high performance driving cars with capacities beyond my race abilities; I view the C6 as the 'analog' driver, and the C7 as the 'digital' driver. I'm more comfortable with C6 ZR1. But I'm sure I would be equally happy, maybe more so, with a C7 Z06.

So...as others have said......you can't go wrong with either.

C6 Z06/Z07?
Old 02-20-2016, 01:54 AM
  #17  
whatcop?
Le Mans Master
 
whatcop?'s Avatar
 
Member Since: Jan 2009
Location: Daytona Beach/ Atlanta---- Good Ol' Florida Boy/ Georgia
Posts: 5,423
Received 43 Likes on 41 Posts

Default

I have an old thread doing a comparison that's worth reading.

Get notified of new replies

To Your thoughts on my dilemma -- a short read

Old 02-20-2016, 06:55 AM
  #18  
99HRDTP
Drifting
Support Corvetteforum!
 
99HRDTP's Avatar
 
Member Since: Oct 1999
Location: Jacksonville FL
Posts: 1,651
Received 78 Likes on 57 Posts

Default

ZR1 right now is steal of a buy. New Z gives all the performance with cooler tech and inside. I wouldn't go from C6 Z to another Z, even Carbon Z.

----
Mike
Old 02-20-2016, 08:47 AM
  #19  
Vernon
Drifting
 
Vernon's Avatar
 
Member Since: Jun 2000
Location: Pickering Ontario
Posts: 1,615
Received 480 Likes on 338 Posts

Default

Originally Posted by 99HRDTP
ZR1 right now is steal of a buy. New Z gives all the performance with cooler tech and inside. I wouldn't go from C6 Z to another Z, even Carbon Z.

----
Mike
The naturally aspirated, higher revving, highly responsive LS7 is a great motor to drive but as Mike notes above, you've already got that.

And the ZR1 is a more powerful, maybe more "GT like" version of the C6 Z06. Would the driving environment familiarity of the ZR1 increase your driving pleasure and yield the superb "driver" experience you seek? Or would it be "been here, done this"?

I can comfortably and quietly drive the ZR1 around town - my reference to "GT like" - and then bury the throttle and awaken the beast, just like your Z06 but maybe to a degree more manic.

Staying within the Corvette family, I'd suggest finding a C7 Z06 to drive or a local owner who will take you for a ride. The differentiation between the generations would be important to experience, but you know that.
The C7 Z06 might be the ticket.

Got some extra money in your pockets?
Want a superb "driver"?
How about a '15 Aston Martin Vanquish (8 speed auto version) with some pampered miles on it to bring the resale price down?
This vehicle would be my superb "driver".

Enjoy the journey.
Old 02-20-2016, 09:34 AM
  #20  
motomanvette
Melting Slicks
 
motomanvette's Avatar
 
Member Since: May 2014
Posts: 2,611
Likes: 0
Received 89 Likes on 65 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by kevakasper
They built more C7 Z06's last year than the entire run of C6 ZR1's. The Z06's are a dime a dozen now. You see them at every stop light. The reliability is questionable also. Go with the King, ZR1 and be done!
If the ZR1 is so rare, why has it lost about 40% of it's MSRP value?


Quick Reply: [ZR1] Your thoughts on my dilemma -- a short read



All times are GMT -4. The time now is 02:00 AM.