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Looking at picking up a 2015 Z06/Z07 Corvette, and before I jump out of my 19 G/S up to this. is there anything I should be a where of with the 2015's? I have heard about cooling issues, but nothing else. Does anyone have comments on the Z07 package? thanks Mark
Why are you considering this change? You have a 2019 with all of the improvements and added features the C7 generation could have. By going to a 2015 you will be going back to a lower level of features. Overall, there is not all that much difference in performance between the two cars. Sure the Z06 has almost 200 more HP at 6400 rpm and has much higher torque from idle to the rev limiter, but the GS doesn't weigh as much, doesn't have the aero drag of a Stage 3 Z06 and has transmission gearing that helps offset the low-end torque disadvantage. When you get right down to it a well driven GS is fairly competitive with a well driven Z06/Z07. Depending on the track the Z06 will be slightly faster but on other tracks, the GS will turn better lap times. You may say you aren't planning on tracking the car but the performance difference that is easily measured on track also applies to the street. You will find there are few places where you can hold the throttle wide open on either car long enough for the difference in performance to show.
The Z07 has the ceramic brake package and if the car is only driven on the street the brakes will last longer than the car. However, the standard Z06/GS brake package will last a long time as well. Just driven on the street the brakes will last quite a few years as well. More than likely longer than you and/or a second owner will own the car.
I have owned and tracked a 2015 Z06/Z07 since 2015. I love the car and would not trade it for a 2019 GS. However, if I had a 2019 GS I would not trade it for my 2015 Z06. My car doesn't have the front cameras (which are necessary if you have a car with the front splitter), my car doesn't have the improved displays that came out on with the 2018s and were further improved for 2019. There are several other things the 19s have the 15s didn't have including in the infotainment section.
I have been on track with GSs and they are no slouches. You might not want one when trying to run with a Porsche GT3 RS (or whatever their latest hot setup is called) as it takes a Z06 with full Aero to match them but you don't run into very many of those. Full Aero gets you through the corners much better but it will kill a GS on the longer straights since that is where the lower HP factors in. Once the speed is above 120 mph It is hard for the Z06 to pull the car to 150 mph with full Aero. I can feel it holding the car back once the speed goes over 140.
Looking at picking up a 2015 Z06/Z07 Corvette, and before I jump out of my 19 G/S up to this. is there anything I should be a where of with the 2015's? I have heard about cooling issues, but nothing else. Does anyone have comments on the Z07 package? thanks Mark
Sorry but I do not have the Z07 package. However, if you don't plan on tracking your car regularly you don't really need the Z07 package (and it's extra cost). I don't track my Corvettes other than occasional Touring laps once or twice a year (in the old days) so I specifically ordered my 2016 without it and it has been a great driving and handling car for over 20k miles. I did not need or want the Cup 2 tires, the Carbon brakes and the excessive aero pieces (but many folks likes these tings). I now especially like the all season tires I put on last spring replacing the OEM Pilot Sports and the more minimalist aero pieces. Mine is still a Z06 and very fast, yet also a comfortable driver. But if you really want the Z07 there shouldn't be any issues to worry about. The cooling issues tend to be on tracked cars (those who have tracked and had issues can comment on this better than I). My general feeling is if you like the car and the price go for it. --Bob
I ordered the Z07 package on my 2019 Z06 coupe. I only track (pre-Covid) about 1-2 times per year and it's mostly just club track time, nothing too competitive. I live in Florida and the roads are pretty good so the tweaked suspension isn't punishing as it would be in an area with bad roads. The CCB brakes are fantastic and should last the lifetime of the car with limited track time. I'm glad I got the package plus the Stage 3 aero looks great.
I like having a car that is optimally setup for carving corners, so I went with the Z07 package. I love the look, size, and feel of the brakes. The CCB brakes will get expensive if used heavily on track though because of consumable costs. The Z07 suspension does ride pretty rough, but it's worth it to me. Overall, I'm glad I went with the Z07 and would do it again.
I own a 2015 Z06/Z07 and I love it. I had the suspension update done by the dealer and the ride isn't too harsh. I don't track the car, but I wanted the CCB's. I doubt I will ever have to change them and I love the added feature of no brake dust. I got 13,000 miles out of the Sport Cups and then I went with Super Sports. I loved the grip of the Sport Cups, but I would avoid taking the car out in the rain. I never had a cooling problem, but I don't tract it, so it isn't an issue.
Good luck!
Why are you considering this change? You have a 2019 with all of the improvements and added features the C7 generation could have. By going to a 2015 you will be going back to a lower level of features. Overall, there is not all that much difference in performance between the two cars. Sure the Z06 has almost 200 more HP at 6400 rpm and has much higher torque from idle to the rev limiter, but the GS doesn't weigh as much, doesn't have the aero drag of a Stage 3 Z06 and has transmission gearing that helps offset the low-end torque disadvantage. When you get right down to it a well driven GS is fairly competitive with a well driven Z06/Z07. Depending on the track the Z06 will be slightly faster but on other tracks, the GS will turn better lap times. You may say you aren't planning on tracking the car but the performance difference that is easily measured on track also applies to the street. You will find there are few places where you can hold the throttle wide open on either car long enough for the difference in performance to show.
The Z07 has the ceramic brake package and if the car is only driven on the street the brakes will last longer than the car. However, the standard Z06/GS brake package will last a long time as well. Just driven on the street the brakes will last quite a few years as well. More than likely longer than you and/or a second owner will own the car.
I have owned and tracked a 2015 Z06/Z07 since 2015. I love the car and would not trade it for a 2019 GS. However, if I had a 2019 GS I would not trade it for my 2015 Z06. My car doesn't have the front cameras (which are necessary if you have a car with the front splitter), my car doesn't have the improved displays that came out on with the 2018s and were further improved for 2019. There are several other things the 19s have the 15s didn't have including in the infotainment section.
I have been on track with GSs and they are no slouches. You might not want one when trying to run with a Porsche GT3 RS (or whatever their latest hot setup is called) as it takes a Z06 with full Aero to match them but you don't run into very many of those. Full Aero gets you through the corners much better but it will kill a GS on the longer straights since that is where the lower HP factors in. Once the speed is above 120 mph It is hard for the Z06 to pull the car to 150 mph with full Aero. I can feel it holding the car back once the speed goes over 140.
Mine is a 2019 Z06/Z07 and no complains, in Tour mode which I almost never use is fine, no harsh ride at all, yes I'm in South Florida but I've taken a couple trips. Like mentioned above the CCB are amazing and they look fantastic as well.
I don't track my car but if you chose you can get iron brakes, many threads on the subject.
And yes, most of us don't need the Z07 package but also we don't need the Z06 or even a Corvette but life is short.
Last edited by JKU007FL; Jan 12, 2021 at 03:56 PM.
I ordered the Z07 package on my 2019 Z06 coupe. I only track (pre-Covid) about 1-2 times per year and it's mostly just club track time, nothing too competitive. I live in Florida and the roads are pretty good so the tweaked suspension isn't punishing as it would be in an area with bad roads. The CCB brakes are fantastic and should last the lifetime of the car with limited track time. I'm glad I got the package plus the Stage 3 aero looks great.
Originally Posted by JKU007FL
Mine is a 2019 Z06/Z07 and no complains, in Tour mode which I almost never use is fine, no harsh ride at all, yes I'm in South Florida but I've taken a couple trips. Like mentioned above the CCB are amazing and they look fantastic as well.
I don't track my car but if you chose to you can get iron brakes, many threads on the subject.
And yes, most of us don't need the Z07 package but also we don't need the Z06 or even a Corvette but life is short.
Another Florida guy checking in here...South Florida.
Like MSG I track the car a few times a year with the club, nothing overly aggressive. The CCB brakes keep the wheels clean, look amazing, stopping power is ridiculous, and should last the life of the car unless I decide to pig all over them. When I started my search for a used Z06 back in 2019, I knew the Z07 package was on the list of requirements. The car also came with the stage 3 aero and all exposed carbon fiber.
I would have spec'ed the car like this from factory and I was lucky enough to find one used with Comp Seats and M7.
I would totally and without hesitation get the Z07 package again.
Another Florida guy checking in here...South Florida.
Like MSG I track the car a few times a year with the club, nothing overly aggressive. The CCB brakes keep the wheels clean, look amazing, stopping power is ridiculous, and should last the life of the car unless I decide to pig all over them. When I started my search for a used Z06 back in 2019, I knew the Z07 package was on the list of requirements. The car also came with the stage 3 aero and all exposed carbon fiber.
I would have spec'ed the car like this from factory and I was lucky enough to find one used with Comp Seats and M7.
I would totally and without hesitation get the Z07 package again.
We had the same specs. Comp Seats + M7 & Z07. Very happy with the car. It's a blast to drive. Even in heavy, 40 MPH traffic, the car has serious attitude.
I have a 15 Z07 as well.
No regrets about the Z07, I wanted it for the looks of the brakes, that's it. They look awesome and take the whole vehicle up a notch IMO looks wise.
Stage 3 aero looks awesome too IMO.
Ride is not harsh. . . . .IMO
And as for the cooling deficiencies, that is something taken pretty much out of context on some internet platforms. If you aren't tracking it is utterly meaningless. And even if you are it mostly affects the autos, and would only affect the M7 if you are a VERY skilled driver capable of maxing out the performance of the car.
Any time I see a C7 with those dinky little rear steel brakes I thank the lord I had the foresight to get the carbons
Plus one on what rtv900 said. I have the CCB on my 2015 Z06/07 and they're simply amazing. I still have my C6 Z06 for track days, so I can't speak to the cooling issues.
I agree with Bill on this one. I don't think I'd trade a 19 GS for a 15 Z07. IMHO, you are giving up more than you are getting. The Z is fun, but you can't have much without attracting unwanted attention. BTW, in my experience the CCBs are great until they get cold and wet. They react to that combination much worse than steel. If you get a car with them be careful under those circumstances until you understand what they will and won't do.
Howver, I might be tempted if I planned to build it for big horsepower.
I have a 2016 Z06/Z07. and love it! Is the ride harsh??? compared to a Cadillac, yes. compared to every other sports car I have owned, no. On longer trips on the Hwy my wife has no problem at all sleeping in the passenger seat for hours
Mine is a 2019 Z06/Z07 and no complains, in Tour mode which I almost never use is fine, no harsh ride at all, yes I'm in South Florida but I've taken a couple trips. Like mentioned above the CCB are amazing and they look fantastic as well.
I don't track my car but if you chose you can get iron brakes, many threads on the subject.
And yes, most of us don't need the Z07 package but also we don't need the Z06 or even a Corvette but life is short.
Southwest Texas 2019 Z06 w/Z07 owner here and I agree with this as well.
We even have crappy roads and I often drive in track mode for the improved throttle control, but usually drive in sport. On the really bad roads in town I turn it to Tour, but then back to Sport or Track when I'm past the bad parts.
I too wanted the look of the Z07 more than the added features on my Z06.
I bought my 2016 Z07 used 2 1/2 years ago with 6500 miles in Ohio. Before I got home to Louisville I knew I wanted to change the tires. As far as the suspension the updated software is a huge improvement. Changing over to non run flat Michelin tires made the most difference in ride quality. The 2nd best change was changing the alignment from the factory specs to specs Bill Dearborn gave me for the street. The Z07 brake package is great. I was not looking for a Z07 when I bought the car but the price was right and I have no regrets.
I bought my 2016 Z07 used 2 1/2 years ago with 6500 miles in Ohio. Before I got home to Louisville I knew I wanted to change the tires. As far as the suspension the updated software is a huge improvement. Changing over to non run flat Michelin tires made the most difference in ride quality. The 2nd best change was changing the alignment from the factory specs to specs Bill Dearborn gave me for the street. The Z07 brake package is great. I was not looking for a Z07 when I bought the car but the price was right and I have no regrets.
Any way you could post those street specs?
maybe next inspection I should change mine if it's really that much better
My problem with my alignment was tramlining on public roads with the stock spec Z07 alignment specs. I had two alignments done at my GM dealer after receiving my car which did not resolve the tramlining problem. I got the following advice from Bill and took the car to a good alignment shop. I asked them to use the standard Z06 specs (not the Z07 specs) with the following alterations per Bill. Rear toe set to +0.10--front toe set to 0.00-+0.10. This completely resolved the issue and made the car much more pleasant to drive. I use the car on public roads and the drag strip where this works very well. If you are road coursing the car this is probably not ideal.
Last edited by jstewart; Jan 14, 2021 at 12:38 PM.
Recently acquired my 2015 M7 ZO6 / ZO7.
Another South Florida guy.
Absolutely love it. Very little if any track days in my future. I just wanted what I perceived as the best performance in the class. Also simply because "it was out there". I know my personality & I would have constantly been looking back on missed opportunity to have such performance ( wether that added performance is warranted or not). It is the exact same reason I searched for a ZO6 & not a GS. The constant nag of not having a supercharger or the need to build the bottom end to support a decent supercharger would have been my focus for the first few months of ownership. I'm glad I did what I did.
Bottom Line:
Love ITTTTT !!
The aero package sets it off, complements wherever I go. The CCB are incredible in regard to performance & the look enhances this American Supercar. I drive this vehicle frequently, the lack of brake dust is worth the price of admission.
PS: I just had a front camera installed for $650 & it works seamlessly with the stock rear camera system.
Recently acquired my 2015 M7 ZO6 / ZO7.
Another South Florida guy.
Absolutely love it. Very little if any track days in my future. I just wanted what I perceived as the best performance in the class. Also simply because "it was out there". I know my personality & I would have constantly been looking back on missed opportunity to have such performance ( wether that added performance is warranted or not). It is the exact same reason I searched for a ZO6 & not a GS. The constant nag of not having a supercharger or the need to build the bottom end to support a decent supercharger would have been my focus for the first few months of ownership. I'm glad I did what I did.
Bottom Line:
Love ITTTTT !!
The aero package sets it off, complements wherever I go. The CCB are incredible in regard to performance & the look enhances this American Supercar. I drive this vehicle frequently, the lack of brake dust is worth the price of admission.
PS: I just had a front camera installed for $650 & it works seamlessly with the stock rear camera system.
Can you share the details on the Front camera? Believe it or not that is a big deal to me and giving up my 19 G/S 2LT because little things like this, I am hesitating to pull the trigger on the 15 Z07 3LZ!
I felt the same way while searching for my dream car. 2015 had a few hurdles between the front camera, rear hatch not self closing, history of the over heating issue & the SC lid being smaller than the 2017 & up models (I'm sure other differences exist but non seem to get in the way of a great experience).
- Camera is an easy upgrade & within budget
- rear hatch turned out to be zero problem for me ( some complain of the two step process)
- overheating has been discussed on this forum mannnnnny times. The M7 & not a hot lap / track vehicle .... no issue for me.
- SC lid can be replaced with aftermarket or OEM newer version.
As for your original question:
I had it installed at a local shop. Tint King in West Palm Beach FL. They used a product called Nav TV. It seamlessly connects to the existing rear camera system & allows for a wireless camera to be installed in the front grill. The tech said, it wasn't too intrusive as the screen did not have to be removed. The only drawback (if you want to call it that), I have to hit a small toggle switch ( located under the steering column) to turn it on or off.
I did not ask if it can be connected to the PDR system ( as the newer models have). I can look into that.
Now I get the warm fuzzy feeling knowing my CF front splitter will be fairly easy to protect.
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