Pitbull11

I'm not going to track the car but like heavy duty stuff so is the Z 51 package heavier duty than the regular base Corvette package? Or does Z 51 package just add complexity which could mean more failure points?

mschuyler

Yes.

mpuzach

The Z51 Performance Package includes dry sump lubrication, specific close-ratio gearing; transmission-cooling system; larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged alloy wheels and dual-compound tires; larger, slotted rotors and brake-cooling ducts; electronic limited-slip differential and differential cooling system; unique chassis tuning; and optional Magnetic Ride Control active-handling system with Performance Traction Management. Its center of gravity height is 17½", lower than the Lotus Elise.

Pitbull11

based on the fact that I won't be tracking it more complexity is NOT a plus thanks for the feedback

mpuzach

IMO Z51 is worth it if only for the increased cooling capacity. It doesn't really bring any significant added complexity.

Rebel Yell

If you're not tracking the car you don't need it unless you just want it. That's about as simple as I can answer your question. Mine is a non Z51 (base car), and I'm sure I will never drive it to it's limits.

BrookenookZO6

....don't you get bigger brakes as well??

mpuzach

Yes.

chronage

Z51s are a great value. Brakes, cooling, wheels, suspension, differential/gearing etc. are all upgraded. Just keep in mind the suspension will be firmer than a base model unless you get MSRC (highly recommended). The increased complexity largely comes from the dry sump oil system.

dvilin

As Rebel Yell stated if you are not going to track it no need for the Z51. Of course everyone that has it is going to tell you it is worth the money, but in reality it is not save your money.

LimeRay

Z51 is worth it for the E-Diff alone. People just don't get how much this feature alone adds to the cars performance. Z-51 package is an incredible bargain for the amount of technology it provides.

All this being said, if you're going to drive like a geezer then don't bother.

RedC7AZ

Hmm, but there are many of us non Z51 option owners that don't drive like "geezers".

dvilin

Now I get it you have to have Z51 or you are a driving Geezer.

musclecar6

The ride and handling are different between the base and Z51 suspensions. Add mag ride to the base or Z51 and those suspensions have 3 different settings to choose from. All are good setups, just depends on what you're looking for.

rsmarti1

I too debated for months on which to buy, the base or Z-51. I decided on the base for the following reasons:

1. The Z-51 with its dry sump requires more oil at change times and sometimes the mechanic overfills (don't know what he/she is doing) Search the forum on this.

2. I'm not sure what the Ediff adds over the standard positraction. I googled various aftermarket manufacturers/suppliers, and the main advantage of Ediffs are for offroad use or snow, etc. NOT in a Vette.

3. Some of the suspension components of a Z-51 can be added by the dealer at a fraction of the original cost. Sway/stabilizer bars, etc. If you think you need them.

4. The tires grip better (read: softer and wearing out quicker) in a Z-51.

5. With slotted disc brakes on the Z-51, there is much more dust on the wheels and require frequent cleaning.

6. The ride WILL be harsher in a Z-51 in most of the driving modes. I suggest test driving both in various road conditions.

7. Yes, a Z-51 can be considered an "upgrade". But would you "upgrade" (supersize) your McDonald's meal if you're just not that hungry?

In support of getting the Z-51: according to Kelly Blue Book, you get all of what this option costs upon resale.

And, I love the Z-51 wheels.

Corgidog1

I don't drive my base anywhere near its limits, so for me it would be a waste of money to get a car with even higher limits.

2K14C7

You don't need it but it is nice to have. If you can find one with Mag Ride that's the one to consider.

SilverGhost

I would buy the 2017 z-51 package, with or without mag ride, OR i would buy 2017 mag ride stand-alone on the base package of the 2017 C7 for two reasons. 1. you get the ticket to participate in better tire research and 2. volume price reductions in that size tires in the out years. For 2018 ALL C7 vettes get the 19/20" z51 wheels and tires. for 2017, only the mag ride vettes and z51 vettes get the 19/20" z51 wheels and tires. all other 2017 c7's have 18/19" wheels and tires. So, going forward tire companies are going to focus on improving 19/20" tires. Then there will be more volume produced in that size since all new c7's will be so shod. Both things portend better/cheaper tires in the 19/20" size in the future.

JerryU

The OP says he likes HD "stuff" and your list shows the HD "stuff" you get with the Z51, great bargain.

Driving my 5th Vette and all have had HD suspension and options like larger wheels (my 1st, an '88 offered that option.) Ride is stiffer but I'm "only '74" so fine with me!

I don't track but would not buy a Vette without HD "stuff." My C6 Z51 and C7 Z51 did not have mag shocks because I didn't think I needed the extra complication with our relatively good roads in eastern SC. The Grand Sport comes with it and in Touring it is a somewhat softer ride. Note, it's not soft just a bit softer when set at Touring than my C7 Z51. Without mag shocks my C7 Z51 ride was between my Grand Sport set at Touring and Sport-all the time. When the Grand Sport is set at Track it will rattle your teeth!

If the OP wants the softest ride, get the base C7. It has softer springs smaller diameter front sway bar and no bar in the rear. It has only 36 mm diameter shocks, big enough to control the softer springs and not as large as the 45 mm diameter (stiffer) conventional shocks in my C7 Z51.

thill444

Drive them both back to back and buy the one you like.