New LS1 Owners - Newbie Tech - WS6 or 03 Cobra

Hey guys and gals, I am new to this forum. I just sold my 1994 Corvette ZR1 and am wanting to get into something a little less expensive (not less fun, just less expensive) I am looking at an 03 Cobra Sonic Blue Convertible with 7k miles on it and I am also looking at a like new 02 Pewter WS6 with 18k on it. I am in a real dilema here because I like both. I love the supercharger and power of the Cobra as well as the fact that it is a vert, however, I think that inside and outside, the WS6 is a better looking car, but how much slower is it stock vs stock?

Will a full exhaust w/headers and a lid make the WS6 just as fast?

I need opinions fast!!! I am making my decision this weekend!!

Thanks :confused:

Yes, a few bolt-ons will make the WS6 faster than the mustang...if it isn't already, the hardtops weigh ~250-300lbs more.

Hey... ummm, you're asking this question on an LS1-based message board? :confused: what answer do you think you'll get here? And if you ask this question over on a 'Stang message board, what do you think they'll say?

That's like calling Pepsi and asking which one is better, Pepsi or Coke. :jest:

All kidding aside, of course, I would choose the WS6. The WS6 will be cheaper than the Cobra, and with the money saved you can make the WS6 a real beast.

For what the cost difference is between them, I'm sure you could pay a fraction of that to mod the WS6 to run with an '03 Cobra.

My vote is for the 03 Cobra, I've had 4 fast 4th gen fbodies but would love to have a SB03C.

Plus, intake, pulley, exhaust, chip, and 500rwhp is yours :)

My vote is for the 03 Cobra, I've had 4 fast 4th gen fbodies but would love to have a SB03C.

Plus, intake, pulley, exhaust, chip, and 500rwhp is yours :)The 03Cobra is one of few cars on the streets that'll humble me. Those things can be made quick very easy.:D

Either is probably nice...but is TRUELY VERY EASY to make a WS6 a bit quicker in a 1/4 mile...my guess is that the WS6 has an M6 which are truely very nice from what ive read....but yeah F-Bod over Stang any day....looks more aggressive...and depending on where you live....arent as common on the road...so ill have its uniqueness

WS6 is the way to go.

Speaking from experience (my 99 Z28 M6/H/C/N2O went 10.8 @ 129 years ago) we all know how easy it is to through a heads/cam package together and get 400rwhp or so, that would barely keep up with a similarly modded Cobra (say more boost rather than a cam change on that). And I would think a Cobra convert would be just as rare as a WS6.

I'd rather have the Cobra for ~$29k than a $19k WS6 with $10k in mods. Just look at all the heads/cam/headers/bolt on cars on our classifieds site selling for a couple of thousand more than blue book (or should I say, sitting there advertised at a couple of thousand more than blue book).

Speaking from experience (my 99 Z28 M6/H/C/N2O went 10.8 @ 129 years ago) we all know how easy it is to through a heads/cam package together and get 400rwhp or so, that would barely keep up with a similarly modded Cobra (say more boost rather than a cam change on that). And I would think a Cobra convert would be just as rare as a WS6.
Yup. :D The 03Cobra is not to be underestimated.:nono:

get the Cobra man....it's got a built motor and 450rwhp is only a few boltons away.....around $1500 with a tuned chip. for my LS1 convertible auto, 400-430 rwhp on an LS1 is around $6000 for stage 2 H/C including LS1 edit/dyno tuning and maitenance parts (wp, oil pump, timing chain, etc)....but i'll be sporting a loudass car, emission illegal and 14 mpg. plus $2500 12-bolt ...pay now or later...$350 for install?

i think a WS6 T/A looks much better than a Cobra, but the Cobra looks better than a Z/28.....while the Cobra is much more comfy and better as a daily driver in terms of general ergonomics. what i hate is is the Fbody's massive doors, cat hump on passenger side and the nose can't be seen....with the top down, it doesn't feel like a convertible vs. a Mustang convert.....ride in both and you'll see what i mean....the aerodynamics and design on the Fbody is just too good while the '79 Fairmont chassis on the '03 Cobra, while sucks from a performance standpoint...is great for that open air feeling.

'02 WS6 are still going for like $20-23k right? convertible '02 WS6 are even higher. i've seen '03 Cobra Converts for $28-31k with under 3k miles. should drop even more once the '05 Mustang bodystyle hits all the dealerships.

I have owned an LS1 and I now own an '03 Cobra. The decision should be based up your own preferences. It's obvious that both cars can be very fast. The Cobra can be turned into a 500rwhp monster very easily without having to pull the valve covers. For that matter, there are '03 Cobras with 700+rwhp with zero internal work. The block is iron and the internals are forged. With only a pulley change, exhaust, and tuning, you will hit 460rwhp. The problem is that it takes more power to pull the Cobra because it's heavier. Fit and comfort are much better in the WS6. Ford quality is a bit of a oxymoron. With the Cobra you get big power, a good tranny, and a :bs: IRS rear end. A WS6 will give you big power (with a nice chunk of change), a good tranny (same T-56), and a :bs: 10-bolt rear end.

Overall, I think styling and quality is nice with the WS6. I personally would rather have a WS6 if it had 500rwhp.

The choice is yours. Feel free to ask questions...

I'd really like to have one of those mustangs.

If you get the Ford just make sure
you buy an extended warranty, seriously.
03 Production was already stopped once
for reliability concerns. The 99 had
a class action lawsuit on it by owners.
Ford just doesn't make good cars. Ask
pretty much anyone in the car service
business. Ford keeps those guys busy.

Go ahead and bitch about using 1/2 qt oil.
Its better than break downs. Piston slap
also isn't a LS1 or GM thing either. ALL
manufacturers have it.

I would go with the 03Cobra. It will also hold its value alittle better.IMO pre 03 Cobras are and have been overpriced. You can get any year SS or ws6 cheaper than the same year Cobra.Even though the F-bodys were better all round before 03.

Get the WS6 and slap a blower on it and you have 450rwhp and you are still 6 grand up.

If you get the Ford just make sure
you buy an extended warranty, seriously.
03 Production was already stopped once
for reliability concerns. The 99 had
a class action lawsuit on it by owners.
Ford just doesn't make good cars. Ask
pretty much anyone in the car service
business. Ford keeps those guys busy.

Go ahead and bitch about using 1/2 qt oil.
Its better than break downs. Piston slap
also isn't a LS1 or GM thing either. ALL
manufacturers have it.


Do NOT buy the extended warrany...like I did. Ford is voiding out warranties left and right. You'll be wasting your money. There are no real "break downs". There are tinks, ticks, clunks, etc...nothing major IMO. My car has ZERO piston slap and it uses no oil between changes. My LS1 slapped so bad it sounded like a diesel and it used a quart between changes.

C'mon ....a WS6 lightly modded keeping up with a 03 Cobra? Ummm No....I've watched too many STOCK Cobras on nittos go 12.60's @ 110 plus mph to believe it would even be close, don't get me wrong, I really like my Z, but it would be heads, cam, LSX, LT's and all the regular bolt ons to even get close to an 03 with a CAI, catback, pulley and a good tune. Build quality? I must say, I got out of driving a Ford everyday (I still have it) and the overall feel of quality is far superior in my 10 year old coupe than it is in my 6 year old Camaro. Sorry, but it's true. All, I have to do is walk outside after it rains and just cringe 'cause I know there's 2 inches of water in the back floorboard of the Z.
My mustang never took on a drop of water. My mustang has a BS T5 trans but the camaro has a puny unexcusable 10 bolt.....the arguement rages on, I'm sure and can we thought of both ways, but from someone who has owned 22 performance vehicles over the years from a 69 six pack Super Bee to a 87 Grand National, I can tell you I want an 03 Cobra BAD....but I also won't sacrifice my Z to get it. Something about an LS1 with a big stall and a little bit of gear reminds me of the good ole days.....

bottom line? get the Cobra...you won't regret it, especially with the top down.....

Get the WS6 and slap a blower on it and you have 450rwhp and you are still 6 grand up.
Don't forget a few grand for the rear end, because the 10-bolt can't handle 450rwhp. Ton's of guys are running low 9's cutting 1.6 60's on the stock Cobra IRS. Oh, and you'll have to upgrade internals. No way I'd boost a LS1 without strengthening the bottom end. People do it, but I wouldn't.

Here's a 660rwhp Kenne Belle 'vert...just some food for though. :devil:

Get the WS6 and slap a blower on it and you have 450rwhp and you are still 6 grand up.

plus $600-800 S/C install.... $2500 for the 12-bolt, cost of LS1-edit ($350) plus at least 2-3 hours dyno tuning time ($100/hr), bigger injectors... and lots of prayers for that bottom end at 10.1:1 CR.

i am thinking about a Powerdyne though....and absolutely stay at the stock boost of 6 lbs w/o intercooler...which is still kinda high.

Do NOT buy the extended warrany...like I did. Ford is voiding out warranties left and right. You'll be wasting your money. There are no real "break downs". There are tinks, ticks, clunks, etc...nothing major IMO. My car has ZERO piston slap and it uses no oil between changes. My LS1 slapped so bad it sounded like a diesel and it used a quart between changes.I dont have piston slap or use any oil either :judge:

WOW..thanks for the feedback. I really like both cars. I have driven them both back to back. The WS6 shifts and drives better and looks better, but the Cobra definatly feels faster and is a convertible. Besides, to make matters worse, I am also trying to talk a guy out of a 91 ZR1 with 12k miles on it. You think it is expensive to mod a WS6....ZR1s are outrageous.

I wouldn't waste the time on a ZR1. How often are you able to do 200mph?

Skimms what top does your camaro have and
what top did your stang have.

I think its funny that Ford is still going with
a driven a Ford lately campaign. Like We promise
it won't be a POS this time. Even though they've
been saying it for what 15-20 years.
Bottomline is I won't buy a Ford. Just my .02

I wish as many Stang guys would have jumped ship as
soon as we got faster in 93 as LS1 guys now drool at
Cobras after having bragging rights for so long. If
so this Fbod thing might still be happening and we'd be
seing a current LS6 Fbod to compete and LS2 in the near future.
Who'd be drooling then.

I wouldn't waste the time on a ZR1. How often are you able to do 200mph?

Why, don't you like OHC motors?
Me either.
Anyone know the gears in a ZR1

WOW..thanks for the feedback. I really like both cars. I have driven them both back to back. The WS6 shifts and drives better and looks better, but the Cobra definatly feels faster and is a convertible. Besides, to make matters worse, I am also trying to talk a guy out of a 91 ZR1 with 12k miles on it. You think it is expensive to mod a WS6....ZR1s are outrageous.

Probably cause they are collectors items and
most leave them alone, smaller market=higher prices.

Hey guys and gals, I am new to this forum. I just sold my 1994 Corvette ZR1 and am wanting to get into something a little less expensive (not less fun, just less expensive) I am looking at an 03 Cobra Sonic Blue Convertible with 7k miles on it and I am also looking at a like new 02 Pewter WS6 with 18k on it. I am in a real dilema here because I like both. I love the supercharger and power of the Cobra as well as the fact that it is a vert, however, I think that inside and outside, the WS6 is a better looking car, but how much slower is it stock vs stock?

Will a full exhaust w/headers and a lid make the WS6 just as fast?

I need opinions fast!!! I am making my decision this weekend!!

Thanks :confused:

First, since you had vette the ZR1 may be your best bet.

WS6 IMO is a much better ride in handling and reliability and overall feel than a Mustang. I have had a Mustang GT 5.0 and I enjoyed it but the WS6 for me is more fun to drive and looks a Hell of allot better. As for speed? I have heard the 03 Cobra doing high 12 sec 1/4 and the WS6 doing mid 13 1/4 bare bones stock. Both are pretty damn fast. (If you do the exhaust and maybe a 2800 or better TQ you should be equal with Cobra, IMO).

The 03 Cobra does have allot of power stock and is newer and a SC under warranty is great. For newer car with SC with warranty = Fast, the Cobra.

If it were my decision.... Take the WS6 and wait until 2005 and go for something newer. The new style Mustang Looks great in Retro and I will have my WS6 paid for. Since GMC is making 7 yr old Australian LS1 as a new GTO that took the American out of 'American Muscle'. I will probably own a Mustang GT or better by 2006 unless GMC looks to guys with my tastes in a car.

plus $600-800 S/C install.... $2500 for the 12-bolt, cost of LS1-edit ($350) plus at least 2-3 hours dyno tuning time ($100/hr), bigger injectors... and lots of prayers for that bottom end at 10.1:1 CR.

i am thinking about a Powerdyne though....and absolutely stay at the stock boost of 6 lbs w/o intercooler...which is still kinda high.


Vortech has a kit, that although expensive covers pretty much everything you need for 470HP.

And even with heads and cam, you need the $2500 12 bolt as well as edit tuning and dyno time. What is your point?

As for the CR, get some Stage 2 Patriot "LS6 Style" Heads(with 72cc chamber) and pump that HP# well into the 500 range!!!

Here's a 660rwhp Kenne Belle 'vert...just some food for though. :devil:

This past weekend i saw a kenne belle vert on the dyno run 520 hp. that thing was awsome. melted his tires on the dyno. still like the looks of my WS6 over anything. tough decision. win, win situation. :cheers:

I would personally get the cobra. I hate that gm made the camaros and trans-am really cheap feeling inside. I love my camaro but if i could have an 03 cobra i would trade my camaro for it. Good luck for whatever you choose

I would personally get the cobra. I hate that gm made the camaros and trans-am really cheap feeling inside. I love my camaro but if i could have an 03 cobra i would trade my camaro for it. Good luck for whatever you choose
trader. :P

trader. :P

haha I hate to say it, I have always loved camaros and they are my dream car my dad has a 68 and our family has never owned a ford but for this one i have to say i would get the 03. I would never give up the car i have now but if i had the money and i had the choice the 03 would be mine :burn:

I'd get the cobra........my WS6 has been a PITA so far, but 85% of that because GM service sux, if they would fix it i'd be very happy!! but untill then.................

No disrespect to the ws6 i am a devoted gm man morsoe brand loyal to chevy but the 03 cobra way out performs the ws6 plain and simple i hate too say it . the ws6 on the other hand is a beauty and the cobra looks like a gt with a hood, in other words it looks like shit. as far as modding the ws6 of course is somewhat easy to make fast but of course cause it has an ls1 he best moter ever built. but the 03 cobra can be made fast extremly easy and with a kenny bell or the new procharger that car can make 700hp easy, shiut exhaust makes you around 50. but if your question is whats better the ws6 is a better built and engineered and looking car, and if someone was going to give me one or the other it would undoutedly be the ws6. but stock for stock the 03c is faster.
sorry bout the spelling and no one get me wrong nothing is better than a gm product.
russ

I'd choose the WS.6, just because I'm more experienced with the F-bodies. I'm looking to buy an 03 Cobra to sit next to my WS.6 though. They are amazing, iron engine, sc, put a nice set of headers and x-pipe and :devil:

I'm really surprised to see all the Cobra votes from an LS1 site. Interesting.

I'm really surprised to see all the Cobra votes from an LS1 site. Interesting.

The only other thing besides a vette anymore is the GTO. I will stay with my WS6.

The only other thing besides a vette anymore is the GTO. I will stay with my WS6.
I hear ya. I'm not a fan of the GTO really.

I personally love trans ams and hope to own one soon, but as for which car I would rather have, Cobra all the way, I am by no means a ford man, but imo this is the supra of american cars, for cheap it can be made real fast.

I hear ya. I'm not a fan of the GTO really.

At least you guys are mostly civil to us GTO owners here. Another certain LS1 site is downright hostile towards us.

Not to mention, this is the best tech site for anything anywhere I've ever seen. So much information already posted - and more than enough people willing to help.

Back to the question at hand - you've driven both - which felt best for you? That's the one you should get.
Dan

At least you guys are mostly civil to us GTO owners here. Another certain LS1 site is downright hostile towards us.


I don't really dislike GTO's. I'm more upset that they didn't take the opportunity to make the styling unique. It's great that it has a LS1 in it and the comfortability certainly is there. I'll never give anyone a hard time who has one. It's definitely a nice car...just not my cup of tea on the outside. The inside is nice. :)

I am one of those guys who put the Vortech on a stock car just to level the playing field. I don't street race, I just wanted to have an answer to the blown cobras. I race my '67 camaro and just cruise the ws6. A blown ws6 does get a little more respect from the mustang guys though and that was all I wanted. If you only have 1 car get the Cobra- serves you both in racing and cruising. :drive:

I personally love trans ams and hope to own one soon, but as for which car I would rather have, Cobra all the way, I am by no means a ford man, but imo this is the supra of american cars, for cheap it can be made real fast.

NO, that would be a viper then Z06

03 cobra. its just too easy to make mad power. if you want an ls1 then i'd pick up a 99-00 for cheap and build up a stroker, get a 12 bolt and spec 3 if m6 or a nice stall if an a4 and have yourself a nice ride.

stock for stock they are very close i have two friends of mine that went best 13.0 110 with there cobras on f1s and a buddy of mine who went 13.1 109.9 with his 01 ss 6 speed both with very close 60 foot times ls1 pushrod design motor is the best smallblock in my opinion ever made,yea you can put pullies and such on a mustang and make some power but then again you can procharge an ls1 and boost that baby plus i just love the way an ss or ws6 looks :usa:

I would go with a WS6. I have one and I love it. I ran an '03 Cobra a month ago and I kept pulling on him. I think the Cobra is a nice looking bad ass car though.

TA baby imo the ws6 looks much badder but of course I drive one the only plus for the stang in the sound but thats just me

Go for the lS1 I have only a few boltons and have worked an 03 cobra in street races and track races!! ALl I can say is LS1!!

I would go with a WS6. I have one and I love it. I ran an '03 Cobra a month ago and I kept pulling on him. I think the Cobra is a nice looking bad ass car though.
Was it stock? I'm trapping around 15-16mph more than you are with minor mods.

Let's not forget about drivability and road manners. My friend's 660rwhp Cobra (pictured above) behaves like it is bone stock until you get into the throttle.

Well, I have decided not to get a Cobra. As fast as they are, I just can't get behind the looks. I would rather get another Vette or WS6. I haven't raced anyone since high school and I am 31 years old. An LS1 car will be fast enough for me. I am going to go drive the Pewter WS6 in an hour or so again and go from there. If I get it, I will probably do full exhaust and an SLP lid and some suspension stuff like SLP stage 1. I will have about $3000 left over. Any suggestions on how to best spend it on the WS6?

Well, I have decided not to get a Cobra. As fast as they are, I just can't get behind the looks. I would rather get another Vette or WS6. I haven't raced anyone since high school and I am 31 years old. An LS1 car will be fast enough for me. I am going to go drive the Pewter WS6 in an hour or so again and go from there. If I get it, I will probably do full exhaust and an SLP lid and some suspension stuff like SLP stage 1. I will have about $3000 left over. Any suggestions on how to best spend it on the WS6?
Good choice. It was a win win situation either way. :cheers:

We have tons of great sponsors here that can help you out with any aspect of you car...suspension, forced induction, bolt-ons, etc. Take a look at some of the over ------>

Post pics if/when you get it!

Well, I have decided not to get a Cobra. As fast as they are, I just can't get behind the looks. I would rather get another Vette or WS6. I haven't raced anyone since high school and I am 31 years old. An LS1 car will be fast enough for me. I am going to go drive the Pewter WS6 in an hour or so again and go from there. If I get it, I will probably do full exhaust and an SLP lid and some suspension stuff like SLP stage 1. I will have about $3000 left over. Any suggestions on how to best spend it on the WS6?


Take a look in my sig. If you follow the same route you won't be dissappointed.

1. Get some LT's (Jet hots are nice)
2. Magnaflow makes an awesome catback which is very free flowing but not too loud. (until you get on it.
3. Maybe get the ASP pulley
4. I'd get the Holley powershot and Texas Speed lid. I had fitment issues with both the K&N and Whisper lids.
5. Get sub frame connectors SOON. It will keep the car from turning into a rattle trap.
6. After mods (LT's mainly) get your car tuned with LS-1 edit
7. If you don't like the drls there is a mod where you can use another foglight switch to turn them off or on. I also did a mod where I can control if the antenna is up or down considering I listen to cds most of the time. Any questions just ask. Install University and some other sights have some good info.

Like yourself I was trying to decide between the 2003 Cobra and WS6. the Cobra was a bit faster but I liked the drivability, fitment, and looks of the WS6 better.

I didn't take the time to read every post on here. Here are some big advantages and disadvantages for both.
Looks, both look nice, I like the WS6 more myself but that's just me.
Interior, I will give the notch the the stang here.
Comfort, bact to the TA.
Style is about equal.
Stock performance is about equal with the small advantage going to the Cobra with the IRS setup. HOWEVER this IRS sucks if you plan on drag racing. Dont believe me ask the Corvette drivers. Half shafts will defentially break.
Then again we have a POS 10 bolt in the F bodies. Either way if you plan on drag racing the car you will have to replace the rear.
Advantage Cobra because the rear end is much cheeper. Pickup a nice 8.8 for a stang for under a 1000 dollars.
Power advantage is the Cobra again. You can make 600+ Horse for like 5000 dollars and have a very streetable car still. The 4 Valve motor and 9:1 C/R really make a nice combo for boost. To make 600 horse in a LS1 using a SC it would cost way more.
Best forum to visit is defentially LS1tech and should factor in your decision to buy a Ford or a GM. Advantage WS6
Price, well this is a easy one to figure out. The TA should be way cheeper.
Another option would be to find a real nice 98-2001 WS6 with low milage and save yourself thousands of dollars. Put the money you saved in performance and have some fun. If you are looking for a fast everyday driver that pulls nasty from a roll, and something that wont cost a ton of money to make fast then go towards the cobra, or go with a TNT KIT and the WS6.
I drive a WS6 but I have a brain and my brain tells me I wouldn't mind having a 03 Cobra. However you have a better chance of seeing God tonight then you do in seeing me trade my GM for a ford.

Between the two :eyes: , Thats a tough decision. I have always beleived that N/A motors will last longer than SC cars, especially when you start to run them hard. But I must say (From experience with an 01GT I owned) that the Mustang was a better everyday car. I really like the styling of the WS6 Trans-Am, but my wife is 4'9" and the seat belt was around her chin when buckled, and she told me this was not very pleasing. The H/C LS1's are putting down some really good numbers and the prices are coming down on the mods. On the other hand you can swap pulleys on a blower and pick up alot too.

Coming from a ZR1 why are you not looking at the C5? the prices are really good and the Corvette is way more car (in original configuration) than the Cobra is. So I would add a third to the list and add the C5.

Good luck and I am glad to see that your choices all originate from the U.S.A.
:usa:

Coming from a ZR1 why are you not looking at the C5? the prices are really good and the Corvette is way more car (in original configuration) than the Cobra is. So I would add a third to the list and add the C5.

Good luck and I am glad to see that your choices all originate from the U.S.A.
:usa:
Never have been a fan of the C5....1996 was the last year of Corvettes. The LS1 is a great engine, but the car is just ugly IMHO.

Never have been a fan of the C5....1996 was the last year of Corvettes. The LS1 is a great engine, but the car is just ugly IMHO.
Interesting. I hated 'vettes with a passion until '97.

The salesguy (my neighbor) and I are at my house right now getting some paperwork. I took it up to about 130mph...pretty fast. I think it would hang with a C5 no problem. I am getting it for $21k.!!!!!

The salesguy (my neighbor) and I are at my house right now getting some paperwork. I took it up to about 130mph...pretty fast. I think it would hang with a C5 no problem. I am getting it for $21k.!!!!!

Very nice. You will love the WS6. If it is out of warranty, for 3k or less, I would do a 2800 TQ with trans cooler and maybe a 3.73 gear. IMO

That is where I am headed eventually........

Very nice. You will love the WS6. If it is out of warranty, for 3k or less, I would do a 2800 TQ with trans cooler and maybe a 3.73 gear. IMO

That is where I am headed eventually........


2800 stall? I think I could foot brake that. Minimum of 3200 stall.

3500 stall for sure, nothing less.

Vortech has a kit, that although expensive covers pretty much everything you need for 470HP.

And even with heads and cam, you need the $2500 12 bolt as well as edit tuning and dyno time. What is your point?

As for the CR, get some Stage 2 Patriot "LS6 Style" Heads(with 72cc chamber) and pump that HP# well into the 500 range!!!


my point is that an '02 WS6 convertible with H/C, all boltons, 12-bolt, tuning...will cost $10k on top of a $20-23k car for 400-440 rwhp and the gas mileage will drop to 12-16 mpg.

going the S/C route, that Vortec kit with aftercooler is $6100 + 12-bolt + install + tuning will also be around $10k while stressing the stock bottom end that was not meant for FI. if you add LTs and other boltons, you'll definitely go above $10k.

$29k for an '03 Convert (w/under 5k miles) + $1500 in mods is just a better and safer deal for 450-500 rwhp. and that WS6 with the Vortech kit is going to weigh the same as the Cobra.

3500 stall for sure, nothing less.

That is cool as well. My point is a 2800 will put it in the 12 sec 1/4. But, I am conservitive with a TQ and the stock A4.

my point is that an '02 WS6 convertible with H/C, all boltons, 12-bolt, tuning...will cost $10k on top of a $20-23k car for 400-440 rwhp and the gas mileage will drop to 12-16 mpg.

going the S/C route, that Vortec kit with aftercooler is $6100 + 12-bolt + install + tuning will also be around $10k while stressing the stock bottom end that was not meant for FI. if you add LTs and other boltons, you'll definitely go above $10k.

$29k for an '03 Convert (w/under 5k miles) + $1500 in mods is just a better and safer deal for 450-500 rwhp. and that WS6 with the Vortech kit is going to weigh the same as the Cobra.

I agree with all of this except the mpg part on the h/c LS1. My h/c LS1 M6 turned 19.9999mpg on the highway with 4.30 gears through the 9 inch. The numbers you quoted are spot on for city mpg though.

i got a 2000 firehawk...i've beaten 3, 03 cobras with it...all i have is intake exhaust and free mods...firehawk isn't that much differ then a ws6...but would you rather spend 10k more for a car that only has 385hp already supercharged...or get the ws6 and with that 10k extra super charge the ws6 and a few bolt ons and tune it...omg that cobra will be crying for mercy...the 03 cobra's are over rated i think...yes you could put more money into it...but you already spent 10k more then u would on a ws6...i have a few friends that bought the 03 CBR...they all say it isn't worth the money...its your decision..i think the ws6 is the way to go...also come on a ford..u better get extended warrenty and a shoulder to cry on cuz u jus lost a race againts a N/A F-Body vs a SC cobra and spent 10k more for nothing.but hey thats jus my opinion and expierence i had

I agree with all of this except the mpg part on the h/c LS1. My h/c LS1 M6 turned 19.9999mpg on the highway with 4.30 gears through the 9 inch. The numbers you quoted are spot on for city mpg though.

that's awesome...i wish i can get that. probably A4 vs M6.

i've got an A4 with stock gears (3.43?) and i drive 14 city + 36 highway everyday....pretty much smooth sailing since i leave at 11-11:30 am for work and leave work at around 12 midnight (sometimes 1am).

i fill up tank....reset trip odometer...drive until near E......fill up again...calculate miles based on 2nd time filling up .....i was getting 16-18 mpg....so i had the plugs and wires changed (w/60k miles), new fuel filter and i'm back to 18-20 mpg. this is with very little sprints from 0-60 at lights. maybe i'll do the O2 sensors next.

heads/cam will probably put me in the 12-14 mpg. i drive around 1555 miles per month = $199 - $233 in 93 octane gas....ouch.

I'm not big on verts because they weigh more. If you go coupe vs coupe..get the cobra. Lots of power made easy and you won't see 30 of them on a 5 mile run down the road. It is all about what lights your fire. Not to mention the cobra will without a doubt hold a better resale value. I'd find one with less than 10K on it and let someone else take the new car depreciation hit. They are not a joke. Anyone who says they are is either in denile, or just plain retarded.

i got a 2000 firehawk...i've beaten 3, 03 cobras with it...all i have is intake exhaust and free mods...firehawk isn't that much differ then a ws6...but would you rather spend 10k more for a car that only has 385hp already supercharged...or get the ws6 and with that 10k extra super charge the ws6 and a few bolt ons and tune it...omg that cobra will be crying for mercy...the 03 cobra's are over rated i think...yes you could put more money into it...but you already spent 10k more then u would on a ws6...i have a few friends that bought the 03 CBR...they all say it isn't worth the money...its your decision..i think the ws6 is the way to go...also come on a ford..u better get extended warrenty and a shoulder to cry on cuz u jus lost a race againts a N/A F-Body vs a SC cobra and spent 10k more for nothing.but hey thats jus my opinion and expierence i had
Where do I begin with this mess. '03 Cobras are around 28-29K right now. For $2K you can run low 11's @ around 122-124mph. You're intake and exhaust LS1 beat stock Cobras. There's no chance in hell it could hang with a lightly modified one. If you lived near me I'd take you for a ride, but I wouldn't want to clean up the mess after you shit your pants.

http://www.fototime.com/18C6BEEBE9C6158/orig.jpg http://www.fototime.com/005933A4C9D6CA1/orig.jpg

.......and here it is all safe at home. I am going to clean her up tomorrow!!!

I drove it for a while this evening. The powere is great and it shifts great (this from a ZR-1 owner with a ZF 6 speed) I am very impressed so far. In the curves, you have to push it a bit more than the vette. I am going to have to pay a bit more attention. The stock exhaust sounds great, but the pipes look lonly in those holes. Gonna have to call SLP on that. I appreciate everyone's help and look forward to talking with many of you on this board!!!!

H

Great looking car! Congrats! :cheers:

P.S. first mod is to lower that 4x4 :P

great looking car...great choice you won't regret it.. :cheers: .NICE!!!!!!!!!

My first thought was sorry to hear your getting rid of the Corvette!

Great looking car! Congrats! :cheers:

P.S. first mod is to lower that 4x4 :P

Yeah the stance does look high even for an
Fbod. Maybe pick up bigger wheels as an alternative.
Those are 16's right.

No, those are 17" wheels.

Nice Ride. I would be jealous except I have one.

:joecool:

"C'mon ....a WS6 lightly modded keeping up with a 03 Cobra? Ummm No....I've watched too many STOCK Cobras on nittos go 12.60's @ 110 plus mph to believe it would even be close, "

i ran consistant 12.60 @113 with my boltons and nittos (stock suspension) ive beeten 2 o3 cobras... my answer says you really gotta think what your gonna do with it .... stock 2 stock 03 will win light boltons on the ls1 and it should do fine BUT light boltons on an cobra and ya got some big power to deal with... at the same time a cobra costs alot more than a t\a so if ya tink of is as bang for buck the money you save you can easily make a very mean f-body out of the savings..... but to that if ya bought a 98 and just restored it and gave it a 382 and bulit 4l60e ya could do real well too for the same money you would spend on either if ya are draggin serious id bulid a 98 up for the light bolton guy a cobra is the best fastest option but best bandg for buck... for a street \strip car id do a ls1with full boltons and a h\c package and look at a blower down the road (thats where im goin) see the cobra gets pritty fast for cheep but after that to go further gets even more expensive than a ls1 so its really a tradeoff that only you could decide beacouse the best is gonna have to be for what you p[lan on doing with it .... 900 posts!!!

AJ,
I know you sold it but its wild that
you list tornado as a mod. Most
would be ashamed to have boughten one.
Don't get mad, just breakin your balls a little.

ah ha ha ha ha ... tornado!!!!!!

(no offens but thats dam funny) thats like "redneck ricer" stuff

Nice WS6,Beautiful Car....the 03 cobras fascinate the hell out of me. Strong bottom end, and so cheap to get big power. I know some one putting 515 on the dyno with the kenne bell

Nice WS6,Beautiful Car....the 03 cobras fascinate the hell out of me. Strong bottom end, and so cheap to get big power. I know some one putting 515 on the dyno with the kenne bell

Same here, except the guy I know puts down 600+rwhp through the stock exhaust, no nitrous.

I pulled my other baby out of the stable today....It is sold and waiting to be picked up. I hated to sell it, but I needed something cheaper so that I could afford a beach house in Orange Beach AL. I will get another vette in a year or so.
http://www.fototime.com/4C03BAC617E96C6/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/997C4313AA01D71/standard.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/794BF7CBA403D00/standard.jpg

:drool:

Ahhh....the almighty ZR1.

Very nice looking 'vette.

Lowflight,
Interested in how you think they compare,
finances aside.

:drool:
:drool: :drool:

Lowflight,
Interested in how you think they compare,
finances aside.

Well, I will begin by saying that the Z is a much better car, however, I will tell you the areas that the WS6 has surprised me. Even though you seem to have to push the accel. pedal further to get the power than in the Z, it comes on hard. Even though I know the Z is probably a touch faster, the WS6 feels about the same at WOT lets say on an entrance ramp. The other thing I like about the WS6 is the Hurst shifter. This thing shifts awesome. The ZF in the Z is unmatched and whines like the car has a supercharger, but the WS6 shifts on helluva lot better than the 03 Cobra I test drove. The Z is smaller and handles with alot more confidence than the WS6. I have already scared myself a few time in the handling department. The WS6 makes you earn it. The Z just gives it to you. Even though the LS1 revs high for a V8, nothing tops the Z. As you know, that V8 revs as high as most 6 cylinders. I have bumped the rev limiter twice already in the WS6. All things being said, my goal was to save money. It was a win/win because not only am I saving money, but I got a great car that will hold me over for 6 months-1 year until I can once again afford to get another ZR1 or C5. The stock exhaust on the WS6 is another thing, holy cow it sounds good to be stock (and I had B&B on my 02 C5). :headbang:

I say just go test drive them and pick from there. :nod:

Best forum to visit is defentially LS1tech and should factor in your decision to buy a Ford or a GM. Advantage WS6

no disrespect to this forum, because it's great....but just by the sheer number of Mustangs on the road, there are alot more Mustang sites and the tech section on the Corral.net is quite amazing....especially the archives.

btw, nice choice LowFlight....i wish i had a taller wing on my TA convert.

...there are alot more Mustang sites and the tech section on the Corral.net is quite amazing....especially the archives.


I have yet to find a Mustang site at good as LS1Tech.com in terms of overall knowledge and tech information...and I've seen 'em all.

actually i might agree with you....because come to think of it....www.installuniversity.com and especially ls1howto.com beats any mustang tech sites i've seen.

the corral.net i have to say is still a contender.... ...and i know that you guys got opinions about ls1.com, but i really like the FAQ stickies that they've got...really lessens the need for searching and posting/waiting for responses. i think this beats mosts mustangs & ls1 sites.

now when it comes to forced induction, i think that the mustang sites are more knowledgable....probably because the average LS1 guy does not go this route due to the high compression LS1 and the cost is crazy vs. a mustang blower kit that starts at $1650 for a 5psi Vortech (that can spin up to 12 lbs or more). and the used SC market is plentiful in the mustang camp.

I too can give you my impressions of the ZR1 vs WS6 since I went that route 3 years ago. My ZR1 was a '92 and mint! Loved the car. It is still the BEST all around car that I have owned. The WS6 surprised me in how close to the ZR1 it was from a stop up to a 1/4mi run. After that the ZR1 was gone. The handling of a WS6 is great for what it is and can be made better cheaply. Compared to the ZR1 stock for stock forget it but you've got to remember your comparing a supercar to a modern day musclecar. Dollar for dollar I think the WS6 is better performance bargain. Keep in mind that is only because the ZR1 paved the way for the LT1 and LS1/LS6. I miss my ZR1 and will have another but I have to admit that I love modding this LS1 vs the LT5. I think you made the right choice between the Cobra and WS6.

As for 03 vs. WS6, just pick the one that "pushes your buttons". Both cars car be made stupid fast for not too much money and both are the same in the quality department.

If I found an supercharged cobra for $9000 that's what I would have got.

But I did find an LS1 for that price, so here I am.

I was looking at 5.0's for a good while though!