Automotive News, Media & Press - Edmunds Comparo - Corvette ZO6 Centennial Edition vs GT-R Premium

An Updated Godzilla Takes on a Kinder King Kong

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By Mike Monticello, Road Test Editor | Published Jan 31, 2012

It's quickly becoming a classic battle. Chevrolet Corvette versus Nissan GT-R. An all-American, rear-wheel-drive, manually shifted V8 brute versus an all-wheel-drive Japanese technology tank with twin turbos and a dual-clutch transmission.

We've witnessed this match-up before, most notably in 2008 when we pitted the 480-horsepower GT-R against the 638-hp Corvette ZR1. The Corvette proved the winner in that shoot-out, completely wowing us with its brash, tire-smoking horsepower and impressive track performance.

But much has happened since then. The GT-R has seen multiple improvements, culminating in the 2013 Nissan GT-R Premium with an astonishing 545 hp and a more lively suspension. That's right. Nissan's wundercar has discovered oversteer.

Standing for the red, white and blue this time around is the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, which is one of the purest Vettes ever created. Our Centennial Edition test car features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, Magnetic Ride Control suspension and Performance Traction Management; the last a torque-limiting traction control that manages spark, fuel and throttle at five different levels of intervention (previously only available on the ZR1). In other words, the beast of a Corvette has been tamed by technology.

This battle royal of two sports-car tyrants began at our test track, flowed out onto public roads and ended on a private road course where all their talents could be fully explored. Here's how it went down.

Sticker Shock

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Since the Nissan GT-R's release five years ago, one of the selling points of the car has always been its relative bargain price compared with other supercars. Nissan can kiss that advantage good-bye, as the base Premium model now starts at $97,820 (including $1,000 destination), a $6,870 increase over the outgoing model. Our pre-production test car's only option — Super Silver paint — added $3,000, for an as-tested price of $100,820.

The 2012 Z06 starts at a more reasonable $76,500, but our test car was loaded with an astonishing $25,260 in options including the $8,815 3LZ Premium Equipment Group (heated sport seats with power-adjustable bolsters, navigation, premium stereo, Bluetooth); the $7,500 Z06 Ultimate Performance package (Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires); the $4,950 Centennial Special Edition package (special paint, badges, wheels, Magnetic Ride Control); and a $3,995 carbon-fiber package for a sticker-shock-inducing out-the-door price of $101,760.

Explosion of Propulsion

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For 2013 Nissan upped the GT-R's power once again. Last year it had 530 horsepower, but now it's up to 545 hp at 6,400 rpm. There's also an extra 15 pound-feet of torque for a total of 463 lb-ft thanks to an increase in intake efficiency and larger ducting for the intercoolers. The six-speed dual-clutch transmission has been updated with a stiffer shift fork arm and a stronger fixing bearing for the flywheel housing in the interest of quieter and smoother operation. Yes, it still has its 4,000-rpm launch control.

The 2012 Corvette Z06 doesn't bother with weenie tack-ons like turbos or intercoolers. Instead, it makes its prodigious power, all 505 hp at 6,300 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 4,800, the old-fashioned way — with 7.0 liters of displacement and pushrods. Not that the hand-assembled LS7 V8 is completely old-tech. It has titanium intake valves, titanium connecting rods and a dry-sump oil system, not to mention a two-mode muffler system that is thunderous heaven on earth when the butterflies open up under full throttle.

Grabbing Hold

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The GT-R's ability to get out of the hole quickly is well documented, with most of the credit going to its ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive and launch control. After a few finicky launch attempts, in which our GT-R didn't seem to be producing full power, all systems eventually clicked and the GT-R went into a grin-inducing four-tire-spinning launch, ripping to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds (2.9 seconds with a 1-foot rollout as on a drag strip).

It continued on until it ripped the quarter-mile in 11.1 seconds at 123.3 mph. Easy? You bet. As simple as releasing the brake and keeping the throttle mashed. It even takes care of the lightning-quick shifts for you.

The Z06, on the other hand, requires some actual driver skill. We tried Chevy's launch control, but found that it wasn't as adept at controlling wheelspin as a human. We also found the six-speed manual has reasonably short and defined gates, but the 2-3 shift proved balky if we weren't deliberate.

The rear-drive Z06 simply can't leave the line with the tenacity of the GT-R. Still, zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds (3.5 seconds with rollout) isn't something to scoff at, nor is romping through the quarter in 11.7 seconds at 122.3 mph. And unlike the GT-R, which sounds about as good as your wife's Hoover, the Z06's rip-snorting V8 is one of the most sonorous delights you'll ever hear from a driver seat.

Twisty Terrors

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Both cars feature state-of-the-art driver-adjustable suspension systems, the Z06's Magnetic Ride Control constantly adjusting to road conditions and doing a pretty decent job of curbing the dreaded Corvette Bounce over large bumps.

Nissan engineers tweaked the GT-R's suspension setup yet again (it's a yearly affair), with slightly stiffer spring rates and new bypass valves for the shocks. The car's structure around the engine bay and dash panel was reinforced as well.

The GT-R has always been a slalom stalwart, and that hasn't changed for 2013. It slithered around our little orange cones with an artful precision at 73.7 mph, including some entertaining power-on oversteer around the final cone.

The Z06 isn't a slouch when it comes to juking left and right, either. We were mightily impressed by the level of grip and control offered by the ultra-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires (which admittedly need some heat to work properly). It corners flat and the steering has a natural ratio, despite a heavy effort. And in a nod to the ability of Performance Traction Management, we went quicker — 74.7 mph — in PTM-3 (which makes use of the stability control) than we did with all nanny systems switched off. But even with ESC off it still wasn't an oversteering beast, instead proving driver-friendly and filled with feedback, chalking up a 74.4-mph run.

Out on the Road

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Hop in the GT-R and you're struck by how infinitely more modern and pleasing the interior is to use and look at than the Vette. There are lots of different textures, almost all of them soft-touch, while the Vette's center stack and controls just leave us cold. The GT-R also has a more upright seating position with a clearer view of the road ahead, while in the Vette you sit low and rearward.

GM did address one area of the Corvette's interior for 2012, though, and you probably better sit down for this one: The Corvette now has real seats with actual lateral support (even power-adjustable bolsters) and grippy microfiber inserts. No more flopping around through corners. Yet they're still comfy. In fact, we prefer these buckets over the GT-R's seats, which are too narrow and force you to sit more on the seat cushion bolsters than ensconced between them.

The GT-R is the more "normal" car of the two, more upright, more easily accessible and even has a rear seat, as useless as it may be for normal-size adults. Yet even with the cockpit-adjustable Bilstein DampTronic shocks set to full Comfort, the GT-R has a rock-hard ride. In contrast, the Vette's Tour mode could almost be described as plush. But the Z06's annoyingly low front airdam nearly scrapes Botts' dots, while its 285-width front tires follow every single pavement irregularity, sometimes nearly ripping the steering wheel out of your hands.

Track Attack

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You can't do a proper comparison of two such track-worthy cars without actually taking them to a track. Well, you could, but it would be pointless. So it was on to Streets of Willow, a 1.8-mile road course north of Los Angeles. It's tight and ultra-twisty, yet both of these rockets achieved nearly 115 mph down the back straight.

The GT-R was up first. And what strikes you about Nissan's wundercar is how quickly it lets you get up to speed — and confidence is king around a race course. It's not just the all-wheel drive and the paddle-shift transmission either, as the GT-R's general demeanor is one of driver-friendliness. All of its systems are more intent on helping you go fast around a track, rather than a desire to send you off the track backward like some big-bore exotics.

That being said, this is also the most inspiring GT-R we've ever driven, as the extra power and edgier suspension tuning have made the 2013 Nissan GT-R livelier than ever, with a new willingness to rotate under drop-throttle conditions. And with 545 hp on tap, there's now true ability to steer the GT-R out of corners with the throttle, with power-on oversteer. The GT-R's new attitude not only makes it considerably more fun than previous GT-Rs, but also devastatingly quick. And even though it has a 3.7-inch-longer wheelbase, is 7.5 inches longer overall and is packing an extra 642 pounds over the Vette, the GT-R actually feels smaller and more of one piece. Its best lap time was a 1:23.8.

Romping out of the pits in the Z06 is a completely different sensation. It's a cacophony inside the cockpit as the 7.0-liter beast grunts, bellows and rips out a glorious V8 tune. You're shifting manually (although with its tall gearing, you shift less in the Vette), heel-and-toeing, real driving. The near-illegal Michelins take time to heat up, but with each lap we learn to trust their grip more.

Since it was chilly — about 50 degrees Fahrenheit — we ran the Z06 in PTM-4 (Chevy recommends PTM-5 for above 60 degrees F). The goal with PTM is to be able to mash the throttle pedal at or before corner apex and then let the system manage the car's torque for you. But the system only works if there is grip for the tires, and it will let you spin out since stability control is switched off in PTM-4 and 5. Because of the cool temperatures, we didn't fully trust the system enough to just mash the throttle like a goon at every corner.

The Z06 is thrilling beyond all imagination as it thunders from turn to turn, making up time on the GT-R under braking due to the confidence of those carbon-ceramic brakes and the grip from the tires. Brake fade was never an issue with the Z06, while the GT-R's pedal got slightly spongy on its final hot laps. And when the Vette did break its tires loose, it was in a more linear fashion than the violent nature of the GT-R's tires. When we checked the time sheet, the Corvette's best lap time was 1:22.7.

Godzilla or King Kong?

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The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and 2013 Nissan GT-R proved spectacular on both track and twisty back roads, and both are better than they've ever been. Nissan's engineers have built more driver involvement and fun into the GT-R. No sane person would call it boring these days, and it's no longer simple to drive at its limits.

The Z06 surprised us with just how planted it was. We're used to Z06s roasting rear tires, but PTM has greatly quelled the car's desire to do so on track, even with that ferocious V8. Yep, the Z06 — with PTM, Magnetic Ride Control and carbon-ceramic brakes — has bridged the technology gap that the GT-R once lorded over.

And even though the GT-R is the more livable car — filling-rattling suspension notwithstanding — on a daily basis, the fact is we want the Corvette Z06. It comes down to driver involvement. A true manual transmission, rear-wheel drive for on-demand burnouts and powerslides, and that always-magnificent-sounding lump of an engine. And, let's face it, the Centennial Edition looks hot.

The Nissan GT-R is an amazing car and we respect it for what it can do, but it only really becomes thrilling when being pushed at eight-tenths or higher, a realm we rarely find ourselves in. The Corvette Z06 not only rules the track, it makes driving to the grocery store exciting. For $100,000, we would want both.

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1st Place: 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition

Between its ferocious V8, carbon-ceramic brakes and ultra-sticky Michelins, the Z06 Centennial is quite possibly the greatest Vette ever created.

2nd Place: 2013 Nissan GT-R Premium

The quickest GT-R yet around a racetrack, "Godzilla" gets an old-fashioned American smackdown by the insanely capable King Kong Z06.

Track Test Results

2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition

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As-tested MSRP $101,760

0-30 mph (sec.) 1.9
0-45 mph (sec.) 2.8
0-60 mph (sec.) 3.8
0-75 mph (sec.) 5.3
1/4-mile (sec. @ mph) 11.7 @ 122.3
30-0 mph (ft.) 25
60-0 mph (ft.) 106
Slalom, 6 x 100 ft. (mph) 74.7
Skid pad, 200-ft. diameter (lateral g) 1.10
Edmunds observed (mpg) 10.7 worst/16.6 best/12.4 average

Test Driver Ratings & Comments

Acceleration Comments - Quickest time came with a 3,200-rpm launch with more axle hop than wheelspin. Sixty mph comes right at the 1-2 shift. Chevy's Launch Control proved a couple tenths slower than our human tester's right foot control because LC allows too much wheelspin. You have to be deliberate with the 2-3 shift, as it doesn't like to be rushed. 7.0-liter V8 sounds phenomenal.

Braking Comments - Very firm pedal. Utterly stable with no side-to-side wiggling. Brakes and tires took a few runs to heat up so they could work at optimum. First stop was 113 feet. Shortest stop was sixth (out of 7) at 106 feet. Longest was third stop at 116 feet.

Handling Comments - Skid pad: Fantastic grip: This car just sticks and sticks. Heavy steering but good feedback. Just a little bit of throttle adjustment is all it takes to keep the Z06 on the arc. Slalom: The level of grip from the front tires is truly amazing. It took a couple of runs to heat the tires up before we could trust that they would in fact stick. Corners very flat. Steering has a natural ratio, not too quick or too slow. Effort is on the heavy side, which is just fine. ESC on runs were done in PTM-3, but the intervention point is very high and we actually went just ever so slightly quicker than with all systems off.

2013 Nissan GT-R Premium

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As-tested MSRP $100,820

0-30 mph (sec.) 1.3
0-45 mph (sec.) 2.0
0-60 mph (sec.) 3.1
0-75 mph (sec.) 4.4
1/4-mile (sec. @ mph) 11.1 @ 123.3
30-0 mph (ft.) 26
60-0 mph (ft.) 106
Slalom, 6 x 100 ft. (mph) 73.7
Skid pad, 200-ft. diameter (lateral g) 1.01
Edmunds observed (mpg) 17.5 worst/18.1 best/17.8 average

Test Driver Ratings & Comments

Acceleration Comments - Fast but finicky. Was inexplicably slow for the first four or five launches, even with the 4,000-rpm launch control engaged. And then suddenly on the seventh attempt, it launched properly, with full power and all four tires spinning. Quickest run was in transmission "A" setting, letting the computer make the super-fast upshifts itself. Manual shifting is via steering-column-mounted paddles. Holds gears to rev limiter. Blips throttle on downshifts.

Braking Comments - Erratic stopping distances, but incredibly stable and secure. Pedal is firm, but I expected it would be even firmer. First stop was 111 feet. Best stop was 6th (out of 7) at 106 feet. Worst was third stop at 113 feet.

Handling Comments - Skid pad: Lots and lots of grip here. Odd that clockwise direction was ever so slightly quicker than counter-clockwise, both with ESC off and ESC on. Modulating the throttle didn't do a whole lot to alter the GT-R's attitude. Slalom: Downright amazing around the cones. Quick, precise steering and lots of grip. Very confidence-inspiring, and not as on edge as most cars that can achieve nearly 74 mph. Getting on the throttle early around the second-to-last cone would bring the tail out nicely, even with the all-wheel drive. "R" VDC mode, which allows some ESC intervention, proved just as quick as with everything turned off.

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Great review. I expected the Z to come out on top. I like the GTR's but the AWD and dual clutch makes it less desirable for me.

Two amazing cars. Id love to own one down the road..

:thumb: Wow good review! The Z06 is getting work done. I love how the power remained the same, room for improvement. That magnetic suspension and PTM system look like they are working wnders for every car they are used on. Z06, ZR1, ZL1 :D I only hope they will be standard on the 6th gen camaro and 7th gen vette.

Z06 needs a hp bump to further kill the gtr. Its gotten over 50hp more since it debuted along with lots of other tweaks. Corvette has only inherited the zr1 parts (at a huge premium) and interior enhancments

Agreed on pretty much everything they said. The interiors aren't even in the same category, but I'd still take the Z06 if I had to choose.

Nice review, love that Z06 and the interior is far better I always felt the GTR interior was to busy and just not as nice.

Nice review, love that Z06 and the interior is far better I always felt the GTR interior was to busy and just not as nice.

Couldn't disagree more, and neither could this review.

That new Z06 is a bad dude. That GT-R has come a long way as well.

I don't see anything special about the GTR's interior. It reminds me of a minivan I once rented.

I don't see anything special about the GTR's interior. It reminds me of a minivan I once rented.

I can't take this one seriously :lol:. Have you been in one?

The interior police have arrived already :lol:

Two quite impressive cars, can't believe how expensive that Z06 is though, almost in ZR1 territory.

The interior police have arrived already :lol:

Two quite impressive cars, can't believe how expensive that Z06 is though, almost in ZR1 territory.
It was in the article...don't act like I'm the only person who has an issue or two with the Corvette's interior.


Hop in the GT-R and you're struck by how infinitely more modern and pleasing the interior is to use and look at than the Vette. There are lots of different textures, almost all of them soft-touch, while the Vette's center stack and controls just leave us cold. The GT-R also has a more upright seating position with a clearer view of the road ahead, while in the Vette you sit low and rearward.


In case you missed it.

I can't take this one seriously :lol:. Have you been in one?

I sure have and its nothing to get excited about but either way i'm not one of those interior is everything types but I also won't say its anything spectacular.

It isn't everything. Like I said, I prefer the Z06 as a whole.

Nice review, glad to see the Corvette finally has decent seats. GM needs to work on an intelligent traction control/launch control if they want to even attempt to keep up with the new breed of AWD cars coming out.

It was in the article...don't act like I'm the only person who has an issue or two with the Corvette's interior.

In case you missed it.

I still fail to see why that matters to people so much in a car that has the heritage and legacy of the Corvette. But it's cool, different strokes for different folks.

Z06 needs a hp bump to further kill the gtr. Its gotten over 50hp more since it debuted along with lots of other tweaks. Corvette has only inherited the zr1 parts (at a huge premium) and interior enhancments

I don't think they're charging an unreasonable amount for the Zr1 parts. Try buying a Z06 then getting Zr1 breaks for it through GM, I bet it'd be more expensive then what GM charges for the whole package.

Although 100k for a Z06 seems like a lot and is close to the price of a base Zr1 it's still about 20k less than a similarly optioned 3zr Zr1. So basically you get everything but the blower for 20k less, seems like a deal to me.

Did anyone else think it's ridiculous that Nissan charges 3k for silver paint?

So basic rundown:

638hp ZR1 beat the 480hp GT-R, and the vette won.
so they tested a 505hp Z06 against a 545hp GT-R....and the vette still won

:usa: lol

I still fail to see why that matters to people so much in a car that has the heritage and legacy of the Corvette. But it's cool, different strokes for different folks.

It matters because it's 70 thousand plus dollars now. Virtually anything else you can buy for that money in it's class or not is vastly nicer inside with better engineering, materials and workmanship.

It matters because it's 70 thousand plus dollars now. Virtually anything else you can buy for that money in it's class or not is vastly nicer inside with better engineering, materials and workmanship.

Exactly. While the centennial edition interior upgrade is a welcome addition, the C6 should've gotten an interior freshening in 2008 along with the LS3 debut. It's still 99% the same interior from 2005. That's when GM was just starting to turn around it's game.

Think of what else Chevy was offering in 2005

2005 Malibu
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Versus what they redesigned in 2008

2008 Malibu
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The Corvette should've gotten an interior freshening, plain and simple. It's a design that's pushing on a decade old and it just doesn't compete with others that are 1-2 years old in 2012. Don't get me wrong, I could go and spend 50k on a new base C6, swap for more supportive seats, and be perfectly content with the interior...but when you shell out double the money for the same thing wrapped in different fabrics, the flaws become much more glaring.
Of course now it's much too late for anything more than what is offered with the centennial package with the C7 looming in the near future. However given the turnaround GM has done with literally every other interior of its models in the past 5-6 years, anything less than a GIANT leap forward in the interior will be a massive mistake.

Nice to see there are others that get it :cheers:

Nice to see there are others that get it :cheers:

I think it's an easy concept to "get", I think that it's just not as important to some people as it is others.

I think it's an easy concept to "get", I think that it's just not as important to some people as it is others.

Exactly

It was in the article...don't act like I'm the only person who has an issue or two with the Corvette's interior.

In case you missed it.

I can not and willl not speak to material quality. However, just from the picture, I do not like the boxiness of the GT-R interior , but that is just a preference. In addition, I think their comment on seating position is entirely subjective. Maybe they prefer a more upright seating position, but that preference and not quantifiable. Material quality, panel gap, and so forth can be.

Z06 for me please.

I think it's an easy concept to "get", I think that it's just not as important to some people as it is others.

It seems to me that, not necessarily in this particular thread, some people don't "get" it. GM is attempting to completely transform the actual/perceived quality of all their cars. "Decent enough" isn't anymore. And there is really no reason at all that the Corvette interior can't be as good as many of its competitors. When you try to position yourself as "world-class," that means in EVERYTHING. So you have to stop thinking in terms of "I could afford that in a few years," because that isn't gonna cut it for Chevrolet anymore.

It was in the article...don't act like I'm the only person who has an issue or two with the Corvette's interior.

In case you missed it.The GT-R also has a more upright seating position with a clearer view of the road ahead, while in the Vette you sit low and rearward.:huh: Wow, I sure do hope they don't judge the 'quality' or 'perceived quality' of ALL of their test cars based solely on that criteria...there would be a hole bunch of high dollar sports cars/exotics being panned from here on out as well then. Hmm, sitting low and rearward in a front/mid engined sports car, oh the horror! LOL :D
"We sat too low in this new Lamborghini and we can't see out of the rear window therefor it's interior sucks!" :lol: :jest: ;)



And is there any particular reason why you (conveniently? :suspiciou) left out this part of your quote?:

GM did address one area of the Corvette's interior for 2012, though, and you probably better sit down for this one: The Corvette now has real seats with actual lateral support (even power-adjustable bolsters) and grippy microfiber inserts. No more flopping around through corners. Yet they're still comfy. In fact, we prefer these buckets over the GT-R's seats, which are too narrow and force you to sit more on the seat cushion bolsters than ensconced between them.

GM is attempting to completely transform the actual/perceived quality of all their cars. "Decent enough" isn't anymore. And there is really no reason at all that the Corvette interior can't be as good as many of its competitors. When you try to position yourself as "world-class," that means in EVERYTHING. So you have to stop thinking in terms of "I could afford that in a few years," because that isn't gonna cut it for Chevrolet anymore.Valid points for sure. :nod:

Correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't the Corvette the last of GM's products to get an interior update. I personally don't take issue with the C6 interior, The materials are fine I would place it's biggest fault with being bland. You guys complaining about the Corvettes interior have obviously never had the pleasure of being inside a 996 or 997, Then you would truly know what disappointment and cheap was.

It matters because it's 70 thousand plus dollars now. Virtually anything else you can buy for that money in it's class or not is vastly nicer inside with better engineering, materials and workmanship.

Yeah, and that is somewhat true in regards to the Z06 and ZR1, but I'd like you to show me a new car that's available on the market right now that can be had for base LS3 C6 money that can outperform it. You may find cars with nicer interiors for the money, sure, but is that what really matters when it comes to performance cars?

I've said this before and I will say it again, I think the effort was put into where it really matters when it comes to performance-oriented cars, which is the suspension design, powertrain and chassis.

Lol at the interior police in here. "Although it's already the best performing car in its price bracket it should also have one of the best interiors." This is a perfect example of having your cake and eating it too. If you want a 60k semi quick car that's luxurious inside go get an audi s5, m3, c63, etc... there are plenty of choices. If you want a car that will destroy all of them there is only one choice, a Z. I'm not even counting the GTR because it's not offered in a manual.

lol at the people who don't want mediocre things to get better.

Lol at the interior police in here. "Although it's already the best performing car in its price bracket it should also have one of the best interiors." This is a perfect example of having your cake and eating it too. If you want a 60k semi quick car that's luxurious inside go get an audi s5, m3, c63, etc... there are plenty of choices. If you want a car that will destroy all of them there is only one choice, a Z. I'm not even counting the GTR because it's not offered in a manual.

:stupid: Finally someone else who gets the point in here.

Simple question; do you think Chevrolet is wasting their precious time and energy improving the interior for the new model? I mean, according to you they just keep the same interior that they've had since 2005. It's good enough, right?

Simple question; do you think Chevrolet is wasting their precious time and energy improving the interior for the new model? I mean, according to you they just keep the same interior that they've had since 2005. It's good enough, right?

I completely understand where you're coming from, however, I still tend to side with the "interior doesn't define a sports car" crowd. Corvettes are "bang for the buck" cars, and that's been their main formula for 60 years now.

If I were buying a luxury car, yes, interior would be much higher up on the list. But if I'm going for a strictly go-fast car, interior isn't the highest of priorities on my personal list. "Adequate" is just perfect for me in that department.

Would anyone mind a better interior? Probably not. Would they mind a higher MSRP for a fancy high tech interior? In the case of the Corvette, probably yes IMO.

If they made their interior and build quality to say, "Ferrari" standards, we'd have a Ferrari-priced Corvette, which, IMO isn't a Corvette anymore.

You seem to be mistaking "nice," for "high-tech." Not even close. I actually prefer fewer electronics. But material and build quality don't cost as much as some of you think.

I for one would be happy with the interior of the Centennial Z. It looks awesome to me, but what do i know i DD a 93' Miata LE and a 4th Gen SS. :lol:

Because I like the rest of the car, I would be satisfied with it. But the C7 needs to be better.

^^ Agreed. I don't mean full on BMW/Mercedes treatment, but there is room for improvement. The only thing is will it bring it to an even higher price bracket as a result?

It shouldn't.

It shouldn't raise the msrp much if at all. Look at the pic of the 2005 Malibu compared to the 2008. Think about what the difference will be compared from 2005-2014.
It would be stupid for GM at this point and impossible a couple of years ago to do a mid-cycle interior redesign to satisfy a couple of whiners.
Besides even if they did that those same people would still whine because they're whiners not buyers.
You rarely hear much whining from actual Corvette owners over at CF. The interior isn't that bad. Its not like it falls apart in your hands. It's just seriously bland with a lot of hard plastics and cartoon-ish graining.
Nothing even comes close to offering the performance capabilities of the C6 for the price.

Simple question; do you think Chevrolet is wasting their precious time and energy improving the interior for the new model? I mean, according to you they just keep the same interior that they've had since 2005. It's good enough, right?

I think it's great that they're putting time into improving the interior for the C7 because it isn't perfect and I never said it was. But, for what the Corvette is as a whole car and how it performs when compared to it's competitors, I'd say that it's pretty decent. If they can make it better without driving the price up, that would be cool.

I don't understand the craze over interiors, very strange how some of you all are in here. This always seems to elevate into a pretty big subject in these type of threads. At the end of the day, they're all just performance cars, not luxury sedans. I don't know why you guys always make such a big deal out of it.

I'm fine with tweaks here and there but not when the price and weight start going up.

I'm fine with tweaks here and there but not when the price and weight start going up.

The more features you add the more its gonna weigh. Its pretty hard to avoid.

You seem to be mistaking "nice," for "high-tech." Not even close. I actually prefer fewer electronics. But material and build quality don't cost as much as some of you think.

I read on an old Motortrend, when the new Chrysler interiors came out, that the cost of interior btn a 911 and a Corvette is only $80some dollars.

That's crazy. I'm searching for it on Google, I'll see if I find it.

edit: It's actually $45. http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c6-corvette-general-discussion/2751489-vette-interior-cost.html

It shouldn't raise the msrp much if at all. Look at the pic of the 2005 Malibu compared to the 2008. Think about what the difference will be compared from 2005-2014.
It would be stupid for GM at this point and impossible a couple of years ago to do a mid-cycle interior redesign to satisfy a couple of whiners.
Besides even if they did that those same people would still whine because they're whiners not buyers.
You rarely hear much whining from actual Corvette owners over at CF. The interior isn't that bad. Its not like it falls apart in your hands. It's just seriously bland with a lot of hard plastics and cartoon-ish graining.
Nothing even comes close to offering the performance capabilities of the C6 for the price.:werd: I agree. :nod:





I'm fine with tweaks here and there but not when the price and weight start going up.:nono: I agree 100%.

Here's how I see it... When the C5 was introduced, it was better in every way over the C4, weighed the same/less, and cost about the same. Same thing happened with the C6. I can't see the C7 magically being too much different.

I read on an old Motortrend, when the new Chrysler interiors came out, that the cost of interior btn a 911 and a Corvette is only $80some dollars.

That's crazy. I'm searching for it on Google, I'll see if I find it.

edit: It's actually $45. http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c6-corvette-general-discussion/2751489-vette-interior-cost.html

Right....but 911 interiors are nothing special too.

Right....but 911 interiors are nothing special too.

That comparison doesn't exactly favor the Corvette...

http://image.motortrend.com/f/39412320+w786+ar1/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior.jpg

I honestly don't get why people think porsches have nice interiors. Their interiors do absolutely nothing for me. Granted, I've never driven one but I've sat in dozens and they've all been nothing special to me. For comparison sake I think maseratis and jaguars have beautiful interiors and they're around the 70k mark.

That comparison doesn't exactly favor the Corvette...

http://image.motortrend.com/f/39412320+w786+ar1/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior.jpg

Is that interior supposed to be "nice"? It's not terrible, but really nothing impressive whatsoever IMO

Is that interior supposed to be "nice"? It's not terrible, but really nothing impressive whatsoever IMO
You may not think it looks nice, that's fine. But like I said...
You seem to be mistaking "nice," for "high-tech." Not even close. I actually prefer fewer electronics. But material and build quality don't cost as much as some of you think.

I read on an old Motortrend, when the new Chrysler interiors came out, that the cost of interior btn a 911 and a Corvette is only $80some dollars.

That's crazy. I'm searching for it on Google, I'll see if I find it.

edit: It's actually $45. http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c6-corvette-general-discussion/2751489-vette-interior-cost.htmlIf they can actually give the C7 an interior that rivals that of a Porsche Turbo S's (with the sport seat option) for only $45.00, $80.00 or even $200.00 more per car, then I'm all for it LOL. ;)





http://image.motortrend.com/f/39412320+w786+ar1/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior.jpgIt's nice, perhaps a little too much (weight adding) chrome/polish/brushed aluminum bling for my sports car tastes but it appears to be a quality environment that might also be comfortable on a long trip. :nod:
Even though it might not be my (or other's) preference, I could almost see GM/Chevrolet/Team Corvette attempting to adopt some of that 'look' for the C7.

Well of course they have different trim packages. And brushed aluminum doesn't weigh that much more than plastic :lol:

Edit: Check out the "Black Edition."

That comparison doesn't exactly favor the Corvette...

http://image.motortrend.com/f/39412320+w786+ar1/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior.jpg

Nothing special about that

Yep, you're right. Corvette is definitely just as good, how silly of me.

That comparison doesn't exactly favor the Corvette...

http://image.motortrend.com/f/39412320+w786+ar1/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior.jpg

Way to prove your point:sack: That is the brand new 2012 991 which is a completely new generation. Compare that interior to the C7's.

Here is a Fair and accurate comparison A 996/997 Turbo with a C6 Z06. Ever sit in a 996? Talk about vast expanses of cheap plastic.


http://i706.photobucket.com/albums/ww63/7998photo/porsche-turbo-interior.jpg

http://http://i706.photobucket.com/albums/ww63/7998photo/chevrolet-corvette-z06-interior.jpg

Or I could use a 2006 911, but that wouldn't serve your point well, would it?... The point wasn't "the C6 interior has always sucked," just that it is overdue for an overhaul. By 2004, the 911 needed a complete redesign as well, so over the next year or so, *gasp*, it got one. The 997 came out as an '06 model, the turbo followed in late '06.

http://www.pistonheads.com/pics/news/13825/997-turbo-interior-L.jpg

Or I could use a 2006 911, but that wouldn't serve your point well, would it?... The point wasn't "the C6 interior has always sucked," just that it is overdue for an overhaul. By 2004, the 911 needed a complete redesign as well, so over the next year or so, *gasp*, it got one. The 997 came out as an '06 model, the turbo followed in late '06.


I think you're fighting a losing battle despite a valid point.

Instead of comparing it to other brands, lets compare it in house.

I don't think anyone is really contesting that the Corvette interior is horrid. It is adequate for a 50,000 sports car, but once you start paying 70-100k it just becomes far more inadequate versus other cars in it's price bracket.

2009 CTS-V

http://tevami.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/cadillac_cts-4.jpg

Now I know, blah blah blah it's a "luxury" sports car and it's a new design... That's true and all, but the Corvette should've had a refresh in 2008 (just 1 year ahead of the CTS) giving it nearly the same fit and finish, quality, and similar materials in a more sporting design versus one of luxury, thus making the Corvette more "competitive" against vehicles in it's price bracket even in it's own family. Given this the Corvette interior would be almost as nice as the new CTS' instead of being quite a bit behind as it now sits. Now seeing as the C7 is still a couple years away it NEEDS to be as good as, if not better, than the V2 CTS interior.

dammit, the gtr beat the Z06 where it matters to me... and the fucking Z costs over 100k!?!?! wtf

I think you're fighting a losing battle despite a valid point.

Instead of comparing it to other brands, lets compare it in house.

I don't think anyone is really contesting that the Corvette interior is horrid. It is adequate for a 50,000 sports car, but once you start paying 70-100k it just becomes far more inadequate versus other cars in it's price bracket.

2009 CTS-V



Now I know, blah blah blah it's a "luxury" sports car and it's a new design... That's true and all, but the Corvette should've had a refresh in 2008 (just 1 year ahead of the CTS) giving it nearly the same fit and finish, quality, and similar materials in a more sporting design versus one of luxury, thus making the Corvette more "competitive" against vehicles in it's price bracket even in it's own family. Given this the Corvette interior would be almost as nice as the new CTS' instead of being quite a bit behind as it now sits. Now seeing as the C7 is still a couple years away it NEEDS to be as good as, if not better, than the V2 CTS interior.
Thank you. It's not a matter of "I'm not gonna buy this car because of the interior," it's just a matter of having to make fewer compromises.

I test drove a a 480hp GTR and I didnt like the high position of the seat and neither the interior and the steering wheel. I prefer the driving position of my camaro BTW, but the interior look of the GTR is a trillion years better than my old shit box!!
The car feels insanely planted to the road at any speed!! The brake feel is unreal...but the auto transmission is a big no for me. Its too easy to drive, less thrill and control IMO.

That Vette is impressive, but its pricy!! I'd rather grab a ''stripper'' Z06 LOL. For everyday driving on the public roads, I dont think the 25K$ options are needed..

http://www.pistonheads.com/pics/news/13825/997-turbo-interior-L.jpgThat's very nice, simple, understated, sporty yet quite high quality fit/finish/materials (at least it appears so).
I will admit that it's better in (almost) every single way than the current average Corvette interior.
But what I don't see is this supposed '500 times better' that some are making it out to be.
It's better. But it's simply NOT leaps and bounds/head over heals ($40k+) better, in my opinion.




I'd rather grab a ''stripper'' Z06 LOL. For everyday driving on the public roads, I dont think the 25K$ options are needed..I agree. :nod:

dammit, the gtr beat the Z06 where it matters to me... and the fucking Z costs over 100k!?!?! wtf

I'm guessing your talking about 1/4 mile. Well if thats the case you can attribute that to the GT-R being AWD (no skill) and the Corvette being a real drivers car.