Drove a ZL1 yesterday
05-20-2013, 02:14 PM
#1
Drove a ZL1 yesterday I know this sounds like something that belongs in the 5th Gen section, but it's from the perspective of someone who has never owned anything but an LT1 car. I used to test drive the first LS1 Corvettes with EMT Run flat tires when they first came out, but that's the extent of my previous 3rd/ 4th generation SBC experiences.
My wife's best friend bought herself a ZL1 a few weeks ago. I was jealous to hear she'd gotten it. I drove it yesterday for about 10 minutes before it started to rain.
This car is an automatic (6L90E). I was disappointed by that, but it was a VERY fast ride. I wanted to see what it did on level ground, straight off the line. With the traction control enabled, in 'sport' mode (1st gear enabled), it grabbed 2nd at almost 70MPH in a little over 4 seconds. There just isn't enough road to do it justice safely near where I live.
The interior on these cars is very cramped and the short windows gave me a claustrophobic feel. Visibility is not poor, and blind spots are not a problem. However, I'd probably not want to own a 5th gen car. It just doesn't do it for me like the 4th gen LT1 car. Sure, the ZL1 has a lot more power, but it just feels... wrong. Too refined. Call me crazy. I'll reserve final judgement for the next time out in it when I have some more time.
My wife's best friend bought herself a ZL1 a few weeks ago. I was jealous to hear she'd gotten it. I drove it yesterday for about 10 minutes before it started to rain.
This car is an automatic (6L90E). I was disappointed by that, but it was a VERY fast ride. I wanted to see what it did on level ground, straight off the line. With the traction control enabled, in 'sport' mode (1st gear enabled), it grabbed 2nd at almost 70MPH in a little over 4 seconds. There just isn't enough road to do it justice safely near where I live.
The interior on these cars is very cramped and the short windows gave me a claustrophobic feel. Visibility is not poor, and blind spots are not a problem. However, I'd probably not want to own a 5th gen car. It just doesn't do it for me like the 4th gen LT1 car. Sure, the ZL1 has a lot more power, but it just feels... wrong. Too refined. Call me crazy. I'll reserve final judgement for the next time out in it when I have some more time.
05-20-2013, 03:52 PM
#4
Sadly I wouldn't get a 5th gen either. Too big and heavy.
If I wanted a newer car to play with I would look at a clean C5...they are amazing cars for the money. C6s are still real expensive but C5s are crazy cheap now. I'd love a C6 for a DD though.
If I wanted a newer car to play with I would look at a clean C5...they are amazing cars for the money. C6s are still real expensive but C5s are crazy cheap now. I'd love a C6 for a DD though.
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05-20-2013, 09:58 PM
#8
Teching In
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My project is just starting. I am putting a zR1 lsa in my 91 Camaro. Considering it's probably 1000 pounds lighter than the new ones it should be a beast. Got the motor and tranny out of new CTS-v with only 1200 miles on it.
05-20-2013, 11:28 PM
#9
Those motors are an EASY 600rwhp with a couple mods, should be fun in that tin can Camaro
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05-24-2013, 12:24 PM
#13
On The Tree
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05-24-2013, 04:09 PM
#14
Launching!
05-24-2013, 04:13 PM
#15
Launching!
05-24-2013, 06:08 PM
#19
Staging Lane
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I test drove one of the new 5.0 Mustang's about a year ago, I test drive cars every now and then to see what the hype is about, and because it's fun screwing with the seriously pushy salesmen.
...Anyways, I HATED it. Not because it's a Ford, but because of the way it drove. The rear end wanted to jump to the right or left anytime I hit a bump while going straight. The engine felt weak in the low rpms, and waaaay wayy to electronically controlled. Everytime I move the gas pedal there is a slight delay. The steering was tight and controlled but extrememly numb feeling. Same with the brakes, strong but extrememly touch and hard to modulate. I honestly thought it would rock my socks, but that thing had wayyy too many electronically "enhanced" controls. The shifter and clutch feel were awesome though, I did love that. After this experience, I really don't think I'd like any newer muscle car, even the Camaro or Vette'. The thing just completely lacked soul and driver feedback.
...Anyways, I HATED it. Not because it's a Ford, but because of the way it drove. The rear end wanted to jump to the right or left anytime I hit a bump while going straight. The engine felt weak in the low rpms, and waaaay wayy to electronically controlled. Everytime I move the gas pedal there is a slight delay. The steering was tight and controlled but extrememly numb feeling. Same with the brakes, strong but extrememly touch and hard to modulate. I honestly thought it would rock my socks, but that thing had wayyy too many electronically "enhanced" controls. The shifter and clutch feel were awesome though, I did love that. After this experience, I really don't think I'd like any newer muscle car, even the Camaro or Vette'. The thing just completely lacked soul and driver feedback.
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