Which corvette?
#23
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
I bought a Z06 '02 and I am now modding it with heads and cam for under $800 total and doing the labor myself. I wouldn't get anything but a Z06 if I were you. The Z06 has the gears and the better performance from the get go. I actually sold my LS6 heads for more than I got my hardly used newer heads. My friend Frank has modded his '98 with heads and cam for more money than I spent and now I still will have a better faster car.
![Engarde](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies3/engarde.gif)
#24
It's not mine! woo hoo!
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by CySevans
That is where your logic is flawed. You can find '01s in the $20's, also. I said all else being equal, and you compare 97-00 to '01. LOL! ![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
But, that's okay. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But, look at it another way. I guarantee my stock Z06 will hold its value better than a modified C5 Coupe. You never get your mod money back. My Trans Am is a good example. I had over 40K into it between car and mods, and I got 16K out of it (barely over the value of a stock Trans Am at the time).
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
But, that's okay. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But, look at it another way. I guarantee my stock Z06 will hold its value better than a modified C5 Coupe. You never get your mod money back. My Trans Am is a good example. I had over 40K into it between car and mods, and I got 16K out of it (barely over the value of a stock Trans Am at the time).
I know 100% you don't get back what you put out in mods, but I don't modify my cars to make money, I modify my cars to satisfy myself.
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
![Grin](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_grin.gif)
Originally Posted by CarsRFun
01 and above get LS6 intake clutch block...
Last edited by DMNSPD; 05-17-2005 at 11:33 AM.
#25
It's not mine! woo hoo!
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by white89_350
I bought a Z06 '02 and I am now modding it with heads and cam for under $800 total and doing the labor myself. I wouldn't get anything but a Z06 if I were you. The Z06 has the gears and the better performance from the get go. I actually sold my LS6 heads for more than I got my hardly used newer heads. My friend Frank has modded his '98 with heads and cam for more money than I spent and now I still will have a better faster car. ![Engarde](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies3/engarde.gif)
![Engarde](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies3/engarde.gif)
That's just how I look at it. It might not be right to everyone, but it's better if you're on a budget.
#26
TECH Apprentice
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: miami, florida
Posts: 344
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by DMNSPD
Ok... so say someone gets a 99 for like 18k. Say they spend like 5 grand for the bolt ons (which you'd have to buy even with the Z06), and heads and a cam... So for 23K you've got a 450rwhp car.
That's just how I look at it. It might not be right to everyone, but it's better if you're on a budget.
That's just how I look at it. It might not be right to everyone, but it's better if you're on a budget.
#27
It's not mine! woo hoo!
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
![The Jester](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_jest.gif)
Are you honestly convinced that a used car is going to be delapidated? Most Corvette guys aren't as neglecting as many other car owners either, so it's still an ok bet for a used car. Besides, I simply couldn't afford a brand new car, and I'm sure most of the people on this board are in the same situation. If you want to bring resale value into it, your Z06 is still going to drop in value relative to the price you originally paid. If you're paying $500/mo for a used Corvette (I'm talking about early C5's) then you deserve to pay that much because you're too stupid to do research and be a smart buyer.
This topic was about the best performance bargain - not resale value, not about junk used cars, and certainly not about "look at me in my Corvette".
#28
TECH Addict
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Cypress, TX
Posts: 2,264
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/ranks/ls1tech10year.png)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by DMNSPD
![The Jester](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_jest.gif)
Not everyone can drive a factory-built race car. It is an exclusive car. It is a status symbol. It's also to date the fastest production Corvette ever built (though that is about to change with the C6 Z06 - they've built some, but they are not in production yet). You are clearly not the target market. If you don't care about road coarses or AutoX, then why would you even consider a Vette in the first place? I can spend less than 10K on a used Formula, drop $15K in mods, and blow your fictitious C5 clean off the drag strip.
But that's just my opinion.
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
#29
Staging Lane
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 95
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
I see this turning into a Z06 vs. C5 thread. What's important is that the threadstarter wants to purchase a Z06. There is a LOT I want to say here about what I feel about the topic, but I'm not going to. The thread is, in my oppinion, done.
#31
TECH Addict
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Cypress, TX
Posts: 2,264
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/ranks/ls1tech10year.png)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by SJTrance
I see this turning into a Z06 vs. C5 thread. What's important is that the threadstarter wants to purchase a Z06. There is a LOT I want to say here about what I feel about the topic, but I'm not going to. The thread is, in my oppinion, done.
#32
It's not mine! woo hoo!
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by CySevans
It was never meant to be that. I really wish you would express your opinion seeing as you are in the modified C5 camp (very nice car, BTW).
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
About why I'd want a Corvette... Simple. I am tired of the 4th gen styling (especially the interior) after the two I've had. I was the first person to have a LS1 car around my area that was actually into modifying and pounding the **** out of it. Now, they are popping up all the time.
The C5 offers a "safer" platform for the situations I get into on the street, as well as distinctive styling that sets it apart from everyone else around. If I wanted a drag car, I'd be looking for an automatic hardtop Z28 - but I'm not able to have a street car and a dedicated track car yet. I want a great all-around street car that can do everything well, and most importantly rip **** up when it needs to
![Grin](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_grin.gif)
Many of you obviously have different reasons for why you'd want one. I'm not one of those people who have always wanted a Corvette or anything. If there was a 5th gen Camaro, I'd much rather have that. But there isn't a 5th gen Camaro and the C5 fits the bill for what I want in a car at the moment. I've tried the GTO and I've tried the 03/04 Cobra. I didn't really care for either much. So what other choice do I have? So I get a C5 for under 20K, put 5K into it and I have what I want and it will stand out from the rest until Chevrolet brings me a new Camaro. All I want is mid 11's @ over 120mph. Is that so much to ask for in a street car?
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
What is my point of justifying my opinion here? Remember, if I could get a Z06 AND be able to modify it, I would buy one, but I can't afford that at this time in my life. So I give an explained opinion for those who are in my situation and are wondering what to do. C5 and mod it, or get a Z06. The question was asked, my very detailed opinion has been said. I wish everyone had an open mind rather that being Z06 elitists'.
I was just thinking, I'm probably jinxing myself. I'll end up with a Z06 and then you all can bring this thread back up
![The Jester](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_jest.gif)
![Secret2](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/secret.gif)
Last edited by DMNSPD; 05-17-2005 at 07:37 PM.
#33
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Well the answer is that there is no right answer. Ultimately the choice will be up to you. I personally would prefer the z06. I love the FRC body, while you might be able to make the coupe + $10k faster, I would still rather have the z06 just because of the FRC style. It's certainly not for everybody though. That's why they make so few z06's in comparison. The z06 is made for the few true musclecar fanatics still out here, such as you will find on this site. It's a track-ready machine out of the box. Despite only having 360rwhp (02's+) it can whoop up on cars with significantly more horsepower (read: Viper) on the coarse because of it's power to weight ratio, and it's awesome suspension. Yes, with $10k you could probably make the coupe faster, but you are looking at the short term. Say you buy a coupe and mod it. You will have a faster car temporarily, but if you get the Z06 and save up for mods, then you will have a much better platform to start with. Like I said before, it's a matter of personal preference and there isn't really a right answer, just an opinion.
#34
It's not mine! woo hoo!
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by FairwayGreenVette
Well the answer is that there is no right answer. Ultimately the choice will be up to you. I personally would prefer the z06. I love the FRC body, while you might be able to make the coupe + $10k faster, I would still rather have the z06 just because of the FRC style. It's certainly not for everybody though. That's why they make so few z06's in comparison. The z06 is made for the few true musclecar fanatics still out here, such as you will find on this site. It's a track-ready machine out of the box. Despite only having 360rwhp (02's+) it can whoop up on cars with significantly more horsepower (read: Viper) on the coarse because of it's power to weight ratio, and it's awesome suspension. Yes, with $10k you could probably make the coupe faster, but you are looking at the short term. Say you buy a coupe and mod it. You will have a faster car temporarily, but if you get the Z06 and save up for mods, then you will have a much better platform to start with. Like I said before, it's a matter of personal preference and there isn't really a right answer, just an opinion.
I still don't understand what is the rationale behind saying the Z06 will be faster. It's just a smidgen lighter and has different gearing in the tranny. That's it. The engine can't be modified any better than the engine in the base C5. A base C5 owner can very easily build their transmission to Z06 specs too. What am I missing here?
#35
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
I have had several C5's... Coupes, Frc, and Z06. I prefer the FRC and Z06 due to the bodystyle. It is just my personal preference. I like the way coupes look, but I just prefer the FRC style. Not saying one is better than the other.. well.. the coupe has better aerodynamics at higher speeds...
#37
TECH Addict
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Cypress, TX
Posts: 2,264
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/ranks/ls1tech10year.png)
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by SJTrance
I see this turning into a Z06 vs. C5 thread. What's important is that the threadstarter wants to purchase a Z06. There is a LOT I want to say here about what I feel about the topic, but I'm not going to. The thread is, in my oppinion, done.
![Happy](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_stretch.gif)
#38
TECH Apprentice
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: miami, florida
Posts: 344
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by DMNSPD
![The Jester](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/smilies/LS1Tech/gr_jest.gif)
Are you honestly convinced that a used car is going to be delapidated? Most Corvette guys aren't as neglecting as many other car owners either, so it's still an ok bet for a used car. Besides, I simply couldn't afford a brand new car, and I'm sure most of the people on this board are in the same situation. If you want to bring resale value into it, your Z06 is still going to drop in value relative to the price you originally paid. If you're paying $500/mo for a used Corvette (I'm talking about early C5's) then you deserve to pay that much because you're too stupid to do research and be a smart buyer.
This topic was about the best performance bargain - not resale value, not about junk used cars, and certainly not about "look at me in my Corvette".
it is as if had to choose between a viper or a porsche gt2. yes, the viper has better looks, its a beast and i think it is more of what u describe you look for in a vehicle, but the porsche is just class...fine piece of art that can still haul *** and take you to work with full ac, nice radio (unlike viper) and you dont have to compromise alot to still be fast. that in my opinion is how i see a z06 from the get go. it is meant to rival super cars and that is what makes it exclusive. that is what makes it what it is; a Z06
#39
TECH Enthusiast
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Interesting thread. Dmnspd makes many of the points I would have made myself. As far as the Z06 vs. C5 debate I think most of the key points were hit here. If you are not a modder get a Z06. If you prefer an FRC bodystyle get one. If you are a modder than I would go with the C5.
One of my friends has an '03 Z06. Great car. Do I wish I had one instead of my coupe? Nope. Not at all. I don't have a strong preference one way or another on the styling. In a straightline my car feels much stronger. Braking seems to be a wash. Handling my car felt tighter (his car is lowered as well). I'm not trying to bag on the Z06 I'm just trying to show that it is certainly possible to make a C5 perform better for less of an investment.
For another budget example, a different club member picked up a used '99 Z51 coupe with higher miles (70k) for around $16.5k. He's put on a stronger clutch (necessary with any big mods on a C5, Z06 or not), rebuilt tranny, shocks, and FLP headers. He just bought an A&A supercharger kit for it and will likely be installing an FMS blower cam with the necessary valvetrain upgrades. So his total investment will probably end up being in the $26k range for a car that will likely have 520+rwhp.
As for the high mileage and high payment statement, have you looked much at the C5 market? Most used C5's are in great shape with LOW miles. Most of these cars just aren't used much. Exclusivity wise I've never seen any wide variation in reactions to C5's. Because my car has aftermarket Z06 rims I've had to tell people that its not one (yeah it makes my head hurt too). The average Joe around here just sees a Vette.
The Z06 is a great car. The regular C5 is a great car. Figure out which one fits what YOU want and get it.
One of my friends has an '03 Z06. Great car. Do I wish I had one instead of my coupe? Nope. Not at all. I don't have a strong preference one way or another on the styling. In a straightline my car feels much stronger. Braking seems to be a wash. Handling my car felt tighter (his car is lowered as well). I'm not trying to bag on the Z06 I'm just trying to show that it is certainly possible to make a C5 perform better for less of an investment.
For another budget example, a different club member picked up a used '99 Z51 coupe with higher miles (70k) for around $16.5k. He's put on a stronger clutch (necessary with any big mods on a C5, Z06 or not), rebuilt tranny, shocks, and FLP headers. He just bought an A&A supercharger kit for it and will likely be installing an FMS blower cam with the necessary valvetrain upgrades. So his total investment will probably end up being in the $26k range for a car that will likely have 520+rwhp.
As for the high mileage and high payment statement, have you looked much at the C5 market? Most used C5's are in great shape with LOW miles. Most of these cars just aren't used much. Exclusivity wise I've never seen any wide variation in reactions to C5's. Because my car has aftermarket Z06 rims I've had to tell people that its not one (yeah it makes my head hurt too). The average Joe around here just sees a Vette.
The Z06 is a great car. The regular C5 is a great car. Figure out which one fits what YOU want and get it.
#40
![Default](https://ls1tech.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by DMNSPD
Ok... so say someone gets a 99 for like 18k. Say they spend like 5 grand for the bolt ons (which you'd have to buy even with the Z06), and heads and a cam... So for 23K you've got a 450rwhp car.
That's just how I look at it. It might not be right to everyone, but it's better if you're on a budget.
That's just how I look at it. It might not be right to everyone, but it's better if you're on a budget.