To Z51 or not?

jnx911 · 11-11-05, 03:09 PM

Help, I was able to drive a Z 51 and did not like the ride too much, any Idea if the base suspension is softer? There are no base suspension cars around for me to drive. Any input appreciated. Thanks

StanNH · 11-11-05, 03:39 PM

The Z51 is not considered "harsh" relative to the base suspension. It is a bit stiffer though. The base suspension is somewhat more compliant, but at the expense of increased body roll and dive. The F55 is an excellent compromise between the two, offering either a very compliant ride or a stiffer setting. Another choice would be to buy the base suspension and have the Z51 sway bars installed. Personally, I'm a big fan of the Z51 package and think the ride is just fine...for a high performance sports car.

11-11-05, 06:46 PM

Don't forget the big bad brakes that are on the Z51

catbert · 11-13-05, 07:57 PM

....and you will get most, if not all, of the cost of the option when you trade or sell.

gmjunkie · 11-13-05, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jnx911

Help, I was able to drive a Z 51 and did not like the ride too much, any Idea if the base suspension is softer? There are no base suspension cars around for me to drive. Any input appreciated. Thanks

I love the He77 out of my Z-51!! Go Zoom,Zoom

junk!!

donsar · 11-14-05, 06:37 PM

It all depends on what you are getting the car for. If you have any plans on racing or autocross, the the Z51 is the obvious choice. If, like the majority of us, you are going to use the car for highway trips, commuting and general pleasure trips, the base model will more than suit your needs. The Z51 handles a bit better, has somewhat better braking ability (if you are using it in a racing mode with lots of high speed braking), but suffers from a bit harsher ride.
The choice is yours.

jnx911 · 11-14-05, 08:01 PM

donsar, I will be using the car just for pleasure, never any track time. Thanks for the input. I will probably go with the base suspension.

xcorvettex · 11-16-05, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jnx911

donsar, I will be using the car just for pleasure, never any track time. Thanks for the input. I will probably go with the base suspension.

I have an 05 with the z51. I bought the car on a monday and on friday went on a 2200 mile trip thru new england. The z51 was a great riding car and after 2200 miles in 9 days didnt feel the ride was too harsh.

Alan

gameprop · 11-16-05, 10:38 AM

I agree with catbert. No matter how long you hold the car, the Z51 should significantly increase the resale value. I just took delivery of a Z51 triple black vert on Monday. I typically only keep my cars a year to 18 months and having the right options has always hooked me up when I buy the next one. As an example, my dealer told me that for my Targeted Production Week, they were only building 13% with Z51. That's worth something on resale for sure. I'm told that's a CAFE thing. Also, the bigger brakes are awesome, the Z-rated tires are cool and some of the car magazines show a quicker 0-60 time.

BoeingMan · 11-26-05, 03:07 PM

softer ride???

OK. I hear some of the Yugo models have a nice soft ride for you. Might even try some of the early 1970ish Buicks. Realy, really soft rides like you're on a boat.

....just kidding.

Enjoy wich ever model you choose but give the Z51 pack a chance it is a great ride for this type of vehicle. In my humble smart aleck (sp?) opinion it could even be a little stiffer.