The Z51 option includes stiffer springs, stiffer shocks, stiffer stabilizer bars, cross-drilled rotors, additional coolers, special gear ratios (at least in the '05 C6) and improved tires. The Z51 will definitely give a firmer ride and it was designed that way.

If you had driven the F55 option, at the turn of a control **** you can select the ride stiffness from "touring" to "sport." Touring is a softer ride while "sport" is close to Z51 stiffness (how close is a debated issue among C6 owners). If you want a choice of ride stiffness, this would be the option to get.

I still say go to the link I provided in my earlier post. Get into a few pages of it. You will find remarks from Z owners who also own a C6, or former Z owners who let go of their Z in favor of the C6. They are probably the most credible ones to talk to having lived with both.

 

I have had 260z, 300z, and now 350Z and a '91 Vette. Remember the car comercial about driving is a vacation. Driving to work in a new Corvette was an Adventure. I'd have an 05 vette now but I had other plans for the additional $15K. It's your money. Listen to your heart.

 

You can find a new 2006 C6 for as low as 41k... check out participating dealers in the vetteforum. Some dealerships offer $4,000 off MSRP.

 

Correction. Some forum dealers even go as low as the high 39k-40k. Of course, that's the 1LT option (no frills), but you get the same 400 hp/ 400 lb ft torque. That is starting to come close to some Z roadster pricing.

 

cman321

I see you've found your way to the vette forum
Looks like you are getting alot of feedback from vette/Z owners and non-Z owners alike. Good job and good luck either way.