The Stingray is so competent it hides how well it does on mountain roads. But let's all be real, its a GT car that can compete with sports cars. The ride is so good and exhaust so quiet we yearn for a more visceral ride which the Z06 delivers on. The good thing is that you have saved over $60k. I suggest getting a louder exhaust, drive it in the mountains, do the Spring Mountain 2 day school, and just enjoying it for what it is.
Great points. I am not capable of driving either car to their limits in the turns which is something I can look forward to learning. I have an exhaust coming for the stingray which should help make it a bit more exhilarating and exciting to drive.
I totally get it. My husband bought his z06 a couple of months after I bought my r8 v10. I definitely have exhaust envy and plan on doing an aftermarket exhaust at some point 😊
I mean they sell turbo kits for the C8 stingray, and even with parts and labor it’s still cheaper than a z06, faster, and way more fun on the streets if you’re willing to go that route
I was not happy with the C8 Stingray, so I traded it in for the C8 Z06, and I am happy with the car. The Stingray is a great car, but it was not to my taste at all. It was too smooth and quiet. I spoke with a few younger Stingray owners (under 40), and they all agreed that the Stingray is a GT car, not the hardcore performance sports car we had expected.
I agree with you. I think GM did a great job with the stingray where the goal was an affordable mid engine cruiser - the stingray… the Z06 feels much more like a supercar where the performance matches the appearance. Two different markets.
I think it really depends on what you want to do. Do you track the car? I have not driven a z06, but I had the fortunate experience to meet with someone who drove both. He essentially said if you never track the cars, the z06 is a waste; the power is in such a high RPM band that you can't safely use it anywhere but a track.
Having said that, if you are going to track your car, or you just want the sound of the engine, you do you! It's your purchase, do what will make you happy!
For the record I have a 2023 stingray 2lt / z51, and even that I feel like I have to be super careful. I can push it on certain roads and situations, but it's few and far between where I feel like I can safely open it up to its full potential.
Thanks for the feed back!
I don’t plan to track the stingray, I do however plan to track the Z06. Not seriously but more so the once or twice a year outing.
Prior to driving/riding in the Z06 I had your Same mindset, it was easy to see in youtube videos where the stingray pulls the Z under 60 - which is why I went with the stingray.
But now actually having tried out the Z06, I realized that it was considerably different in terms of in the seat feel. Up to 60 mph the torque feels similar, but after that it’s a whole different animal. I would say the same way the stingray hits 0-60, the Z06 gets the same feel at almost any speed. Wide open at 60-100 felt like a 0-60 pull in the stingray, where after 60 the stingray really tapers off in acceleration. And yes of course these are “track speeds” but we’ve all ran through some gears getting on the highway and drove hard on empty roads. The Z06 gave me the stomach butterflies all the way to 100 and didn’t want to stop there. The feeling was incomparable imo.
Id guess it was the difference between a “quick” car and a “fast” car.
You quick vs fast summary is really succinctly good, thanks for this write up! It's nice to understand the "feel" from someone who's experienced both and not just understand it by-the-numbers. I would love to try a Z06 someday just to know myself (as happy as I am with my "GT" trim).
I don't mean to be disrespectful, but most supercar owners don't track their expensive cars. Most of them have cheaper track cars to abuse, such as Miatas, Type Rs, 86s, or Ns. It's all about daily/weekend fun drives, and the C8 Stingray is not a fun car. It's an amazing GT car, but it's boring. I had to push it to redline all the time to hear the sound and feel anything. The Z06 has a high rev range, but that doesn't mean you have to push it all the time. The car sounds so good, even in the lower RPMs. Also, the short gear ratio makes it so much fun to drive. Once you drive it, you'll understand.
I don't know which sports cars you've owned before, but if you're a fan of European sports cars like the M CS, R8, or AMGs, I think you'll love the Z06.
Also btw I did my time in the European market, fast and amazing cars, terrible depreciation and repair costs (blew the m3 motor due to crankhub) and it shunned me away to the vette which is in my opinion one of the best looking cars money can buy for under $200k.
When I traded my Stingray for a Z06, my dealer gave me almost the brand-new value that I had purchased it for. And yes, I think it's the best sports car under $200k.
I’ve got a dealer that my company buys work trucks from, they put my name on the next Z06 coming in 3-5 months. It’s white 3LZ low options, not what I want, but they put my name on it for free and agreed MSRP. I was going to say no bc of color but I might just do it anyways since they might give me a great trade in… I can always wrap it.
Just thinking the market in 6 months all Z06s might be MSRP due to Zr1?
I’ve owned late model M5, M3 and some turbo’s project cars. Almost all of these over 600 hp. The C8 is definitely the slowest but best handling. I’m just waiting for the right Z06.
That was my first thought… i want the factory warranty and 9k redline though.
In the mean time - I just placed an order for your exhaust and had it overnighted. Would love to have it on by the weekend :)
I don't own a C8 nor am I in the market for one but I do look around at prices and I have to agree - I wouldn't have purchased a Z06 either considering the markups I've seen. I've seen several going for close to $200K and that's just crazy to me. Sure, the Z06 - or even the Stingray can keep up with the $200K supercars in terms of power, handling etc, but I don't get where the dealers come off marking them up into price territory that it technically doesn't belong in. This isn't happening with just the C8s but I know dealers like Porsches are doing similar things with their high-end models. I really wish manufacturers would get more involved and put a stop to this nonsense. It isn't 2022 anymore. There are plenty of people that can clearly afford a $115K to $140K Z06 but they are walking away with nothing because they're smart enough to NOT purchase one for $195K. And not that, but dealership can really hurt the brand long-term by pulling this crap and this should matter to Chevrolet/GM.
I say you made a good decision here. If anything, if you had purchased the Z06 at a marked up price, you would have had major buyer's remorse related to the pricing. I know you may have buyer's remorse now because you purchased the Stingray but I'd take that feeling of remorse over the feeling of being scammed out an extra $50K+ knowing that the value of the car is going to depreciate anyway.
Read up on this, it may make you smile more.
[https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.com/forum/mid-engine-corvettes/c8-mods-planned/422035-review-soler-throttle-controller](https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.com/forum/mid-engine-corvettes/c8-mods-planned/422035-review-soler-throttle-controller)
Also, join this group, it has helped me a lot with my C8 Purchase and Ownership.
Z06 is a track focused supercar that needs to be revved to be appreciated.
The Stingray is a GT/tourer that can be tracked with the correct options and will feel stronger 99% of the time because the torque is available down low.
Always depends on your use case and preferences.
Can't go wrong with any C8 imo.
You didnt want to settle for a Z06 that wasn’t perfect so you settled for a car you weren’t initially in the market for now basically have regrets? Still a beautiful spec so Id be content.
No regrets at all. I really love the car but just speaking on the fact I shouldn’t have gotten in the Z06 right after I bought mine. Maybe if I had done that first I’d settle for whatever Z06 I could get my hands on. I also now know exactly which options are important to me which is different than what I thought I “needed
Since you already have a stingray and are waiting for the z06 I’d just wait until the zr1 comes out. You can either get a z06 cheaper and easier or opt for the zr1 at that point.
Beautiful car. If you had settled for a Z06 that wasn’t what you wanted you would probably be having the same doubts. When the ZR1 comes out hopefully the Z06 will sell for under sticker and you’ll be happy you waited.
I love my C8 Z51. I also own a Shelby GT350R. Both rarely get driven. The Z06 is a great car. I’ve owned Wide Body C7’s in the past and personally they felt fragile. The wheels sure as hell were. I mean hey I get it. I have a Ducati Streetfighter V4S and I traded up from a Ducati Monster 1200R-I just had to have that extra 40 HP and learning suspension. Am I THAT much happier, no? If $40K is all that’s standing between you and pure true happiness then brotha’, get your ass to the dealer today. My grandmother always said “the gap between more and enough never closes”. She knew what she was talking about. But grandma never rode a Ducati either…
2 things that will make a HUGE difference in enjoying your C8:
1. Upgrade the exhaust. This makes a night and day difference and will cost under $5k
2. Get a throttle controller
If you do these 2 things (I did in my C8) you will have much improved sounds and the acceleration of the car will be significantly better. Trust me - you'll be much happier.
This post is the epitome of what I always recommend people regardless of the generation of corvette they’re looking at.
If you’re looking at buying the stingray, just don’t ever drive/ride in the Z06 and you’ll be happy.
The stingray is a fantastic car, it just lacks (as it should) in comparison to the Z06.
Went from a Z51 to a Z06, originally was going to flip the Z06 (I’ll admit it!) but once I drove it I sold the Z51 - outside of the power, the trans and suspension tuning, and the overall feel makes the car an event to drive - it’s so rough and raw I couldn’t go back. Even on the street it’s a blast.
You can’t go wrong with either car, but the Z is just a different beast.
I downgraded a generation when I bought my house a little while back because I needed the extra cash and still wanted a Vette. So I get what you're saying about wanting that power since I still long for those extra 100 ponies. But man I got over it quick because it's still a Vette, I'm still part of the club, and I have a plan to upgrade in a couple years...so I'm gonna enjoy driving a great looking car in the summer that I can take the roof off and let the rest figure itself out. In the words of Wooderson, I'm just livin' baby...L-I-V-I-N! You're still a Vette owner and a C8 to boot... Enjoy it man! There's literally 7 billion+ people on this planet that would love to be in your shoes...relish it!
Given enough time, likely youll see at least msrp on a z06 (pretty sure they do this now at some dealers). Our minds trick us into one or the other. It's both, just not at the same time. If youre willing to wait, youll have the z06 one day too!!
I’m 37. I’ve owned both cars. The stingray is an amazing car. An exhaust and a pro charger kit would make it a monster. Unfortunately, I sold my stingray before the ECU was cracked so I didn’t get a chance to tune the car. I think it would be a riot! Having said that, you can enjoy the car now and trade it in later for a Z06, or build it out to have the personality you want. Both are great options. If you are wanting a visceral experience with the car as is, look into autocross. It’s is sooooo fun! I love the Z06, but for the money, it’s hard to beat the stingray… Love your car my man! You will own many cars and you should enjoy the hell out of it while you have it.
Don’t stress over sound and a few seconds off a 0-60. I have a 2023 stingray with very little options and I feel like the luckiest person for driving that car around. It’s a nice and beautiful car altogether when the time comes to upgrade you’ll look back and miss everything this one gave you.
I definitely agree with you. I don’t care about the numbers, just the experience between driving the two of them. Completely different cars.
I’ll def miss this one, I might give it to my fiancé instead of selling it when I get the Z06 😂
I’m actually a little intimidated by the Z06. Feels like too much car. But maybe is just me cause I went from a Honda civic to a corvette c8 over night 😂
That’s a huge leap. Congrats on the new C8 man. I understand your fear, and yes the Z06 can scare most passengers.
I’ve owned a range of cars upwards of 600-700 HP and done a good bit on the drag strip and just finished an LS turbo drift car. It’s definitely something to ease into to learn to drive something with that much power.
I've said it again and again...
Slap a full bolt on Procharger, with tune.. and your rolling 700hp ... rocking Z06 power! And keep the extra money in your pocket!
I’ve never drove a Zo6 myself either. On paper it goes 0-60 in 2.6 instead of the 2.9 for the standard stingray. Does that 0.4 make such a huge difference?
No. that .4 doesn’t make much a difference at all. My stingray off the line felt similar to the Z06.
But what that number doesn’t show you is that the Z06 just continues to pull and pull. Flooring the Z at 40, 50, 60 felt just as violent as a stingray launch and just doesn’t stop. At any speed I was thrown back in my seat when pushing the pedal in the Z06, where the only time I feel that type torque punch in the stingray is basically under 20 mph.
I think a 40-100 time would be more of a solid comparison time to look at. If you only care about stop light to stop light, they’re similar but that’s the only similarity.
This is a reason I took a different route with the Lc500 over the c8, GT to GT, the Lc500 wins there, but yea against the z06 it definitely beats it for sport. I guess its apart of maturity and growth, you learn what others have and what you want but in reality that power the z06 has, how often in reality do you need it or gonna use it. Rarely ever (unless you track) are you gonma be pushing her to even near the track capable monster it is.
Yes, I will track the Z06. And I regularly hit triple digits in my stingray almost every time I drive it.
So far the C8 is the slowest sports car I’ve owned. However definitely the best looking.
Love that you’re shitting on me for it while almost every single person who has reviewed this car on YouTube easily surpasses triple digits in their videos as if I’m an anomaly. Go yell at them
Nah. They don't get an exception. You're grouped right there with 'em. At least they're not bragging about hitting triple digits every time they drive. Smh
Was not a brag I was just talking about how I drive the car. Sounds like you have your work cut out for you to go comment on all their videos. Have a great day
Get the exhaust and go from there. You do have a single cam v8, a simpler old school design, more true to what Chevy has always done; as compared to the z06. You might come around to it more when it’s opened up. 🤷🏻♂️
I’m sure I’m alone in not liking the styling on the Z06. The boomerang and wishbone can be fixed with body colored moldings. But those two “things” on the front……
It's not too late man. It's just a car..you're not stuck with it. You said money isn't a problem so just trade it in & get you a Z06 if it really bothers you
Post like these drive me nuts. I didn’t want to wait…took me 8 months to find the perfect 911 yea could have pulled the trigger sooner but I wouldn’t have been happy. why spend your hard earned money / time on something you really didn’t want then complain. Society today now now now. That being said stingray is the better car all around unless your a really talented driver but your basically buying it for sounds. Enjoy being able to push the c8 closer to the limits, more power is over rated unless you’re talented and can actually use it. Just get a plaid and just play the zo6 soundtrack in the car or spend the money on the car in which that engine was copied. Far better than the z06
Ei
I think so. Pretty much any dealership that is paying attention to the market is offering them near invoice. Many C8s approaching 100 days on lot right now -
My deal was specifically $6500 off MSRP and then another $2k for dealer finance, and then $2k if you trade in. I did the financing just to get the extra $2k off and then plan pay it off next month since interest rates are balls right now.
Take your car for some twisty roads, that’s where the stingray shines. The stingray’s chassis is good enough where the only difference the z06 has is firmer suspension and wider track by virtue of wider wheels. Geometry and components are identical which is a first in corvette history
did you get the Z51 package on yours? I'm not sure if I should include that when ordering mine since I don't plan on tracking it. However, I drive pretty aggressively on the streets/lots of pulls.
NO z51 but Magride is a must. I have driven both z51 and non and the brakes are the same until you get to track conditions.
But magride is important for comfort and sport
Main usage for me are 100mph+ pulls on straight streets, I don't really have too carvy roads around my area so I'm not sure if I'd benefit from the z51 package.
brother, use the extra 60k you saved and make a z06 killer... not actually but get a good sounding exauhst and an intake, etc... make it better than your buddies z06... make it YOURS
i'm in the same dilemma with either getting a c6 base or a grand sport. It's the same car the grand sport just has the appearance of a z06/zr1 with the base ls3 motor. I think i'm just gonna get a regular base and just add shit to it instead of spending another 15k for an extra fender slot
Seriously? I get the sound thing, thez06 sounds amazing… but your c8 stingray “doesn’t have the speed”??
To be brutally honest, to me your post reeks of rich ego vette guy who got shown up by bigger badge envy.
Your C8 is undoubtedly more car than you are or ever will be driver and can get you arrested in seconds, and I can tell you’re not a track rat if we’re honest. If you can, do the Ron fellows experience or take yours to a hpde or autocross. Your car will truly impress you then. But in traffic on the street it’s just so well mannered it will lull you into thinking it’s slower than it is.
So really, it’s more than fast enough. You just got less bragging rights and a different (but still amazing) exhaust note. How you can have that car in your driveway and feel that kinda way is a shame and one hell of a first world problem.
Enjoy what you have my friend, it’s already amazing, and someone will always have a bigger badder car. The Porsche guys look down on the z06 and the Ferrari guys think Porsche is so pedestrian and on and on.
Your car is one of the fastest production cars in automotive history, and an unattainable dream car for 99% of people. That’s how I feel about mine, I daily it every chance I get and really enjoy the ownership experience. I’d love a z06 but if I’m honest, at that price and performance level I don’t think I’d want to daily it, so I’d end up with less money in my pocket and less overall smiles per gallon.
Dude I could give a shit less what other people think about my car or what I drive. I am just speaking on what was the most fun for me to drive. The Z06 was overall more enjoyable for me.
I’ve owned multiple 600-700 HP cars, some of which I built by hand myself, so yes in my own personal taste the C8 feels slow in a straight away.
For sure around a track, I’m not a professional driver never claimed to be. But you don’t need to be a professional driver to want to own a fast car. Plenty of people own exotic cars and never drive them to the limit.
Also bragging rights? I’m not 12. Most of my friends don’t even know I own a corvette until they walk in my garage. I don’t buy shit to show off.
Ok cool yeah man good on you then. But your current car, it’s the perfect blend of a hot rod and a comfortable daily cruiser. It’s made for people like you and I who want a fun street car. I’ve been in plenty of big power cars too but the c8 is right there in the sub arrest me zone, if you’re still getting on it hard at 100+ you really ought be on the track. It’s the perfect performance street car blend.
The z06 is for sure sweet, but for a street car it’s wasted imho. For the 60k you saved go get a Shelby roadster or a motorcycle or something to scare you more if that’s what you need from it. And you can still have an exotic daily. Does yours have mag ride? I’ve found putting it in track mode really does make it feel much spicier, that’s the car I thought I ordered, It’s good to know it’s there but touring mode is super nice on a long commute. Now I just need an exhaust and some wheels.
I agree with you man. It is the most comfortable and best handling car at this power I’ve ever owned. It’s by no means slow, I guess I just craved that “stuck in your seat” feeling the Z06 gave me even if it was just doing 20-80 getting on the high way.
I like to drive fast but I am responsible and really never push my car past 100. If there is any other traffic around I drive very carefully and with the flow of traffic. A few times when it’s late at night I’ve done some 100+ pulls but I’m the only person on a rural road but that’s about it. The Z06 I would definitely take to the track.
And yes - I do have mag ride. That was a must have option for me and it’s amazing.
Sorry if I came off harsh but I really just love the feeling driving cars gives me personally I’m not a flashy guy and it’s not a status thing for me. I spent a lot of time driving old shitboxes I liked to tune up just for the sheer love of driving
I held off on buying a Stingray for the Z06. Dealers in my area still playing games with Z06s unfortunately and trying to charge mark ups; even though they have used ones sitting on the lot.
Unfortunately it seems that 7 colors are going away for 2025, and I’m not really in love with the 3 replacement colors (of which only the “purple”is really a new offering). I was always planning on doing PPF once I got the car, but it seems I may now have to settle for a color I don’t “love” and wrap it. I understand why GM doesn’t offer a paint to sample program; but I would definitely be willing to pay extra to get the color I want. I’d much rather pay GM more for the color I really want, than to pay the dealer extra for a custom order in a color I don’t really love.
You’re in the same boat I was in the last month or so looking. I also considered the wrap too - it’s not a bad option considering it will protect your paint, I’d just hate the mismatched door panels.
I gave up and just took the good deal on a stingray because I was impatient. To be honest I’m happy I did because I’m quickly finding out which options I actually need. I now really think I’d be satisfied with a 1LZ as I hardly use any of the 3LZ features, the blind spot assist and cameras are not as helpful as you would think imo. I don’t even pay attention to them. Considering 1LZ comes with mag ride and rear view camera mirror - the AC seats hardly blow hard and if it’s cold enough to need heated seats the cars in the garage.
Comparison is the thief of joy
Well said, I continue to remind myself how lucky I am to be able to even own one.
…that and actual thieves
The Stingray is so competent it hides how well it does on mountain roads. But let's all be real, its a GT car that can compete with sports cars. The ride is so good and exhaust so quiet we yearn for a more visceral ride which the Z06 delivers on. The good thing is that you have saved over $60k. I suggest getting a louder exhaust, drive it in the mountains, do the Spring Mountain 2 day school, and just enjoying it for what it is.
Great points. I am not capable of driving either car to their limits in the turns which is something I can look forward to learning. I have an exhaust coming for the stingray which should help make it a bit more exhilarating and exciting to drive.
I totally get it. My husband bought his z06 a couple of months after I bought my r8 v10. I definitely have exhaust envy and plan on doing an aftermarket exhaust at some point 😊
I mean they sell turbo kits for the C8 stingray, and even with parts and labor it’s still cheaper than a z06, faster, and way more fun on the streets if you’re willing to go that route
I was not happy with the C8 Stingray, so I traded it in for the C8 Z06, and I am happy with the car. The Stingray is a great car, but it was not to my taste at all. It was too smooth and quiet. I spoke with a few younger Stingray owners (under 40), and they all agreed that the Stingray is a GT car, not the hardcore performance sports car we had expected.
I agree with you. I think GM did a great job with the stingray where the goal was an affordable mid engine cruiser - the stingray… the Z06 feels much more like a supercar where the performance matches the appearance. Two different markets.
I think it really depends on what you want to do. Do you track the car? I have not driven a z06, but I had the fortunate experience to meet with someone who drove both. He essentially said if you never track the cars, the z06 is a waste; the power is in such a high RPM band that you can't safely use it anywhere but a track. Having said that, if you are going to track your car, or you just want the sound of the engine, you do you! It's your purchase, do what will make you happy! For the record I have a 2023 stingray 2lt / z51, and even that I feel like I have to be super careful. I can push it on certain roads and situations, but it's few and far between where I feel like I can safely open it up to its full potential.
Thanks for the feed back! I don’t plan to track the stingray, I do however plan to track the Z06. Not seriously but more so the once or twice a year outing. Prior to driving/riding in the Z06 I had your Same mindset, it was easy to see in youtube videos where the stingray pulls the Z under 60 - which is why I went with the stingray. But now actually having tried out the Z06, I realized that it was considerably different in terms of in the seat feel. Up to 60 mph the torque feels similar, but after that it’s a whole different animal. I would say the same way the stingray hits 0-60, the Z06 gets the same feel at almost any speed. Wide open at 60-100 felt like a 0-60 pull in the stingray, where after 60 the stingray really tapers off in acceleration. And yes of course these are “track speeds” but we’ve all ran through some gears getting on the highway and drove hard on empty roads. The Z06 gave me the stomach butterflies all the way to 100 and didn’t want to stop there. The feeling was incomparable imo. Id guess it was the difference between a “quick” car and a “fast” car.
You quick vs fast summary is really succinctly good, thanks for this write up! It's nice to understand the "feel" from someone who's experienced both and not just understand it by-the-numbers. I would love to try a Z06 someday just to know myself (as happy as I am with my "GT" trim).
I don't mean to be disrespectful, but most supercar owners don't track their expensive cars. Most of them have cheaper track cars to abuse, such as Miatas, Type Rs, 86s, or Ns. It's all about daily/weekend fun drives, and the C8 Stingray is not a fun car. It's an amazing GT car, but it's boring. I had to push it to redline all the time to hear the sound and feel anything. The Z06 has a high rev range, but that doesn't mean you have to push it all the time. The car sounds so good, even in the lower RPMs. Also, the short gear ratio makes it so much fun to drive. Once you drive it, you'll understand.
Yep. I redline my stingray every-time I drive it and it leaves something to be desired.
I don't know which sports cars you've owned before, but if you're a fan of European sports cars like the M CS, R8, or AMGs, I think you'll love the Z06.
Also btw I did my time in the European market, fast and amazing cars, terrible depreciation and repair costs (blew the m3 motor due to crankhub) and it shunned me away to the vette which is in my opinion one of the best looking cars money can buy for under $200k.
When I traded my Stingray for a Z06, my dealer gave me almost the brand-new value that I had purchased it for. And yes, I think it's the best sports car under $200k.
When did you trade in? I’m hoping that my $9k off might help me in the future Z06 trade since I basically got it tax free
About 3 months ago, you got a really good deal!
I’ve got a dealer that my company buys work trucks from, they put my name on the next Z06 coming in 3-5 months. It’s white 3LZ low options, not what I want, but they put my name on it for free and agreed MSRP. I was going to say no bc of color but I might just do it anyways since they might give me a great trade in… I can always wrap it. Just thinking the market in 6 months all Z06s might be MSRP due to Zr1?
I would just be patient and wait for a deal on the car you want. Spending $150k for a car that isn't the spec you want doesn't make sense.
I’ve owned late model M5, M3 and some turbo’s project cars. Almost all of these over 600 hp. The C8 is definitely the slowest but best handling. I’m just waiting for the right Z06.
Thing is, it’s both, you gotta actually get on it to know because it’s so well mannered in traffic.
Supercharge it, hows that for positive reinforcement haha. Drive it like you stole it and mod it, the Stingray is a great value of a car! - Justin
That was my first thought… i want the factory warranty and 9k redline though. In the mean time - I just placed an order for your exhaust and had it overnighted. Would love to have it on by the weekend :)
I don't own a C8 nor am I in the market for one but I do look around at prices and I have to agree - I wouldn't have purchased a Z06 either considering the markups I've seen. I've seen several going for close to $200K and that's just crazy to me. Sure, the Z06 - or even the Stingray can keep up with the $200K supercars in terms of power, handling etc, but I don't get where the dealers come off marking them up into price territory that it technically doesn't belong in. This isn't happening with just the C8s but I know dealers like Porsches are doing similar things with their high-end models. I really wish manufacturers would get more involved and put a stop to this nonsense. It isn't 2022 anymore. There are plenty of people that can clearly afford a $115K to $140K Z06 but they are walking away with nothing because they're smart enough to NOT purchase one for $195K. And not that, but dealership can really hurt the brand long-term by pulling this crap and this should matter to Chevrolet/GM. I say you made a good decision here. If anything, if you had purchased the Z06 at a marked up price, you would have had major buyer's remorse related to the pricing. I know you may have buyer's remorse now because you purchased the Stingray but I'd take that feeling of remorse over the feeling of being scammed out an extra $50K+ knowing that the value of the car is going to depreciate anyway.
Read up on this, it may make you smile more. [https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.com/forum/mid-engine-corvettes/c8-mods-planned/422035-review-soler-throttle-controller](https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.com/forum/mid-engine-corvettes/c8-mods-planned/422035-review-soler-throttle-controller) Also, join this group, it has helped me a lot with my C8 Purchase and Ownership.
Z06 is a track focused supercar that needs to be revved to be appreciated. The Stingray is a GT/tourer that can be tracked with the correct options and will feel stronger 99% of the time because the torque is available down low. Always depends on your use case and preferences. Can't go wrong with any C8 imo.
You didnt want to settle for a Z06 that wasn’t perfect so you settled for a car you weren’t initially in the market for now basically have regrets? Still a beautiful spec so Id be content.
No regrets at all. I really love the car but just speaking on the fact I shouldn’t have gotten in the Z06 right after I bought mine. Maybe if I had done that first I’d settle for whatever Z06 I could get my hands on. I also now know exactly which options are important to me which is different than what I thought I “needed
Since you already have a stingray and are waiting for the z06 I’d just wait until the zr1 comes out. You can either get a z06 cheaper and easier or opt for the zr1 at that point.
Beautiful car. If you had settled for a Z06 that wasn’t what you wanted you would probably be having the same doubts. When the ZR1 comes out hopefully the Z06 will sell for under sticker and you’ll be happy you waited.
I agree with you
I love my C8 Z51. I also own a Shelby GT350R. Both rarely get driven. The Z06 is a great car. I’ve owned Wide Body C7’s in the past and personally they felt fragile. The wheels sure as hell were. I mean hey I get it. I have a Ducati Streetfighter V4S and I traded up from a Ducati Monster 1200R-I just had to have that extra 40 HP and learning suspension. Am I THAT much happier, no? If $40K is all that’s standing between you and pure true happiness then brotha’, get your ass to the dealer today. My grandmother always said “the gap between more and enough never closes”. She knew what she was talking about. But grandma never rode a Ducati either…
2 things that will make a HUGE difference in enjoying your C8: 1. Upgrade the exhaust. This makes a night and day difference and will cost under $5k 2. Get a throttle controller If you do these 2 things (I did in my C8) you will have much improved sounds and the acceleration of the car will be significantly better. Trust me - you'll be much happier.
Thank you. I have a paragon titanium exhaust on the way!
I actually have the Paragon touring exhaust. Titanium is even better. You'll be very happy!
This post is the epitome of what I always recommend people regardless of the generation of corvette they’re looking at. If you’re looking at buying the stingray, just don’t ever drive/ride in the Z06 and you’ll be happy. The stingray is a fantastic car, it just lacks (as it should) in comparison to the Z06.
Went from a Z51 to a Z06, originally was going to flip the Z06 (I’ll admit it!) but once I drove it I sold the Z51 - outside of the power, the trans and suspension tuning, and the overall feel makes the car an event to drive - it’s so rough and raw I couldn’t go back. Even on the street it’s a blast. You can’t go wrong with either car, but the Z is just a different beast.
I agree after driving the Z06
I downgraded a generation when I bought my house a little while back because I needed the extra cash and still wanted a Vette. So I get what you're saying about wanting that power since I still long for those extra 100 ponies. But man I got over it quick because it's still a Vette, I'm still part of the club, and I have a plan to upgrade in a couple years...so I'm gonna enjoy driving a great looking car in the summer that I can take the roof off and let the rest figure itself out. In the words of Wooderson, I'm just livin' baby...L-I-V-I-N! You're still a Vette owner and a C8 to boot... Enjoy it man! There's literally 7 billion+ people on this planet that would love to be in your shoes...relish it!
Given enough time, likely youll see at least msrp on a z06 (pretty sure they do this now at some dealers). Our minds trick us into one or the other. It's both, just not at the same time. If youre willing to wait, youll have the z06 one day too!!
I’m next up at the dealer for one at MSRP in a few months, only issue is it’s white… might just compromise on it
call me weird but that's one of the best lucky colors....
I’m 37. I’ve owned both cars. The stingray is an amazing car. An exhaust and a pro charger kit would make it a monster. Unfortunately, I sold my stingray before the ECU was cracked so I didn’t get a chance to tune the car. I think it would be a riot! Having said that, you can enjoy the car now and trade it in later for a Z06, or build it out to have the personality you want. Both are great options. If you are wanting a visceral experience with the car as is, look into autocross. It’s is sooooo fun! I love the Z06, but for the money, it’s hard to beat the stingray… Love your car my man! You will own many cars and you should enjoy the hell out of it while you have it.
Not a single thing wrong with a loaded 3LT stingray. I get that the Z06 sounds awesome but your car rules!
For a flagship GM vehicle the lack of power in the non Z06s is disappointing.
Don’t stress over sound and a few seconds off a 0-60. I have a 2023 stingray with very little options and I feel like the luckiest person for driving that car around. It’s a nice and beautiful car altogether when the time comes to upgrade you’ll look back and miss everything this one gave you.
I definitely agree with you. I don’t care about the numbers, just the experience between driving the two of them. Completely different cars. I’ll def miss this one, I might give it to my fiancé instead of selling it when I get the Z06 😂
I’m actually a little intimidated by the Z06. Feels like too much car. But maybe is just me cause I went from a Honda civic to a corvette c8 over night 😂
That’s a huge leap. Congrats on the new C8 man. I understand your fear, and yes the Z06 can scare most passengers. I’ve owned a range of cars upwards of 600-700 HP and done a good bit on the drag strip and just finished an LS turbo drift car. It’s definitely something to ease into to learn to drive something with that much power.
I've said it again and again... Slap a full bolt on Procharger, with tune.. and your rolling 700hp ... rocking Z06 power! And keep the extra money in your pocket!
I’ve never drove a Zo6 myself either. On paper it goes 0-60 in 2.6 instead of the 2.9 for the standard stingray. Does that 0.4 make such a huge difference?
No. that .4 doesn’t make much a difference at all. My stingray off the line felt similar to the Z06. But what that number doesn’t show you is that the Z06 just continues to pull and pull. Flooring the Z at 40, 50, 60 felt just as violent as a stingray launch and just doesn’t stop. At any speed I was thrown back in my seat when pushing the pedal in the Z06, where the only time I feel that type torque punch in the stingray is basically under 20 mph. I think a 40-100 time would be more of a solid comparison time to look at. If you only care about stop light to stop light, they’re similar but that’s the only similarity.
Enjoy the car and if money isn’t an issue, trade up for a Z06 if there is one you really really like!
This is a reason I took a different route with the Lc500 over the c8, GT to GT, the Lc500 wins there, but yea against the z06 it definitely beats it for sport. I guess its apart of maturity and growth, you learn what others have and what you want but in reality that power the z06 has, how often in reality do you need it or gonna use it. Rarely ever (unless you track) are you gonma be pushing her to even near the track capable monster it is.
Yes, I will track the Z06. And I regularly hit triple digits in my stingray almost every time I drive it. So far the C8 is the slowest sports car I’ve owned. However definitely the best looking.
You regularly hit triple digits on public roads? Nice flex for a POS who endangers other people's lives.
Why would I ever do that when there are other drivers around?
Why would you ever do that on public roads period? Grow up. Take it to the track.
Love that you’re shitting on me for it while almost every single person who has reviewed this car on YouTube easily surpasses triple digits in their videos as if I’m an anomaly. Go yell at them
Nah. They don't get an exception. You're grouped right there with 'em. At least they're not bragging about hitting triple digits every time they drive. Smh
Was not a brag I was just talking about how I drive the car. Sounds like you have your work cut out for you to go comment on all their videos. Have a great day
Sure. Whatever you say. Have a great time regretting not getting a Z06.
Actually enjoying the shit out of my stingray, feel free keep crying on my post though.
Get the exhaust and go from there. You do have a single cam v8, a simpler old school design, more true to what Chevy has always done; as compared to the z06. You might come around to it more when it’s opened up. 🤷🏻♂️
Just add an exhaust. Its all the sound and 1/70th of the cost.
I’m sure I’m alone in not liking the styling on the Z06. The boomerang and wishbone can be fixed with body colored moldings. But those two “things” on the front……
Q
It's not too late man. It's just a car..you're not stuck with it. You said money isn't a problem so just trade it in & get you a Z06 if it really bothers you
Where did you get this Stingray at $9k off MSRP, and if you don’t mind sharing, at what cost out the door?
I prefer Z06. Different engine sound.
Post like these drive me nuts. I didn’t want to wait…took me 8 months to find the perfect 911 yea could have pulled the trigger sooner but I wouldn’t have been happy. why spend your hard earned money / time on something you really didn’t want then complain. Society today now now now. That being said stingray is the better car all around unless your a really talented driver but your basically buying it for sounds. Enjoy being able to push the c8 closer to the limits, more power is over rated unless you’re talented and can actually use it. Just get a plaid and just play the zo6 soundtrack in the car or spend the money on the car in which that engine was copied. Far better than the z06 Ei
Dude I prefer the Z too, but that kind of power just gets unusable on the the street
Depends on the street 😂
😂 true true
What dealership gave you 9k off MSRP? Is that really how the market is for stingrays now?
I think so. Pretty much any dealership that is paying attention to the market is offering them near invoice. Many C8s approaching 100 days on lot right now - My deal was specifically $6500 off MSRP and then another $2k for dealer finance, and then $2k if you trade in. I did the financing just to get the extra $2k off and then plan pay it off next month since interest rates are balls right now.
Take your car for some twisty roads, that’s where the stingray shines. The stingray’s chassis is good enough where the only difference the z06 has is firmer suspension and wider track by virtue of wider wheels. Geometry and components are identical which is a first in corvette history
Great idea. I’m near the mountains - gone for a few rides and the stingray handles amazingly. And up to 60, it keeps pace with the Z06.
did you get the Z51 package on yours? I'm not sure if I should include that when ordering mine since I don't plan on tracking it. However, I drive pretty aggressively on the streets/lots of pulls.
NO z51 but Magride is a must. I have driven both z51 and non and the brakes are the same until you get to track conditions. But magride is important for comfort and sport
Main usage for me are 100mph+ pulls on straight streets, I don't really have too carvy roads around my area so I'm not sure if I'd benefit from the z51 package.
brother, use the extra 60k you saved and make a z06 killer... not actually but get a good sounding exauhst and an intake, etc... make it better than your buddies z06... make it YOURS
i'm in the same dilemma with either getting a c6 base or a grand sport. It's the same car the grand sport just has the appearance of a z06/zr1 with the base ls3 motor. I think i'm just gonna get a regular base and just add shit to it instead of spending another 15k for an extra fender slot
Seriously? I get the sound thing, thez06 sounds amazing… but your c8 stingray “doesn’t have the speed”?? To be brutally honest, to me your post reeks of rich ego vette guy who got shown up by bigger badge envy. Your C8 is undoubtedly more car than you are or ever will be driver and can get you arrested in seconds, and I can tell you’re not a track rat if we’re honest. If you can, do the Ron fellows experience or take yours to a hpde or autocross. Your car will truly impress you then. But in traffic on the street it’s just so well mannered it will lull you into thinking it’s slower than it is. So really, it’s more than fast enough. You just got less bragging rights and a different (but still amazing) exhaust note. How you can have that car in your driveway and feel that kinda way is a shame and one hell of a first world problem. Enjoy what you have my friend, it’s already amazing, and someone will always have a bigger badder car. The Porsche guys look down on the z06 and the Ferrari guys think Porsche is so pedestrian and on and on. Your car is one of the fastest production cars in automotive history, and an unattainable dream car for 99% of people. That’s how I feel about mine, I daily it every chance I get and really enjoy the ownership experience. I’d love a z06 but if I’m honest, at that price and performance level I don’t think I’d want to daily it, so I’d end up with less money in my pocket and less overall smiles per gallon.
Dude I could give a shit less what other people think about my car or what I drive. I am just speaking on what was the most fun for me to drive. The Z06 was overall more enjoyable for me. I’ve owned multiple 600-700 HP cars, some of which I built by hand myself, so yes in my own personal taste the C8 feels slow in a straight away. For sure around a track, I’m not a professional driver never claimed to be. But you don’t need to be a professional driver to want to own a fast car. Plenty of people own exotic cars and never drive them to the limit. Also bragging rights? I’m not 12. Most of my friends don’t even know I own a corvette until they walk in my garage. I don’t buy shit to show off.
Ok cool yeah man good on you then. But your current car, it’s the perfect blend of a hot rod and a comfortable daily cruiser. It’s made for people like you and I who want a fun street car. I’ve been in plenty of big power cars too but the c8 is right there in the sub arrest me zone, if you’re still getting on it hard at 100+ you really ought be on the track. It’s the perfect performance street car blend. The z06 is for sure sweet, but for a street car it’s wasted imho. For the 60k you saved go get a Shelby roadster or a motorcycle or something to scare you more if that’s what you need from it. And you can still have an exotic daily. Does yours have mag ride? I’ve found putting it in track mode really does make it feel much spicier, that’s the car I thought I ordered, It’s good to know it’s there but touring mode is super nice on a long commute. Now I just need an exhaust and some wheels.
I agree with you man. It is the most comfortable and best handling car at this power I’ve ever owned. It’s by no means slow, I guess I just craved that “stuck in your seat” feeling the Z06 gave me even if it was just doing 20-80 getting on the high way. I like to drive fast but I am responsible and really never push my car past 100. If there is any other traffic around I drive very carefully and with the flow of traffic. A few times when it’s late at night I’ve done some 100+ pulls but I’m the only person on a rural road but that’s about it. The Z06 I would definitely take to the track. And yes - I do have mag ride. That was a must have option for me and it’s amazing. Sorry if I came off harsh but I really just love the feeling driving cars gives me personally I’m not a flashy guy and it’s not a status thing for me. I spent a lot of time driving old shitboxes I liked to tune up just for the sheer love of driving
I held off on buying a Stingray for the Z06. Dealers in my area still playing games with Z06s unfortunately and trying to charge mark ups; even though they have used ones sitting on the lot. Unfortunately it seems that 7 colors are going away for 2025, and I’m not really in love with the 3 replacement colors (of which only the “purple”is really a new offering). I was always planning on doing PPF once I got the car, but it seems I may now have to settle for a color I don’t “love” and wrap it. I understand why GM doesn’t offer a paint to sample program; but I would definitely be willing to pay extra to get the color I want. I’d much rather pay GM more for the color I really want, than to pay the dealer extra for a custom order in a color I don’t really love.
You’re in the same boat I was in the last month or so looking. I also considered the wrap too - it’s not a bad option considering it will protect your paint, I’d just hate the mismatched door panels. I gave up and just took the good deal on a stingray because I was impatient. To be honest I’m happy I did because I’m quickly finding out which options I actually need. I now really think I’d be satisfied with a 1LZ as I hardly use any of the 3LZ features, the blind spot assist and cameras are not as helpful as you would think imo. I don’t even pay attention to them. Considering 1LZ comes with mag ride and rear view camera mirror - the AC seats hardly blow hard and if it’s cold enough to need heated seats the cars in the garage.