ONE of them… for sure ,the best bang for the buck for straight line speed. But plenty of other great Vettes out there depending on what you ultimately want. Can’t discount them either. The C6Z lacks a decent interior and isn’t the best looking. Handling and ride quality isn’t the best either. You also NEED to address the dropping valves or else you will NEED to drop some serious $$$$$ for a new engine lol
@@EJleon96 wtf are you talking about. C6Z handle like crazy and the ride is comfy as shit. Ive owned a few different sports cars and the c6z in stock form is very comfy and rides great. You also don't know what you are talking about the "dropping valves"
@@703z06 yeah literally handles like it’s crazy🤣 so you own a C6 Z06 and no nothing about valves dropping into cylinders and causing engine failures? Don’t come at me like that 🤡lmfao you’re gonna be out of an engine pretty soon unless you fix the issue. You should be thanking me buddy.
I remember being a GM tech back in these days. When the C6 gen came out and I worked on and drove many of these ZO6s I told myself "This is it, This is the kinda power that most people cant physically understand how to have on tap". Then the blue devil (ZR1) came out in 2009 and that was a vehicle that even I could not believe existed for street use after I drove it. Sure ive driven lots of really fun cars and still work for GM (parts now) but the C6 gen will always be my perfect PB&J, It just all came together nicely! Thank you for the video!
Agreed! I drove a 2011 C6 Grand Sport and I cannot imagine why anyone one earth would think that 428 HP is not enough for a road car. That is A LOT of power. Just because Ferraris have 700 or more horsepower (for 10 years now), doesn't mean that you NEED that kind of power, nor does it mean that kind of power is usable on the road. On a track, sure. In 1988 the Ferrari Testarossa's 380HP was impressive, as was it's 5.8 second 0-60 time. Then the '89 300ZX Twin Turbo came and did it in 5 seconds with 300 HP. The idea that 432HP is not enough for a road car is absolutely nonsensical. And if a guy cannot safely apply the horsepower from his engine to the ground without electronic traction control acting as training wheels to "hold his hand" for him... then he's already got more power than he has the skill to handle (even if its only 250HP). The C7 is what happens when you take the pure beautiful flawless and perfect styling of the C6 and ruin it by making an angular modern car with straight sharp edges (to copy Ferrari?) for the primary purpose of visually bridging the styling gap between the round and smooth C6 and the rigid and angular C8. I wonder if the C7 is even a genuine styling expression or was it created merely to serve as the transition from the smooth rounded C1 through C6 styling to bridge the gap to the C8? With all that said, if you want Camaro tail lights on your Corvette, the C7 is the obvious choice. ;)
Proud new owner of a 06’ z06, wanted one my whole life, and can attest that it’s an absolutely amazing car. Puts a smile on my face every time I start it up and hear that American chop🇺🇸
Can you actually enjoy it on the road, though? I was considering one until watching people drive them.. you can't go to redline in 2nd gear without going 80MPH.. I feel like you can't even row through the gears and have fun without risking a hefty ticket, car impounded etc.. different story if you have a track close by but as a street only car.. idk, I feel like there's a lot of wasted potential.
@@hhaste If your criteria for enjoying it on the street is being able to run it through the gears at less than highway speed, you better stick with something like a Jetta TDI, because even a C4 isn't going to get you there. A 1996 LT4 will run 78mph in 2nd gear. A 1990-1995 LT5 will run 89mph in 2nd gear. Even a 1985-1988 TPI 4-speed will go 65mph in 2nd gear, and with an automatic, it will go 91mph in 2nd gear.
@@hhaste absolutely, just have to have some self control. It’s surprising comfortable on the country roads, and being over 40 I know when to open her up, smash some gears!
'06 Daytona Sunset C6Z owner. Was my dream car ever since it came out when I was 17. I bought it 2 years ago and it was the best decision I ever made. Absolutely amazing to drive on the road. The kids in my neighborhood love it, and it brings me joy to see the smile on their faces. Reminds me of when I was a kid and reassures me I'm making the child in me happy fulfilling my dreams.
The cool thing about Corvettes is they all share the same spirit. They all have the same speed on the street (not track). You don’t have to spend a bunch of money for the newest one. I absolutely LOVE my blue 2003 C5 Z06. I put a super charger on it and with nearly 600 wheel horsepower it’s a blast!!
LS7 was developed using some of the knowledge derived from the C5R engine, not the C6R. I love my C6 Z06 and I agree, get one before they're gone. I'd have a spare to keep bone stock if I had more storage. "Greater than the sum of its parts" is the best way to describe it; lightest modern Corvette, great brakes, fantastic flexible motor, 50/50 weight bias. Hands down my favorite Vette.
100% with you, I own a 2007 and it only has like 50k, it's my baby, and it has never given me any problems, ( a few of them suffer from valve drop ) great car, well made, watching the video on how they built this car back in 2006 made me get one, great video.
Just sold my C5 Z06 (2nd one I've owned), and finally upgraded to a C6 Z06 way over West here in Calgary. Way more refined than the C5Z and a little bit more intimidating that's for sure. What a beast.
I’ve got the identical car about 18 months ago. It was one owner with 4800 miles. I drove it for about 2 weeks then shipped it to Red Line Motor Sports for a stage 3 upgrade. 610 Whp, What A CAR !!!! The one thing I did to eliminate the drone and that was to remove the interior and line the shell with sound deadening material. It’s a fantastic machine!!
Welcome to the party! I have a 2007 Indy Pace Car Edition Convertible (#331 of 500 made). I wanted that car ever since it came out. I finally got it 2 years ago. BEST, CAR, EVER!!!
I bought a 2009 C6 LS3 Base Coupe Manual last year from the original owner who was 82. It had 23,800 miles on it. Victory Red with Ebony interia. Looks like new. Bone stock too except the original owner installed the beautiful Z-06 Chrome 10 spoke spider wheels. Getting ready to install a MGW short shift shifter and Bola Type II Stinger axle back exhaust system and K&N free flow air filter. A great car that's fun to drive and looks like a million bucks.
I've been waiting for (and fearing) people to come around on these C6s in the past few years. On one hand, I'm glad they're getting the recognition they deserve, but on the other hand, I gotta get my money up quick before y'all drive the prices up 😅 Although some people are coming around on the Z06s and even the Grand Sports, people are still sleeping on the base vettes and special editions. 427 convertibles and ZHZ Hertz corvettes are selling incredibly cheap right now. I saw a ZHZ vette in near-perfect condition, 65k miles for only 25 grand the other day. The only issue with the car was the auto transmission, but manual transmission LS3s can be found for similar prices in similar condition, albeit with worse options. The LS2 vettes are also heavily slept on, and I'm of the opinion they were under rated from the factory as to not out-do the previous gen's 405 horse Z06 on paper. I've seen manual LS2s drop into the high teens recently, or even a fair bit lower if you're brave enough to go for a 2005 (I wouldn't). Overall, the C6 generation offers a lot of value for your money from the 20 grand base vettes, arguably even up to the 80 grand ZR1s.
I picked up a 2012 base coupe last year with 60k miles and all the options, incredible car! Maybe have a bit of buyers remorse not getting a grand sport, but it’s mostly for the cosmetic differences. I daily drive it when I can! Only bad thing about the Z is no removable roof, which I’ve realized now is a MUST HAVE!
Bought a 2012 GS Convertible a year ago for road trips; my expectations were met and beyond. Not a Z06 perhaps, but AMAZING accelerations and handling! Its outside look and stance still very attractive as a sports car, even in 2024. It's sound... mid/high RPM… WOW, matching the performances!! For those that don't do track, You're right, a great Power / Cost / Endurance alternative value.
too late! bought mine 5 yrs ago, also sight unseen...1/2 way across the country, from NFLD no less. 08 3LZ, addressed some shortcomings for track, and primped the interior for street (Caravaggio, some carbon bits, head unit/b/up cam, blah blah. I don't like the C7 digital interiors, and the C8 even less. You're spot on. BTW, another difference for the GS is it has a steel frame. Heavier, but probably better if its not a track car.
If I were to buy one, could I properly enjoy it, if it were strictly a street only car? I saw you have a track nearby, which is perfect for you, but I personally don't. I'm looking for something fun for just the street and I feel like there's a lot of wasted potential there. If you redline in 2nd gear, it's already going 80MPH.. I feel like I wouldn't be able to row through the gears and have fun on the road.
Thank you for the inspiration, you and many other UA-camrs have really been praising this car and I had to get off the fence and get one for myself. Picked up a 2013 Z06 a couple weeks ago. Wow… what a car. Goes better than it looks if that is even possible. I am not a car show guy but if you ever do a Z06 cruise around cliche corner I might just consider it. Saw you guys at Cayuga a number of years ago and really should have come over and said hi/like your channel, ahh well, anyway subscribed. Keep the American/German muscle content coming!
You don’t even have to get a Z06. I have an 09 base that I put $5500 worth of bolt ons and now have 502 HP at the rear wheels. Car had 28K miles on it when I bought it for $23K. Under $30k I’ve got a triple black convertible that will keep up with 70% of the cars on the road, get 27 mpg on the highway, and after 30k miles, the only money I’ve spent is tires, oil changes, and a clutch. I do wish I had a wide body kit but other than that, I totally LOVE it. It’s not perfect but you can’t find anything else that runs and drives like it does much less reliable, for the money.
@@KurNorock Major need for heads, big brakes, some weight reduction, and wide body. I've had a C6 GS and currently own a Z06. If I had to do it over again...I'd find another manual C6 GS.
I passed on a C6 Z06 last year at $40k and around 19k miles. I don't want to deal with the potential problems of the LS7. I think the GS is the way to go from 2010-2013. I'd be careful buying any C6 though. You will need to fix things so beware of what you are getting into. The LS3 is an awesome engine with lots of unique character. I have a Camaro SS 1LE and as good as the LT1 is, it doesn't sound as angry as the LS3.
Most Corvettes are better maintained than most equivalent Mustang Camaro Challenger type cars. Owners usually care more so they’re in better condition. Not much needs fixing
I had a 2021 LT-1 Camaro. Beat the dog snot out of it for 50k miles and no issues. Added wider wheels and tires and it rode on rails. Had the Bose stereo and dual mode exhaust, all for $40k. Best bang for the buck bar none 👌
The ls7 is a lot less problematic than it has been made out to be. The whole thing with the valve guides was a small number of cars early in production and the only other big problem was oil starvation at really high g forces (like track day g forces) which was fixed in either 08 or 09 with the addition of the “goider” on the oil reservoir. Of course it has some of the usual ls issues like the harmonic balancer wobble but other than that it’s damn near as bullet proof as all the rest. And nothing sounds as barrel-chested as an ls7 at full throttle
@@zackbrinkley1442 this is exactly what person who doesn’t own an ls7 says. It isn’t widely blown over. Every LS7 that is stock has a good chance of blowing because of the valves issue. Some ex Chevy engineers talked about it on a few podcasts and say the same shit. I’ve got a few buddies who had ls7’s a blew their motors because they swore it wasn’t that big of an issue.
@@worst-hd-player you’re right. I don’t own an ls7. My father however, does. It’s got well over 100k miles on it and all it’s ever needed is oil changes and the harmonic balancer fixed. Your friends probably modified their engines and raw-dogged them and while the ls7 is great when it’s stock, it doesn’t take well to modifications without re working the heads. Now is there anymore of your infinite wisdom you’d like to share?
Beautiful car! The C6 is my favorite Corvette generation. I had an opportunity to buy one of these a few years back but I ultimately went with a 2011 GT500, but I really could have seen myself in a C6Z.
Thanks for the great video! I am a proud owner of an 08Z, and I believe this is the best Era of Corvettes. BTW, I agree, the fox body hatch (non-GT) is the best looking of that era.
I feel like you should've mentioned the infamous valve drop issue. Expect to spend about $4k minimum to have that fixed at a shop if you don't want your LS7 to grenade.
I should have but I forgot because I addressed it with Dart heads along with doing literally everything NA to this engine. But after speaking with the corvette engineering team, the issue was overblown on forums with how many cars were actually affected
@@itsreallyjakubThat'd be a good follow-up video. "Is the LS7 really a ticking time bomb?!" :P Make sure to do an interview with @JoshVanVeld to get his thoughts. :)
@@joey7253 These C6Z’s are breaking 600whp with Heads/Cam pretty regularly now. That’s with a new intake manifold, catless long tubes, and E85 of course.
Make sure you check the heads for the notorious exhaust valve guide issue if you buy one of these. I loved my C6Z , had the heads done too for piece of mind
I like how you brought up the grand sport thats actually always been my dream car over the z06 simply for the ease of modifing an ls3 over an ls7 and the fact that it still has the targa top from the factory
I just picked up a c5 and even a base is a great car. A few suspension mods are easy if you want something a bit sportier. Either generation, get a manual v8 before they disappear.
They will never disappear.. maybe new from manufacturers but there will always be used models you'll be able to purchase, at least within our lifetimes.
I daily drove my c6z for few years, head cam intake and it made solid power and was reliable. Driven across north America twice coast to coast. You can easily have one of these as a daily and still run a high 9 sec pass. I got mine as a 1 ower low milage for 28.5 before prices went crazy.
“I’ve never been a Corvette guy. I bought this sight unseen having never driven a C6 before”. Also, same 😂 6 years later with my 605whp C6Z and still haven’t been able to find anything to replace it with sub-$100k. Great video 👍🏼
I love my '01 C5Z, tupperware interior and all! But that powerplant in the C6Z is spectacular! The only thing I dislike about that car is the headlights, age hasn't made them look better in my eyes. I wouldn't trade mine in for one, but if I could afford to put a C6Z in the garage beside it, I would in a heartbeat!
Yes the Hatch 5 oh HO is way better on the eyes. In fact , it’s only in my older age that the Fox Body is actually appealing to me . Back when I was a wee little lad I preferred the looks of the GTAs and the Camaros , even the LT1 Camaros . I know , optispark . Also , Jakub your one of the coolest Car Guys on UA-cam, genuine and a great and enjoyable personality and I always love watching your reviews. Keep it up dude!
Great video. I’ve been saying this for years. That’s why I went out and bought one. They’re absolute monsters. Such unbelievable raw power. Also invested the money in fixing the valve guide issue.
Bought a 2008 base coupe with 4064 miles from the orginial owner 2 years ago. Car color is Atomic Orange. It has both the painted top and the glass top. I changed the Wheels to new Gm 7 spoke same type on the Hertz rental vettes. This is my 10th vette and I am going to keep this one. Sold my 2016 7 speed vert with 10k miles last year to buy the 2008.
Nice video and your enthusiasm is good to see. I am on my 6th Corvette since 1971 (70 LT1, 73 350ci, 87 Z51, 95 Z51 & 2000 C5 Z51) and yes I am a Corvette guy. Oh, did I leave a Vette out? I sold the 2000 Z51 for a 2003 C5 Z06 in Millenium Yellow. I love it. I had considered the C6 Z06 but price a bit high and to me a C5 Z06 is better to have than the stock C6. My Z06 has numerous mods and upgrades as did my 2000 which I had done. For that matter no matter which car I had (Z28, Trans Am, 1970 Challenger 426 HEMI Pistol Grip) they all had been modified. I'll continue to tune into your channel.
It's a great car, indeed. I purchased my C6 Z06 a few months ago. I see that you have an R129, as well - I purchased mine in 2022. That's another well-engineered vehicle that will only appreciate in time.
My mom has owned and daily driven this car since 2010 no problems whatsoever except regular maintnenance oil/ spark plugs and the keyfob died once. Still as fun as the day she bought it. never gets old gets 30mpg on the highway too if you baby it
A couple things to add: the roof is made of magnesium, the front fenders are carbon fiber, and I believe the front subframe is magnesium. I sold my 2018 gt350 that was consuming massive amounts of oil at only 6,000 miles and bought a 2006 z06 that is 100% identical to yours. Can't beat that chop!
I don't even need to watch the entire video cause I am a diehard lifelong Chevy guy. I had a C5 before & are planning to get a C6 hopefully soon. My younger brother was like you though, he was diehard Ford Mustang guy till I convinced him to test drive a Vette. Now he has a dark red C6 Grand Sport along with his Stang but he only drives the Vette on the weekends cause it's a badass car...
As a guy with a c5 corvette that has now turned my Corvette guy card in because the C8 is not a corvette gave my 800hp nitrous C5 to my daughter…the C6 Z06 is the best Corvette ..the car coming only in stick plus the 427 makes it a monster
Your 100% correct !!! I Have a 2008 black on black ZO6 and put a RPM automatic in and a intake like yours big cam and 200 shot and it screams 8.89 1/4 5.70 1/8 and I can drive it to LA to Florida no problem , the best car for the money , thank you Chevrolet !!!!!!!!!!
Recently moved up frm a 2009 370z to a 2009 c6 z06 that was selling for 32k. Its crazy how much car you get for the price. Was my dream car when i was little and glad to finally own one.
I’m watching this thinking to myself, this guys a younger version of me. The GSD, the multiple similar cars in the garage and are you Canadian too? Love your enthusiasm! Great video. I ended up with a C6 after a long futile search for a C5 I drove a C6 and was sold immediately. And yes , a 6 speed manual is a must. My Mustang is the generation after yours with the 4.6, 5 speed manual. My challenger is an automatic Hemi car and my other toy is a Ford retro Thunderbird. Which happens to be built on a shared platform when ford owned Jaguar. You knowledge and thoughts on the Vette are spot on.
As an 34 year old american I've never considered buying a Corvette until the C6 Z06 came out. That and the C6 ZR1 were the first Corvettes I ever thought about even buying. I hated the interiors of previous generations and I felt like the C6 Z06/ZR1 made up for it with the performance. The C7 and C8 are all good as well.
I have a '76 L82 4 speed. I hope yours came with the Corvette owners' starter kit: hawaiian shirt, faded Levi's jean shorts, knee high white socks and white New Balance shoes. See you at the Corvette fashion show. White socks and sandals are also accepted.
I have an ‘08 Z06 3LZ that’s closing in on 25K miles. It has a few mods (heads ported and polished with valve guides fixed, MGW short shifter, Borla ATAK exhaust, Morimoto lights, forged wheels) and I absolutely love driving it. I kick myself for not camming the engine when the heads were off but I would like to do a mild cam someday. It really is a huge performance bargain.
I bought an '08 C6 Z06 last month. Best stupid financial decision of my life. The only way to describe driving this car is pure joy. Yes, you will spend some money fixing the heads as another person mentioned here. But I spend the money without a second thought. Worth every penny and then some. Considering a C6 GS to keep mileage off the car and for the targa top and better fuel economy of the LS3. That is the only warning about these cars that i have. You get one, you might want another. Its a slippery slope. 😂
Great video...had a 2019 ZR1/ZTK and sold it after nine weeks and went BACK to my C6 Z06:) On my 3rd one. The Z06 is a purer much more fun beast. It's a ragged edge fire breathing dragon. You pretty much need to modify it but it's easy to do. My 2009 is velocity yellow and I just bought a red 2008. I paid 50k for it but it had 4,800 miles so it was a trade off that I think was worth it. Thanks for the entertaining video!
Hey I take exception to what you said that the C5 interior was not as good as the C6. I own a 2001 C5 and mine doesn't rattle. My brother had a C6. It was alright 😂. Enjoy your Corvette, and welcome to the Corvette family. Let's go Corvette Racing!
I bought a 2008 z06 Corvette did the heads by Katech up grade the dry oil sump to 11 qts harmonic balancer ATI super blancer Dewitte radiator think I got all the flaws that GM screwed up on I hope Love the Car
Own a 2012 Z...has ~ 6300 miles on it....lovely car...nothing like the sound of LS7....i don't care about how much faster electric cars are......C6 ZO6 is the last light weight naturally aspirated sports car built with manual transmission ...we can add BRZ and Miata to the group
Who’s buying a C6 Z06 after this video? 🙋
I would still buy a Viper before a Corvette. Why get a V8 when you can get a V10!
@@CanadiansInCarsGettingCocky I mean that’s definitely fair. I still think it’s an objectively worse car but it’s cooler
I bought a C7 Stingray Z51 last year, C6Z are wayy too pricey
sending this to my dad before he buys his third consecutive A4.
✋
3,100 lbs, 200mph, 6 speed, 2 seater, 7 liters, 500+hp, 345 rears, stance, American symbol 🇺🇸
Of course it's one of the greatest vettes ever built.
Murrica f yeaaaa 🎶💥
Its actually /only/ a 325 in the back, unless you get the Z07, that's 335. You can probably fit a 345 though 🤷🏻♂️
ONE of them… for sure ,the best bang for the buck for straight line speed. But plenty of other great Vettes out there depending on what you ultimately want. Can’t discount them either. The C6Z lacks a decent interior and isn’t the best looking. Handling and ride quality isn’t the best either. You also NEED to address the dropping valves or else you will NEED to drop some serious $$$$$ for a new engine lol
@@EJleon96 wtf are you talking about. C6Z handle like crazy and the ride is comfy as shit. Ive owned a few different sports cars and the c6z in stock form is very comfy and rides great. You also don't know what you are talking about the "dropping valves"
@@703z06 yeah literally handles like it’s crazy🤣 so you own a C6 Z06 and no nothing about valves dropping into cylinders and causing engine failures? Don’t come at me like that 🤡lmfao you’re gonna be out of an engine pretty soon unless you fix the issue. You should be thanking me buddy.
LS9 ZR1 is the greatest but you never hear of the only 7 C6RS retail at 250,000 500 ci V-8 is rated at 600 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque
STOP TRYING TO INFLATE C6 PRICES BEFORE I BUY ONE JAKUB PLEASE MAN DELETE THIS VIDEO NOW 😢😢😢😢
I’m gonna buy another one
Don’t worry it ain’t goin up. Everything is at a standstill still right now
About a year ago a bunch of youtubers bought them as project cars and I prices went up a bunch.
Honestly wtf
@@itsreallyjakub bro you gonna get assassinated 🤦♂️
I remember being a GM tech back in these days. When the C6 gen came out and I worked on and drove many of these ZO6s I told myself "This is it, This is the kinda power that most people cant physically understand how to have on tap". Then the blue devil (ZR1) came out in 2009 and that was a vehicle that even I could not believe existed for street use after I drove it. Sure ive driven lots of really fun cars and still work for GM (parts now) but the C6 gen will always be my perfect PB&J, It just all came together nicely! Thank you for the video!
What do you think of the C7?
Agreed! I drove a 2011 C6 Grand Sport and I cannot imagine why anyone one earth would think that 428 HP is not enough for a road car.
That is A LOT of power. Just because Ferraris have 700 or more horsepower (for 10 years now), doesn't mean that you NEED that kind of power, nor does it mean that kind of power is usable on the road. On a track, sure.
In 1988 the Ferrari Testarossa's 380HP was impressive, as was it's 5.8 second 0-60 time.
Then the '89 300ZX Twin Turbo came and did it in 5 seconds with 300 HP.
The idea that 432HP is not enough for a road car is absolutely nonsensical.
And if a guy cannot safely apply the horsepower from his engine to the ground without electronic traction control acting as training wheels to "hold his hand" for him... then he's already got more power than he has the skill to handle (even if its only 250HP).
The C7 is what happens when you take the pure beautiful flawless and perfect styling of the C6 and ruin it by making an angular modern car with straight sharp edges (to copy Ferrari?) for the primary purpose of visually bridging the styling gap between the round and smooth C6 and the rigid and angular C8. I wonder if the C7 is even a genuine styling expression or was it created merely to serve as the transition from the smooth rounded C1 through C6 styling to bridge the gap to the C8?
With all that said, if you want Camaro tail lights on your Corvette, the C7 is the obvious choice. ;)
Proud new owner of a 06’ z06, wanted one my whole life, and can attest that it’s an absolutely amazing car. Puts a smile on my face every time I start it up and hear that American chop🇺🇸
Hell yeah brother
Can you actually enjoy it on the road, though? I was considering one until watching people drive them.. you can't go to redline in 2nd gear without going 80MPH.. I feel like you can't even row through the gears and have fun without risking a hefty ticket, car impounded etc.. different story if you have a track close by but as a street only car.. idk, I feel like there's a lot of wasted potential.
@@hhaste If your criteria for enjoying it on the street is being able to run it through the gears at less than highway speed, you better stick with something like a Jetta TDI, because even a C4 isn't going to get you there. A 1996 LT4 will run 78mph in 2nd gear. A 1990-1995 LT5 will run 89mph in 2nd gear. Even a 1985-1988 TPI 4-speed will go 65mph in 2nd gear, and with an automatic, it will go 91mph in 2nd gear.
Stop it.
@@hhaste absolutely, just have to have some self control. It’s surprising comfortable on the country roads, and being over 40 I know when to open her up, smash some gears!
'06 Daytona Sunset C6Z owner. Was my dream car ever since it came out when I was 17. I bought it 2 years ago and it was the best decision I ever made. Absolutely amazing to drive on the road. The kids in my neighborhood love it, and it brings me joy to see the smile on their faces. Reminds me of when I was a kid and reassures me I'm making the child in me happy fulfilling my dreams.
Very cool!
I was too poor for a Z06 but I got my Z51 2006 base last year and it's my dream car c6
Awesome
The cool thing about Corvettes is they all share the same spirit. They all have the same speed on the street (not track). You don’t have to spend a bunch of money for the newest one. I absolutely LOVE my blue 2003 C5 Z06. I put a super charger on it and with nearly 600 wheel horsepower it’s a blast!!
I have an 09 C6Z06 and a 2012 C6 ZR1 with 5k miles on it. The z06 is my driver. Absolutely amazing cars.
A guy in my area has a 2012 Z06 with heads cam and headers and it destroyed a Dodge demon and Mustang gt 350 in the straights and corners.
Oh you have great stuff!!!!
@@s2JZ any issues with the heads/rods?
The German shepherd checking out the Mercedes is gold!
C6 Vette has always been my favourite. I don’t like any other generation. Black on black C6 with deep dish black wheels is all you need.
LS7 was developed using some of the knowledge derived from the C5R engine, not the C6R. I love my C6 Z06 and I agree, get one before they're gone. I'd have a spare to keep bone stock if I had more storage. "Greater than the sum of its parts" is the best way to describe it; lightest modern Corvette, great brakes, fantastic flexible motor, 50/50 weight bias. Hands down my favorite Vette.
couldnt have said it better myself... the fact that GM put this car out in 2006 is mind blowing
Valve drop issue yet?
100% with you, I own a 2007 and it only has like 50k, it's my baby, and it has never given me any problems, ( a few of them suffer from valve drop ) great car, well made, watching the video on how they built this car back in 2006 made me get one, great video.
I agree.
This is my favorite Corvette generation. Simple, understated (compared to the last generation) looks and outstanding performance.
Great video, happy to say i have 2010 GS with the Manual Trans. Love it, even tracked it in Cayuga. Keep up the great work.
Awesome! Maybe I’ll see you at the track one day
Just sold my C5 Z06 (2nd one I've owned), and finally upgraded to a C6 Z06 way over West here in Calgary. Way more refined than the C5Z and a little bit more intimidating that's for sure. What a beast.
I originally shopped for a C5Z as well. Glad I went straight to the C6Z haha. No hate though, still love the look of the C5Z
I’ve got the identical car about 18 months ago. It was one owner with 4800 miles. I drove it for about 2 weeks then shipped it to Red Line Motor Sports for a stage 3 upgrade. 610 Whp, What A CAR !!!!
The one thing I did to eliminate the drone and that was to remove the interior and line the shell with sound deadening material. It’s a fantastic machine!!
That’s the way to do it. Mine makes 640whp
Its scary as it is stock lol yyyyy
Welcome to the party! I have a 2007 Indy Pace Car Edition Convertible (#331 of 500 made). I wanted that car ever since it came out. I finally got it 2 years ago. BEST, CAR, EVER!!!
You are 100% correct young man ! Keep up the good work. I enjoy your videos.
I appreciate that
I bought a 2009 C6 LS3 Base Coupe Manual last year from the original owner who was 82. It had 23,800 miles on it. Victory Red with Ebony interia. Looks like new. Bone stock too except the original owner installed the beautiful Z-06 Chrome 10 spoke spider wheels. Getting ready to install a MGW short shift shifter and Bola Type II Stinger axle back exhaust system and K&N free flow air filter. A great car that's fun to drive and looks like a million bucks.
2011 grand sport checking in, love it
Smart
Just picked up a Cyber Gray 2010 a couple months ago, bone stock 1 old man owner dealer maintained. I'm truly in love with this thing!
Now ruin it with a 600whp hci package like me lol
I've been waiting for (and fearing) people to come around on these C6s in the past few years. On one hand, I'm glad they're getting the recognition they deserve, but on the other hand, I gotta get my money up quick before y'all drive the prices up 😅
Although some people are coming around on the Z06s and even the Grand Sports, people are still sleeping on the base vettes and special editions. 427 convertibles and ZHZ Hertz corvettes are selling incredibly cheap right now. I saw a ZHZ vette in near-perfect condition, 65k miles for only 25 grand the other day. The only issue with the car was the auto transmission, but manual transmission LS3s can be found for similar prices in similar condition, albeit with worse options.
The LS2 vettes are also heavily slept on, and I'm of the opinion they were under rated from the factory as to not out-do the previous gen's 405 horse Z06 on paper. I've seen manual LS2s drop into the high teens recently, or even a fair bit lower if you're brave enough to go for a 2005 (I wouldn't). Overall, the C6 generation offers a lot of value for your money from the 20 grand base vettes, arguably even up to the 80 grand ZR1s.
I picked up a 2012 base coupe last year with 60k miles and all the options, incredible car! Maybe have a bit of buyers remorse not getting a grand sport, but it’s mostly for the cosmetic differences. I daily drive it when I can! Only bad thing about the Z is no removable roof, which I’ve realized now is a MUST HAVE!
A heads and cam FBO LS7 is pure insanity
That's exactly my car, (but in export spec) loving it! Best Regards from Germany!
You imported one to Germany?! Hell yeah
Bought a 2012 GS Convertible a year ago for road trips; my expectations were met and beyond. Not a Z06 perhaps, but AMAZING accelerations and handling! Its outside look and stance still very attractive as a sports car, even in 2024. It's sound... mid/high RPM… WOW, matching the performances!! For those that don't do track, You're right, a great Power / Cost / Endurance alternative value.
too late! bought mine 5 yrs ago, also sight unseen...1/2 way across the country, from NFLD no less. 08 3LZ, addressed some shortcomings for track, and primped the interior for street (Caravaggio, some carbon bits, head unit/b/up cam, blah blah. I don't like the C7 digital interiors, and the C8 even less. You're spot on. BTW, another difference for the GS is it has a steel frame. Heavier, but probably better if its not a track car.
Sounds fun. I mentioned the frame being unique I just didn’t specifically mention the GS not getting it 👍
If I were to buy one, could I properly enjoy it, if it were strictly a street only car? I saw you have a track nearby, which is perfect for you, but I personally don't. I'm looking for something fun for just the street and I feel like there's a lot of wasted potential there. If you redline in 2nd gear, it's already going 80MPH.. I feel like I wouldn't be able to row through the gears and have fun on the road.
Thank you for the inspiration, you and many other UA-camrs have really been praising this car and I had to get off the fence and get one for myself. Picked up a 2013 Z06 a couple weeks ago. Wow… what a car. Goes better than it looks if that is even possible. I am not a car show guy but if you ever do a Z06 cruise around cliche corner I might just consider it. Saw you guys at Cayuga a number of years ago and really should have come over and said hi/like your channel, ahh well, anyway subscribed. Keep the American/German muscle content coming!
Congrats!!! Great to hear, awesome that you’re local too. Always say hi if you see us! Send me a message on insta if you’re on there
You don’t even have to get a Z06. I have an 09 base that I put $5500 worth of bolt ons and now have 502 HP at the rear wheels. Car had 28K miles on it when I bought it for $23K. Under $30k I’ve got a triple black convertible that will keep up with 70% of the cars on the road, get 27 mpg on the highway, and after 30k miles, the only money I’ve spent is tires, oil changes, and a clutch. I do wish I had a wide body kit but other than that, I totally LOVE it. It’s not perfect but you can’t find anything else that runs and drives like it does much less reliable, for the money.
The Z06 isn't just a higher hp base vette. There are other major differences.
@@KurNorock Major need for heads, big brakes, some weight reduction, and wide body. I've had a C6 GS and currently own a Z06. If I had to do it over again...I'd find another manual C6 GS.
I prefer a grand sport
I think all Z06’s and ZR1’s will increase in value a lot now especially with the cost of the C8’s being so much.
I absolutely love my C6 manual grand sport, a lot of car for your money and has less issues than the ls7.
Great choice
Hells yeah bought a 2006 ZO6 3 years ago with 12 k miles .. love it 🔥🔥🔥💨
I passed on a C6 Z06 last year at $40k and around 19k miles. I don't want to deal with the potential problems of the LS7. I think the GS is the way to go from 2010-2013. I'd be careful buying any C6 though. You will need to fix things so beware of what you are getting into. The LS3 is an awesome engine with lots of unique character. I have a Camaro SS 1LE and as good as the LT1 is, it doesn't sound as angry as the LS3.
Most Corvettes are better maintained than most equivalent Mustang Camaro Challenger type cars. Owners usually care more so they’re in better condition. Not much needs fixing
I had a 2021 LT-1 Camaro. Beat the dog snot out of it for 50k miles and no issues. Added wider wheels and tires and it rode on rails. Had the Bose stereo and dual mode exhaust, all for $40k. Best bang for the buck bar none 👌
The ls7 is a lot less problematic than it has been made out to be. The whole thing with the valve guides was a small number of cars early in production and the only other big problem was oil starvation at really high g forces (like track day g forces) which was fixed in either 08 or 09 with the addition of the “goider” on the oil reservoir. Of course it has some of the usual ls issues like the harmonic balancer wobble but other than that it’s damn near as bullet proof as all the rest. And nothing sounds as barrel-chested as an ls7 at full throttle
@@zackbrinkley1442 this is exactly what person who doesn’t own an ls7 says. It isn’t widely blown over. Every LS7 that is stock has a good chance of blowing because of the valves issue. Some ex Chevy engineers talked about it on a few podcasts and say the same shit. I’ve got a few buddies who had ls7’s a blew their motors because they swore it wasn’t that big of an issue.
@@worst-hd-player you’re right. I don’t own an ls7. My father however, does. It’s got well over 100k miles on it and all it’s ever needed is oil changes and the harmonic balancer fixed. Your friends probably modified their engines and raw-dogged them and while the ls7 is great when it’s stock, it doesn’t take well to modifications without re working the heads. Now is there anymore of your infinite wisdom you’d like to share?
Been my dream car since it came out. Presently in the process of buying a 06 Z06 , couldn't be more excited
Hell yeah congrats
The wide body that you missed? The 427 convertible...just sayin
Beautiful car! The C6 is my favorite Corvette generation. I had an opportunity to buy one of these a few years back but I ultimately went with a 2011 GT500, but I really could have seen myself in a C6Z.
Great choice as well
you guys love inflating prices
C6Z has been undervalued for years. It's time they start commanding what they deserve. If it was German it would be $100K+ car.
I own 1 so they can keep it up.. sweetest American sports car besides the Ford gt
@@Eric-bh6ie and this is why the car community sucks cuz it’s a “long as i’m good” mentality
@@edeniv if value goes up that sucks? I've always thought that was a good thing.
Thanks for the great video! I am a proud owner of an 08Z, and I believe this is the best Era of Corvettes. BTW, I agree, the fox body hatch (non-GT) is the best looking of that era.
I feel like you should've mentioned the infamous valve drop issue. Expect to spend about $4k minimum to have that fixed at a shop if you don't want your LS7 to grenade.
I should have but I forgot because I addressed it with Dart heads along with doing literally everything NA to this engine. But after speaking with the corvette engineering team, the issue was overblown on forums with how many cars were actually affected
@@itsreallyjakubThat'd be a good follow-up video. "Is the LS7 really a ticking time bomb?!" :P
Make sure to do an interview with @JoshVanVeld to get his thoughts. :)
@@Wheelman81 There’s shops doing it for $3000. I ended up putting $8000 in my LS7 but it’s a monster now with close to 750HP!!! It’s unbelievable.
I have a C8 and Evo 8, but this video is really making me want a C6Z to add to the collection.
Do it
No chance that’s 740hp.
640whp on the dyno. Add 15% standard drivetrain loss for 740 crank
Love to see a dyno video, I doubt Chevy left that much on the table with bolts ons
@@joey7253 I posted it on my Instagram and my other UA-cam channel
@@joey7253 These C6Z’s are breaking 600whp with Heads/Cam pretty regularly now. That’s with a new intake manifold, catless long tubes, and E85 of course.
@@chrispiepenbrok420 I have cats and still on pump 94 👍
Make sure you check the heads for the notorious exhaust valve guide issue if you buy one of these. I loved my C6Z , had the heads done too for piece of mind
I have Dart heads 👍
Already bought mine in France ! I absolutely love this thing, it's such a fun and serious car
Got rid of my C8 Corvette and bought a C6 ZR1 and I absolutely love it
Great choice
Love this generation Z06 and IMO the last gen thta looked like a corvette. Also thumbs up for the foxbody mustang in garage.
I like how you brought up the grand sport thats actually always been my dream car over the z06 simply for the ease of modifing an ls3 over an ls7 and the fact that it still has the targa top from the factory
Yup great value
That's a big garage! How 'bout a tour inside and out?
The front fenders are also carbon fiber. You can really hear the difference if you knock on the fenders compared to other body panels. Love my 06z
I just picked up a c5 and even a base is a great car. A few suspension mods are easy if you want something a bit sportier. Either generation, get a manual v8 before they disappear.
They will never disappear.. maybe new from manufacturers but there will always be used models you'll be able to purchase, at least within our lifetimes.
I daily drove my c6z for few years, head cam intake and it made solid power and was reliable. Driven across north America twice coast to coast.
You can easily have one of these as a daily and still run a high 9 sec pass.
I got mine as a 1 ower low milage for 28.5 before prices went crazy.
I used to have a 2007 z06 and it’s an amazing vehicle. By far one of the best vehicles I have ever owned.
Get another one
Great video. Really want a C6Z. Oh your dog is adorable. Forgot to mention the GS has a removable roof.
“I’ve never been a Corvette guy. I bought this sight unseen having never driven a C6 before”. Also, same 😂
6 years later with my 605whp C6Z and still haven’t been able to find anything to replace it with sub-$100k. Great video 👍🏼
Is the best way to do it. Just dive right in 😂
Im fully committed to getting a c6 z06 in the next two years, never considered a grand spoet but it mwkes a fair amount of sense
Had a c6 centennial edition zr1 what a monster of a car !
I love my '01 C5Z, tupperware interior and all! But that powerplant in the C6Z is spectacular! The only thing I dislike about that car is the headlights, age hasn't made them look better in my eyes. I wouldn't trade mine in for one, but if I could afford to put a C6Z in the garage beside it, I would in a heartbeat!
Yes the Hatch 5 oh HO is way better on the eyes. In fact , it’s only in my older age that the Fox Body is actually appealing to me . Back when I was a wee little lad I preferred the looks of the GTAs and the Camaros , even the LT1 Camaros . I know , optispark .
Also , Jakub your one of the coolest Car Guys on UA-cam, genuine and a great and enjoyable personality and I always love watching your reviews. Keep it up dude!
Thanks very much!!
As an ex C6 owner, this has got to be the best C6 review yet. Well done sir 👌🏼
Appreciate that
the first 30 seconds made my day. welcome to the light side.
Hell yeah
Great video. I’ve been saying this for years. That’s why I went out and bought one. They’re absolute monsters. Such unbelievable raw power. Also invested the money in fixing the valve guide issue.
Couldn't agree more!
Bought a 2008 base coupe with 4064 miles from the orginial owner 2 years ago. Car color is Atomic Orange. It has both the painted top and the glass top. I changed the Wheels to new Gm 7 spoke same type on the Hertz rental vettes. This is my 10th vette and I am going to keep this one. Sold my 2016 7 speed vert with 10k miles last year to buy the 2008.
Nice video and your enthusiasm is good to see. I am on my 6th Corvette since 1971 (70 LT1, 73 350ci, 87 Z51, 95 Z51 & 2000 C5 Z51) and yes I am a Corvette guy. Oh, did I leave a Vette out? I sold the 2000 Z51 for a 2003 C5 Z06 in Millenium Yellow. I love it. I had considered the C6 Z06 but price a bit high and to me a C5 Z06 is better to have than the stock C6. My Z06 has numerous mods and upgrades as did my 2000 which I had done. For that matter no matter which car I had (Z28, Trans Am, 1970 Challenger 426 HEMI Pistol Grip) they all had been modified. I'll continue to tune into your channel.
I’d also go with a c5 z06 over a base c6. New corvette video coming this week
It's a great car, indeed. I purchased my C6 Z06 a few months ago. I see that you have an R129, as well - I purchased mine in 2022. That's another well-engineered vehicle that will only appreciate in time.
Awesome!!
I raced an identical car with my Gallardo several times and just barely beat him. Best bang for the buck right here.
My mom has owned and daily driven this car since 2010 no problems whatsoever except regular maintnenance oil/ spark plugs and the keyfob died once. Still as fun as the day she bought it. never gets old gets 30mpg on the highway too if you baby it
Any issues with the heads / valve guides ?
@@simonmizrahi4617 nope
A couple things to add: the roof is made of magnesium, the front fenders are carbon fiber, and I believe the front subframe is magnesium. I sold my 2018 gt350 that was consuming massive amounts of oil at only 6,000 miles and bought a 2006 z06 that is 100% identical to yours. Can't beat that chop!
Haha great to hear. Sucks about the damn voodoo engines 😢
Don't forget about the balsa wood floors!
@@Carado5150 He already mentioned that in the video
I have 2008 z06 absolutely amazing car
07 base owner here ;)
I don't even need to watch the entire video cause I am a diehard lifelong Chevy guy. I had a C5 before & are planning to get a C6 hopefully soon. My younger brother was like you though, he was diehard Ford Mustang guy till I convinced him to test drive a Vette. Now he has a dark red C6 Grand Sport along with his Stang but he only drives the Vette on the weekends cause it's a badass car...
Just picked up a Velocity Yellow C6 Z06 a few months ago. You have good taste.
Congrats!
nice to see good content from you guys still coming out here in Ontario
More to come!
As a guy with a c5 corvette that has now turned my Corvette guy card in because the C8 is not a corvette gave my 800hp nitrous C5 to my daughter…the C6 Z06 is the best Corvette ..the car coming only in stick plus the 427 makes it a monster
Your 100% correct !!! I Have a 2008 black on black ZO6 and put a RPM automatic in and a intake like yours big cam and 200 shot and it screams 8.89 1/4 5.70 1/8 and I can drive it to LA to Florida no problem , the best car for the money , thank you Chevrolet !!!!!!!!!!
8.89 !!! Amazing
@@itsreallyjakub yes sir , automatic is the trick , love what you do , new subscriber 👍
I got an RPM auto swapped supercharged 08 Z06....agreed...best combo!
Owned a C6Z for 3 years, mine was making just over 700hp all motor!! The best sports car for the money ever designed!!
Hell yeah! Mine makes 740 it’s perfect
Recently moved up frm a 2009 370z to a 2009 c6 z06 that was selling for 32k. Its crazy how much car you get for the price. Was my dream car when i was little and glad to finally own one.
Congrats that’s awesome. Nice car progression
I have to say you are correct! The GT hatch looks the best! As for vettes, c-5 and 6 is by far the best bang for the buck!
Great car I have the same car and the same colour with 33 thousand K. love the car I;m in Halton Hills area see you around!
Pro tip: Always have your alternators rebuilt by a local alternator rebuild shop.
I’m watching this thinking to myself, this guys a younger version of me. The GSD, the multiple similar cars in the garage and are you Canadian too? Love your enthusiasm! Great video. I ended up with a C6 after a long futile search for a C5 I drove a C6 and was sold immediately. And yes , a 6 speed manual is a must. My Mustang is the generation after yours with the 4.6, 5 speed manual. My challenger is an automatic Hemi car and my other toy is a Ford retro Thunderbird. Which happens to be built on a shared platform when ford owned Jaguar. You knowledge and thoughts on the Vette are spot on.
Haha that’s awesome. Great collection. Yes I’m also Canadian
I have a 2009 c6 Z06 and yellow 👍. I modified it also but to 1100rwhp. Love the C6 Z06 ✌️
As an 34 year old american I've never considered buying a Corvette until the C6 Z06 came out. That and the C6 ZR1 were the first Corvettes I ever thought about even buying. I hated the interiors of previous generations and I felt like the C6 Z06/ZR1 made up for it with the performance. The C7 and C8 are all good as well.
I have a '76 L82 4 speed. I hope yours came with the Corvette owners' starter kit: hawaiian shirt, faded Levi's jean shorts, knee high white socks and white New Balance shoes. See you at the Corvette fashion show. White socks and sandals are also accepted.
C6 grand sport is the sweet spot for me. It’s a weekend track car you can honestly daily without feeling bad.
It is definitely the sweet spot. Like a Porsche GTS model
I hope to have saved enuf to pay cash next summer for a Base C6 manual in Atomic Orange. Never even sat in a corvette before. Bucket List thing.
Im taking this video in my recommended as a sign to get one
I have an ‘08 Z06 3LZ that’s closing in on 25K miles. It has a few mods (heads ported and polished with valve guides fixed, MGW short shifter, Borla ATAK exhaust, Morimoto lights, forged wheels) and I absolutely love driving it. I kick myself for not camming the engine when the heads were off but I would like to do a mild cam someday. It really is a huge performance bargain.
I put a massive cam in, worth it for the chop alone. Among all the other mods to make 640whp haha
I thought the dog was going to pee on the Mercedes.. anywoo Chevrolet absolutely nailed the C6 platform
One of the best cars of all time
I bought an '08 C6 Z06 last month. Best stupid financial decision of my life. The only way to describe driving this car is pure joy. Yes, you will spend some money fixing the heads as another person mentioned here. But I spend the money without a second thought. Worth every penny and then some. Considering a C6 GS to keep mileage off the car and for the targa top and better fuel economy of the LS3. That is the only warning about these cars that i have. You get one, you might want another. Its a slippery slope. 😂
Love it
Had a 07 C6 Z and now a 2020 Gt350 and yes the Z is my fav car I have ever owned.
The original Top Gear review for this car is a top 5 favorite of all time haha
Can your old Shepard fit easy in back? My Doby goes where I do.
The sudden cut to the clip of the car flying down the track at 7:27 is enough to convince me I need this car
My favourite clip
Great video...had a 2019 ZR1/ZTK and sold it after nine weeks and went BACK to my C6 Z06:) On my 3rd one. The Z06 is a purer much more fun beast. It's a ragged edge fire breathing dragon. You pretty much need to modify it but it's easy to do. My 2009 is velocity yellow and I just bought a red 2008. I paid 50k for it but it had 4,800 miles so it was a trade off that I think was worth it. Thanks for the entertaining video!
Very nice!
Why did you sell your zr1?
Hey I take exception to what you said that the C5 interior was not as good as the C6. I own a 2001 C5 and mine doesn't rattle. My brother had a C6. It was alright 😂. Enjoy your Corvette, and welcome to the Corvette family. Let's go Corvette Racing!
Maybe I just drove a bad example of a C5Z. I still love them don’t worry
@@itsreallyjakub excuse me my brother had a C6.
Bought a 08 C6 Base new - still have it and enjoy it today. Great car, last of the analog Vettes.
Great to hear!
The foxbody and c6z are the 2 best sounding cars of all time! I’m lucky to own both as well
I bought a 2008 z06 Corvette did the heads by Katech up grade the dry oil sump to 11 qts harmonic balancer ATI super blancer Dewitte radiator think I got all the flaws that GM screwed up on I hope Love the Car
Yup sounds like great mods
Mercedes SL65 is a solid buy as well, under 50k for a nice example, twin turbo 604hp V12 convertible is pretty sick.
Own a 2012 Z...has ~ 6300 miles on it....lovely car...nothing like the sound of LS7....i don't care about how much faster electric cars are......C6 ZO6 is the last light weight naturally aspirated sports car built with manual transmission ...we can add BRZ and Miata to the group