I’d take a base + the cash difference in price any day. Use the cash to mod the base performance and still have my removable top. I rarely drive the car with the top on.
@Ryan 9638 but I am always debating if I should just get a somewhat built c6 or build a c6. This is going to sound dumb but I fight back and forth about wanting a targa top or not..
Plus someone told me the Ls3 is more reliable, which I have one in my Camaro I have had for the last almost 4 years and nothing has gone wrong with it.
Personally I would have to choose the base Corvette over the Z06 simply for the removable roof. Not that I would drive around without it all the time but it would be nice to have that option.
I think the C5 Z06 is a timeless classic. The body lines are unique and it's the last of the 'driver's Corvettes.' I'm on my third C5 Z06 - I came back again and again and plan to never sell this one. Good info!
@@dennisreynolds6915 it’s a typical 90’s and early 2000’s GM interior. Vette’s really didn’t start getting an improved interior compared to the rest of the GM fleet until the C7. If I were you I’d get in one before buying and see what you think.
@Ryan 9638 good plan! There are definitely a lot of C5 bargains out there to be had. I’m considering an LS7 in mine but you may need to read up on what more is entailed in an LS7 sway versus an LS3. Most will steer you away from the LS7 because of the added complexity. I may go with a 418 LS3 with LS7 heads but I do want the bigger bore that an LS7 has... Ah choices... 😆
@Ryan 9638 without going solid roller cam, you can easily make over 600whp with ported LS7 heads and a moderately aggressive cam on an otherwise stock LS7. There are some pretty extreme RHS LS7’s with solid rollers making 700-750whp, which is absolutely insane, but those are extremely expensive builds.
To each his own , I am waiting on delivery of an 03 Zo6 in silver . I like the low key silver color , I like the fixed roof , the lines of the coupe . Titanium exhaust, brakes ducts , I think it’s an awesome car for the money used . Not going to mod it but I did buy a Hurst shifter knob as a read that the original is soft and you get a better feel with the Hurst , we will see . Stay safe everyone.
Great summary! I actually went with an 01 Coupe just to get the hatch back and removable roof. Mine actually came with both painted and glass roofs. Bolt on mods have helped the performance!
I could not decide between the Base C-5 Conv or the C-5 Z06 so I bought both. Put them together in a 2 car Man Cave with Corvette Signage, a Bose Stereo and a beer refrigerator as well as a few lawn chairs mainly just to look at them. Presto…still can’t figure which I prefer. The C-5 in my estimation is the best ever produced. Pure Eye Candy.
The C5 Z06 upgrades were considered momentous back in 2001. In retrospect however, it was not all that hard to duplicate the power increase of an LS6 by using bolt-ons for the LS1. Furthermore, the LS6 power was equaled just a couple of years later with the base LS2 engine. Also, the FRC styling with its cropped cab was a fix for something that wasn't broken and put the focus on the C5's enormous rump. It just wasn't the balanced artwork the coupe is. The sales of the FRC standalone option bear that out. Subsequent generation Z06 offerings never again used the notchback style. Now, 16 years later, with the base C8s running low 11s, the big advantage of the C5 Z06 cars over the C5 Z51 cars back then seems more like just a footnote in Corvette history.
its not hard to duplicate the power increase of the LS2 by useing bolt ons for the LS6 , put a procharger on an LS6 you have a 550hp in a 3100lb vette.,and i really like the looks of the FRC , the FRC look really caught my eye, the hatchback looked huge to me like a station wagon. ha .the FRC looked more like a sports car to me, there all fun to cruise around in.
@@MrMisanthrope1RBjr You can procharge an LS1 as well. With Z06s costing $10k more in equal condition and those being hard to find with how beat on most Z06s are, the base and their ease to find in nice shape becomes more and more appealing.
I was used to my1973 350 with a four speed,only had 190 hp . It ran fine for over 26 yrs but now I own a 2004 with a 5.7 350 hp.what a difference. A hole different animal. What I’m saying is what ever you have you will love because it’s a VETTE.👍😀
I had the opportunity to buy the Z06 but I rejected it for esthetic reasons since I prefer the silhouette on the base model. Now that I care more about performance, I wish I had got the Z06
You can add a couple of mods to your base and blow the doors off of a Z06, the differences are minimal for the premium people are asking. Tires were also a huge reason for the benchmark numbers on the Z06, a base wouldn't be far off with the same tire model/size.
@@JustinSybron a Z06 that's in good condition is100% my choice. ***IF*** I lived in the south where there was very little snow I'd have a 02-04 w/auto trans and a few small mods to use as a daily driver. But living up here in the midwest w/snow from Dec to March and the vette as a toy.... a 04 Z06 is what I choose.
Both are great. I have a c5 Z06 with a 383 stroker and procharged and I bought a bargain base coupe that I’m building into a C5R replica track car. Will get a nasty 427, with coilovers, big brakes, stripped interior and lots of goodies
I've had 2 regular C5 s and 1 Z06. I had a black 99 coupe with the targa top and an 00 bowling green Convertible (current car) and an 01 yellow z06. The Z06 was cooler to talk about and tell people I own, but the Convertible C5 is way better to drive on those nice days....it gets more looks due to the rare green and camel intererior and top with the top down. The rims on the Z06 were black honeycomb which sucked so i switched them to chrome 04 Z06 rims (the black only look good on black and torch red Z06 and I found a guy who agreed and we traded) but I love the slimmer 5 star spoke that came out in 00 as opposed to the thicker 5 star I had on my 99 coupe. Performance wise I put a big mass air and throttle body on my 01 along with aftermarket exhaust from Magna Flow and I actually beat my buddys 04 by about a car length and then we switched cars and did it again and he beat me by about the same while driving my car and me driving his. Back then I was in my mid 20's and was all about performance...now Im 42 and love my stock convertible with the automatic and aftermarket exhaust from Borla to give it that more thunder rumble not that loud raspy open exhaust people are turning to. Louder is always better and leave the open exhaust to the side pipe big block Corvettes from the 60's. Believe me you get enough attention from the looks of your Vette and enough performance from aftermarket exhaust....opening it up all the way or near all the way only hurts your performance in most cases and sounds like shit like a truck with glass packs!! I loved the video and this guy knows his shit and I agree with him. The roadster look is the meanest, slickest look. The Corvette convertible has the same look with the trunk. The coupe losses some of its look with that hatchback in my opinion and in most peoples opinion.
I am a little older looking to get my first Vette. Reading and hearing a lot about the C5 Z06. I like your analysis. Do you think that would be a bad first choice?
Ya,it’s love it or hate it! The hatch is sleek and balanced looking, looks good! The Z06 notch back, especially if lowered with wider tires looks bad ass!
Did they make z06 for the 2000 model ? I got a c5 as an inheritance gift … don’t know what I’m looking at tho . It’s convertible 6spd electric seats has active system handling cruise control everything but idk if it’s a z06
I own four C5's and none are ZO6 models as I don't like the FRC styling. That said, for a track car they do have a good baseline performance and only need a few enhancements to wake them up, BUT, those same enhancements will do the exact same thing to a HB or a rag top. Just sayin.
Nice vid. Just throwing this out there, if someone put a C6 booty, or at LEAST C6 tails on a C5 FRC/Z06, that's it for me. That's like my dream baseline Vette to start with.
Great info... learned a few things. Sub topic of the 04 commemorative edition. Polished wheels and carbon fiber hood. Decals too. Could be in a special edition feature video with the 50th anniversary?
So I got my base c5 corvette back in 2015. At the time I had no clue on how to drive a manual. Well of course since 2017 I learned how to drive one because I drive trucks. The base is still a beast I’ve raced and smoked a few cars on the road
You could not order a Z06 in a convertible. I went with the convertible and you can do your upgrades and you have yourself a Z06 but it's still a true Corvette because you have a convertible.
I still think the Z06 should have been an FRC but with the base model rear window. That rear glass makes it alot more aero dynamic than what the Z06 got. I wonder if you can do a rear glass swap without having to do any fabrication
@@VetOnVettes that's unfortunate, especially because if you're going to do that, you really have to want a C5 because after it's all said and done, you might as well get into a base C6 and have something that matches the C5Z.
How common is the harmonic balancer issue really? I hear all kinds of horror stories but wondering if I should replace that first or spend my limited cash on a corsa exhaust.
I wrote my last comment a week ago and I didn't do deliberate research it just came up as I was looking into modifications I want to make to mine and it needs to be said, that both leaf springs are different in the ZO6 as well as sway bars.
I have a base C5. Just the word BASE is possible offing (new phrase) Love my C5 , but the Z06 is more advanced. awesome variant but personally content with my C5
I prefer the C4, mostly because it's still the unloved Corvette, but it's really tough to find a better used car for that little money that just works without doing any modification at all, and the Z06 is the king of that. Not exactly cheap but certainly a bargain in terms of performance value.
@@VetOnVettes there were two different wheel types and manufacturers for C5 Z06 wheels . 2001 to Early 2002 - Alcoa Z06 Forged Wheels Early/Mid 2002 to 2004 - Speedline Z06 Spuncast Wheels
If you want a C5 and care about hp performance, it's better to get a base and supercharge it. I have a stock, other than exhaust, 04 C5Z and the 365 whp just doesn't hang with most stock performance cars today. A supercharged LS1 can get you close to a safe 500 whp which is pretty strong in 2022.
Tires were also a weight saver. From run flats on the coupe and convertible, which I had before getting a Z, to a small case containing a small electric compressor which connects to your cig lighter. And some gel to insert into your tires on the Zs. ......at least on my ‘03 Z.
It's not the weight so much as the grip. Runflats have notoriously crappy grip. So not only were the Z06 tires way bigger, but they were a way grippier compound. I'd love to see a youtuber do a shootout of a nice stock base C5 Z51 6-speed and a nice stock Z06 both on C5 Z06 wheels/tires (new, fresh, and of the exact same model tire) and see what the performance numbers come out to, I'd bet differences would shrink to only a tenth or two in 0-60 and 1/4 mile and lap times would be down to natural variance in driver consistency.
The Z06 is 128 lb (58 kg) lighter than a standard C5 hatchback coupe due to weight-saving measures such as a titanium exhaust system, thinner glass, lighter wheels, non-EMT tires
@@Saltysailor83 128 lbs is trivial at this weight, you'll get more variance from the driver's inputs than 128 lbs, especially with this much power. Tires is the star of the show, the tiny power and weight difference is trivial unless you're racing two absolute top tier pros and literally everything else is as good as it can be.
Fixed roof verses the removable top & rear end trunk yes my c5 base is a 2001 heads 799 cam 614 lift corsa extreme exhaust & dynatech headers & ceramic coated yea the c5 ZO6 is a track beast though both nice rides man 💯🇺🇸😊✌️
@@kakanomanches3782 All depends on the goal! If you wanted a fun track car, a c5 z06 would fit the bill. A good GT car a base c5 (‘03 & ‘04) or base C6 for more comfort. The c6 z06 if you want a monster! The c6 grand sport is one that kind of does it all:) (all my options for those two generations) For me, now, the 2004 c5 has been a fun car that has the basic ls1, pipes and six speed. Not winning any races, not a track king but just fun to drive out here on the 101. If it puts a smile on your face, that’s the one I recommend!
It wouldn't hurt if, you mentioned that FRC means Fixed Roof Coupe. Is there an FRC that isn't a Z06? What's the rear end ratio in the Z06? I've heard that convertibles have a shorter rear gear than the coupes, maybe the Z06 has the 3.21 gears too. with the coupes having 2.71 or something like that. I'm to "mature" (old) for yellow. My 01 Convertible is not creaky or groany, but more power is never bad. The Z06 rims are rad, but the optional magnesium rims are rad too. Kind of a gold color. I like a stick shift in a sporty car, but a top that goes down is nice, particularly, when you only drive your Corvette in nice weather.
Miss my 03 C5Z> The look is completely different. Roof Line, Wheels, Sound, Ducts> Used to call it a legalized NASCAR. Such a timeless, capable sports car. A steal at todays prices.
Speedline wheels, standard seats, nothing special about the seats. They are lighter than the sport seats available for coupes and verts. Good video to summarize everything in short order!!
I just got a base 2001 Vette. The removable roof was a must have The Z is the better looking model for sure. Performance wise, just some simple bolt ons like an exhaust/air intake/headerss/X pipe and you’ll be good. NOt to mention you can slap on some z06 replicas which is my first mod
The Z06 is a better investment due to its relative rarity and desirable features. Keep it stock (or easily returnable to stock) and watch the price climb over time. This is Unfortunately not the case for the coupe.
It's always going to be capped by the more powerful base C6 and all other subsequent more powerful Vettes. Only collectors will go for a C5 Z06 over a later Vette for the same money, and to appease a collector you have to have super low miles and as close as stock as possible, not a heavily modded or ragged out one, which many are. I'd argue Z06s are greatly overpriced right now and base C5s underpriced to the point I think buying a Z06 right now will have the reverse prospect where Z06s will fall in price as C6s fall but base C5s can't really get any lower as it's too much performance to be sold for less without being a problematic car that needs lots of work. I think at worst base C5s will maintain their current value and Z06s will either maintain or fall as C6s fall in relation to C7s and C8s, especially as we get out of the vehicle shortage and people can get their hands on C8s and the market gets flooded with C6-C7s as a result. Z06s were a good deal a few years ago, but youtubers have blabbed about them too much and the $10k premium people are asking for the same condition is not remotely worth it. For me personally, I also prefer a softer leaf spring for real world roads and rim sizes I can actually find tires for that last more than 10k miles. The Z51 C5 is the perfect balance of performance handling to not breaking your back over every crack in the road.
I like all corvettes, but I don’t feel the z06 is worth the money. You can easily modify any c5 and outperform the Z06. We procharged a convertible and upgraded the suspension. It’s a beast. The z06 is nice, but so many factory cars today will leave it behind. Why spend the money for the z06 badge?
Great informative video, the c5 corvette is by far my favorite generation. In terms of styling I think the targa top c5 looks the best proportionally, the frc looks awkward to me from its side profile. In terms of performance obviously the z06 is the better package out the box but it takes next to nothing to get the base model up and going as well. At the end of the day it’s all user preference and what kinda experience you’re looking to get out of the car. I don’t think nothing beats the sun beaming down on you with the top off, wind going through your girls hair, and hearing the LS scream out back. 👍
@@da602hustler Every other option either had the LS1, LS2, or LS7. LS3 was introduced in 2008. I'd argue the C6 Z06 is worth buying too, but between entry cost and headwork, it's an expensive option. At the price C6Zs command, I'd rather just get a Grand Sport or C7. To be completely honest, the only reason I won't keep my C5Z forever is because I love the appearance of the hatchback, and I really want a targa top. Other than that, the car is really great.
Do you think gm underrated it like theybuse to do with there f bodies this period I hear this z06 with 405hp actually pushed 20 or 30+more and o to 60 if lunched hated 4.1 seconds
Also UA-cam Corvette ZO6 Autobahn. He's got his up to 304 KH and it sounds like it would have kept going! The big difference in all cars is how they are assembled on the production line sometimes when things go together just right you come up with a freak.
I live in Germany. And before 10 years i did not even know about a C5 Z06. This Cars never made it really to Europa. Since my youth i only know the base C5. And today i like the base C5 more, because of the rear. I dont really like the short rear hatch of the Z06. And i think from the point of Aerodynamics, the Z06 rear is worse. I think that is the reason why they used Coupé in LeMans.
In the real world, the FRC added about a 12% increase in stiffness of the chassis over the base models and subtracted about 150 lbs of weight - in other words, the differences are negligible. The car was designed as a convertible from the ground up and frankly, the FRC was an afterthought add on as was the whole Z06 concept in the grand overall scheme of C5 design and production. As for major power upgrades, anyone with a stock C5 convertible or coupe could easily embarrass a C5 Z06 with a slew of possible engine modifications ranging from a mild cam to more than 10 psi of forced induction. As for "squeaks and rattles", there's no discernible difference between the models. The real difference came with the C5 being four times stiffer than the C4 with a redesigned interior that had fewer parts and a lot fewer squeaks and rattles. The base C5 was an incredibly popular car that outsold the C5 Z06 by a factor of about 8 to 1. That didn't happen because they were significantly inferior in any significant way to anyone who wasn't planning on track racing the car. The 60 hp difference and 150lb. weight saving was and still is not very noticeable to the "average" owner who is not out looking to drag race every Mustang or Camaro he/she encounters. In the big picture, the differences between the models is overblown and most base model owners are very happy with their C5, even with the (gasp) automatic or 3.15 rear axle ratio....
The ZO6 looks worse. Other than the wheels of course. Plus there's no targa roof. That sucks. Just mod a good C5 and skip the ZO6, in my humble opinion :-)
I’d rather the targa top and runflats vs the extra 50hp and no targa top. Girls stare at mine with the roof off. they don’t stare at my buddy’s yellow zo6. Our exhausts are equally loud, so it’s strictly on appearances. I can add an extra 50hp and swap tires a lot cheaper than he can turn his into a targa top. Just sayin.
Damn, Bud! You almost convinced me I should get a C5 Z06! I like the performance differences of the Z, but I promised myself I gotta have a convertible. Maybe I can find a blown up C5 then put an LS6 in it? Much obliged for another great video and excellent content.
Buddy it would be highly un worth it to put a ls6 in it. If you wanted to you can buy the parts the z06 used like the intake manifold etc and put them onto your current engine. This is 4 months later hopes this helps
Looks like my car u have on ur channel, mine is 2001 zo6 procharged n meth injection 840hp on 6lbs of boost. She runs most times 10.01 140mph. I'm thinking of putting down some more ponies. I can't believe there's electric cars out there running faster. TIMES R CHANGING 😔😬 I powder coated my rims blk, I didn't care for the original color on the yellow paint!
You got most of your facts correct all but the top-end and that's where you are definitely wrong. UA-cam C5 ZO6 blocked HUD high speed. I compare this to my 02 ZO6 whereas the video shows him topping-out at 299 KH (184 mph) and the tachometer was at 5800 RPMs and he continues on to 6200 RPMs which would put him up at around 187 mph and this coincides with the literature that I have read and I believe mine will do the same because mine pulls to 6500 RPMs in 4th and I believe mine will pull to at least 5800 RPMs in 5th. 6th gear is for good gas mileage, the cars don't have the torque to pull in 6th gear. And a little something about physics - my 400 fpt and the reduced weight and the same exact differential gearing would allow the ZO6 to outrun the standard model. The difference in the gearing is in the transmission. The differential, though it's the same gear ratio, the ZO6 has shot peened gears to withstand the torque, again emphasizing the fact the ZO6 is definitely faster. The only complaint I have with my ZO6 is, the Autobahn isn't outside my front door!
I did 160 mph in my 02 Z06 right at 160mph I was at 6000rpm in 5th could have gone up to 6500rpm but shifted to 6th and left out cause I was running out of road. Have the video on my page check it out if you want.
People are asking $10k more for a Z06 in the same condition nowadays, that's just not worth it. Most of the added performance in the Z06 was because of the larger, softer tires anyway, which cost a fortune if you can even find them. $2-3k more? Sure, maybe. $10k more? not even remotely worth it.
You’re posting this a lot, numerous times for this video. You’re clearly in over your head and either didn’t watch the video or just think you know things.
@@Ts-zy4bw "in over my head"? It's called I did my research and I went for a non-Z06 C5 instead. But hey, be dumb and spend too much to be locked into overpriced tires, have fun with that.
The silhouette of the c5 Z06, is the main reason that I'm looking at c6's. The hatch looks a million times better, imo. I think that I'm willing to pay the extra money. I prefer the c6 headlights as well. I'm currently looking at a 08 Z06, with 69k on it. They are asking 24k. From what I have seen so far, that looks like a deal, although I don't plan on offering 24 if everything checks out. Edit: The only thing is, it's an automatic. I'd prefer an auto if I were buying a newer zl1 Camaro, but I feel like a Manuel is almost a must when it come to c5/c6 vettes.
My opinion targa top is terrible everyone of them Iv owned c4 5&6 rattled never really took mine off or have really seen anyone I know with one take it off very often!
The C6 Z06 is definitely worth the price jump. Lack of a removable top and basically bolt on upgrades make the C5 Z06 a bit of a ripoff. Most people will upgrade brakes, cam, headers, tire/wheels, etc that are all superior to the OEM Z06 stuff. I do love those rear brake ducts though!!
If you find value in my videos and want to support a small channel feel free to buy me a coffee! (or not..) www.buymeacoffee.com/markalafrer
It's better to have a base C5 coupe than no C5 at all! 8-)
That is ohne wise comment 👍🏻
I’d take a base + the cash difference in price any day. Use the cash to mod the base performance and still have my removable top. I rarely drive the car with the top on.
That is what I am debating on with the C6 vs the C6 Z06 lol
@Ryan 9638 but I am always debating if I should just get a somewhat built c6 or build a c6. This is going to sound dumb but I fight back and forth about wanting a targa top or not..
Plus someone told me the Ls3 is more reliable, which I have one in my Camaro I have had for the last almost 4 years and nothing has gone wrong with it.
@Ryan 9638 if I did get the Z06, it would have to have cam and heads.
@Ryan 9638 but didnt most by now have their heads changed? It has been too long for a problem to not have risen 😂
Personally I would have to choose the base Corvette over the Z06 simply for the removable roof. Not that I would drive around without it all the time but it would be nice to have that option.
I'm thinking of adding sun roof lol wouldn't take anything away I've just never seen one done I don't know why.. nit hard to do at all
Sold my 04 Z06 and bought a convertible, just have to have the roof down here in Florida
I think the C5 Z06 is a timeless classic. The body lines are unique and it's the last of the 'driver's Corvettes.' I'm on my third C5 Z06 - I came back again and again and plan to never sell this one. Good info!
Isnt the interior horrible? That's what's holding me back
@@dennisreynolds6915 it’s a typical 90’s and early 2000’s GM interior. Vette’s really didn’t start getting an improved interior compared to the rest of the GM fleet until the C7. If I were you I’d get in one before buying and see what you think.
@Ryan 9638 good plan! There are definitely a lot of C5 bargains out there to be had. I’m considering an LS7 in mine but you may need to read up on what more is entailed in an LS7 sway versus an LS3. Most will steer you away from the LS7 because of the added complexity. I may go with a 418 LS3 with LS7 heads but I do want the bigger bore that an LS7 has... Ah choices... 😆
@Ryan 9638 without going solid roller cam, you can easily make over 600whp with ported LS7 heads and a moderately aggressive cam on an otherwise stock LS7. There are some pretty extreme RHS LS7’s with solid rollers making 700-750whp, which is absolutely insane, but those are extremely expensive builds.
@Ryan 9638 sounds like a fun and unique project! 👍
Z06 or base model we all got it going on! There all corvette!!!
you edited this?
@@veryrare7647 yes and it’s still wrong...
Love my Heads Cam base C5, she rips
To each his own , I am waiting on delivery of an 03 Zo6 in silver . I like the low key silver color , I like the fixed roof , the lines of the coupe . Titanium exhaust, brakes ducts , I think it’s an awesome car for the money used . Not going to mod it but I did buy a Hurst shifter knob as a read that the original is soft and you get a better feel with the Hurst , we will see . Stay safe everyone.
7:45 the wheels were actually manufactured in Italy by Speedline. All good info, I love my 2004 Z06!
and i bought a set for like $200 to put on my e36 lol. (about 8 years ago)
I like the "Base/Coupe" better. The hatchback that swoops and extends to the rear looks better than the ZO6's cut off back.
Pluss, you can just modify the base and be on par and better than a Z06 anyway (cam, suspension, wheels, etc)
@exoticspeedefy7916 i did. I did heads, cam, intake, straight pipes, gears, tune and c6 z06 suspension
Exactly 💯
@@exoticspeedefy7916yes that’s true, but imagine doing those mods to an already 20 more horse motor
Great summary! I actually went with an 01 Coupe just to get the hatch back and removable roof. Mine actually came with both painted and glass roofs. Bolt on mods have helped the performance!
I could not decide between the Base C-5 Conv or the C-5 Z06 so I bought both. Put them together in a 2 car Man Cave with Corvette Signage, a Bose Stereo and a beer refrigerator as well as a few lawn chairs mainly just to look at them. Presto…still can’t figure which I prefer. The C-5 in my estimation is the best ever produced. Pure Eye Candy.
Swapped an 04 LS6 into my 93 Z28 and I absolutely love it. needed tons of upgrades to handle the power and LT to LS swap, but it was totally worth it.
The C5 Z06 upgrades were considered momentous back in 2001. In retrospect however, it was not all that hard to duplicate the power increase of an LS6 by using bolt-ons for the LS1. Furthermore, the LS6 power was equaled just a couple of years later with the base LS2 engine. Also, the FRC styling with its cropped cab was a fix for something that wasn't broken and put the focus on the C5's enormous rump. It just wasn't the balanced artwork the coupe is. The sales of the FRC standalone option bear that out. Subsequent generation Z06 offerings never again used the notchback style. Now, 16 years later, with the base C8s running low 11s, the big advantage of the C5 Z06 cars over the C5 Z51 cars back then seems more like just a footnote in Corvette history.
agreed, they deserve their place but shouldn't discredit the base car
its not hard to duplicate the power increase of the LS2 by useing bolt ons for the LS6 , put a procharger on an LS6 you have a 550hp in a 3100lb vette.,and i really like the looks of the FRC , the FRC look really caught my eye, the hatchback looked huge to me like a station wagon. ha .the FRC looked more like a sports car to me, there all fun to cruise around in.
@@MrMisanthrope1RBjr You can procharge an LS1 as well. With Z06s costing $10k more in equal condition and those being hard to find with how beat on most Z06s are, the base and their ease to find in nice shape becomes more and more appealing.
I was used to my1973 350 with a four speed,only had 190 hp . It ran fine for over 26 yrs but now I own a 2004 with a 5.7 350 hp.what a difference. A hole different animal. What I’m saying is what ever you have you will love because it’s a VETTE.👍😀
I like the tool hoodie!
Thanks man!
O1+ Z51 cars share the front spring, and rear swaybar with the Z06.
The base model is fast lol I drove one a few months ago and I was like damn so I can only imagine how the z06 feels
Can’t keep it floored for more than a few seconds, so fast!
I have the same yellow as you but a convertible 2002 manual love it.
Very good information. I did not know that the powertrain changed so much between 2001 and 2002. Good to know when shopping. Thank you.
I own a C5 2003 Z06 and love it. I think they are better looking than C6. Nice info on your video. Well done.
I had the opportunity to buy the Z06 but I rejected it for esthetic reasons since I prefer the silhouette on the base model. Now that I care more about performance, I wish I had got the Z06
You can add a couple of mods to your base and blow the doors off of a Z06, the differences are minimal for the premium people are asking. Tires were also a huge reason for the benchmark numbers on the Z06, a base wouldn't be far off with the same tire model/size.
Thanks for the upload, this was exactly what I was looking for.
You're welcome man 👍👍
Great informative summary, but I want to correct that the FE4 suspension is not exclusive to Z06. 1999-2000 FRC also came with FE4 suspension.
Damnit, you're right! I'll make a pinned note. Thanks man.
Base coupe, removable top, Lingenfelter heads, cam, headers, Corsa. Lots of Z06 level performance w/388 RWHP.
I have a base hatchback love it, half a second faster isn't enough to make me give up sun roof option because my son,and the ladys love it.
Same...97 C5 6 speed
04 Z06 here... thanks for the vid
do you enjoy your car or would you rather have a base model?
@@JustinSybron a Z06 that's in good condition is100% my choice. ***IF*** I lived in the south where there was very little snow I'd have a 02-04 w/auto trans and a few small mods to use as a daily driver. But living up here in the midwest w/snow from Dec to March and the vette as a toy.... a 04 Z06 is what I choose.
Both are great. I have a c5 Z06 with a 383 stroker and procharged and I bought a bargain base coupe that I’m building into a C5R replica track car. Will get a nasty 427, with coilovers, big brakes, stripped interior and lots of goodies
I have issue with the T56 transmission. I had 2 of them have synchro problems.and a door issue from the hinge on top
I've had 2 regular C5 s and 1 Z06. I had a black 99 coupe with the targa top and an 00 bowling green Convertible (current car) and an 01 yellow z06. The Z06 was cooler to talk about and tell people I own, but the Convertible C5 is way better to drive on those nice days....it gets more looks due to the rare green and camel intererior and top with the top down. The rims on the Z06 were black honeycomb which sucked so i switched them to chrome 04 Z06 rims (the black only look good on black and torch red Z06 and I found a guy who agreed and we traded) but I love the slimmer 5 star spoke that came out in 00 as opposed to the thicker 5 star I had on my 99 coupe. Performance wise I put a big mass air and throttle body on my 01 along with aftermarket exhaust from Magna Flow and I actually beat my buddys 04 by about a car length and then we switched cars and did it again and he beat me by about the same while driving my car and me driving his. Back then I was in my mid 20's and was all about performance...now Im 42 and love my stock convertible with the automatic and aftermarket exhaust from Borla to give it that more thunder rumble not that loud raspy open exhaust people are turning to. Louder is always better and leave the open exhaust to the side pipe big block Corvettes from the 60's. Believe me you get enough attention from the looks of your Vette and enough performance from aftermarket exhaust....opening it up all the way or near all the way only hurts your performance in most cases and sounds like shit like a truck with glass packs!! I loved the video and this guy knows his shit and I agree with him. The roadster look is the meanest, slickest look. The Corvette convertible has the same look with the trunk. The coupe losses some of its look with that hatchback in my opinion and in most peoples opinion.
I am a little older looking to get my first Vette. Reading and hearing a lot about the C5 Z06. I like your analysis. Do you think that would be a bad first choice?
Not at all. No such thing as a bad Corvette. I think the C5Z is the best buy next to a C6 Grand Sport.
I love both, I have a 2000 base now but both are very good cars 😁👍
Great write up/information about the models.
Wish they would have had a hatch version on the Z06.Cant get over the back glass /trunk on the Z06
Ya,it’s love it or hate it! The hatch is sleek and balanced looking, looks good! The Z06 notch back, especially if lowered with wider tires looks bad ass!
Did they make z06 for the 2000 model ? I got a c5 as an inheritance gift … don’t know what I’m looking at tho . It’s convertible 6spd electric seats has active system handling cruise control everything but idk if it’s a z06
They did not make the Z06 until 2001. They were all fixed roof (non-convertible/no targa) you have a "base" Convertible 6spd. Still a nice car.
@@VetOnVettes oh i see now . Thanks ! I love it it’s a beautiful yellow with matching black and yellow interior :)
Personally, I like the coupe/targa better. Gotta be a 6speed though.
vet on vettes, clever name. Dad's plates on his c5 is 2bdvets. When I get ahold of it Ill change the plate to 3bdvets.
Thanks for the great video. As far as weight savings goes I believe that the Z06 couldn’t be ordered with a power antenna
IDK if that's true or not. My 01 Z has a power antenna.
I own four C5's and none are ZO6 models as I don't like the FRC styling. That said, for a track car they do have a good baseline performance and only need a few enhancements to wake them up, BUT, those same enhancements will do the exact same thing to a HB or a rag top. Just sayin.
Nice vid. Just throwing this out there, if someone put a C6 booty, or at LEAST C6 tails on a C5 FRC/Z06, that's it for me. That's like my dream baseline Vette to start with.
Great info... learned a few things. Sub topic of the 04 commemorative edition. Polished wheels and carbon fiber hood. Decals too. Could be in a special edition feature video with the 50th anniversary?
I added fog lamps to my mine. Made my own wiring harness and found and bought fog lights, switch and brackets at a junk yard.
So I got my base c5 corvette back in 2015. At the time I had no clue on how to drive a manual. Well of course since 2017 I learned how to drive one because I drive trucks. The base is still a beast I’ve raced and smoked a few cars on the road
You could not order a Z06 in a convertible. I went with the convertible and you can do your upgrades and you have yourself a Z06 but it's still a true Corvette because you have a convertible.
I still think the Z06 should have been an FRC but with the base model rear window. That rear glass makes it alot more aero dynamic than what the Z06 got. I wonder if you can do a rear glass swap without having to do any fabrication
I've seen people turn coupes into FRCs so it is possible to do the reverse. It is quite the job though.
@@VetOnVettes that's unfortunate, especially because if you're going to do that, you really have to want a C5 because after it's all said and done, you might as well get into a base C6 and have something that matches the C5Z.
How common is the harmonic balancer issue really? I hear all kinds of horror stories but wondering if I should replace that first or spend my limited cash on a corsa exhaust.
I wrote my last comment a week ago and I didn't do deliberate research it just came up as I was looking into modifications I want to make to mine and it needs to be said, that both leaf springs are different in the ZO6 as well as sway bars.
I have a base C5. Just the word BASE is possible offing (new phrase) Love my C5 , but the Z06 is more advanced. awesome variant but personally content with my C5
I prefer the C4, mostly because it's still the unloved Corvette, but it's really tough to find a better used car for that little money that just works without doing any modification at all, and the Z06 is the king of that. Not exactly cheap but certainly a bargain in terms of performance value.
Fixed roof's were called the 'Billy Bob' during its creation
The wheels (Speedlines) are made in Italy.
Yes!!!! Thank you!! I've been meaning to make a video like this for some time. I believe it was you that put the idea back in my head. Thanks man!!
@@VetOnVettes there were two different wheel types and manufacturers for C5 Z06 wheels .
2001 to Early 2002 - Alcoa Z06 Forged Wheels
Early/Mid 2002 to 2004 - Speedline Z06 Spuncast Wheels
I love my 01 Zo6 jet black. All original at 45,000 miles
If you want a C5 and care about hp performance, it's better to get a base and supercharge it. I have a stock, other than exhaust, 04 C5Z and the 365 whp just doesn't hang with most stock performance cars today. A supercharged LS1 can get you close to a safe 500 whp which is pretty strong in 2022.
Tires were also a weight saver.
From run flats on the coupe and convertible, which I had before getting a Z, to a small case containing a small electric compressor which connects to your cig lighter.
And some gel to insert into your tires on the Zs.
......at least on my ‘03 Z.
It's not the weight so much as the grip. Runflats have notoriously crappy grip. So not only were the Z06 tires way bigger, but they were a way grippier compound. I'd love to see a youtuber do a shootout of a nice stock base C5 Z51 6-speed and a nice stock Z06 both on C5 Z06 wheels/tires (new, fresh, and of the exact same model tire) and see what the performance numbers come out to, I'd bet differences would shrink to only a tenth or two in 0-60 and 1/4 mile and lap times would be down to natural variance in driver consistency.
The Z06 is 128 lb (58 kg) lighter than a standard C5 hatchback coupe due to weight-saving measures such as a titanium exhaust system, thinner glass, lighter wheels, non-EMT tires
@@Saltysailor83 128 lbs is trivial at this weight, you'll get more variance from the driver's inputs than 128 lbs, especially with this much power. Tires is the star of the show, the tiny power and weight difference is trivial unless you're racing two absolute top tier pros and literally everything else is as good as it can be.
Fixed roof verses the removable top & rear end trunk yes my c5 base is a 2001 heads 799 cam 614 lift corsa extreme exhaust & dynatech headers & ceramic coated yea the c5 ZO6 is a track beast though both nice rides man 💯🇺🇸😊✌️
Had a C6 Z06 ended up selling it and buying a C5 base a few years later. They are all fun! Enjoy your ride
which would you reccomend
@@kakanomanches3782 All depends on the goal! If you wanted a fun track car, a c5 z06 would fit the bill. A good GT car a base c5 (‘03 & ‘04) or base C6 for more comfort. The c6 z06 if you want a monster! The c6 grand sport is one that kind of does it all:)
(all my options for those two generations)
For me, now, the 2004 c5 has been a fun car that has the basic ls1, pipes and six speed. Not winning any races, not a track king but just fun to drive out here on the 101.
If it puts a smile on your face, that’s the one I recommend!
It wouldn't hurt if, you mentioned that FRC means Fixed Roof Coupe.
Is there an FRC that isn't a Z06?
What's the rear end ratio in the Z06?
I've heard that convertibles have a shorter rear gear than the coupes, maybe the Z06 has the 3.21 gears too.
with the coupes having 2.71 or something like that.
I'm to "mature" (old) for yellow.
My 01 Convertible is not creaky or groany, but more power is never bad.
The Z06 rims are rad, but the optional magnesium rims are rad too.
Kind of a gold color.
I like a stick shift in a sporty car, but a top that goes down is nice, particularly, when you only drive your Corvette in nice weather.
Miss my 03 C5Z> The look is completely different. Roof Line, Wheels, Sound, Ducts> Used to call it a legalized NASCAR. Such a timeless, capable sports car. A steal at todays prices.
Speedline wheels, standard seats, nothing special about the seats. They are lighter than the sport seats available for coupes and verts. Good video to summarize everything in short order!!
Does the 2001 zo6 have any transmission issues
The Z06 brakes are pressure cast vs. gravity cast on the base, iirc.
I just got a base 2001 Vette. The removable roof was a must have The Z is the better looking model for sure. Performance wise, just some simple bolt ons like an exhaust/air intake/headerss/X pipe and you’ll be good. NOt to mention you can slap on some z06 replicas which is my first mod
Howd it go?
My 04 supercharged convertible is a rocket @ 550/550.
The Z06 is a better investment due to its relative rarity and desirable features. Keep it stock (or easily returnable to stock) and watch the price climb over time. This is Unfortunately not the case for the coupe.
It's always going to be capped by the more powerful base C6 and all other subsequent more powerful Vettes. Only collectors will go for a C5 Z06 over a later Vette for the same money, and to appease a collector you have to have super low miles and as close as stock as possible, not a heavily modded or ragged out one, which many are. I'd argue Z06s are greatly overpriced right now and base C5s underpriced to the point I think buying a Z06 right now will have the reverse prospect where Z06s will fall in price as C6s fall but base C5s can't really get any lower as it's too much performance to be sold for less without being a problematic car that needs lots of work. I think at worst base C5s will maintain their current value and Z06s will either maintain or fall as C6s fall in relation to C7s and C8s, especially as we get out of the vehicle shortage and people can get their hands on C8s and the market gets flooded with C6-C7s as a result. Z06s were a good deal a few years ago, but youtubers have blabbed about them too much and the $10k premium people are asking for the same condition is not remotely worth it. For me personally, I also prefer a softer leaf spring for real world roads and rim sizes I can actually find tires for that last more than 10k miles. The Z51 C5 is the perfect balance of performance handling to not breaking your back over every crack in the road.
Are the Z06 wheels less weight than the any of the standard C5 corvette wheels?
Tool!!!! Bada** jacket! Nice video
I like all corvettes, but I don’t feel the z06 is worth the money. You can easily modify any c5 and outperform the Z06. We procharged a convertible and upgraded the suspension. It’s a beast. The z06 is nice, but so many factory cars today will leave it behind. Why spend the money for the z06 badge?
Great informative video, the c5 corvette is by far my favorite generation. In terms of styling I think the targa top c5 looks the best proportionally, the frc looks awkward to me from its side profile. In terms of performance obviously the z06 is the better package out the box but it takes next to nothing to get the base model up and going as well. At the end of the day it’s all user preference and what kinda experience you’re looking to get out of the car. I don’t think nothing beats the sun beaming down on you with the top off, wind going through your girls hair, and hearing the LS scream out back. 👍
Only Vette worth buying IMO from 02-07 is the C5 Z06, I’ve had 3!
And why is that?
@@da602hustler Every other option either had the LS1, LS2, or LS7. LS3 was introduced in 2008. I'd argue the C6 Z06 is worth buying too, but between entry cost and headwork, it's an expensive option. At the price C6Zs command, I'd rather just get a Grand Sport or C7.
To be completely honest, the only reason I won't keep my C5Z forever is because I love the appearance of the hatchback, and I really want a targa top. Other than that, the car is really great.
@@da602hustler different colors
2002 Z51 on my vert ?
Do you think gm underrated it like theybuse to do with there f bodies this period I hear this z06 with 405hp actually pushed 20 or 30+more and o to 60 if lunched hated 4.1 seconds
Also UA-cam Corvette ZO6 Autobahn. He's got his up to 304 KH and it sounds like it would have kept going! The big difference in all cars is how they are assembled on the production line sometimes when things go together just right you come up with a freak.
I live in Germany. And before 10 years i did not even know about a C5 Z06.
This Cars never made it really to Europa.
Since my youth i only know the base C5. And today i like the base C5 more, because of the rear.
I dont really like the short rear hatch of the Z06.
And i think from the point of Aerodynamics, the Z06 rear is worse.
I think that is the reason why they used Coupé in LeMans.
Base is just as solid imo
In the real world, the FRC added about a 12% increase in stiffness of the chassis over the base models and subtracted about 150 lbs of weight - in other words, the differences are negligible. The car was designed as a convertible from the ground up and frankly, the FRC was an afterthought add on as was the whole Z06 concept in the grand overall scheme of C5 design and production. As for major power upgrades, anyone with a stock C5 convertible or coupe could easily embarrass a C5 Z06 with a slew of possible engine modifications ranging from a mild cam to more than 10 psi of forced induction. As for "squeaks and rattles", there's no discernible difference between the models. The real difference came with the C5 being four times stiffer than the C4 with a redesigned interior that had fewer parts and a lot fewer squeaks and rattles. The base C5 was an incredibly popular car that outsold the C5 Z06 by a factor of about 8 to 1. That didn't happen because they were significantly inferior in any significant way to anyone who wasn't planning on track racing the car. The 60 hp difference and 150lb. weight saving was and still is not very noticeable to the "average" owner who is not out looking to drag race every Mustang or Camaro he/she encounters. In the big picture, the differences between the models is overblown and most base model owners are very happy with their C5, even with the (gasp) automatic or 3.15 rear axle ratio....
which seats are best ?
I have a base 2001 and both of my factory seats are electric.
My 02 ZO6 is still my favorite car.
The ZO6 looks worse. Other than the wheels of course. Plus there's no targa roof. That sucks. Just mod a good C5 and skip the ZO6, in my humble opinion :-)
I’d rather the targa top and runflats vs the extra 50hp and no targa top. Girls stare at mine with the roof off. they don’t stare at my buddy’s yellow zo6. Our exhausts are equally loud, so it’s strictly on appearances.
I can add an extra 50hp and swap tires a lot cheaper than he can turn his into a targa top. Just sayin.
Damn, Bud! You almost convinced me I should get a C5 Z06! I like the performance differences of the Z, but I promised myself I gotta have a convertible. Maybe I can find a blown up C5 then put an LS6 in it? Much obliged for another great video and excellent content.
Buddy it would be highly un worth it to put a ls6 in it. If you wanted to you can buy the parts the z06 used like the intake manifold etc and put them onto your current engine. This is 4 months later hopes this helps
Z06 are overpriced and overrated. Get yourself a C5 convertible you'll love it.
Looks like my car u have on ur channel, mine is 2001 zo6 procharged n meth injection 840hp on 6lbs of boost. She runs most times 10.01 140mph. I'm thinking of putting down some more ponies. I can't believe there's electric cars out there running faster. TIMES R CHANGING 😔😬 I powder coated my rims blk, I didn't care for the original color on the yellow paint!
Yes
The problem is that the base has a better look in the back
You got most of your facts correct all but the top-end and that's where you are definitely wrong. UA-cam C5 ZO6 blocked HUD high speed. I compare this to my 02 ZO6 whereas the video shows him topping-out at 299 KH (184 mph) and the tachometer was at 5800 RPMs and he continues on to 6200 RPMs which would put him up at around 187 mph and this coincides with the literature that I have read and I believe mine will do the same because mine pulls to 6500 RPMs in 4th and I believe mine will pull to at least 5800 RPMs in 5th. 6th gear is for good gas mileage, the cars don't have the torque to pull in 6th gear. And a little something about physics - my 400 fpt and the reduced weight and the same exact differential gearing would allow the ZO6 to outrun the standard model. The difference in the gearing is in the transmission. The differential, though it's the same gear ratio, the ZO6 has shot peened gears to withstand the torque, again emphasizing the fact the ZO6 is definitely faster. The only complaint I have with my ZO6 is, the Autobahn isn't outside my front door!
I did 160 mph in my 02 Z06 right at 160mph I was at 6000rpm in 5th could have gone up to 6500rpm but shifted to 6th and left out cause I was running out of road. Have the video on my page check it out if you want.
People are asking $10k more for a Z06 in the same condition nowadays, that's just not worth it. Most of the added performance in the Z06 was because of the larger, softer tires anyway, which cost a fortune if you can even find them. $2-3k more? Sure, maybe. $10k more? not even remotely worth it.
You’re posting this a lot, numerous times for this video. You’re clearly in over your head and either didn’t watch the video or just think you know things.
@@Ts-zy4bw "in over my head"? It's called I did my research and I went for a non-Z06 C5 instead. But hey, be dumb and spend too much to be locked into overpriced tires, have fun with that.
Zaddy take me shopping 🛍 I want res Gucci shoes 👠
The silhouette of the c5 Z06, is the main reason that I'm looking at c6's. The hatch looks a million times better, imo. I think that I'm willing to pay the extra money. I prefer the c6 headlights as well. I'm currently looking at a 08 Z06, with 69k on it. They are asking 24k. From what I have seen so far, that looks like a deal, although I don't plan on offering 24 if everything checks out.
Edit: The only thing is, it's an automatic. I'd prefer an auto if I were buying a newer zl1 Camaro, but I feel like a Manuel is almost a must when it come to c5/c6 vettes.
My opinion targa top is terrible everyone of them Iv owned c4 5&6 rattled never really took mine off or have really seen anyone I know with one take it off very often!
Not if it's an automatic that's my guess before I even watch the video
Tired to get through the video but that background music is really bad.
The C6 Z06 is definitely worth the price jump. Lack of a removable top and basically bolt on upgrades make the C5 Z06 a bit of a ripoff. Most people will upgrade brakes, cam, headers, tire/wheels, etc that are all superior to the OEM Z06 stuff.
I do love those rear brake ducts though!!
Coupe m6 has a higher speed then the Z06
You do not get much for the money. All parts are interchangeable.
99.3% guys legit
keep it up love the content
just got a c5