370Z or used LS3 C6???

1stNissan · 01-21-2009, 01:26 AM

Hello. I have narrowed it down & will own one of these 2 cars within the next few months. The LS3 cuts a 12.5 .25 mile in stock form, performs well in every area, looks mean! The Z performs good (braking, skid pad, & decent .25 mile). This car has really caught my eye by its stance & sleek body. I will admit, I am kinda steering away from the vette due to GM's currently instability. I would hate to be 30k deep in & they go bankrupt (goodbye warranty). I have a few questions about the Z........

Is the differential that comes with the base model (no sport package) limited slip? Will I have one wheel peels if I dont get the sport pack? I am under the impression that a LSD only comes with the sport package, PLEASE TELL ME IM WRONG!

The price increase for the touring trim seems a little high. The only 2 things that appeal are the heated leather seats & slightly upgraded sound system. Is there something I'm missing? Fill me in please.

AK370Z · 01-21-2009, 04:21 AM

Hello, welcome to the forums.

Both cars listed are good sports car. Z in my opinion, will be a fun little car and you can get a brand new one instead used like the LS3.

You're 100% correct on the 1st statement. Base 370Z does not come with LSD.

here's what Touring comes with

Quote:

The 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed power seats, HomeLink® Universal
Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose® audio system,
XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and aluminum
pedals to the long list of standard Z® features and equipment.

smurfblu13 · 01-21-2009, 05:56 AM

Both are awesome cars with great potential when it comes aftermarket goodie time. But my thoughts are the Vette will do one thing awesome and that's going in a straightline with some decent handling and overall performance. Where as I see the Z as an all the way around decent performer with the capability of being a track monster given the right mods. Either way in this situation you can't make a wrong decision. Get what will cater to you the most and what you will have the most fun with. good luck

sprix! · 01-21-2009, 06:09 AM

I think both are worth their weight in a heaping pile of cash.

It would come down to whether you are comfortable buying a used sports car. I would heavily recommend against this, as you don't know its record. You don't want a car that has been beaten to hell; even if it has a "warranty". Speaking from experience, used car warranties are not as reliable and forgiving as new car warranties. And as someone who previously dealt with a used sports car that was billed as "certified pre-owned" and came with what I thought was a helluva warranty, it was a mistake. The car had more issues than it should have; due to the previous owner modifying things and the dealer not knowing or caring enough to put things back to stock order.
After all I went through with a used sports car, I can't suggest you get the used C6. The brand new Z is a better investment in this scenario.

speedworks · 01-21-2009, 07:23 AM

The C6 was one of the cars I was looking at as well. After driving one (used with 10k on it), I was very impressed with the hp/tq but was definately concerned about how 'rickety' it was. Made various squeeks etc on the inside. I also had the concern of buying a used sports car, because you know it has been abused - you don't buy them and toodle around. For me the new car (warranty) mystique made me go with the Z. As for handling, the C6 handles very well as well. So to me, I agree as above, it all comes down to your confidence in buying a used sports car. Good luck in your decision. (I also drove a 911, s2k, and 335i in making my decision).

G&M Performance · 01-21-2009, 10:07 AM

You know, performance wise, the C6 is world-class. And that is in all areas, handling included. What I would do is test drive the used LS3 C6 (amazing that you found one already, btw

) and see if you can take it for a long run to see if there are any real problems like some of these people have mentioned. After that, hop in a 370Z and compare and contrast.

Like the others, buying a used sports car can be risky because you don't know what the previous owner did with it. Maybe you can pull some info on the previous owner? The reason why is maybe the previous owner was an older man or female that bought it to feel young and look cool? Who knows? At least that would give you a better perspective on how the car was possibly treated.

On the other hand, buying a new car has many benefits. You are in control of the proper break-in process, you have a fresh warranty, and heck, you have a damn hot 370Z!

Anyway, just giving my .02. Hope it helps. Good luck!

TheManTheMyth · 01-21-2009, 12:50 PM

I have an LS3 C6 now and i love it!...Great car for the buck like the Z...the power bone stock is unbeatable....but I feel like I can't drive it everyday....To me the Z just seems more of a practical sports car that I can drive everyday if that makes sense....The vette to me just seems like a toy for highway driving on the weekends but the Z is a car I see myself driving everyday...Just my opinion though coming from a vette owner

1stNissan · 01-21-2009, 04:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AK370Z

You're 100% correct on the 1st statement. Base 370Z does not come with LSD.

So what rear comes with the base model? Is it the one wheel peel deal? The sport package sounds like an awesome deal! I really want leather & a decent stereo but I wont consider the touring since its a $4000 increase. I have no problem buying a used LS3. I can do a carfax, GMVIS report, & visual inspection. Also, they come with a 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. I called a local dealer about test driving a black Z they have. They said they only let test drives after agreement on a monthly payment? I got the impression that I would have to buy the car before driving it. He did say I could drive it around the parking lot though lol. I will admit, the thought of a new car vs a used one is much more inviting. Here's what Ive come up with so far.....

.25 mile- Vette FTW by .8 seconds (very significant)
Braking- Z FTW by 2 ft (60-0 MPH)
Handling- Z FTW by .02 (skid pad)
Exterior- Its a tie!
Longevity- Hard to say at this point. Both motors are new.
Exclusivity- Z FTW since the C6 has been out for 4 years now

SnakeBitten · 01-21-2009, 05:49 PM

Used C6 vs brand new Z is a tough call. I like em both. Performance pick would be hands down the C6. Not even close. Everything else is subjective.

Close to 40k for a fully loaded 370Z vs around the same for a C6 used. Hmmmm for about 10k more a used C6 Z06 can be had

Crash · 01-21-2009, 06:58 PM

I wouldn't buy a 2005+ GM because the build quality is less then lacking. It's just not there at all. I'm shocked most of the cars make it off the lot.

I know that's a bit of an exaggeration, but I've owned so many GMs that I think I'm an authority on their build quality. If you don't mind your car being in the shop more than you drive it, get a Vette.

frost · 01-21-2009, 07:05 PM

There are getting to be so many "z versus x car" threads I'm starting to think we need a section just for that. But to answer the question, my comments mimic crash's.

1stNissan · 01-21-2009, 07:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crash

I wouldn't buy a 2005+ GM because the build quality is less then lacking. It's just not there at all. I'm shocked most of the cars make it off the lot.

I know that's a bit of an exaggeration, but I've owned so many GMs that I think I'm an authority on their build quality. If you don't mind your car being in the shop more than you drive it, get a Vette.

Purely subjective sir lol! I understand what you are saying about the quality though. I mainly like domestics because of the RWD V8 platform, thats about it! I test drove a 07 LS2 Vette & noticed the interior was not up to par. Thats the only bad thing I could say. To be honest, im a little scared of the C6 but this is a good thing. That was the fastest car ive driven. A 3200 pound monster lol. On the other hand, the Z could be my 1st import. Its just a beautiful car & performs. Im gonna take my time & be all over the forums. Just tryin to think this through.

AK370Z · 01-21-2009, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SnakeBitten

Used C6 vs brand new Z is a tough call. I like em both. Performance pick would be hands down the C6. Not even close. Everything else is subjective.

Close to 40k for a fully loaded 370Z vs around the same for a C6 used. Hmmmm for about 10k more a used C6 Z06 can be had

actually, if you head over to corvette forums and go into their inventory section, they are listing 09 C6 'vettes starting from 40K. I was VERY surprised to see a red c6 Z51 package for around 41K brand new. I was like

... but, base to base, there is atleast 10K difference. So, go test drive both, and buy the one that gives you best performance vs $$ money. Always buy what YOU think is best for you.

Lug · 01-21-2009, 09:48 PM

The C6 is made in it's own factory in Bowling Green along with the Cadillac XLR roadster and supercharged XLR-V. I don't think the rest of Chevy's quality problems effect these to any great degree.

Crash · 01-21-2009, 10:44 PM

^^^ Bowling Green plant is in danger of closing, although I doubt that GM is going to shed a tear since they want their manufacturing done out of country anyway.

I not only owned a LOT of GM cars and trucks, but I've also owned a Corvette. Made here or made anywhere else doesn't mean crap about the build quality in all honesty. The fact is that their quality control is horrible. Our hood-release sticker was upside down! No kidding!

GM cuts corners. Weld points are sloppy, components are made with cheap plastic when they should be made with metals, interior components are built like snap-together toys to make configuration changes a "snap" although after a few miles over rough road, those parts become looser than a 80 year old hooker. That's why everything rattles at every little bump. They blame their cheapness on American standards policies, health care, OSHA, etc, but the fact is that hardly ANYTHING is built in the US, and even more so, there's almost nobody in any GM plant. My high school had more people in it than a GM plant!

Subjective, yes. But correct, yes. Their build quality isn't an opinion, but it is a problem.

I agree, Corvette's interiors lack big time. The C5's interior felt less cheap, actually. The C6 uses a LOT more plastic on everything. For a 50K car (when loaded with the features you WANT), you're not getting much. GM's trying to make their money back for the retardedly stupid amount of money they spent developing the Vette.

01-21-2009, 01:26 AM	#1 (permalink)
1stNissan Base Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: FL Posts: 7 Drives: 98 TransAm LSwon Rep Power: 16	370Z or used LS3 C6??? Hello. I have narrowed it down & will own one of these 2 cars within the next few months. The LS3 cuts a 12.5 .25 mile in stock form, performs well in every area, looks mean! The Z performs good (braking, skid pad, & decent .25 mile). This car has really caught my eye by its stance & sleek body. I will admit, I am kinda steering away from the vette due to GM's currently instability. I would hate to be 30k deep in & they go bankrupt (goodbye warranty). I have a few questions about the Z........ Is the differential that comes with the base model (no sport package) limited slip? Will I have one wheel peels if I dont get the sport pack? I am under the impression that a LSD only comes with the sport package, PLEASE TELL ME IM WRONG! The price increase for the touring trim seems a little high. The only 2 things that appeal are the heated leather seats & slightly upgraded sound system. Is there something I'm missing? Fill me in please. Last edited by 1stNissan; 01-21-2009 at 02:01 AM.

01-21-2009, 05:49 PM	#9 (permalink)
SnakeBitten Base Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Midwood Posts: 232 Drives: 05 DBZ M6 Rep Power: 16	Used C6 vs brand new Z is a tough call. I like em both. Performance pick would be hands down the C6. Not even close. Everything else is subjective. Close to 40k for a fully loaded 370Z vs around the same for a C6 used. Hmmmm for about 10k more a used C6 Z06 can be had __________________

01-21-2009, 06:58 PM	#10 (permalink)
Crash A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 1,853 Drives: 02 Corvette Z06 Rep Power: 589	I wouldn't buy a 2005+ GM because the build quality is less then lacking. It's just not there at all. I'm shocked most of the cars make it off the lot. I know that's a bit of an exaggeration, but I've owned so many GMs that I think I'm an authority on their build quality. If you don't mind your car being in the shop more than you drive it, get a Vette. __________________ 2002 Corvette Z06 - Totaled 2003 Corvette Z06 50th Anniversary

01-21-2009, 10:44 PM	#15 (permalink)
Crash A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 1,853 Drives: 02 Corvette Z06 Rep Power: 589	^^^ Bowling Green plant is in danger of closing, although I doubt that GM is going to shed a tear since they want their manufacturing done out of country anyway. I not only owned a LOT of GM cars and trucks, but I've also owned a Corvette. Made here or made anywhere else doesn't mean crap about the build quality in all honesty. The fact is that their quality control is horrible. Our hood-release sticker was upside down! No kidding! GM cuts corners. Weld points are sloppy, components are made with cheap plastic when they should be made with metals, interior components are built like snap-together toys to make configuration changes a "snap" although after a few miles over rough road, those parts become looser than a 80 year old hooker. That's why everything rattles at every little bump. They blame their cheapness on American standards policies, health care, OSHA, etc, but the fact is that hardly ANYTHING is built in the US, and even more so, there's almost nobody in any GM plant. My high school had more people in it than a GM plant! Subjective, yes. But correct, yes. Their build quality isn't an opinion, but it is a problem. I agree, Corvette's interiors lack big time. The C5's interior felt less cheap, actually. The C6 uses a LOT more plastic on everything. For a 50K car (when loaded with the features you WANT), you're not getting much. GM's trying to make their money back for the retardedly stupid amount of money they spent developing the Vette. __________________ 2002 Corvette Z06 - Totaled 2003 Corvette Z06 50th Anniversary Last edited by Crash; 01-21-2009 at 10:57 PM.

01-21-2009, 05:56 AM	#3 (permalink)
smurfblu13 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: PA Posts: 2,584 Drives: cars Rep Power: 380	Both are awesome cars with great potential when it comes aftermarket goodie time. But my thoughts are the Vette will do one thing awesome and that's going in a straightline with some decent handling and overall performance. Where as I see the Z as an all the way around decent performer with the capability of being a track monster given the right mods. Either way in this situation you can't make a wrong decision. Get what will cater to you the most and what you will have the most fun with. good luck

01-21-2009, 06:09 AM	#4 (permalink)
sprix! Base Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Atlanta Posts: 10 Drives: 06 Honda S2000 6MT Rep Power: 287	I think both are worth their weight in a heaping pile of cash. It would come down to whether you are comfortable buying a used sports car. I would heavily recommend against this, as you don't know its record. You don't want a car that has been beaten to hell; even if it has a "warranty". Speaking from experience, used car warranties are not as reliable and forgiving as new car warranties. And as someone who previously dealt with a used sports car that was billed as "certified pre-owned" and came with what I thought was a helluva warranty, it was a mistake. The car had more issues than it should have; due to the previous owner modifying things and the dealer not knowing or caring enough to put things back to stock order. After all I went through with a used sports car, I can't suggest you get the used C6. The brand new Z is a better investment in this scenario.

01-21-2009, 07:23 AM	#5 (permalink)
speedworks Track Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 550 Drives: PW purchased 01/09 Rep Power: 17	The C6 was one of the cars I was looking at as well. After driving one (used with 10k on it), I was very impressed with the hp/tq but was definately concerned about how 'rickety' it was. Made various squeeks etc on the inside. I also had the concern of buying a used sports car, because you know it has been abused - you don't buy them and toodle around. For me the new car (warranty) mystique made me go with the Z. As for handling, the C6 handles very well as well. So to me, I agree as above, it all comes down to your confidence in buying a used sports car. Good luck in your decision. (I also drove a 911, s2k, and 335i in making my decision).

01-21-2009, 10:07 AM	#6 (permalink)
G&M Performance Enthusiast Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Texas Posts: 425 Drives: LS3 Genesis Coupe Rep Power: 227	You know, performance wise, the C6 is world-class. And that is in all areas, handling included. What I would do is test drive the used LS3 C6 (amazing that you found one already, btw ) and see if you can take it for a long run to see if there are any real problems like some of these people have mentioned. After that, hop in a 370Z and compare and contrast. Like the others, buying a used sports car can be risky because you don't know what the previous owner did with it. Maybe you can pull some info on the previous owner? The reason why is maybe the previous owner was an older man or female that bought it to feel young and look cool? Who knows? At least that would give you a better perspective on how the car was possibly treated. On the other hand, buying a new car has many benefits. You are in control of the proper break-in process, you have a fresh warranty, and heck, you have a damn hot 370Z! Anyway, just giving my .02. Hope it helps. Good luck!

01-21-2009, 12:50 PM	#7 (permalink)
TheManTheMyth Base Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: New Jersey Posts: 113 Drives: 05 Mazda 6 Rep Power: 280	I have an LS3 C6 now and i love it!...Great car for the buck like the Z...the power bone stock is unbeatable....but I feel like I can't drive it everyday....To me the Z just seems more of a practical sports car that I can drive everyday if that makes sense....The vette to me just seems like a toy for highway driving on the weekends but the Z is a car I see myself driving everyday...Just my opinion though coming from a vette owner

01-21-2009, 09:48 PM	#14 (permalink)
Lug A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,926 Drives: 2006 350Z Rep Power: 19	The C6 is made in it's own factory in Bowling Green along with the Cadillac XLR roadster and supercharged XLR-V. I don't think the rest of Chevy's quality problems effect these to any great degree.