ZR-1 vs ZR1

[XfireZ51]

Paul,

Well said. Each is the interpretation of its generation's KOTH. The motor of course is a key component but where the modern technology has truly excelled is the chassis and suspension. I'm afraid our 20 year olds are not as close in that department as maybe the motor.
However, they are both ZRs and that's really the point.

[gmonsen]

XFireZ51... I'm not convinced -- excepting the nannies -- that chassis and suspensions have improved that much, though chassis stiffness improved several orders of magnitude with the C5. But, overall, you have to be on the ragged edge to benefit from differences. And the Lt5 motor is the pinnacle of motor development ...for motorheads... irreplaceable.

Gordon

[Z51JEFF]

While I would love to own a ZR1 other than the Z between the 2 there is no comparison as far as the magic and the heritage of the 2nd GEN car.If I was able to buy a new ZR1 tomorrow in no way would I sell my current car,nor would I look down on it in any way as being inferior,the car 20+ years ago WAS the Corvette to have.Gots ta have me some ZR-1!

[MikeGolf]

I have not driven a new ZR1 and do not take anything away from it. It is the KOTH of today. But how much different is it than a Z06, with just add ons (I know the engine). You could build one with parts off the shelf. Now our ZR-1 is a different C4, no other GM product has our engine, our rear ends or uniqueness of being innovative in the automotive world. You cannot Clone a ZR-1, but I can a ZR1, not that it would be cost effective. But, yes, Virginia I would take a new ZR1 if I could afford one.

[scottfab]

I'll go out on a limb here and say I don't think the corvette will ever exceed the zr1 638hp mark.
For various practical and political reasons we've hit the top.
Soon the C7 will be out and we'll see.

[mgbrv8]

Originally Posted by scottfab

I'll go out on a limb here and say I don't think the corvette will ever exceed the zr1 638hp mark.
For various practical and political reasons we've hit the top.
Soon the C7 will be out and we'll see.

I think it will if you look at what's out now things are are pushing the 700 mark so the Corvette will probably match it if not exceed their numbers. The LS family of engine can definitly handle the power. now I think we might see all-wheel-drive.

Dave

[mike100]

Originally Posted by gmonsen

XFireZ51... I'm not convinced -- excepting the nannies -- that chassis and suspensions have improved that much, though chassis stiffness improved several orders of magnitude with the C5. But, overall, you have to be on the ragged edge to benefit from differences. And the Lt5 motor is the pinnacle of motor development ...for motorheads... irreplaceable.

Gordon

It is mostly about the weight distribution along with the suspension and traction control improvements. I've had two C4's (one without the front heaviness of the LT5), and neither one negotiated rough roads as well as the C6 I have. The C4 chassis does inspire more confidence though- at least on smooth streets. That is important too, because that's were I spend the most time anyways. The diff takes a beating on the C4 also since the axles locate the suspension.

I recently let a friend drive both vettes and he really liked the C4 Z because of the rough edge it has, but at the same time still pretty fast. No need to preach to the choir, but I can't agree that the chassis is any where near as good as the later cars.

[gmonsen]

I hear you and accede to the improvements. I would guess chassis stiffness and weight centering account for most or much of it?

Gordon

[Z51JEFF]

Originally Posted by mgbrv8

I think it will if you look at what's out now things are are pushing the 700 mark so the Corvette will probably match it if not exceed their numbers. The LS family of engine can definitly handle the power. now I think we might see all-wheel-drive.

Dave

I believe this,seems to be an H.P. race.638 today,750 tomorrow?