How Important is High or Low Mileage on a ZR1?

[Erik]

Hi Gents.
As I’m doing my ZR-1 shopping, I’ve seen cars with mileages everywhere. Of course the ones with a few hundred miles, a few thousand, tens of thousands and some close to 100k.

So while I understand that condition and service history are the most important considerations, how worried are you guys about whether a car has high or low mileage.

Further, how high does mileage have to be to be considered high in the ZR-1 world?

Thanks!

[Z51JEFF]

When I was in the market I wanted a low mileage car but most seem to want a car that’s got some miles on it.

[Erik]

Originally Posted by Z51JEFF

When I was in the market I wanted a low mileage car but most seem to want a car that’s got some miles on it.

Thanks, Jeff.
How do you define a low mileage car, as compared to one with some miles on it?

[efnfast]

I just turned 100K with no worries. Oh, and buy one that already has 500 hp. I bought my car stock with 35K on it for 20 grand. Invested another 20 grand, now 530 hp. Know what it's worth? 20 grand.

[32valvZ]

THEEE most important thing you should consider when buying a ZR-1 or any car really, is maintenance records and proof there of.... (ie receipts & or maintenance logs).

Dealers will usually not be able to provide these things, or very little information in regards to maintenance simply because it doesn't really matter to them, the idea is to make the sale & pay their bills. (this is not to say ALL dealers, there are specialty dealers that are more enthusiasts than salesmen, but only a few)

I purchased both of my ZR-1s from fellow forum members and both were enthusiasts. Both were out of state purchased and based on pictures and phone calls. I can say with that, I received exactly what was described. No surprises, no tricks or hidden bull crap....

Included were original parts removed, tools, memorabilia and stacks of receipts. In both cases for my 92 & my current 90, I feel like I actually received more than I paid for.

You see that I haven't spoken about miles yet. The LT-5 engine was hand assembled with some very close tolerances. Much care was put into the assembly of each engine by the folks at Mercruiser in Stillwater OK.

Major engine failures are few and far between... in fact, I really have not seen more than 1 and that was a member who had a head gasket failure on a heavily raced engine. I think it was Ron Kreig if memory serves.

The bottom line is miles on an LT-5 really dont matter especially when you can buy from a forum member and enthusiast. The enthusiast will be delighted to give you all the paper work and sit and talk with you about all that has been done to the car.

The bonus part of buying from an enthusiast is in addition to the maintenance records, you will probably have a car that has had some if not all of the normal ZR-1 issues addressed and some modifications to help with the smile factor when you drive it.

If I were in your shoes, the car I would most consider would be the blue one that FU has for sale. I am not friends with the guy and I only know him through the many years of being on this and the other forum. That said, I would give him a call and see what he has to say.

This is only one guys perspective and experiences.... Good Luck in your search and with whatever car you choose.

[dredgeguy]

I have 98,600 miles on mine and would not think twice about driving cross country with it. As stated by 32valvZ, get a car from a forum member that can show you the history and background for the car. Go with the color you want and condition. I would not be concerned about mileage, the LT5 is bullet proof.

[We Gone]

I would look for a car that has been driven on average 200-1000 miles a year.

[Carnutdallas]

I have said car for sale. 24k miles 1990. Lots of Docs. Full Pizza Box. Red/Blk. Pretty Much NCRS top flight accept for tires. Happy Hunting.


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[Erik]

Originally Posted by Carnutdallas

I have said car for sale. 24k miles 1990. Lots of Docs. Full Pizza Box. Red/Blk. Pretty Much NCRS top flight accept for tires. Happy Hunting.


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Which car is that?

[Erik]

Originally Posted by dredgeguy

I have 98,600 miles on mine and would not think twice about driving cross country with it. As stated by 32valvZ, get a car from a forum member that can show you the history and background for the car. Go with the color you want and condition. I would not be concerned about mileage, the LT5 is bullet proof.

Good info. Thanks!