I see 83% of you have advised that I keep on lookin’ for an acceptable daily. But what if such a car was already in my garage? Certainly the M3 is capable of conquering winter with a set of snow tires. That means we’d need a new “special” car, and I think I’ve just driven one – the Chevrolet Corvette Z06.
It sounds like a Ferrari. The engine is in the middle. It simply defies definition, and it’s incredible. Best of all, it’s cheap.
Or is it? Hmm…
The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe vs the 2024 Corvette Z06 3LZ Coupe
See the 2022 base Vette listing
See the 2024 Vette Z06 listing
Quite the mouthful for these two. The amazing thing about the Stingray is that it’s already a really good sports car. You’d easily be happy in one, slaying M cars and Porsches. A 0-60 time of 2.8 seconds, all for a base price of less than $70,000.
Just don’t drive the Z06. Unlike Zs of the past, this mid-engine version uses an entirely new V-8, not derived from the base model at all. We’re talking DOHC, flat-plane crank, 8,500 RPM redline – exotic car stuff. I warn you, should you touch it, you will forever be spoiled and the base car ruined.
Price? We can look at this in two ways. You could buy a his and hers base model Vette, or one Z06 with all the trimmings. But that Z, with a base price of $123,000, is also an incredible bargain, with or without options. Beware – the markups on these cars have become a thing.
Let’s go shopping.
The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe
Been waiting for the Stingray to start hitting the depreciation curve? Keep waiting. Seems supply hasn’t quite caught up with demand just yet. But let’s head to auction for a base model, in hopes that we can get some important options for a lower price.
- 500 miles
- Currently bid to $72,000
- Wonderful Elkhart Lake Blue over Natural (tan) interior. This is a Mike combo for sure.
- All Vettes are targa tops, a plus in my opinion.
- Clean record, and stock.
- Equipped with the 3LT package and Z51 Performance Package
- The clear coat was repaired? Sigh – do we need to PPI a 500-mile car? We do.
Now – someone bought this car in February of 2022 and has not driven it, and that’s not the best for a car. It’s not even broken in. But for the price, you can’t beat the performance.
Well, let’s forget about the price.
The 2024 Corvette Z06 Coupe
If it’s true that there’s no markup on this car, then it’s one to consider.
- Riptide Blue Metallic over Natural (tan)
- This one has upgraded wheels and the important nose lift system, so you don’t scrape
- But it’s missing carbon brakes, the aero kit (which adds real, significant downforce), and other good performance bits.
Some have reported markups as high as $100,000 over MSRP. No car is worth that kind of tom foolery, but as the price GM wants to sell it to you, wow.
I will have a full review coming soon, but for now, understand that this Corvette Z06 is truly unlike anything else you’ve driven. An M4 CSL? It’s not even close. A 911? I question your car enthusiast knowledge. A 911 GT3? That costs double, and it’s slower. GM has never made an engine like this before. The Ferrari 458 was the benchmark, and mission accomplished. Best of all, it’s truly a dual personality. Tour in comfort, with plenty of room and a supple ride. Turn it to track mode, and my God, your passenger better be in love with you (or related).
So, should I make the base Vette my number one, or save up for that Z06?
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