torn between the ZL1 or 1LE

[Norm Peterson]

Originally Posted by PoorMansCamaro

^only issue with that, is not everyone can install everything they buy for their car.

The only item on 130R's list that steps outside the driveway/home garage DIY level is the dyno tune.

Maybe the cam change is a bit beyond the novice DIY'er who hasn't built up enough confidence by working on smaller tasks, but even that one isn't as bad as it might sound.


Norm

[Msmall143]

Originally Posted by 130R

Just as a ZL1 is a factory modified SS, and a Z/28 is a factory modified 1LE. The ZL1 or Z/28 are not entirely different cars, they're still both the Zeta platform with varying degrees of factory, high-peformance improvements & modifications. Improvements and modifications overseen by bean counters, and performance limited by CAFE standards, NVH, and consumer comfort. Those things are what drive the aftermarket industry.




This is what I've been saying all along. It's just different strokes…

There's no reason to get butt-hurt, no matter what you drive, there's always going to be someone with a faster car. This is a perfect example. Which one would you rather own or be seen in? Yeah, it's a no-brainer…

And let's be honest here, the prestige of the ZL1 moniker, the limited numbers, the instant recognisability and street credibility has value, and comes with a price premium… You can't ignore or discount that...

Can you add a zl1 package to an ss...no
Can you add a z/28 package to an ss...no
Can you add an 1le package to an ss...yes

1le has much more limited production than the zl1 (if you classify it as it's own make)

[PoorMansCamaro]

Originally Posted by Norm Peterson

The only item on 130R's list that steps outside the driveway/home garage DIY level is the dyno tune.

Maybe the cam change is a bit beyond the novice DIY'er who hasn't built up enough confidence by working on smaller tasks, but even that one isn't as bad as it might sound.


Norm

you would be surprised at how many people don't have the right tools, live in an apartment, and/or aren't even comfortable installing a cold air intake. Some people might not even be able to work on their car, physically. I'm just saying, most people that spend 12k on upgrades to their car, would probably get most of those installed professionally. Not everyone is a grease monkey, even though it may seem like it, on a car forum.

[2012-1822]

Well this whole thread has definitely been the epitome of first world problems.

[PoorMansCamaro]

Originally Posted by 2012-1822

Well this whole thread has definitely been the epitome of first world problems.

hence my meme/picture I posted.

[2012-1822]

Originally Posted by PoorMansCamaro

hence my meme/picture I posted.

Touche

[2012-1822]

Originally Posted by 130R

Unlike yourself (with these kinds of posts), I'm continuing to contribute useful, helpful, factual information. If you're not learning anything, or otherwise find the information in the thread not of use to you, feel free to not click the link anymore. Pretty simple really...

I know this may come as a shock to you, but this is a bulletin board where people freely exchange information and share opinions, whether you like them or not...

Why be a troll?

What is wrong with you? Tell you what, like I often tell people. You're right, I'm wrong, that's fine. You win, I won't respond to anything else you write in this thread. But I'm not trolling, you might want to try checking your attitude when you enter the forum.

[Nor Cal ZL1]

I've worked on cars most of my life. While capable I just don't have the time, and I work 6 days a week, sometimes seven. Work has left me burned out, and no desire at all to tackle the list that has been posted. I'm sure if I started such a project (cam change) or anything major the car would be apart in the garage for a long time. I respect those who tackle projects, the results are rewarding. I sold two classic cars and bought a ZL1 just because I don't have the time to mess with cars like I used to. Best choice I have made in a long time.

[Msmall143]

So which headers sound best?

[Norm Peterson]

Originally Posted by PoorMansCamaro

you would be surprised at how many people don't have the right tools, live in an apartment, and/or aren't even comfortable installing a cold air intake. Some people might not even be able to work on their car, physically. I'm just saying, most people that spend 12k on upgrades to their car, would probably get most of those installed professionally. Not everyone is a grease monkey, even though it may seem like it, on a car forum.

Maybe that's the part I just can't identify with, that there might be people interested in cars but who don't have the slightest interest in doing the work required to put whatever mod in place, or repair things that break, or even do routine maintenance.

I have to chuckle - a lot - when I recall the jobs I did in one apartment parking lot or other back before we got into our first house. A full out-of-the-car engine build-up was just one of the bigger jobs. Professionally I was a civil/structural guy in various engineering offices for nearly all of my career (I'm now retired). Not a professional technician.


Norm

[PoorMansCamaro]

Originally Posted by Norm Peterson

Maybe that's the part I just can't identify with, that there might be people interested in cars but who don't have the slightest interest in doing the work required to put whatever mod in place, or repair things that break, or even do routine maintenance.

I have to chuckle - a lot - when I recall the jobs I did in one apartment parking lot or other back before we got into our first house. A full out-of-the-car engine build-up was just one of the bigger jobs. Professionally I was a civil/structural guy in various engineering offices for nearly all of my career (I'm now retired). Not a professional technician.


Norm

yeah, I've helped multiple local people who didn't have the means to install parts for their Camaro, come to my house and I worked on them in my garage. lol

[Nor Cal ZL1]

I used to be the same way. Christmas everytime the delivery truck stopped in front. Switched work companies and have been slammed for 6 years. One week off in 6 years and constant 6 day weeks changed all of that drive I once had. Had to imagine for some, and it sucks. Happy modding.

[Msmall143]

Originally Posted by 130R

Yeah, maybe that's why I'm so high on doing mods. For me, it's half the fun. I simply can't imagine owning a high performance car and not doing your own wrenching; just can't fathom it… A good base for me to build upon is MUCH more attractive to me than a factory build.





I recently purchased a condo. I wouldn't even look at the ones without a 2-car garage…

Cars… Sometimes I think they're more evil than woman with what they put you through…

I agree man. Going from a 1le where I was getting a bit crazy with mods (maybe 5k in a couple months) I struggle to find where to start with the zl1.

In terms of modding I think the 1le offers a fun platform with tons of options. I'm sure I'll learn what can be done with a zl1 as well.

[Blueclyde]

Originally Posted by Norm Peterson

Blueclyde - that the 1LE manages almost 98% of the ZL1's VIR lap performance on a course that has significant stretches that favor pure HP is huge when you consider that comes at only 2/3 the price and barely more than 3/4 of the power to weight. Brute force still wins, but by a closer margin than power to weight suggests should be the case.



Norm

I hear you. I probably even agree. You can slice this data a few ways. A couple points. The OP is trying to make a decision. I say if money isn't an issue go with the ZL1. It's a no brainer. If the OP is concerned about getting the best value for the buck then maybe the 1LE gets the nod. Also, the 1LE at 97.7% of the ZL1 lap is still about 800 feet off the ZL1's back bumper. That's a ton.