Quote:
Originally Posted by hotlapZL1
Consider this (please)  . Development of the ZL1 began in 2009. The goal was to answer the 2009 GT500 that made 500HP and cost $47,950. Assume GM knew the upcoming 2010 GT500 would make 550 HP and cost $48,175.
Available engines * were the LSA ($11,210) and LS9 ($20,410). Delta $9,200. Chevy chose the less expensive LSA but increased its power to 580 HP.
When the ZL1 was introduced at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2011 with a base price of $54,995, it surpassed the GT500 on both the strip and track but was expensive.
You argue that Chevy protected the Corvette by withholding the LS9 yet they introduced key C7 Corvette technology on the Camaro first.
- ZL1 introduced Gen3 magnetic ride control.
- Z/28 co-developed carbon ceramic brakes with the Corvette team and introduced them ahead of the C7 Z06
I would like a LS9 ZL1 too but recognize that given its standard content, it would have pushed the base price into the 60's. That didn't meet the market conditions AT THAT TIME. Ford was ready and one upped them in 2013 but doesn't mean they made it weak to protect the Corvette
* Prices listed are for crate engines on Pace Performance. The LSA (19260164) is the 556 HP version. LS9 (19260165) |
I understand entirely why GM did what it did but they should know that Ford doesn't develop an engine and just leave it. They keep upgrading it over time. That's the difference between the two companies. It's not like GM keeps tweeting their engines to get more power to torque. Once it's done, it's done.
As for the price, the crate 5.8 Trinity I found was $31k. If Ford was capable of building a one off, low volume engine for the GT500, GM surely could have used thr LS9 in not one, but 3 cars and get thr price down.
Ok, so the Camaro got a few minor pieces before the C7 Corvette got redesigned. They probably didn't want to re-engineer the dampers for two model years on the C6.
The Z/28 is an anominly. One car in a long history of GM keeping a large gap between the two cars. For the performance goals of the car, they really didn't have a choice. And then they charge you enough for it. Not saying they overcharged. I think the Z/28 is still a value for the performance offered.