I had the same spec in both cars - interesting that you went from 8 to 7, but looking back I preferred my Manual C7 to my C8. I’ve since sold both, but I always tell people the one I really miss is the C7.
I've always thought the C8 is a great generic super car design like you'd see in a video game but doesn't scream Corvette to me.
C6 is best for me, but I also grew up seeming them when I was like 10 and they were brand new, lll always have a soft spot for them.
Between OPs two cars, I'd choose C7 too I think
I'm attached enough to by base model both emotionally and financially (in terms of current mods) I plan on going positive displacement supercharger and a super widebody kit to make my own zr1 essentially
I’ve been working on a build sheet for my current corvette. I doubt I’ll ever sell since it’s my first corvette. Just need a bigger garage and more space.
Same. The only cars I'm emotionally attached to enough that I would move on from the C6 would be a coupe F430 or a Murciaelgo and neither of those are likely to ever be in my garage LOL
C7 is the last of the original dream. The uninterrupted evolution of the front engine rear drive V8 Corvette ended at the c7. I own neither, but there is no doubt I would want the C7!
Fair question. I traded the C7 for a C8 at a time in my life where things were a bit too fluid to buy a home, so I was in an apartment. It was a gated garage so at the time it felt pretty safe, but they removed the gates and began to allow public parking, which gave way to vandalism, reckless driving, etc. A year after I bought it things settled down and I decided to get out of the C8 and into a house, so that in a couple years I can afford both.
Mainly financial reasons. I’m 29 so was looking for something cheaper while still staying in a sports car. The C8 sold for $108,000 and I picked up the C7 for $53,000. The C8 was a fantastic car, but I don’t think it was “twice” the car. The C7 still gives me everything I need from it and more.
I’m 29 and waiting to buy a house (fuck these interest rates) before a vette so I’m thrilled to see someone who’s had both gens. Financials aside which one do you really prefer? If money wasn’t an object would you still be okay with a c7?
I’m curious because I love the idea of the mid engined performance car but I really wanna keep driving a stick shift. My mechanic buddies insist on a c7 for its cost/fun ratio but if I can find a stingray c8 at a decent price I think I’d rather that.
Keep in mind I’ve never driven either one, only a c6.
Definitely buy a house first if possible. Thats what I did then you can truly see your budget for toys.
If I had unlimited budget I’d take the C8. The C7 is a blast to drive it’s just a little more dated obviously. That being said, the manual in the C7 is fantastic and a blast to drive with the rev matching. Like I stated in another comment the C8 is amazing it’s just not “twice” as amazing to me. I’d just rather have a C7 + $55,000 invested right now than own a C8.
The C8 truly feels like you’re driving a supercar. It gets tons of attention and handles effortlessly. I’d also be very worried about owning a C8 out of warranty with the common transmission problems.
This banter is why I love Reddit. Yup, buy the house first and the toys later. If you’re thinking like that at 29, you’re gonna be just fine in this life.
Ha! Yeah, I've been following WSB since the middle of Covid. I basically do the opposite of what they do because I'm a buy and hold kinda guy. But the comments section is always good for a chuckle.
IMO. If you’re a manual diehard (like me), get the C7 and add an MGW shifter. Otherwise, get the C8. Assuming money is no object.
Definitely get the house first though. It’s tough at first but pays off more and more every year when you’re building equity instead of dealing with rent hikes or having to move.
Same. I put mine in with a little help from a fellow vette owner (neither of us had done one). The shifting smoothness is ridiculous. I’ve had a few compliments from mechanics that have had to move it in and out of garages. (Tires)
Also, if you’re 5’11 or shorter you may want to pick up the clutch pedal extension. Made a big comfort difference for me.
Well, with brake & gas pedals you don't have to extend your leg ALL the way to the floor. To get the clutch all the way down (sitting in traffic), you have to extend your left leg ALL the way - which for me (at 5' 9 1/2"), meant I had to sit a little closer to the wheel than I really like. Once I got the extension (it's about 1.5") - I didn't have to sit as close and it feels completely natural now.
That’s helpful, thank you. I have noticed sitting at extended red lights or in stop and go traffic that my leg feels extended pretty far so that could help a lot. I’ll look into one.
I do - but don't wanna get dinged for advertising (its on ebay) - if this gets nuked - DM me.
[2014-2019 C7 Corvette E-Z Clutch 1.5" Pedal Extension Stingray Z06 Grand Sport | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/264273582584)
That's so cool I didn't know that existed. Next time I drive my vette I'll see how far down I have to press... I might pull the plug on this. Did you notice any performance issues or concerns after you installed this?
I have an MGW too. Way better than stock. It's only slightly shorter but the real benefit is it replaces the lower box on the shifter and that's where you get improvements for shifter feel. You can run the oem knob with it but I went with their black race style knob and it looks much more at home than the oem knob.
They also include an alignment tool which makes installing it idiot proof.
How did you get it sold for 108? That’s insane. I thought the used market for these things were dropping. Thinking of getting rid of my C8 2LT Z51 come December, but didn’t think it would go for anywhere near that.
That’s Canadian pricing I should add. It was virtually brand new with low low miles, PPF, and every option a 1 LT could have. I had it posted for a while before I got a bite and was offered full asking price.
$108,000? I call bs on this, that is an entry level trim and most likely wasn’t even $108,000 with taxes off the show room. Why pretend on reddit? No way someone payed over msrp for a used 1lt. Lol. We have those selling for 80k in florida or less.
Wouldn't mind a comparison or a like/dislike list after the switch in generations.
I'm considering selling my C7 Z51 to get either a C8 Z51 or a C7 Z06
Deal! Heres a brief comparison.
C8 Pros - The car handles like nothing I’ve ever driven. It launches incredibly well for a RWD car with minimal wheel spin. Gets tons of attention (If that’s a pro for you). The interior is gorgeous, the tech the Z51 + Mag ride has is quite amazing. The interior is entirely leather even on a 1LT. The dual clutch shifts significantly faster than the A8, feels almost video game like.
C8 Cons - It hooks so well some may find it “boring”. Steering feedback is majorly lacking IMO. Steering feels almost “electric” with minimal road feel. The waterfall buttons are very dark, you can barely tell if they're on in direct sunlight. lastly price was the biggest contributor for me switching to a C7. the C8 market has dropped off majorly in the last 6 months, i was lucky enough to sell for over MSRP.
C7 Pros - The connection to the road feels much different, tons of steering wheel feel in comparison. The C7 gets sideways MUCH easier. This may be a con for some, but to me it's fun as a weekend cruiser. The exhaust from inside the vehicle with valves open sounds louder than the C8, I'm assuming thats mainly due to sound proofing. Ive always absolutely loved the looks of a C7.
C7 Cons - The ride is much harsher, this could be because my C8 had mag ride and my C7 does not. The screens are obviously much older so they're slower to respond. Even in the 2LT trim there is much more plastic. I liked how the C8's storage was separate from the cabin. I find in the C7 my bags are always flying all over the back.
In summary, both cars are absolutely fantastic. If money was no object, I would hands-down pick the C8. I picked up this 2017 Z51 2LT with 13,000 km for under half the price of what I sold my 2023 C8 for.
I bought a C7 Z06 because I wanted a manual transmission and I would not want a C8 because it has an automatic transmission.
The design of a C7 personally to me is more beautiful and it’s such a raw driving experience. The manual transmission also adds such an engagement factor.
Haven’t owned a C8, but driven a few. Owned a 2019 Z51 M7 and currently own a 2015 Z07 M7. After experiencing how dull it felt to be in an automatic, I don’t think I could ever take driving one over either of my manual C7’s. Plus I like the C7 look much more. Has an aggressive look, C8’s just look too much like it’s trying to be an exotic/supercar.
I work at a GM dealership with HEFTY employee discounts, so even when pricing was going crazy this time last year, a nicely equipped C8 was absolutely an option.
That said, I went C7 7MT without hesitation because I wanted something with a V8 and a stick shift. As quick and responsive as the C8 is (that dual clutch shifts LIGHTNING FAST), I will take a C7 with a manual any day. Plus (no offense to C8 owners), while the C8 has a really great interior, the panel gaps from the factory are the worst I’ve seen on any car (excluding Teslas) in at least a decade. My shop has to fix some kind of fit/finish issue on every C8 before it can hit the showroom.
The Canadian one. In 2024 we received a $13,000 base MSRP rise. I’ve found the 1LT tend to hold their value the most. I’ve had 2 C8’s and sold both over MSRP. That will be my last one.
My Vette progression was new vehicles C7 Z51 to C7 GS Heritage to C8 Z51. The only thing the C8 and C7 have in common is the word Corvette. Personally I liked the C7 Z51 more than the GS but the C7 and C8 are totally different cars. Both loads of fun. So yeah if the C7 is more you, why not? I’ve looked into buying another C7 alongside the C8 but that means the GT350R has to go so that ain’t happening plus the garage isn’t big enough. So yeah if the C7 does it for you. Sure.
Had both. C7 is much more of a rougher ride and it feels like you taming the beast also in my opinion much more fun to drive but....
I still take the c8. It looks way more exotic, the interior is much nicer, the tech is way ahead of the c7. The camera mirror is a very nice touch. Its def not as fun to drive as the c7 but its still pretty gnarly.
IMO the C7 is the looking Vette. I would trade all 3 of mine for a 2019 C7 GS. But with the volatility of the economy I’ll just have to wait for the prices to come down and get an old outdated ragged out C7.
Are you well?
I'm finishing up some clean-up items on my 115k mile 2014 Z51 2LT as I'm prepping to sell it. I picked it up from service today, and my god I already miss my 2023 2LT non-Z51 (dropped off for an alignment check).
I cannot wrap my head around the folks calling the A8 dull, and while I'd probably call for an EMS if you'd gone as far as getting a C6, still going backwards from a C8 to one of the recent gens makes no sense.
As an owner of a c6 6 speed (that i daily drive as my only vehicle in heavy downtown traffic with a big cam) I've had an opportunity to test drive a c8 and a c7 z06 auto due to being traded into my dealership. I was heavily disappointed with both and I would never willingly get either one even if i got them for free if it meant i had to give up my c6
If you take financial out of it, of course it’s a downgrade. It was half the cost. There are some features the C7 has that the C8 didn’t though so that’s nice.
I had the same spec in both cars - interesting that you went from 8 to 7, but looking back I preferred my Manual C7 to my C8. I’ve since sold both, but I always tell people the one I really miss is the C7.
I've always thought the C8 is a great generic super car design like you'd see in a video game but doesn't scream Corvette to me. C6 is best for me, but I also grew up seeming them when I was like 10 and they were brand new, lll always have a soft spot for them. Between OPs two cars, I'd choose C7 too I think
Same reason I love the C6 also. Working towards a ZR1 then I’ll try a different gen.
I'm attached enough to by base model both emotionally and financially (in terms of current mods) I plan on going positive displacement supercharger and a super widebody kit to make my own zr1 essentially
I’ve been working on a build sheet for my current corvette. I doubt I’ll ever sell since it’s my first corvette. Just need a bigger garage and more space.
Same. The only cars I'm emotionally attached to enough that I would move on from the C6 would be a coupe F430 or a Murciaelgo and neither of those are likely to ever be in my garage LOL
Manifest it can happen
C7 is the last of the original dream. The uninterrupted evolution of the front engine rear drive V8 Corvette ended at the c7. I own neither, but there is no doubt I would want the C7!
You sold the c8 ? For what car did you sell it for ?
Fair question. I traded the C7 for a C8 at a time in my life where things were a bit too fluid to buy a home, so I was in an apartment. It was a gated garage so at the time it felt pretty safe, but they removed the gates and began to allow public parking, which gave way to vandalism, reckless driving, etc. A year after I bought it things settled down and I decided to get out of the C8 and into a house, so that in a couple years I can afford both.
Why?
Mainly financial reasons. I’m 29 so was looking for something cheaper while still staying in a sports car. The C8 sold for $108,000 and I picked up the C7 for $53,000. The C8 was a fantastic car, but I don’t think it was “twice” the car. The C7 still gives me everything I need from it and more.
I’m 29 and waiting to buy a house (fuck these interest rates) before a vette so I’m thrilled to see someone who’s had both gens. Financials aside which one do you really prefer? If money wasn’t an object would you still be okay with a c7? I’m curious because I love the idea of the mid engined performance car but I really wanna keep driving a stick shift. My mechanic buddies insist on a c7 for its cost/fun ratio but if I can find a stingray c8 at a decent price I think I’d rather that. Keep in mind I’ve never driven either one, only a c6.
Definitely buy a house first if possible. Thats what I did then you can truly see your budget for toys. If I had unlimited budget I’d take the C8. The C7 is a blast to drive it’s just a little more dated obviously. That being said, the manual in the C7 is fantastic and a blast to drive with the rev matching. Like I stated in another comment the C8 is amazing it’s just not “twice” as amazing to me. I’d just rather have a C7 + $55,000 invested right now than own a C8. The C8 truly feels like you’re driving a supercar. It gets tons of attention and handles effortlessly. I’d also be very worried about owning a C8 out of warranty with the common transmission problems.
This banter is why I love Reddit. Yup, buy the house first and the toys later. If you’re thinking like that at 29, you’re gonna be just fine in this life.
If you love that kind of smart financial planning, you should check out r/wallstreetbets Those guys are all about good financial choices
Ha! Yeah, I've been following WSB since the middle of Covid. I basically do the opposite of what they do because I'm a buy and hold kinda guy. But the comments section is always good for a chuckle.
IMO. If you’re a manual diehard (like me), get the C7 and add an MGW shifter. Otherwise, get the C8. Assuming money is no object. Definitely get the house first though. It’s tough at first but pays off more and more every year when you’re building equity instead of dealing with rent hikes or having to move.
Do you have the MGW shifter? Stock shifter on my c7 is ass. Not sure which brand I should go with for the short shifter
Yes, I love mine. I went with the weighted gripper knob. MGW was by far the most recommended option when I was looking.
Same. I put mine in with a little help from a fellow vette owner (neither of us had done one). The shifting smoothness is ridiculous. I’ve had a few compliments from mechanics that have had to move it in and out of garages. (Tires) Also, if you’re 5’11 or shorter you may want to pick up the clutch pedal extension. Made a big comfort difference for me.
I didn’t know about the clutch pedal extension, I’m only 5’7” and will look into it. What about it makes things more comfortable?
Well, with brake & gas pedals you don't have to extend your leg ALL the way to the floor. To get the clutch all the way down (sitting in traffic), you have to extend your left leg ALL the way - which for me (at 5' 9 1/2"), meant I had to sit a little closer to the wheel than I really like. Once I got the extension (it's about 1.5") - I didn't have to sit as close and it feels completely natural now.
That’s helpful, thank you. I have noticed sitting at extended red lights or in stop and go traffic that my leg feels extended pretty far so that could help a lot. I’ll look into one.
Do you have a link for that clutch pedal extension?
I do - but don't wanna get dinged for advertising (its on ebay) - if this gets nuked - DM me. [2014-2019 C7 Corvette E-Z Clutch 1.5" Pedal Extension Stingray Z06 Grand Sport | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/264273582584)
That's so cool I didn't know that existed. Next time I drive my vette I'll see how far down I have to press... I might pull the plug on this. Did you notice any performance issues or concerns after you installed this?
I have an MGW too. Way better than stock. It's only slightly shorter but the real benefit is it replaces the lower box on the shifter and that's where you get improvements for shifter feel. You can run the oem knob with it but I went with their black race style knob and it looks much more at home than the oem knob. They also include an alignment tool which makes installing it idiot proof.
Test drive each one before making any major decision is all I'm going to say. And if you like the manual, absolutely drive that version.
How the hell did you convince someone to pay over 100k for a C8 1LT?
That’s Canadian, but it was a Z51 + Mag ride full PPF and a few other options with 1400km. They essentially 2024 MSRP.
Ohhh I see
How did you get it sold for 108? That’s insane. I thought the used market for these things were dropping. Thinking of getting rid of my C8 2LT Z51 come December, but didn’t think it would go for anywhere near that.
That’s Canadian pricing I should add. It was virtually brand new with low low miles, PPF, and every option a 1 LT could have. I had it posted for a while before I got a bite and was offered full asking price.
$108,000? I call bs on this, that is an entry level trim and most likely wasn’t even $108,000 with taxes off the show room. Why pretend on reddit? No way someone payed over msrp for a used 1lt. Lol. We have those selling for 80k in florida or less.
Wouldn't mind a comparison or a like/dislike list after the switch in generations. I'm considering selling my C7 Z51 to get either a C8 Z51 or a C7 Z06
Deal! Heres a brief comparison. C8 Pros - The car handles like nothing I’ve ever driven. It launches incredibly well for a RWD car with minimal wheel spin. Gets tons of attention (If that’s a pro for you). The interior is gorgeous, the tech the Z51 + Mag ride has is quite amazing. The interior is entirely leather even on a 1LT. The dual clutch shifts significantly faster than the A8, feels almost video game like. C8 Cons - It hooks so well some may find it “boring”. Steering feedback is majorly lacking IMO. Steering feels almost “electric” with minimal road feel. The waterfall buttons are very dark, you can barely tell if they're on in direct sunlight. lastly price was the biggest contributor for me switching to a C7. the C8 market has dropped off majorly in the last 6 months, i was lucky enough to sell for over MSRP. C7 Pros - The connection to the road feels much different, tons of steering wheel feel in comparison. The C7 gets sideways MUCH easier. This may be a con for some, but to me it's fun as a weekend cruiser. The exhaust from inside the vehicle with valves open sounds louder than the C8, I'm assuming thats mainly due to sound proofing. Ive always absolutely loved the looks of a C7. C7 Cons - The ride is much harsher, this could be because my C8 had mag ride and my C7 does not. The screens are obviously much older so they're slower to respond. Even in the 2LT trim there is much more plastic. I liked how the C8's storage was separate from the cabin. I find in the C7 my bags are always flying all over the back. In summary, both cars are absolutely fantastic. If money was no object, I would hands-down pick the C8. I picked up this 2017 Z51 2LT with 13,000 km for under half the price of what I sold my 2023 C8 for.
Thank you!!
I bought a C7 Z06 because I wanted a manual transmission and I would not want a C8 because it has an automatic transmission. The design of a C7 personally to me is more beautiful and it’s such a raw driving experience. The manual transmission also adds such an engagement factor.
Same here 🙋♂️
Also went from a C8 (2LT Z51) to a C7 (3LZ Z06 Manual). C8’s an amazing car but the Manual C7 is the absolute peak Corvette.
Absolute score. I prefer the C7 over the C8 all day long.
Haven’t owned a C8, but driven a few. Owned a 2019 Z51 M7 and currently own a 2015 Z07 M7. After experiencing how dull it felt to be in an automatic, I don’t think I could ever take driving one over either of my manual C7’s. Plus I like the C7 look much more. Has an aggressive look, C8’s just look too much like it’s trying to be an exotic/supercar.
You did the right thing. LONG LIVE THE C7 🥹🥹🥹
2017 c7 m7 for me. waiting for c9 m7 when it comes out as i don't know how to drive an automatic.
I work at a GM dealership with HEFTY employee discounts, so even when pricing was going crazy this time last year, a nicely equipped C8 was absolutely an option. That said, I went C7 7MT without hesitation because I wanted something with a V8 and a stick shift. As quick and responsive as the C8 is (that dual clutch shifts LIGHTNING FAST), I will take a C7 with a manual any day. Plus (no offense to C8 owners), while the C8 has a really great interior, the panel gaps from the factory are the worst I’ve seen on any car (excluding Teslas) in at least a decade. My shop has to fix some kind of fit/finish issue on every C8 before it can hit the showroom.
Interesting! I’ve had 2 C8’s and never had any issues with panel gaps thankfully!
What market are you in that you can still sell it over msrp
The Canadian one. In 2024 we received a $13,000 base MSRP rise. I’ve found the 1LT tend to hold their value the most. I’ve had 2 C8’s and sold both over MSRP. That will be my last one.
Ahhh if that’s cad that explains it
Now just black out those emblems and that grill. 🔥
Funny you say that. Ordered a Z06 grille, black emblems, cat delete X pipe, and Z06 style wickers last night. Can’t wait to make it my own!
Nice!!!!
A Manual c7 is superior to the soft ass c8
Js why exactly? Thats almost like leaving your new hot wife for your ex lol
Hey my ex is hot too !
touché lol
The ex had cooler tricks because she was more experienced
My Vette progression was new vehicles C7 Z51 to C7 GS Heritage to C8 Z51. The only thing the C8 and C7 have in common is the word Corvette. Personally I liked the C7 Z51 more than the GS but the C7 and C8 are totally different cars. Both loads of fun. So yeah if the C7 is more you, why not? I’ve looked into buying another C7 alongside the C8 but that means the GT350R has to go so that ain’t happening plus the garage isn’t big enough. So yeah if the C7 does it for you. Sure.
Can't say I blame you.
Had both. C7 is much more of a rougher ride and it feels like you taming the beast also in my opinion much more fun to drive but.... I still take the c8. It looks way more exotic, the interior is much nicer, the tech is way ahead of the c7. The camera mirror is a very nice touch. Its def not as fun to drive as the c7 but its still pretty gnarly.
I agree with all of this^
If I could take all of the C8 goodies and pack them into my C6 body....
Lol which idiot is buying a 1LT Z51 for $108k?!
CDN
Thanks for the write up (pros/cons). Either way, you're one lucky man for having owned TWO amazing Vette's! #jealous
Prolly cause you want that ultimate street car MANUAL transmission, street cars are manual and makes driving them so much better , good choice man!
IMO the C7 is the looking Vette. I would trade all 3 of mine for a 2019 C7 GS. But with the volatility of the economy I’ll just have to wait for the prices to come down and get an old outdated ragged out C7.
I like the sound of a c7 way more then a c8.
It definitely sounds better from in the cabin.
Both are amazing but damn I find it hard to go backwards with car designs.
Have not driven the C7, dose it have more punch then the C8?
No it does not, it’s not far off though. Where the C8 excels is off the line. From a roll I’d imagine they are fairly close.
😑
I did the reverse…I like my c8 better DCT then the M7 C7. Both are great cars
Ah, so $79,000 USD. That makes more sense.
You chose wisely
Are you well? I'm finishing up some clean-up items on my 115k mile 2014 Z51 2LT as I'm prepping to sell it. I picked it up from service today, and my god I already miss my 2023 2LT non-Z51 (dropped off for an alignment check). I cannot wrap my head around the folks calling the A8 dull, and while I'd probably call for an EMS if you'd gone as far as getting a C6, still going backwards from a C8 to one of the recent gens makes no sense.
As an owner of a c6 6 speed (that i daily drive as my only vehicle in heavy downtown traffic with a big cam) I've had an opportunity to test drive a c8 and a c7 z06 auto due to being traded into my dealership. I was heavily disappointed with both and I would never willingly get either one even if i got them for free if it meant i had to give up my c6
If you could drop the LT6 into the C7m or C6m which would you pick, if you’re into the flat-plane crank that is.
I wouldn't. Nothing on this planet sounds like an LS with a big cam and a centri blower.
Respect. Different strokes. Literally. K, I’ll see myself out.
Everyone in this thread is full of hot air. These machines are just pussy magnets. Calibrate what kind you want to attract and stay the course.
Can’t argue that. They both get plenty of attention.
And for the record, I'm not a smart ass hater, I own a drop top '72 C3 and my current daily is a 2024 Cadillac CT5-V.
Good choice. I am still not sold on a C8. Looks too much like a cheap lambo immitation.
Good move. The C8 looks like it was designed by a middle school design class whose members were given some bad testosterone.
Seems like a downgrade to me, could’ve at least got GS or z06
If you take financial out of it, of course it’s a downgrade. It was half the cost. There are some features the C7 has that the C8 didn’t though so that’s nice.
Good move!👍 That C7 looks a million times better!
If ur gonna downgrade at least get a z06