should i get the grand sport or the z06?

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Accepted Answer

Great question! The Grand Sport vs. Z06 debate is one of my favorites because both are genuinely excellent cars—they just excel at slightly different things.

**The Bottom Line:** For most drivers, I'd lean toward the **Grand Sport**, especially *this* one with only **733 miles** and that gorgeous **Purple/Targa** combo. Here's why, with real market data:

**Price Reality Check:**
Based on current market data, comparable low-mileage Grand Sports are running **$70K–$97K**, while 2017 Z06s range from about **$62K** (high-mileage) to **$85K** (low-mileage 3LZ). So you're looking at roughly a **$10K–$15K premium** for the Z06's extra power—*if* you can find one with comparable miles to this 733-mile example (which you mostly can't).

**Why the Grand Sport Wins for Most People:**

1. **The "Sweet Spot" Formula:** You get the Z06's *chassis*—widebody, massive brakes, Magnetic Ride Control, better cooling, potent aero—without the supercharged complexity. As the spec sheet notes: "Stingray engine + Z06 chassis & aero."

2. **Track Day Reliability:** The Z06's 650hp LT4 is a monster, but it's *famous* for overheating on track in sustained use. The Grand Sport's naturally aspirated 460hp LT1 just... works. Less heat, less drama, more seat time.

3. **Usable Power:** 460hp/465 lb-ft hitting the rear wheels through an auto is already *plenty* fast (0-60 in ~3.6 seconds). The Z06's 650hp is intoxicating but can be overwhelming on the street. Many owners say the GS is more "predictable" and easier to drive quickly.

4. **This Specific Car:** **733 miles**. Purple over Black. Targa top. 2LT package. Ultra-low-mile C7 Grand Sports in rare colors are appreciating assets—the Z06s made in higher numbers, and their complexity can scare future collectors.

**When to Choose the Z06:**
- You *must* have the fastest C7 possible
- You're chasing lap times above all else
- You plan engine mods anyway (then start with more power)
- You find a screaming deal on a clean one

**The X-Factor:** This Grand Sport is being sold by a dealer in Santa Barbara and is currently **available**. C7 Z06 inventory moves fast, and finding one with under 1,000 miles is genuinely tough. The low mileage + rare color combo makes this a potential future classic.

Want to see what else is out there? Browse the [C7 Grand Sport market](https://classic.com/m/chevrolet/corvette/c7/grand-sport/) or check [C7 Z06 listings](https://classic.com/m/chevrolet/corvette/c7/z06/) to compare your options.

What matters more to you—absolute power or the purity of a naturally aspirated V8 with proven reliability? Are you planning regular track days, or is this more for weekend canyon carving?

Lot 105576: 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport 2LT

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Lot 105576: 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport 2LT

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