Quote:
Originally Posted by sr71bb
To add to what DAVE mentioned, I had a ZL1 1LE for 3 months PRIOR to replacing that car with a highly modified SS 1LE variant that I have NOW.
The differences between Dave's set up and mine is I have more power because I am running a LME 416 NA engine (roughly 580 RWHP). I certainly DONT have the AERO he has though so no doubt his car is more capable on the track. So for ME , I MUCH prefer the SS !LE in the modified state that it is now over my ZL1 1LE for several reasons.
1. The WEIGHT difference is SIGNIFICANT as Dave mentions. All other things being equal this results in the car having a more neutral handling posture which DEFINITELY can result in better lap times capability. The SMOOTHER and easier the car can transition its body weight mass while transitioning thru corners, the FASTER the car will be.
2. POWER curve on an NA engine is MUCH smoother and LESS unsettling when compared to my ZL1 1LE. OBVIOUSLY a supercharged engine will have more torque and will make it earlier when compared to an NA engine. This is NOT as desirable though on a road course as it is for purposes of straight line acceleration as in roll racing or drag racing.
3. My SS 1LE NEVER goes into REDUCED POWER mode even in a 30 minute track session when compared to my ZL1 1LE. Compressed Boosted air makes for higher IAT's (Intake Air Temperature). This of course results in the ECU pulling timing from the engine with corresponding loss of power and torque.
4. My ZL1 1LE suspension was MUCH too harsh in general even on a road course with the 1400 pound rear spring rating. So at high speed and on anything that wasnt super smooth the car would become unsettled even to extent of becoming airborne on one particular connector. Of course it has been said my numerous people, for a daily driver my ZL1 1LE suspension was completely UNACCEPTABLE.
The biggest drawback I see on my current SS 1LE to my ZL1 1LE is fuel economy, A BIG POWER NA engine will do 10-12 MPG . I typically got 14-16 MPG on my ZL1 1LE.
Also I think there is a misconception that a BIG POWER NA car is less expensive to build than a supercharged car. I can tell you though that it is NOT. Dave will tell you the same thing I am sure!!!
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Well written! I like hearing stories like these when people go from top of the line back down to the SS 1LE in modified form. It's like a hidden gem thats not talked about