[Ryephile]

The mag-ride in my SS 1LE does not feel artificial in any way. This is compared to the Ohlins on my sportbike and the ANZE/Penske's in my Miata. The way the mag-ride allows for simultaneous quick weight transitions and big bump absorption is clearly superior to a high end passive damper....except perhaps if you pony up for Penske regressive valving, which is outside the dollar amount most are willing to spend on a car with a license plate.

Ok, onto your main questions. IMO it's going to come down to if you simply want the V8 and are willing to pay for the fuel and insurance. The V6 1LE you'll be able to wring out easier and not destroy your drivers license. Both the V6 1LE and 1SS have the same brakes, suspension, and tires, so that'll all feel the same. The big difference will be the visual differences and the powertrain.

Have you driven a V6 Camaro yet? When you do, imagine that engine in how the 1SS felt in terms of handling and braking, and that'll be what the V6 1LE will be. My personal feeling about the V6 1LE is that it's best value proposition is in the 1LS trim so it's sticker price ($32,895) is way below a 1SS ($37,900). I suppose if you want to trade V8 for leather and interior goodies you can do a 2LT 1LE, which is a few hundred bucks less than a 1SS. So I think the question is; do you want the factory max-performance V6, or the equal-handling but otherwise considered "base model" V8?

The model you choose might give you opportunities for a deal. A standard 1SS will likely be able to negotiate a nice discount, whereas any 1LE likely will be minimal to no discount, given their track-pack nature.

I do think getting behind the wheel will answer all these questions for you. Good luck!