ZL1 1LE owners, looking for real world feedback - Page 3

devnull · 06-19-2018, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by URBAN LEGEND

I am to drive this bad boy in the rain right now.

Yeah I drove mine in the rain today a little bit too. I daily it (haven't had it very long yet though). It is a firm, but not overly crazy stiff ride for me honestly. I had a Z06 with a far stiffer aftermarket suspension and after over 8 years I never got tired of it. I think you just have to really like the firm ride to be happy with this one. I personally LOVE it, but can surely see how others wouldn't.

The mag ride cars are an excellent option since you can change the ride, and I was going to buy a regular ZL1 until I got to the dealer and the 1LE was sitting there next to the ZL1 I was working with. I drove both, and knew right away the 1LE was the one.

I intend to continue driving this thing on a daily basis, and look forward to the commute now!

gabf1 · 06-19-2018, 11:57 PM

I have a zl1 1le and it is the roughest ride of the cars I have. To give you an idea I have a gt3rs 997.2 and that is much smoother but still rough. I have put about 560 miles of pretty easy driving on the car and plan to take it easy until the break in period is over at 1500 miles.

I bought the car with the intention of using it on the track and to enjoy it to its fullest. I have other cars that I can cruise in and so if I want a smooth ride I will choose something else to drive.

My impressions so far is that at startup it sounds amazing. Very aggressive on start up and even moderate acceleration sounds incredible. The power and speed are incredible. It is very quick and turn in is precise. Acceleration out of corners is very impressive. I have to modulate the power with cold tires because it will kick out. Stock tires are extremely slippery with any kind of fluid on the street and I am very careful about that.

The cockpit is very comfortable. It has all the creature comforts including heated and ventilated seats, Apple CarPlay, and the PDS track recorder. Everything works nicely and I feel very comfortable driving the car. The touchscreen works well and is easy to use and navigate. Great for me because I’m not very tech savvy.

With regard to driving the car, it shifts extremely smooth and is super easy to drive. They have a feature that goes from first to 4th gear for fuel saving if you’re taking it easy. No lugging of the engine if you’re not on it. I actually didn’t think I’d like this before I bought the car, but after a few fill ups, I’m glad it’s there. Others have mentioned that fuel efficiency is horrendous. I’m currently taking it easy and am getting 12-13 miles a gallon.

One of the features that really got me excited about the car is Chevrolet’s version of autoblip or rev matching for downshifts. I am not that skilled on the track and heel to toe shifts is quite a challenge. This feature takes this technical aspect of track or aggressive driving out of the equation and allows me to focus more on the driving. Plus, it sounds really amazing!

The performance of the car overall is just amazing! I haven’t directly experienced this yet but after watching YouTube videos on the car was a major factor in my purchase. I know that there are a LOT of incredible cars out there that are very capable and I considered a few prior to purchase. I liked, and still do the Shelby gt350r, but the performance, from I saw was not on the same level as the 1LE. The 1LE has more than 100 more hp and even more torque than the Shelby. Not to mention the price; at least $10k more. Although I did find one for sale with 100 miles on it for $68K. Plus the Mustang didn't have the autoblip. I also looked at the grandsport corvette but that would’ve been more expensive too and I’d lose the back seat. If I wasn’t looking for a track capable car, a challenger hellcat would be very tempting.

It seemed to me that after watching the Nurburgring lap and Laguna seca as well as other track laps from real drivers, the ZL1 1LE was the most complete and capable street legal race car at its price point and way beyond. I was really awed by what Chevrolet has done. The only cars that have close to the performance are 3-10+ times more expensive!

And I haven’t even mentioned the looks. The car is probably one of the nicest looking sports cars around. I just love looking at the car. I get guys who speed up just to get beside me only to give me the thumbs up or wave. I have had complements at the car wash and the dealership and all over. It makes me happy.

This is only my opinion, but I love this car and what it does. It does have its weaknesses around ride quality and fuel mileage for daily driving. These perceived flaws become non-existent and irrelevant when using it for its proposed purpose: the track. For me, this purchase was a no brainer because I know what I want it for. I think that if I wanted it for mainly street driving with a couple of track or HPDEs a year, I would opt for ZL1 without the 1LE option. I hope this helps you with your choice. Good luck!

URBAN LEGEND · 06-20-2018, 04:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by devnull

Yeah I drove mine in the rain today a little bit too. I daily it (haven't had it very long yet though). It is a firm, but not overly crazy stiff ride for me honestly. I had a Z06 with a far stiffer aftermarket suspension and after over 8 years I never got tired of it. I think you just have to really like the firm ride to be happy with this one. I personally LOVE it, but can surely see how others wouldn't.

The mag ride cars are an excellent option since you can change the ride, and I was going to buy a regular ZL1 until I got to the dealer and the 1LE was sitting there next to the ZL1 I was working with. I drove both, and knew right away the 1LE was the one.

I intend to continue driving this thing on a daily basis, and look forward to the commute now!

The rear wing creates some great roester tails too‼️

devnull · 06-20-2018, 06:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by URBAN LEGEND

The rear wing creates some great roester tails too‼️

Heck yeah. Between that and the tires extending past the body this thing looks like a boat at speed on the highway... HAHA

closs2sx · 06-20-2018, 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by URBAN LEGEND

The rear wing creates some great roester tails too‼️

thats the only reason i would drive my car in the rain (it would be cool to see the aerodynamics) especially if I had the wife drive it and followed in another car but that will never happen as i can't bring myself to drive it in the rain ( i have a sickness I know)

URBAN LEGEND · 06-20-2018, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by devnull

Heck yeah. Between that and the tires extending past the body this thing looks like a boat at speed on the highway... HAHA

Lol. That’s a good one. No tailgating for sure.

URBAN LEGEND · 06-20-2018, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by closs2sx

thats the only reason i would drive my car in the rain (it would be cool to see the aerodynamics) especially if I had the wife drive it and followed in another car but that will never happen as i can't bring myself to drive it in the rain ( i have a sickness I know)

Drive it man. It did really well.

1LE Red Dragon · 06-20-2018, 10:50 AM

I will say this and maybe piss some people off. If you drive this car and think it's too stiff or rough to drive then you are either spoiled, or are really too old to be in a sports car of this caliber. I have a Cadillac Escalade, a Ford F150, and the ZL1 1LE. The Caddy is smooth, the truck is Smooth. The car is smooth on smooth roads. It's bumpy on rough non smooth roads. I've had cars rougher/bouncier. This car is the PERFECT examply of an Extreme Sports Coupe. It does everything right. Would I have been happy with the normal ZL1... Heck yes. But if I spending that much and don't mind shifting, why not get the ultimate Camaro. In my opinion, the only reason not to get the 1LE is if you need the A10. But only true Sports Enthusiast need apply. If that's not you. Then get the A10 and drag race it.

If I was 60+ or older I would probably get the standard ZL1.. unless your Superman or an anomaly of a driver your reflexes arent going to be good enough to push the 1LE to near the level it can perform.

590_The_Judge · 06-20-2018, 11:35 AM

(Bear with my tangent) I was hit by a car whilst on my motorcycle on 2/5/18. Zl1 1le in the greatest color (nightfall grey metallic) was delivered on 3/5/18. A 19 year old was kind enough to break my femur, tibia, and fibula in my left leg. I have a titanium rod from knee to hip, a titanium plate and half a dozen screws in the other bones and needed reconstructive surgery to repair the crush damage in my ankle (gear saved my foot and prevented any other injuries).

Yesterday i reached 500 miles and got the first oil change done. While i would say the ride is a tad harsh for the healing leg, it is not terrible. The worse the bump the better it rides at speed.

I had a 91 mustang with the ford racing road race springs. This car is just as stiff but is so much more controlled. Yes it is bouncy at times (settles incredibly quickly), but the trade off is well worth it (just talking about how it rode over bumps. No comparison can be made to the zl1, like apples and oranges).

My son has an ss 1le with mag ride and while impressive, isnt what i was looking for. I will be daily driving the 1le on terrible los angeles freeways. Once the leg heals it will be everything i originally hoped for and more.

I sold a 2013 dodge charger r/t super track pack with the 5.7 to get my zl1 1le. The ride was similar to the track setting on the mag ride, and got boring over time.

If you want an experience, the 1le is for you. If you want a very fast performance tourer i would say get the zl1. Only you know what you are looking for. I will probably only do a couple track days a year and the car is absolutely perfect. I think i would be bored with the zl1.

closs2sx · 06-20-2018, 09:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by URBAN LEGEND

Drive it man. It did really well.

I wont give in to the peer pressure lol

I cant do it just cant. If I did I would put it on a lift and spend 8 hours cleaning the underside and I don't have that kind of time. As it is During the winter while the cars are on the lift I wipe everything down with quick detail

waterman · 06-21-2018, 04:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 590_The_Judge

Yesterday i reached 500 miles and got the first oil change done. While i would say the ride is a tad harsh for the healing leg, it is not terrible. The worse the bump the better it rides at speed.

I'm really happy to hear that you have healed well enough to finally get behind the wheel (outside of the garage

). Rehabilitation and the healing process must be progressing well. Congrats my friend.

I agree, the ride is firm and super controlled. As you mentioned, it settles amazingly fast. Instills confidence, makes me want to push harder.

The ride of the ZLE is in no way harsh or rough. It is precise, planted, calculating...sublime.

Quote:

Originally Posted by closs2sx

I wont give in to the peer pressure lol

I cant do it just cant. If I did I would put it on a lift and spend 8 hours cleaning the underside and I don't have that kind of time. As it is During the winter while the cars are on the lift I wipe everything down with quick detail

I too have the sickness my friend. You are not alone.

I don't have a lift. I would have to get her up on 4 stands, lay on the creeper and wipe her down that way.

waterman · 06-21-2018, 04:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by URBAN LEGEND

The rear wing creates some great roester tails too‼️

Quote:

Originally Posted by devnull

Heck yeah. Between that and the tires extending past the body this thing looks like a boat at speed on the highway... HAHA

I would love to see that.

harner · 06-21-2018, 09:45 AM

Some really good feedback here, although you're all a little biased versus the "Youtube test drivers" haha. Honestly, it's the exact feedback I was hoping to read.

It's a shame the C7 feels so small inside versus the C5/C6. That would be a prime contender but the ZL1 1LE, right now, feels like "it." Now to find a used '18 in Hyper Blue this winter.

Thanks, all.

P.S.- would also like to see rooster tails.

590_The_Judge · 06-21-2018, 04:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waterman

I'm really happy to hear that you have healed well enough to finally get behind the wheel (outside of the garage

). Rehabilitation and the healing process must be progressing well. Congrats my friend.

I agree, the ride is firm and super controlled. As you mentioned, it settles amazingly fast. Instills confidence, makes me want to push harder.

The ride of the ZLE is in no way harsh or rough. It is precise, planted, calculating...sublime.

I too have the sickness my friend. You are not alone.

I don't have a lift. I would have to get her up on 4 stands, lay on the creeper and wipe her down that way.

Thank you sir! Its been a blast. Got to take it to 6600 rpm once on the way home from the dealer... its one of the greatest sounds known to man!

06-20-2018, 10:50 AM	#36
1LE Red Dragon Train Driver Drives: 2018 Summit White ZL1 1LE Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Lincolnton, NC Posts: 588	I will say this and maybe piss some people off. If you drive this car and think it's too stiff or rough to drive then you are either spoiled, or are really too old to be in a sports car of this caliber. I have a Cadillac Escalade, a Ford F150, and the ZL1 1LE. The Caddy is smooth, the truck is Smooth. The car is smooth on smooth roads. It's bumpy on rough non smooth roads. I've had cars rougher/bouncier. This car is the PERFECT examply of an Extreme Sports Coupe. It does everything right. Would I have been happy with the normal ZL1... Heck yes. But if I spending that much and don't mind shifting, why not get the ultimate Camaro. In my opinion, the only reason not to get the 1LE is if you need the A10. But only true Sports Enthusiast need apply. If that's not you. Then get the A10 and drag race it. If I was 60+ or older I would probably get the standard ZL1.. unless your Superman or an anomaly of a driver your reflexes arent going to be good enough to push the 1LE to near the level it can perform. __________________ 2018 Camaro ZL1LE / / Katech TB // RotoFab Dry // Borla 60606 // ATI Super Damper / / Last edited by 1LE Red Dragon; 06-20-2018 at 11:22 AM.

06-21-2018, 09:45 AM	#41
harner Drives: 2018 ZL1 A10 Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: NEPA Posts: 454	Some really good feedback here, although you're all a little biased versus the "Youtube test drivers" haha. Honestly, it's the exact feedback I was hoping to read. It's a shame the C7 feels so small inside versus the C5/C6. That would be a prime contender but the ZL1 1LE, right now, feels like "it." Now to find a used '18 in Hyper Blue this winter. Thanks, all. P.S.- would also like to see rooster tails. __________________ SOLD! 9/1/2020 2018 ZL1 A10 Hyper Blue - Rotofab CAI, Gibson catback @SurefireDetail OEM ZLE tails/third brake light, Gen5DIY reverse LEDs, front Amber LEDs, SMG laser LED side markers, SMG smoked reflectors 1994 Trans Am LM7/CPT 4L60E/9" 1987 IROC 2006 Silverado

06-19-2018, 11:57 PM	#30
gabf1 Drives: 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE Join Date: Jun 2018 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 5	I have a zl1 1le and it is the roughest ride of the cars I have. To give you an idea I have a gt3rs 997.2 and that is much smoother but still rough. I have put about 560 miles of pretty easy driving on the car and plan to take it easy until the break in period is over at 1500 miles. I bought the car with the intention of using it on the track and to enjoy it to its fullest. I have other cars that I can cruise in and so if I want a smooth ride I will choose something else to drive. My impressions so far is that at startup it sounds amazing. Very aggressive on start up and even moderate acceleration sounds incredible. The power and speed are incredible. It is very quick and turn in is precise. Acceleration out of corners is very impressive. I have to modulate the power with cold tires because it will kick out. Stock tires are extremely slippery with any kind of fluid on the street and I am very careful about that. The cockpit is very comfortable. It has all the creature comforts including heated and ventilated seats, Apple CarPlay, and the PDS track recorder. Everything works nicely and I feel very comfortable driving the car. The touchscreen works well and is easy to use and navigate. Great for me because I’m not very tech savvy. With regard to driving the car, it shifts extremely smooth and is super easy to drive. They have a feature that goes from first to 4th gear for fuel saving if you’re taking it easy. No lugging of the engine if you’re not on it. I actually didn’t think I’d like this before I bought the car, but after a few fill ups, I’m glad it’s there. Others have mentioned that fuel efficiency is horrendous. I’m currently taking it easy and am getting 12-13 miles a gallon. One of the features that really got me excited about the car is Chevrolet’s version of autoblip or rev matching for downshifts. I am not that skilled on the track and heel to toe shifts is quite a challenge. This feature takes this technical aspect of track or aggressive driving out of the equation and allows me to focus more on the driving. Plus, it sounds really amazing! The performance of the car overall is just amazing! I haven’t directly experienced this yet but after watching YouTube videos on the car was a major factor in my purchase. I know that there are a LOT of incredible cars out there that are very capable and I considered a few prior to purchase. I liked, and still do the Shelby gt350r, but the performance, from I saw was not on the same level as the 1LE. The 1LE has more than 100 more hp and even more torque than the Shelby. Not to mention the price; at least $10k more. Although I did find one for sale with 100 miles on it for $68K. Plus the Mustang didn't have the autoblip. I also looked at the grandsport corvette but that would’ve been more expensive too and I’d lose the back seat. If I wasn’t looking for a track capable car, a challenger hellcat would be very tempting. It seemed to me that after watching the Nurburgring lap and Laguna seca as well as other track laps from real drivers, the ZL1 1LE was the most complete and capable street legal race car at its price point and way beyond. I was really awed by what Chevrolet has done. The only cars that have close to the performance are 3-10+ times more expensive! And I haven’t even mentioned the looks. The car is probably one of the nicest looking sports cars around. I just love looking at the car. I get guys who speed up just to get beside me only to give me the thumbs up or wave. I have had complements at the car wash and the dealership and all over. It makes me happy. This is only my opinion, but I love this car and what it does. It does have its weaknesses around ride quality and fuel mileage for daily driving. These perceived flaws become non-existent and irrelevant when using it for its proposed purpose: the track. For me, this purchase was a no brainer because I know what I want it for. I think that if I wanted it for mainly street driving with a couple of track or HPDEs a year, I would opt for ZL1 without the 1LE option. I hope this helps you with your choice. Good luck!

06-20-2018, 11:35 AM	#37
590_The_Judge Drives: 2018 ZL1 1LE NGM Join Date: Dec 2017 Location: SoCal Posts: 80	(Bear with my tangent) I was hit by a car whilst on my motorcycle on 2/5/18. Zl1 1le in the greatest color (nightfall grey metallic) was delivered on 3/5/18. A 19 year old was kind enough to break my femur, tibia, and fibula in my left leg. I have a titanium rod from knee to hip, a titanium plate and half a dozen screws in the other bones and needed reconstructive surgery to repair the crush damage in my ankle (gear saved my foot and prevented any other injuries). Yesterday i reached 500 miles and got the first oil change done. While i would say the ride is a tad harsh for the healing leg, it is not terrible. The worse the bump the better it rides at speed. I had a 91 mustang with the ford racing road race springs. This car is just as stiff but is so much more controlled. Yes it is bouncy at times (settles incredibly quickly), but the trade off is well worth it (just talking about how it rode over bumps. No comparison can be made to the zl1, like apples and oranges). My son has an ss 1le with mag ride and while impressive, isnt what i was looking for. I will be daily driving the 1le on terrible los angeles freeways. Once the leg heals it will be everything i originally hoped for and more. I sold a 2013 dodge charger r/t super track pack with the 5.7 to get my zl1 1le. The ride was similar to the track setting on the mag ride, and got boring over time. If you want an experience, the 1le is for you. If you want a very fast performance tourer i would say get the zl1. Only you know what you are looking for. I will probably only do a couple track days a year and the car is absolutely perfect. I think i would be bored with the zl1.

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