ZR-1 vs LT4: Which C4 Corvette Is Faster + Better?
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- čas přidán 18. 06. 2024
- For the first time ever, the Corvette ZR-1 takes on the 1996 LT4 in a series of tests. Which car is the ultimate Chevrolet-assembled C4 champ?
Tests include handling, acceleration, reliability, curb appeal, daily driving, and value.
Is an early ZR-1 the true king of the hill?
Or is the LT4 an underrated champ?
THE CARS
1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (LT5 V8)
Versus
1996 Chevrolet Corvette Collector Edition (LT4 V8)
CHAPTERS
0:00 Comparison Test
1:06 The ZR-1 (LT5)
2:11 The LT4 (Underrated?)
4:24 Contest 1: Performance Driving
8:38 Contest 2: 0-60 MPH Acceleration
10:02 LT4 0-60 Runs
11:07 ZR-1 0-60 Runs
12:48 Is The LT4 HP Underrated?
13:09 Burnouts!
13:46 Contest 3: Reliability + Maintenance
15:33 Contest 4: Curb Appeal
16:48 Contest 5: Daily Driving
17:59 Contest 6: Purchase Price
19:47 Final Results
OTHER CORVETTE VIDEOS I'VE MADE
Playlist: • CORVETTES Forever
ARCHIVAL FOOTAGE
Sourced from MotorWeek and General Motors
SPECIAL THANKS
To Jag and his ZR-1, follow him here: / bluerose_zr1
FOLLOW
Retro Cars Forever / Brad Hansen on Instagram
/ bradhansenmedia
#corvette #c4 #zr1 - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Great video! Can’t believe it’s taken almost 30 years for a genuine comparison video between the LT4 and LT5, with nice production quality to boot!
The ideal garage would have 1 of each for the exact conclusions you came to.
I’m glad you were finally able to drive a Z. That LT5 sound… such perfection.
Thanks so much! When researching this video, I couldn't believe no one has ever pitted these two cars together, especially as the LT4 was essentially a replacement for the LT5.
After running this test, my personal conclusion as someone who likes to daily their Vette is to save up and go for a late-model ZR-1, which I think is the best of both worlds! Its an intoxicating sound for sure.
@RetroCarsForever have you thought about getting a guy who tracks cars to test the ZR-1 with modern performance tires like Pilot sport 4S? Back in the 90s the original tires were basically all seasons. I'd love to see lateral g tests. Plus the look on your face when holding on mid corner would be fun to see 😅
Well, both of these cars have pretty aggressive modern rubber. No All Seasons here (though my C4 originally had All Seasons, you can see in some of the older shots from older car shows, I replaced them with Continental Extreme Contact Sport summer performance tires just in time for the actual comparison test).
Big difference in grip for sure!
@@RetroCarsForever Me being 50yrs old, thank you for this. I graduated HS in 91 and the ZR1 was a savior to me but in 96 I loved the GS and the manual 5.7 LT4. always wondered who would win.
@johnhenry267 You're very welcome, glad you enjoyed it!
The ZR-1 is like a girlfriend to have, the LT-4 is like a faithful wife to have.
😆
AMEN🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🌟👌🏾‼️
That probably explains the high divorce rate 😂
@@fastc4zr-1😆
So either way you're stuck with something that'll drain your wallet but feel good to get behind....
I have a base '93 C4 with the LT1. It came with a chip to delete the 1-4 shift and gives it a bump in HP. Also just recently picked up a '91 ZR1 that needs, at the least, a clutch. I thought it needed an entire transmission but turns out it actually did move in gear but slipped like crazy. Hoping to get it on the lift soon and check everything out. The base '93 has 150k miles and looks like it. But still drives great. The ZR1 somehow has 110k miles and looks like it has 10k. Nothing is worn out. Only thing interior-wise that doesn't work are the air bladders in the seats. Can't wait to get it driving!
Awesome! Would love to hear your thoughts between those two cars once that ZR-1 is up and running.
What chip is in your LT1?
@@RetroCarsForever Not sure. It came installed when I bought it. I didn't even know about it until I was as chasing down a bad optispark. I pulled the chip out seeing if it was the issue and there was a noticeable difference in power.
I purchased a base 1993 Corvette a few months ago. I noticed the car sitting for a year or so and finally decided to stop and check it out. Turns out it had a for sale sign behind the windshield that had fallen. The interior looked decent overall but, the body was in rough shape from sitting, but decided to call the number on the sale sign. The owner told me it ran but the transmission was bad, probably 4l60 issues or tv cable adjustment. I bought it, towed it home and made a few posts/calls. My friend buys and sales cars on the side and had a spare 4l60e from a pickup laying around. I made the necessary mods to get it in the car and to my surprise it worked. I installed a micro controller from eBay since the car has no provisions for electronic transmission control and didn't want to drop the coin for a transmission controller not knowing the state of the transmission at the time. I installed the trans go vac-46 mod to control the transmission pressure since the max line pressure was causing very firm shifts. Before I purchased the car I watched a few videos from this channel that pushed me towards the car. I wanted a c6 grand sport, but ya know, life. Overall pleased with the cars performance even though it has a ton of maintenance to be done.
There’s a ‘91 ZR1 near me for $15k with 111k miles. Paint is a little faded. If I could get it for something around $12k I would be over the moon
I've got two types of pickles. Dill and bread & butter.
in 1991, the lt5 was rated at 375hp, but in later years it was bumped up, but if you have a freer flow exhaust its basically almost at 405. the zr1 was a monster. the best way to see how fast it is is to dump the clutch at 3500 rpm and let it eat. youll see how fast it really is.
Not quite lol. The 93+ ZR1 was way better. John lingenfelter said the cams we're off by as far as 5°! Just degreeing them right picked up 50hp! And that's before adding headers which added another 30! John lingenfelter is the reason Chevy came out with the LS7! Lingenfelter did it first. Then Chevy followed! He should be accredited with the 427 Small block! Rip John.
Yeah, no idea where the 2k they are using came from
So what exactly are you disagreeing with?
So much false info
I own a 91 ZR-1 and a 93 anniversary base. You are 100% correct - I would much rather daily the non-ZR-1. But the Z is one of the more special cars America has ever built. That can't be measured in 0-60 times or HP. My Z is my favorite car I own. Loved the video.
Thanks so much, awesome to hear from an owner such as yourself.
After finally driving a ZR-1, I get the appeal...It was, at the time, probably the best car in the world! And as much as I love my LT4, I dont think it can make that claim.
The history of the Z and the street cred truly make it shine. I definitely want to own a (later year) ZR-1 someday!
@@RetroCarsForever The ZR-1 community would welcome you with open arms. And keep Marc Haibeck in mind when you get one. He took my car to just over 500 hp. It's an absolute riot to drive.
@@JP-yf1cf Thank you! Researching the Haibeck chip for this video, it's definitely something I would be interested in...For me, less about power and more about drivability and longevity.
Rookie talk
I’ve always been amazed that these two cars have never been pitted against each other! I go through stages where I like how C4 look and feel I need one, and can never decide between these two. This has been going on for 15 years 😂
Ha, happy to help make your decision with this video then! I also couldnt believe this matchup has never happened in the past three decades, especially as the LT4 was essentially the LT5's replacement, so it was a blast finally making this comparison come true.
Better late than never!
@@RetroCarsForever Thank you!
Great video, and I agree with your conclusion. I've had three C4 ZR-1s, two C4 LT1s, and a very rare LT4 Firehawk. The LT4 engine is definitely way underrated from the factory, and the later 96 C4 got all the updates to the car they made over the years, but the big thing with the ZR-1 is the rarity of that LT5. The sound (especially with a Corsa) is just incredible, and when you raise the hood, everyone gathers around it.
Thank you! I had to look up the LT4 Firehawk (www.motortrend.com/features/1997-pontiac-firehawk/), never heard of that one! What a rare bird you have, that's so cool.
Cool to hear your personal findings on these cars mirror what I found in this test. That LT5 sure draws a crowd!
@@RetroCarsForever Yeah, the LT4 Firehawk was definitely rare, kind of wish I'd kept it. I actually went from the LT4 Firehawk to a lightly modded 91 ZR-1 many years ago, the LT4 had better low end to midrange torque, while the LT5 just keeps pulling on the top end. Two very different ways to make power, with the LT4 being better for typically around town and daily driver use, while the LT5 is really better when you can open it up and stay in the throttle all the way to redline.
...and dat biiig azz....
@@RetroCarsForever They also made a few 1997 LT4 Camaro SS.
The 96 CE LT4 is an awesome C4, but I would probably take the ZR-1. I like the low and wide body/stance and the LT5 is pretty badass.
“King of the Hill”
After driving both, I'd love to own a late-model ZR-1. Expensive, but best of both worlds really. And agreed, there's something about the low/wide stance of the ZR-1 that's understated and badass!
That heinie is soooo awesome. Baby got back!
This was a great comparison! Really fun, with plenty of practical considerations too. Really nice work.
Thanks Brian! I'm pretty proud of this one, I think it struck a nice balance between fun and informative.
I own a 93 ZR-1 40th I wish you had started your acceleration tests at 3000 to 3500 because that is where the ZR-1 comes into its power. Would love to see a rematch with higher launch RPM's
We talked about that, but wanted to emulate how an owner would actually drive/launch their car in the real world.
Dropping the clutch at 3000/3500 is way higher than most owners would ever be comfortable doing as it's hard on the cars, so we settled on 2000 rpm instead.
Also, we actually did around 5 acceleration tests for each car (only showed the last two in the video), so we didn't want to burn up our own cars too bad.
He didn’t want to spank his LT4 too hard. 😂
Love this Video Guys. I really love the Offical Timer & 2 Dudes just having fun!!
Thank you!
Brad returns with another informative and top notch video on the C4! You seriously deserve Hagerty levels of subscribers with how much work you put in each upload. its always a pleasure seeing your name pop up in my subscriptions
to be honest, since I own a 1994 LT1 I'm quite jealous of both the LT5 and LT4 Corvettes so it's hard to pick which one I'd go with--but if I absolutely must make a choice i'd probably have to go to the LT4 due to parts availability and familiarity from working on my LT1. the water pump and opti are huge pains (already did em though) but the LT5 seems very intimidating to me. but if i were a better DIY mechanic (and had more money) I'd go with the King of the Hill--what a legendary car!
Wow, thank you SO much!
And agreed, familiarity with the mechanicals of an old car like any C4 is paramount to a happy ownership experience. I will say after doing research that I dont think the ZR-1 is the scary monstrosity that people make it out to be, even if an LT1/LT4 is way simpler and cheaper to deal with.
@@RetroCarsForever well that's good news that the ZR1 is easier than I feared! makes it all more valuable. As i was watching your video I found it pretty funny how your '96 had the ZR1 rims but the ZR1 had '91-96 rims! Do you know when the ZR1 changed to the 5 spoke style?
Brad I have both of these and your analysis is spot on. ZR-1 is a unique experience, specifically the sound of the high reving engine at 5 to 6.5k
Thanks, great to hear! And yes, the LT5 engine sound is SOMETHING ELSE when it gets revved up. Intoxicating mix of good ol' American V8 muscle with the high revs of an exotic. Love it! @@anthonygrisolia8403
this was awesome! so funny I’ve never seen your channel before I got my 1991 ZR1 two months ago, and now I can’t get enough! Mine was in a collection in only had 9K miles. I am headed towards 10k! I love this thing! great vids! cheers
Thank you, and welcome to the channel, I've filmed a ton of C4 videos if you're interested (here's a playlist)
czcams.com/play/PLZVytpvgg5yfaAocNPR3Zu-ckM5DAAgk0.html
After driving this ZR-1, I do think it's a car I HAVE to own one day.
Get one! Mine was 39K and with 9k miles that’s about the norm. You were spot on on your market prices. Keep cool vids coming!
The LT4 & 5 engines are amazing. Even by today's standards!
I prefer the interior of the ZR1 but I bet I'd fit better in the 96.
Good review and thank you.
Thank you for watching!
Appreciate you putting so much love into these c4 vettes
Thank you, I appreciate it!
Awesome video Brad! You went in great depth with the comparisons in a real world fashion. Loved it!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Personally the 96 grand sport is my favorite corvette of all time but all C4s hold a special place in my heart especially the 92-96 models.
For me its the 1993 ZR-1 since it has the best seats, retains the glove box and got the upgraded 405hp LT-5 Motor. Only downside is it didn't come with the best colour options and the most common one is that dull looking Ruby Red.
@kimblem.w9952 I have the same seats in mine the optional leather sport seats and mine has the glove box as well lol it also has the FX3 suspension. The sport seats came standard in the ZR1 I believe.
@@C4VETTELT1 they do but the overall seat design changed in 1994 and the side bolsters weren't as aggressive. I think they also used better leather in the older seat design imo.
@@kimblem.w9952 I believe Dark Rose Metallic offered in 93 with the dove grey interior is as good as it gets for C4..
Dark Rose was offered again on 2017 C6.
I get complements often when filing up....not about the car but about the color.
The ‘96 GS is a real gem.
Throughly enjoyed this video! I was lucky enough to get a ‘96 Grand Sport but I love ZR-1s too! Always wanted to see a shootout between both cars as the LT4 and LT5 comparison is a common topic among C4 enthusiasts. Thanks for making this happen!
Thank you! I kept seeing this topic come up in C4 circles as well, and when I got my LT4, was even more curious to find out. Couldnt believe there was never a back to back comparo in three decades, so that meant I had to be the one to make it happen, which was a joy to put together. Thanks for watching!
I like to see the Grand Sport go next to a ZL1. They both have the wider tires on them.
I would be happy to put my Grand Sport up against a ZR-1.
This is so well put together. Love the images / scenery / lighting. You nailed it. Fun to watch!
Thank you!
Great videos! Please keep them coming!
Thank you, will do!
That LT4 was no joke. Lots of hot rod tricks right from the factory. Way underrated by Chevy so as to not piss off the upcoming C5 LS1 owners.
Great review and comparison test. I love both cars and as you proved the LT4 can hold its own up against the King of the hill.
If I had the money I would want to own both models. Since I have a limited budget I purchased a still very capable 1996 LT1 Corvette coupe. Thanks a lot for this review !
Thank you! A 1996 LT1 Auto is still a ball to drive.
After doing this test, I want to save up for a late model ZR-1, which I feel would be the best of both cars (just pricey and hard to find one!)
Worth every moment, thank you! ❤
Thank YOU!
Great job on this comparison. I too had that issue and done others doing similar comparisons at that time. Man, those are great memories.
Thank you! And yes, seems we share nostalgia for those wonderful car magazines of the 90s. I still have hundreds of them in my collection!
Awesome video! A lot to unpack here. Strong work on this first comparison. Would have been nice to see a '95 ZR-1 vs the '96 LT4 as by '95 those cars were put together much better.
Corvette from the Inside gives a lot of insight into these two cars. The LT1/LT4 spirit live on as the current motors in the C8 are built in-house.
Anway, a lot more can be written but that is for another night.
And for sheer performance to dollar ratio the LT1 with a few mods is still the top value if stock is not the main goal.
Thank you, and agreed on all counts! I bet a 1995 ZR-1 would be better in every way than that 1991, BUT they are in a totally different price class to the LT4 (they're 10 to 15 grand more), so it didn't feel like a fair fight.
And yes, best bang for the buck is an LT1 with some mods (especially rear end gear swap).
There's nothing similar other than the "LT" moniker between the two gens of engine families other than they're small blocks. The new LTs are basically direct injected LSs.
@@zztop7306 the one main thing that is similar between the LT1/LT4 and current Corvette motors is that GM decided to bring production in-house. They didn't need to go outside for the Corvette's highest performing motor. The LT5 was developed back when the L98 was only making around 240 hp. The LT1 helped bridge that gap and was way cheaper for Chevy to produce in-house.
These are two very nice C4s, and both are in great shape. That worn leather is very easily fixed and not overly expensive for you guys in USA, things change a bit here in Australia though.
There is more to the performance of these two than just the power output. The LT5 has a much broader and more even curve than the base Corvette engine had, even the LT4 as good as it was from the factory isn't really going to meet the challenge.
I have a 93 Callaway Supernatural 383 LT1 and whilst it will beat a lightly modded later LT5, it also cost significantly more both now and when it was new, and the difference isn't exactly huge either.
I bought a ‘93 LT1 a year ago, my dream car in high school, but I’ve always wanted the ZR-1. I enjoyed your comparison and is exactly what I had been waiting for.
Right on! Glad you enjoyed the comparison and that it was worth the wait. And congrats on getting your dream car, I know the feeling, and it's a GOOD one!
Little late to the party here, but, thank you for this video!! Been slowly gathering intel on which C4 would meet the weekend/“Sunday driver” vibe better and this was really comprehensive. Super helpful. Thanks very much!!
Thanks for stopping by! If you're curious to know more about C4s, you could also check out my C4 Buyer's Guide here-
czcams.com/video/N0BW_TFzKng/video.html
I think a roll race would be interesting with these two. I'd also like to see rolls from different speeds too. 30, 40, 60....even 70mph starts. Would be sweet to see carwow do these side by side or even with other generations of Vettes.
I did consider doing a "highway roll" test, but couldnt find the filming time to make that happen, as well as pushing safety concerns. I do suspect the ZR-1 would've had even more of an advantage.
Great video! I have a '93 ZO7 LT1 and I would love an LT4 due to it being easier to work on and parts being cheaper/easier to find. The ZR1 is awesome but I wouldn't drive it as much. I got my LT1 in mint condition with 44k miles for $13.5 so even with big valve heads, cam, and bolt ons... Its will be under $20k for a 400hp Corvette 😎
Thank you! And agreed.
One of the most challenging characteristics of a car is to obtain incredible handling. Much easier to make HP. Given that, the LT1 Z07 would be my choice of C4s!
Base LT4 coupe owner here. Thank you for this awesome video!!
Thank you! LT4s UNITED!
Soooo good! The cars look incredible and both sound mean as H3LL!! Love hearing that ZR-1 roar 🔥🔥 Can’t believe these two have never been compared before but so cool to finally see it.
Thank you! I had to verify that no one had ever publicly compared these two cars before, and couldnt believe no one had in 30 years...So I'm glad I was able to finally make it happen. Glad you enjoyed it!
Man you need to get those cars to sea level!! My 92 LT1 does 0-60 in 5.1 all day long but mine is a built automatic. And the 5.1 definitely has room for improvement for some damn reason my car shifts into 2nd at 4,800 RPM!! I need to have it rebuilt again I think. Lol traction control became standard in all corvettes in 92.
Wow, that's fast for a 92 auto! I'm curious, how have you tested your car and your where?
@RetroCarsForever just like you on a country road with a timer lol mine is pretty far from stock. I haven't retested yet after I did the headers.... but I got full custom exhaust system from headers to tips ( its an intermediate pipe and secondary cats from a 2017 grand sport Frankensteind in with the C7 cats also) built 700R4 stage2 shift kit but like I said it's shifting into 2nd at 4,800 RPM so the 0-60 time will improve when it's shifting when it should.
Wow, that's FAST! As I mentioned in the video, a country road is not gonna be anywhere near drag strip or test area times. So your car could likely run a mid 4 sec time on a proper surface.
@RetroCarsForever I was thinking about the same but also shifting correctly. Shifting into 2nd at 4,800 is not cool!! Lol but it makes enough tourqe it kinda just powers through it.
My 85 L98 with 3.07 rear end at about sea level will hit 60 around the low 5's, my best 60' at the strip was a 1.84. That altitude makes a world's difference. Very simple bolt ons and a newer ECM Swap.
Absolutely S tier video content man! I still have a lot of those old issues of car magazines too. Again great video man
Thank you! Glad to hear I’m not the only one who hoards old car mags 😂
Oh this video was so enjoyable!
It feels like a classic episode of a car show I love it! Hope you get access to more cool cars you can check out and make these kinds of reviews on!!
Thank you, hope so too!
Really well done video! Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
Great video review. Thanks guys. Awesome!!!!
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!
Great Video, i would have loved to see them drag race. I always love your C4 Corvette content. Keep up the great work. Please make us a drag race video between the two cars.
I love your videos. After lots of research (most, if not all, of your videos), I bought a '96 CE LT4 with black interior and 36k miles. It's beautiful. I appreciate this video and further support that the LT4 was underrated in the horsepower stats. Keep posting great videos!
Thank you! You bought almost exactly what I have it sounds like, obviously I think it's a great choice.
And I was honestly a skeptic of the LT4 underrating legend, until this test. While I dont think my test alone is conclusive, I think it adds to the pile of evidence already out there.
How much did you pay if you don’t mind me asking? I’m looking at a LT4 ce vert with 34k
@@michaelcooper9528 I think I got a really good deal. I paid $17k. It needs a few small fixes but runs amazingly. See @RetroCarsForever for his videos on the common issues.
Great video! I used to own an ‘85 Coupe and will always love the C4 generation. I now have an ‘07 Coupe and love the C6 generation, too. Keep up the fun videos! 😎
Thanks, and happy new year!
Love my 91 ZR-1.
Marks America's return to the performance car scene, in grunty, unapologetically brawny style.
A true piece of history.
And that engine is an "Alien" piece of design.
Nice! Truly, a world-beating car that Americans could be proud of.
Awesome video man. Really enjoyed it
Thank you Steve, glad you liked it!
Great video…I picked all these details apart doing research before I bought my 85’s. I came to the same conclusions. You nailed it!
Thanks!
great video. very informative. and your shifting leaves plenty of room for improvement
Thanks! But how could the shifting be better? I definitely didn't want to "power shift" like the GM test driver you see in the video (not letting of the gas during shifts just seems too abusive and not how a "normal" Corvette driver would operate their car)
Just stumbled across your channel, this was an amazing video! Thanks, you put a lot of time and effort into editing and it paid off. You got my sub! I'd love to see both of you guys as a guest on TFL and compare chases base c4.
Welcome, and thank you! I love TFL, I wish we lived closer, would love to do something with those guys.
Very informative and enjoyable! I agree with your assessment.
Thank you!
Love the comparison! I bought a 93 40th edition as a project car. Absolutely love it and am now thinking to add a ZR-1 as a stable mate. Thanks for the vid.
Thank you! Congrats on the 40th!
Really love this. Subscribed.
Awesome, thank you!
Great video and awesome cars! 💪🏼
Thank you!
I'm sharing this with a friend that owns a 1990 ZR-1, 1993 40th convertible, and a Grand Sport. He has a few more Special Editions to go as your other video has pointed out. All the best!
Awesome! I'm super curious to hear what he thinks about this video.
What a collection he has!
I always love seeing new videos from you, Brad! I have driven both the LT4 and the LT5 but I did end up buying a '90 ZR-1. The LT5 is my preferred choice. I always say I wish we weren't on opposite coasts cause I'd love to go cruisin' with you! Try and make a video about the L69 equipped f-bodies if you can.
Thanks man! Out of curiosity, why did you end up choosing the LT5 over the LT4?
@@RetroCarsForever Well I grew up riding in my Dad's '90 convertible 6 speed L98 Corvette and it made a lasting impression on me. After the accident in the '95 Firebird, the current owner had me test drive it and he wanted to see if I would buy it. The car needed a lot of TLC at this point so I decided I would hunt down a different '90 Corvette. '90 is my favorite year because of the one year only wheel design, the older exterior look, and the fresh interior. When buying a 1990 Corvette, you might as well get the ZR-1! I previously had seat time in L98, LT1, and LT4 Corvettes. My first time with the LT5 was the day I bought my ZR-1. What a car! I have nothing against the LT4. I just decided to get the ZR-1. I do like the exotic feel of the motor and the car show attention it receives.
@@FirebirdDude Great reasons! And agreed...The performance difference between a base 1990 and a 1990 ZR-1 is pretty significant! In later years that gap got narrowed quite a bit.
Great video!
Thank you!
Congratulations from Spain!! Great video and great shots. I have a 90 ZR-1 and it's the best car I ever owned. I agree with all your words.
Thank you! Pretty cool to know that there's a C4 ZR-1 driving around Spain!
Great work, I like them both,wow awesome !
Thank you very much!
Great Vid!
Many thanks!
Beautiful video.
Thank you very much! That's something I really strove for, so that's awesome to hear.
To my knowledge C4 turbine wheels are the only wheel set that actually has left and right ones separately designed.
My dad had ‘94 LT1 and I was sleeping in the hatch! Totally enjoyed this video!
Loved the video. Both are great examples of what the Corvette has always been about. Performance that kept up with super cars of it’s era that were obtainable to own. Even at their current price points, 30 years later they have retained half their original value. Best smile per mile cost I can imagine.
Thank you! And totally agree...The magic of Corvettes is their bang for the buck (as well as their everyday usability). And as the years go on, they have only become BETTER deals, especially when you compare their current values to the insane prices of their import competitors of the day (which are much more rare).
I'd even go so far to say that, for the money, you can't buy a better all around sports car than either of these two C4s.
Not just that, the C4 ZR-1 actually held track records for a production car, beating the 911 Turbo, and even the Ferrari F40 on some tracks
The C4 ZR-1 has been one of my favorite corvettes since I was a child! 😍😍Sensational comparison! 👏👏👏
Thank you! And same here.
I love my C5 Z06 but I cannot shake the want for a dang C4 LT4. Heck, I'd even settle for a late gen C4 in general. I do admit it is because I am 45 and the C4 was the Corvette of my childhood. I bought the C5 Z06 because, well, it is a C5 Z06. Simply an amazing track car, all day. But the C4 still tugs at me and this video didn't help. Great job on this one!
Thank you! I feel ya, the C4 was the Corvette of my childhood as well. As cool as later Corvettes are and as many of improvements they made (especially with the C5 which was a quantum leap forward), I feel the MOST nostalgia for the C4 and it's classic style.
Your C4 Videos are great 👍
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoy them.
Really enjoyed that video. Exceptionally well done. It would be interesting to compare a grand sport with its huge rear tires to that ZR1. That is going to narrow and perhaps even erase the 0 to 60 distinction that you saw. anyway, great video
Thank you! And yes, I'm curious how a Grand Sport would've fared with its fatter rear wheels, certainly would've narrowed that gap.
I remember having a copy of the zr-1 dealer promotional VHS tape when I was a kid. Always loved to watch it and see the dude power shift it like he didn’t care.
That’s where I got that clip from! Legendary.
Excellent review/comparo. I have many of the old magazines you featured (they should be collectibles as well...lol), Personally love the Silver collector's edition, a bit understated but a beast at heart. The C4 Grand Sport was a beauty, no surprise with its collectibility today. Hard to believe these cars are nearly 30 or more years old at this point.
Thank you! And yes, mentally, it's difficult for me to accept that 30 years has gone by since these cars (and those magazines) were new!
FINALLY a LT-4 vs ZR-1 video! it seems these 2 monsters are never pitted against each other. I went the LT-4 route but always wondered about ZR-1s...
Once my friend got his ZR-1 I was curious about how it would fare against my LT4, especially with the legend that the LT4 is underrated. Couldn't believe that in three decades no one had done this comparo before, especially as the LT4 was basically the LT5's replacement. So, I knew I had to make it happen, and it was fun doing so!
love the vid, awesome.
Thank you!
Good piece!
Thank you!
I love 90's C4 Vettes!! Cool video.
Thank you, me too!
I remember reading at the time where one journalist said the LT-5 was a great engine in search of a great car. Hmmm...I'm also amazed at how expensive the ZR-1 was at the time. Considering I was able to get my C6Z for a bit over $68.7K ordered new back in 2012, I kinda feel blessed.
I'm curious what journalist said that about the ZR-1, having read all the reviews from the major car mags of the era they were almost all glowing (except for that super high price). Having the LT5 made outside of Chevrolet likely added to cost (Lotus designed and Mercury Marine assembled).
Do you have a C6 Z06 or a C6 ZR-1?
@@RetroCarsForever It was so long ago, it's kinda hard to remember... It might've been Automobile Magazine when David E. Davis was running it...I think...I remember being struck by the remark. As you guys mentioned, the C4 had its interior noise issues. And I believe that's what lead to that comment.
Z06. I decided I didn't want the extra complexity & issues of forced induction. I love the throttle linearity & super instant throttle response of the LS7. It's a perfect compromise, imo. After 10+ years, I still feel I made the right choice. It's just a 1LZ. Was trying to keep it as light and simple as possible....
GREAT POST BRAD‼️
Thank you!
Have owned 2 ZR-1s. A 92, 375 hp and a gorgeous 93, black rose on white interior.
Tell your friend to swap out the rear gears to a set of 4:09s Best bang for the buck and really no downside.
Totally agree with the daily, versus weekend driver.
Another important note is gas mileage between the 2 examples.
Great video👍🏼🙏
Thank you! Black rose with white interior is one of my favorite C4 color combos.
As for gas mileage, I didn't mention it because by all accounts they appear to be pretty much the same (which would make sense as both engines are the same displacement).
Great content
Thank you!
I have had the pleasure of doing a few pulls against a 94 ZR-1 in my 96 LT-4 and the runs were VERY CLOSE. Basically a tie the first time, and a half a car win for him the second time...
light to light on the street mind you.
He said his was stock, mine has an air box, muffler delete and 315's out back. Both cars were under 20k miles.
However, when we got on the highway he walked away from me as we went into fourth.
Awesome cars.
Cool to hear that you got similar results to what we achieved in our test!
@@RetroCarsForever y...you tasted them?
@@nunyabusiness896 Ha, autocorrected that into a weird sentence didn't I! 😆
I was driving the ‘90 ZR1 and the ‘96 Grand Sport back to back in Gran Turismo 5 (video game), and found my lap times almost identical. I came here to find out what was up, because I was expecting the Z car to be a lot faster. I enjoyed the video a lot. Good job.
Thank you! I totally forgot that you could drive both C4s in GT5. Gotta dig up my old copy!
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks!
@@RetroCarsForever thank you for putting this together! What a genuine treat
'91 base, drop top here, I simply want to add whatever it takes to get that growl. Loved all the comments and plan to come back to read more later on. And yes, fantastic video!
Thank you! Corsa cat back exhaust is probably what you want to get a great sound without too much drone. I tried simple Magnaflow mufflers on my car when I got it and the drone was so bad I went back to stock (my experience here)...
czcams.com/video/k8t7_XdXGyg/video.html
Got it, thanks for answering. I'll wait to spring comes back around and stack a few bucks and make a decision. Love the Corvette community!!! @@RetroCarsForever
Mechanically, the Gran sport and collector edition are similar, however the Gran sport has the wider wheels and tires of the zr1. But happy to see the comparison. Thanks!
Yep, the only mechanical difference between the Grand Sport and my Z51 LT4 are those wider rear tires (at least on the coupes, convertibles had the normal rear tires)
My dad has a 1991 C4 ZR-1 with an OLD lt-5 and i see this video entertaining
Another great c4 vid!!!
Thanks Mark!
Great timing, i sold my 94 C4 2 years ago and last week i finally started to look for a ZR1.
Best of luck in your search! Good ZR-1s are not easy to find, especially for a good deal.
@RetroCarsForever luckily high mileage doesn't scare me :)
'91-'93 ZR-1 375bhp, '94-'95 ZR-1 405bhp.
Love to see the same tests 1996 LT4 stock vs ZR-1 '95 stock.
I picked up a Polo Green LT4 with 53K miles for a song a couple years ago. It needed some very minor mechanical work, which I was able to do myself (replace fuel sending unit, new pads/rotors all around), and still needs some radio and carpet repair which I'll get to in time, but I am thoroughly enjoying it. My young son's baseball teammates get a kick when we pull up for gameday! LOL
Thats awesome! I actually wanted a Polo Green LT4 but couldn't find a nice enough example when I was looking (so went with this Collector Edition instead). It's a great color. I'm sure kids love seeing the pop up headlights in action too, considering that's something they dont see anymore either!
Great video I have a 1986 c4 original owner with 18000 miles would love to see a comparison with one of these bought it new when I was 20
Love my 96 LT-4 with the Red interior! 2nd owner, first owner brought it new in Hawaii when he was in the Navy and shipped back to Iowa when he got out.
Cool test, always been a big fan of the ZR1 as it was in Need for speed pc game as a kid :)
Would be interesting to do the test with a later ZR1, also they were planning a 96 year ZR1 but was cancelled but was going to be 475bhp shame they never did it as the last of the line, but i think the cost of the car is what killed it.
Might be worth getting one of those performance measuring apps like Dragy as it makes doing the tests easier.
Great video and i am subscribed for more content :)
Thank you! And yes, this video was kinda an experiment, if I do something similar I'll invest in a Dragy.
I’m lucky enough to own a 91 ZR-1 and a 96 LT4 base convertible . Both are great are great cars to drive . The Z has some mods , exhaust, chip , lowered , wheels & tires 4:10s. It’s fun to drive but can be an assault on the senses. The LT4 convertible is a joy to drive in the summer.
For all out performance the Z is the clear winner, but for an all around driving cruising car the LT4 is tough to beat.
Both are great cars in their own way.
Awesome, LOVE hearing comments from people who actually own both cars! Sounds like your Z is a ultimate "weekend" fun performance car, and your LT4 convertible is a great smooth cruiser.
Man I love your C4 content . I have a super nice polo green 94 coupe with an auto. I want a 6 speed car so bad .
Thank you! I love Polo Green, almost bought one but couldnt find a nice enough example so I got my Collector Edition instead. You could always just be on the hunt for a 6 speed model and grab it when one comes out!
First video I’ve seen of yours. Excellent content! I wonder, have you ever compared the original version of a car…say a Challenger with its new version? Might be eye-opening.
Thank you! And I love that idea, haven’t done that before.
You got my subscription click just from the title. Been wondering this forEVER!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Great comparo on some familiar roads!
Thank ya!
Brad your videos never disappoint!! How has this never been compared before! As an LT4 owner a ZR1 is next!
Thank you! I was also surprised no one has done this comparo in 30 years...Especially considering the LT4 was essentially the replacement for the LT5. So I knew I had to do it!
I'm with you, I think my next C4 has gotta be a ZR-1, preferably a late model version for more daily refinement and power.
I love that Steel Blue paint on the ZR1… the silver of the 96 is also pretty, but I haven’t seen many examples of the C4 painted in Steel Blue at all. It’s gorgeous.
Agreed, I've seen thousands of C4s in my lifetime, but I think this is the only Steel Blue example I've ever seen in person.
Outstanding!
Thanks!
Great video! 👍 👍👍👍
Thank you!
@@RetroCarsForever let me refrase... Best Corvette C4 channel on CZcams 😅👍
I grew up wanting one of these so bad, I still love them, but one of my favorites is the C5.
Great video yet again! Thanks to your insight and research, I got my hands on an amazing 95 LT1 with a manual! I would love to see an LT1 vs LT4 comparison video to see how much of a difference there really is between the two. Keep them amazing content coming!✌🏾
Thank you! You have one of the very best of the C4 breed for sure.
I owned a 95 LT1 w/auto and 3.08 rear gear. Ran a 13.54 at 103mph and IMO it looked awesome.
I now own a 04 Z06 w/manual 6sp and a 3.54 rear gear. At the exact same track I ran a 12.67 at 114mph. IMO everything else (as compared to the 95) is leaps and bounds better.
I'm a gen X and I love the looks of a C4. Especially the 84model year. But to live with.... a 01-04 C5 is just significantly better in every single way.
If I ever bought another C4 for fun.... it would be a 96 LT4
Shalom
Great times for those cars! I would love to do a comparison test between a C4 and C5. I've driven several C5s and agree they're better cars in most ways, I just have more nostalgia for the C4 and how it looks.
@@RetroCarsForever Ha.... I do all my own work too. That C4 was a pain in the rear end to work on. Except the clamshell hood allowed for easier access.
The C5 is just much more designed to be driven and worked on.
Also... that C4 had a weird rear end hop when cornering really hard over uneven pavement? My 04Z is rock solid and can out corner my abilities to drive 🙃
Great video! I haven’t owned a Corvette yet and these are EXACTLY the two specs I’m considering for my first. Did ya notice a huge difference in fuel consumption?
Thank you! And no difference in fuel economy, the EPA even rated them the same. Makes sense as both cars have the same displacement. And both cars require premium.
Love my LT4, totally agree with all the benefits you gave it. I have huge respect for the ZR1, but I have some reservations about spending that kind of money on a C4. Awesome video though, this was a really relevant comparison to make 👍
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Wow, i am impressed with the overall video. Great job at making real world comparisons and bringing up points like the fact the LT4 was underrated. I believe the 330HP that the mfg. states is crank HP and all of the dyno results were rwhp, so you can actually add another 30hp or so to the 350. I have owned about 20 Corvettes through the last 4 decades and have driven both cars. I totally agree with your assessment. I cannot wait for the C8 ZR1. Hopefully i can get my hands on one!
Thank you!
Based on my experience and my research, I don't believe that MOST LT4's were putting out 380 hp, at best maybe a small percentage had that kind of power. I stick by my estimated guess that MOST were putting out somewhere around 350 hp.
@@RetroCarsForever You can be absolutely correct on what most are putting out, but if a car is measuring 350HP on a typical dyno (at the wheels, where the common person is measuring), it is definitely about 10% higher at the crank, where the MFG is measuring. it is common for vehicles to experience power losses from the engine to the wheels due to mechanical inefficiencies in the drivetrain. Usually around 10%-15%. You dont need to take my word for it, just look it up. And by the way, no disrespect at all. Your video was great and i already shared it.