G37 vs. Corvette ?

[hrdude]

I am looking to purchase a new sports car and was checking out the G37.Since this is a new, hot car dealers want full MSRP. Also, the ones arriving are loaded with options not needed. Therefore, a G37 sport at full msrp with options will cost above $42k. Whereas, I can purchase a nicely optioned '08 Vette well below msrp at $46k. Given this, why should I purchase a G37 when I can have a Vette for just a few grand more?

[SeismicGuy]

Maybe I can help a bit. I think a lot has to do with where you are in life (age, marital status, kids, etc.) and maybe also where you live. I am 57 and have had a variety of cars over the years. My current car is a 95 Vette that I bought new when I turned 46. My son just went off to college and this was sort of a mid-life splurge. The C4 generation was really something quite unique compared with other cars--it is raunchy, a chore to get in and out of, and feels like a race car when you get into the "cockpit". To me, that was part of the fun of the car.

I think that some of that raunchiness has been replaced by refinement with the newer generations (C5 and C6), but you still can't beat the performance in terms of bang-for-the-buck. I must say that a Corvette is worth owning at least once.

My wife has always hated the Vette and I am tired of hearing the complaints so I have been looking at other "more mature" but still fun options. If it were entirely up to me, I think the C6 is a pretty good deal but, to keep peace, I have sort of homed in on either BMW 335i (really a long shot) and, more likely, the G37. With the G37 I figure I could get about 80% of the fun and performance of a Vette but with a larger dose of luxury, a small backseat, and a trunk.

I would not think that there would be very good deals for the 08 Vette since there are some significant improvements over the 07 that have been written about in the mags. But you should be able to get an 07 at $6000 or more below sticker (I got $10,000 off sticker at the end of 1995 when I bought my car).

From your post I see you are in Portland and with the amount of rain and other bad weather, that would work against getting a Vette in my opinion.

Either way, both cars are good and you will just need to decide.

Good luck,

Doug

[audtatious]

Good response.

Welcome to NICO guys

If we were comparing a C5 I would say the G37 hands down. I actually like the C6 styling much better now so the choice becomes more difficult. If you are looking for a weekend bruiser I would say the Vette may be the choice as it has 400hp+ vs 330hp+ and performance upgrades would probably be much cheaper with better results. If you are looking for a sporty and luxurious daily driver, I would pick the G37.

[Yimbie]

I am looking to purchase a new sports car and was checking out the G37.Since this is a new, hot car dealers want full MSRP. Also, the ones arriving are loaded with options not needed. Therefore, a G37 sport at full msrp with options will cost above $42k. Whereas, I can purchase a nicely optioned '08 Vette well below msrp at $46k. Given this, why should I purchase a G37 when I can have a Vette for just a few grand more?

Hey, hrdude. Welcome to NICO. I would say the biggest factor in this is luxury. Do you want the luxury amenities of the G37? I think they're both great cars but I am spoiled and I love luxury. Therefore I would choose the G37.

- Yimbie

[SeismicGuy]

Audtatious--thanks for the welcome. Actually, I think it's a waste to buy a car just to use on weekends (unless you have a large amount of discretionary $). My Vette has been a daily driver for 12 years, but I still only rack up about 6,000 miles per year.

Yimbie--you're ubiquitous!

[audtatious]

I agree. I put around 30k miles a year on my car, thus a G would be far better than a Vette in my case.

[Yimbie]

Yimbie--you're ubiquitous!

lol I've been told that several times. :p

- Yimbie

[Kendahl]

Corvettes used to be clumsy rattletraps whose sole virtue was a big, honking V8. They are much better now. I can only suggest that you drive both and buy whichever one you like better. I settled on a G37 after driving four different Porsches, a couple of BMWs and an Audi TT.

[SeismicGuy]

Corvettes used to be clumsy rattletraps whose sole virtue was a big, honking V8. They are much better now. I can only suggest that you drive both and buy whichever one you like better. I settled on a G37 after driving four different Porsches, a couple of BMWs and an Audi TT.

Just curious-with such an impressive short-list of cars you were considering, what was it that made you "settle" on the G37?

Doug

[Kendahl]

Just curious-with such an impressive short-list of cars you were considering, what was it that made you "settle" on the G37?

They are all good cars. Someone with a different set of needs and desires from mine might choose one of them over a G37.

For my opinions about the cars I have considered, you can use the Search function to look for my posts that contain the phrase "G37". Select Post Bodies, instead of Top Titles, and sort them in Ascending order by Last Post Date. Counting this one, you should get 19 posts.

Two and a half weeks ago, I finally got a chance to test drive a G37 that Infiniti loaned to the dealer for test drives. It was an automatic with every option but four-wheel-steering. The car fulfilled my hopes that the G37 would retain the strengths of the G35 while correcting its few weaknesses.

[dmkozak]

Good response.

Welcome to NICO guys

If we were comparing a C5 I would say the G37 hands down. I actually like the C6 styling much better now so the choice becomes more difficult. If you are looking for a weekend bruiser I would say the Vette may be the choice as it has 400hp+ vs 330hp+ and performance upgrades would probably be much cheaper with better results. If you are looking for a sporty and luxurious daily driver, I would pick the G37.

First, he is comparing a C6 Corvette, not the C5. Second, he is comparing the '08 C6 with revised/upgraded interior, and 430 hp from the new LS3 engine (replacing the 400 hp LS2 engine) and new steering, etc. The 08 is not only faster than prior years (not that it really needed to be) but the steering feel is very noticably improved.

Performance, hands down, to the Corvette. Storage, with the C6 Coupe, hands down, to the Corvette. Comfort (I have not yet driven a G37) should be about equal, although with different feels. You will have to see which seat/wheel/dash combination fits you better.

One area where the Corvette lags is features and technology. The G37 gives you a fully integrated iPod connection. The 08 C6 simply lets you plug a MP3 player into the radio face connection. The G37 gives you fully integrated bluetooth (I know, like most "guys" we say big deal, I never talk on the phone while I'm driving - but, when it becomes totally hands free, it becomes a much more feasable option), the C6 gives you OnStar which is whole separate Verizon phone number, including a monthly Verizon bill in addition the OnStar monthly bill and you have to forward your cell phone to your OnStar Verizon phone to really use it like a hands free phone.

Also, even though you live in Portland with like 8 sunny days a year (I am kidding you) to enjoy an open top C6 you have to physically take the top off and store it in the trunk. With the G37, hit the sunroof switch and you have open top, although not as big as the C6 open top.

I am very much in the same situation. I plan on driving the G37 6MT in the next week or so (whenever a demo shows up) to see how the clutch/shifter action is. The revised 08 C6 shift linkage is like the preverbial butter and even with all the hp and torque, you can drive a C6 manual in urban traffic jams. While I don't hit them very often, I will need to see how a G37 will handle such traffic and start-up clutch manuevers.

Drive them both and one should definitely call out to you more than the other.

P.S. While recent C6's have had really good reliability ratings (the Bowling Green factory makes a really nice car), you still are tied to a Chevy dealer, so you need to make sure your dealer is both Corvette experienced and Corvette friendly, and you have a shorter warranty.

[dmkozak]

I would not think that there would be very good deals for the 08 Vette since there are some significant improvements over the 07 that have been written about in the mags.

First, it looks like the original poster is able to get either employee or supplier pricing, so that does not appear to be a problem.

Second, there are about 12-15 dealers throughout the U.S. who will sell you a Corvette for cost. The more they sell, the more they are allotted. The more they are allotted, they more they can get (many to inventory and sell above cost off their lot) and the greater the GM dealer return fee for each car. So, they are happy to order you a Corvette at a really great price. Plus, the Corvette factory will ship the car to the Chevrolet dealer of your choice, simply pay them a courtesy fee to accept delivery and perform the pdi.

[SeismicGuy]

First, it looks like the original poster is able to get either employee or supplier pricing, so that does not appear to be a problem.

Second, there are about 12-15 dealers throughout the U.S. who will sell you a Corvette for cost. The more they sell, the more they are allotted. The more they are allotted, they more they can get (many to inventory and sell above cost off their lot) and the greater the GM dealer return fee for each car. So, they are happy to order you a Corvette at a really great price. Plus, the Corvette factory will ship the car to the Chevrolet dealer of your choice, simply pay them a courtesy fee to accept delivery and perform the pdi.

I have not been actively shopping cars of any type until recently but I have always sort of spot-checked Vette pricing. My observations have been that when there is some fairly significant improvement, prices advertised (at least here in SoCal) have always been sticker or above, and these tend to drop as the year goes on. I expect the improvements in the 08 are significant enough so that there will be no meaningful deals for a while. On the other hand, for the first time in a few years I have noticed large discounts for the C6 (2007), probably due to more folks being willing to wait for the improved 08.

[Helene]

I just joined this list after test driving the G37S yesterday. I owned a 2000 Fixed Roof Corvette for 6 years and still own a 1996 GrandSport Vette. In my opinion, the G37 is built a whole lot better than the corvettes, both inside and out. First, there is the orange peel in the paint on the vettes-all of them. Second, is the reliability factor. My 2000 had a service file at least three inches thick with everthing from the rear differential "repaired" four times before they replaced it completely to the battery leaking onto the ECM to the ring blow by issue which they had to pull the engine to repair. I bought an aftermarket piece to prevent the steering column lock which happened to most C5's. I have looked at the C6's and the leather is no where near the quality the G37 has. The nav system is 100% better in the G37, the technology package is non existant on the vette. Yes, the C6 goes faster and will sound better with a Corsa exhaust, BUT how fast can you actually drive to work everyday? Here in Florida, not very fast!!!!

BTW, the GrandSport I have is mainly a show car.

[dmkozak]

Helene, I do not disagree with any of your comments. However, you are comparing apples to oranges. The C5 Corvette is nowhere near as reliable as the C6 (check both JD Power and Consumer Reports histories) and the 08 leather is very different (as are a number of intior pieces) than earlier years. Chevy has changed their suppliers for a number of items. One of which was their leather in response to all the complaints about prior years' quality and durability.

If we are going to compare, shouldn't we compare the 08 C6 to the G37?

[audtatious]

Comparing a C6 to the G37 is not really comparing apples to apples either unless you are simply looking at a price point.

[Modfever]

Here's a thought....and I'm sure it will spark some debate.... For those that want the sheer power/acceleration of the C5/C6 (I won't touch the Z06), but also want the refinement and sophitication of the G37, why not beef up your G37 with soon-to-be available aftermarket products like a supercharger, headers, intake, exhaust, etc. For about $10k more, you can have the best of both worlds.... My little view of the world

[dmkozak]

Comparing a C6 to the G37 is not really comparing apples to apples either unless you are simply looking at a price point.

I meant let's compare an 08 car to an 08 car. Let's not compare an 03 car to an 08 car.

[dmkozak]

Here's a thought....and I'm sure it will spark some debate.... For those that want the sheer power/acceleration of the C5/C6 (I won't touch the Z06), but also want the refinement and sophitication of the G37, why not beef up your G37 with soon-to-be available aftermarket products like a supercharger, headers, intake, exhaust, etc. For about $10k more, you can have the best of both worlds.... My little view of the world

Except, and I realize most forum goers do not get and will not get this, the G37 chassis, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, etc., are not designed for 430 hp. While the G37 has a very strong chassis/body and "somewhat" heavy duty suspension and brakes, none of these items is designed to support 430 hp. When you build a production race car and realize how many modifications you need to make to these components so they can withstand more hp, you will realize the compromises made in a purely street car.

Of course, as always, the question is do I just want to do it, or do I want to do it right?

[Helene]

And that is my next move as soon as the Chevy dealer gets an 08 in that they'll let me test drive. I've sat in one, but that's it.

And it really is all about what is right for you.

[audtatious]

I meant let's compare an 08 car to an 08 car. Let's not compare an 03 car to an 08 car.

That I fully agree with

[carman63]

It's funny I'd find this thread, as I've cross-shopped these 2 cars. I'm pretty much leaning toward the G37 at this point. Actually, it's all but a done deal

[dmkozak]

carman63, can you give us some of your thoughts? Why G37 instead of Corvette? What do you like, and dislike, about both? Thanks.

[carman63]

carman63, can you give us some of your thoughts? Why G37 instead of Corvette? What do you like, and dislike, about both? Thanks.

A lot of this is strictly my opinion, based on what I was wanting:- Even using the GMS pricing (employee discount) a well-appointed Vette would be several thousand over a similarly-appointed G37.- I can't get a Vette with the same size tires/wheels front and rear, so I can't rotate them front-to-rear. Thus, I'd get less effective mileage out of a set of tires.- The Vette, for me, seemed to have a lower entrance/exit height, and therefore took a bit extra maneuvering, to get in and out of.- Ergonomics inside the Vette lag behind the G37 (IMO)- Availability of the Vette in my price / options bracket vs the G37 (I want it NOW dammit )- 2 Pluses for the Vette: for me, lower insurance rates than the G37; More storage space (massive hatch area!)

That's off the top of my head, after spending much time at the Infiniti dealer finalizing a sale. Some of it's rational, some of it's pure 'me'.

[Helene]

Last Saturday I test drove the G37 both a stick and an automatic. Today I test drove an 08 stick Corvette. Personally, I think the quality of the interior, especially the leather is much better in the G37. There are a lot more "toys" available on the G37 also The GPS system is also more advanced on the G37. Can you guess which one I'm leaning towards?

[verycomplex]

The corvette is my favorite car. Always has been since I was putting plastic models of them together when I was a kid. One day I will get a fully loaded one, but for now with what you get for the money a fully loaded G37 is such a better buy. And although the vette has improved its interior, I think a few more refinements are necessary. The vette will never leave my radar, but the g37 has my full attention right now.

After all, that black on black 6MT looks sweet in the driveway... speaking of which, I need to go check on it one more time before I go to sleep! lol!

[audtatious]

[Nismo_Nick]

Im more of a speed freak so I think if I really had the choice Id go with the 08 vette....black of course

[dmkozak]

but for now with what you get for the money a fully loaded G37 is such a better buy.

That might just be the bottom line. The G37 is a car you buy with your head because of what it has and how it all works. The Vette is a car you buy with your heart because of the thrill despite of everything you are giving up to get it.

Another difference I am finding is that Chevy dealers are actually willing to sell you a Vette. They will order what you want and give you a great price.

All this week I have been leaving messages and e-mails for the four local dealers. Only one has returned my contacts. Too bad it is 50 miles away from me. The dealer where I test drove last weekend flat out told me they would order what I wanted, but at MSRP and I had to buy a bunch of their add-on stuff at their inflated add-on prices. That was it. Take it or leave it. They have G37's in stock and they believe once word gets out in the next month or two, people will be flocking to pay over MSRP for what they have in stock.

[carman63]

Another difference I am finding is that Chevy dealers are actually willing to sell you a Vette. They will order what you want and give you a great price.

The dealer where I test drove last weekend flat out told me they would order what I wanted, but at MSRP and I had to buy a bunch of their add-on stuff at their inflated add-on prices. That was it. Take it or leave it.

I agree with your impressions 100%. The Chevy dealer was willing to deal, whereas the Infiniti dealers were dead set at MSRP only. Which is what I paid.

My experience was, I went to cars.com and asked for quotes from 3 dealers. My stipulations were:1. Initial offer of $1K over invoice (yes, I know. And I should have set $100 UNDER MSRP but oh well.)2. No dealer add-ons such as Lo-Jack, 3M bra, whatever.3. No non-refundable deposits.

I got 2 polite responses declining my price offer but wanting to speak with me over what else they could do.

Dealer #3 sent me a one-line response of "HAHAHAHAHAHA See you in 1-2 years!", the person did NOT sign the email or otherwise say anything constructive.

What's funny is, for how 'hot' this car supposedly is, the dealer I purchased from has 11 G37s on their lot as of today (according to their inventory online, which so far has been accurate and updated frequently).