C6 automatic: 4-speed vs. 6-speed?

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JGB - 09 Sep 2005 16:23 GMT

Hello,

I'm an aspiring Corvette owner that is not much of a gearhead, but I
want to learn.

Could someone please explain the advantages (or disadvantages) of a
4-speed automatic vs. a 6-speed automatic? In particular, I'm trying
to decide between purchasing a barely used 2005 Z51 or wait to buy a
new 2006.

Thanks,
JGB

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Dad - 09 Sep 2005 16:51 GMT

> Hello,
>
[quoted text clipped - 8 lines]
> Thanks,
> JGB

Only you can answer whether or not it is of value to you. That becomes hard
to do because they are not that easy to get a dealer to let you drive them.
Newer is most always better or they wouldn't have changed it, but then you
pay more to get it. Personal opinion is I'd stick to the present 4 speed
auto, the present computer control is at its peak, drive it and see how you
like it. It is at its best right now and may only be a lesser transmission
by and imperceptible amount over the new 6 speed. That small advantage of
the 6 speed over the 4 speed should be obvious or you're not into the
performance thing enough for it to matter. It does look like they will offer
a paddle shifter for another minimal advantage for your trip to the auto
show but it should help on the track.

Signature

Dad
05 C6 Silver/Red 6spd Z51
72 Shark Black/Black/4spd

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KillerCorvette - 11 Sep 2005 22:23 GMT

JGB,

One of the big advantages of the 6-speed "Tiptronic" AUTO vs. 4-speed
AUTO is the addition of paddle shifters! (Which you can use, or not
use, it's a two-mode trans).

- Everything you wanted to know about the 2006 6-Speed Auto trans from
a GM Corvette technician:
http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=42696

- Photos and reaction to the first spy shots of the 6-speed AUTO.
http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=401004

-Chaz

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benf802961@aol.com - 12 Sep 2005 01:05 GMT

It depends on how your gonna use your car. Use it on the track?
Autocross? Daily Driver? If it is a daily driver there is really no
need for 6 speed auto or Z51 unless you really want it.

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JGB - 12 Sep 2005 04:07 GMT

Hi Chaz,

Thanks for the response and the links.

As a newbie, I'm having a hard time understanding the value of the
paddle shifters. I want an automatic because I don't want to have to
deal with shifting. If I wanted to shift, I would get a manual. Can
someone explain the point of the paddle shifters on an automatic?

JGB

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Dad - 12 Sep 2005 04:26 GMT

> Hi Chaz,
>
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
>
> JGB

Pointy heads think that because they did it, Chevrolet needs to do it. It's
only advantage is that your hands spend more time on the steering wheel if
you're racing an automatic.

Signature

Dad
05 C6 Silver/Red 6spd Z51
72 Shark Black/Black/4spd

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