I used the specifications for a 2007 C6 to take a look at this question, because those were the specs I had at hand. Aside from the transmissions, the cars still won't be identical. That's because the final drive ratio with the 6L80-E automatic transmission is 2.56 to 1, while the ratio with a six speed manual is 3.42 to 1.
Transmission gear ratios are considerably different too. On the automatic first thru sixth have ratios of 4.02, 2.36, 1.53, 1.15, 0.85 and 0.67 to 1. The standard six speed manual has ratios of 2.66, 1.78, 1.30, 1.00, 0.74, and 0.50 to 1. With the Z51 performance package the six speed manual's ratios are 2.97, 2.07, 1.43, 1.00, 0.74, and 0.50 to 1. The axle ratios help to even things out however.
If a stock LS2 or LS3 produces enough horsepower to push a C6 that fast, then each of the three versions (automatic, manual, and Z51 manual) will be computer limited to 186 miles per hour when they're still in fifth gear. At that, they each would be at quite a bit less than the engine's 6,500 RPM redline when the computer shut 'em down. So I think they're equals in top speed. Even in theoretical top speed, I think they're each within one mile per hour of the other two. The standard manual transmission car and the Z51 manual transmission car are in fact identical when above third gear.
As for acceleration, I think in theory the Z51 manual transmission car should have a slight edge. In practice however, I think the computer running the 6L80-E automatic, in full automatic mode (without using the paddle shifters) will win most drag races. Most of us can't shift a manual transmission with the precision and speed of a good automatic transmission. And in my experience the paddle shifters are more useful for downshifts than they are for upshifting.
tgstoner2010-08-31 11:24:54______________
Tom Stoner
Huron Valley Corvette Club
Dexter, MI
2007 Machine Silver convertible (2008-2012)
2013 Arctic White 427 convertible (2012-2013)
2012 Carbon Flash 4LT Centennial coupe (2013-2019)
2008 Indy Pace Car grey top convertible (2014-2019)
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