Why Are Corvette Z06 Prices Dropping So Fast?
If you’ve been tracking the Corvette Z06 market lately, you might’ve noticed something unusual: prices are falling, and not just by a little. Take a recent example—a nearly new Z06 with just 2,100 miles on the clock, originally stickered at $145,925, changed hands for $118,000. That’s a jaw-dropping $28,000 drop for a car that’s barely broken in. And it’s not a fluke. Just a week prior, a Z06 Convertible with only 1,000 miles sold for $112,000, down from its $139,325 MSRP.
So, what’s driving this sudden dip? The answer is a mix of timing, supply, and a shifting performance car landscape. With around 1,700 Z06s sitting on dealer lots nationwide, inventory is piling up. Dealers are feeling the pressure—some are offering discounts north of $10,000 just to move cars. It’s simple economics: when supply outpaces demand, prices tumble.
Is the Z06 Still Worth Considering With Newer Corvettes on the Horizon?
You might be wondering if it’s wise to buy a Z06 now, especially with the buzz around upcoming Corvette models like the turbocharged ZR1 and hybrid ZR1X. While those future models promise even more power and tech, the current Z06 still packs a serious punch. Its naturally aspirated V8 revs to the stratosphere, delivering a driving experience that’s raw and visceral—something purists crave.
Plus, the Z06 is no slouch in the hardware department. Even without the optional Z07 Performance Package, you get forged aluminum wheels, sticky Michelin tires, and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. It’s a supercar in every sense, minus the six-figure markup you’d expect from European rivals.
If you’re after the latest and greatest, waiting might make sense. But if you want a proven, high-revving American icon at a discount, now’s your window. The deals are real, and the cars are barely used.
How Do These Discounts Compare to Other High-Performance Cars?
Corvette Z06s aren’t the only performance cars feeling the pinch, but the scale of these discounts is eye-catching. According to recent data from J.D. Power, the average new car transaction price in the U.S. has been relatively flat in 2024, but high-end sports cars are seeing steeper depreciation as supply outpaces demand. It’s not uncommon for nearly new exotics to lose 10-20% of their value in the first year, but a $30,000 drop on a $145,000 car in just a few months? That’s rare air.
Part of this is the changing collector mindset. The days of flipping a limited-run sports car for a quick profit are fading, especially as automakers ramp up production and buyers get more discerning. The Z06’s current discounts reflect a broader trend—buyers want value, and they’re willing to wait for it.
What Should Buyers Look Out For When Shopping for a Discounted Z06?
If you’re tempted by these deals, a little homework goes a long way. First, check the car’s history—many of these Z06s are barely used, but it’s wise to verify mileage and service records. Look for models with desirable options like carbon ceramic brakes, which not only enhance performance but also boost resale value down the line.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate. With so many Z06s on the market, dealers are motivated. Some buyers have reported getting additional perks—think extended warranties or free maintenance—on top of the already steep discounts.
And if you’re eyeing a specific color or trim, now’s the time to be picky. The glut of inventory means you can likely find your dream spec without compromise.
Will Prices Keep Falling, or Is Now the Time to Buy?
It’s the million-dollar question—or, in this case, the $30,000 question. With the 2026 Corvette lineup set to arrive soon, bringing updated interiors and new tech, it’s likely that current Z06 prices will continue to soften. Historically, outgoing models see the sharpest depreciation just before a major refresh.
However, there’s a floor to how low prices can go, especially for well-optioned, low-mileage examples. Once dealer inventories normalize and the initial wave of depreciation passes, values should stabilize. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this could be it.
The big takeaway? Scoring a Z06 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—maybe a call to your local dealer or a closer look at online listings—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.