I read all this stuff about different "platforms" for the new "C"ar and what is the difference between our beloved F-body and this Zeta platform. Sorry about the stupid question I just want to get up to date on what you guys know. Thanks guys

 

This is covered in other threads but... basically Zeta is the codename for GM's new global, mainstream rear drive platform spawned from Cadillac's (modern but expensive) Sigma chassis for use by GM's other divisions. The platform has been developed primarily by Holden in a leading role and is a touted as a flexible structure that can accomodate various wheelbase lengths, widths and body types etc.

Reportedly Holden, Pontiac, Buick, Chevrolet and Opel are interested in, or are actively developing cars on this chassis to debut beginning in 2006 (I believe).

 

Zeta is a morphing of Sigma, which is what the CTS and SRX are based on combined with the morphed Omega chassis that Holden uses called VX/VY. The combination of the 2 now makes a very affordable, mass produced RWD/AWD chassis that can be very flexable in size.

 

I'll take what both of you said a little farther.

The Zeta is essentially the sigma, but done in a more cost efficient manner. Zeta is a modular chassis which has numerous components that can be essentially mixed and matched to make a variety of vehicles.

One example may be a couple of rear floorpan sections, one longer than the other, enabling a short wheelbase and a long wheelbase vehicle be made off the same chassis. Another example may be a relatively short and a relatively tall firewall, which can spawn both a sports car and a full sized sedan. There may even be 2 different types of rear axles, one for performance cars, another for less demanding use.

The Sigma chassis didn't really have this versatility, and turns out to be a relatively expensive chassis primarily because of the changes needed to make a car of different proportions or different dimensions off that chassis. The issue isn't that the car has independent rear suspension or SLA front suspension. On a per-car basis, the difference is only a few hundred dollars or little more. But to take a chassis and alter it costs alot more. It's reasonable on Cadillacs because GM can charge so much. But on a Camaro that averages under $25,000, at perhaps 30,000 cars per year, it's a loosing gamble. That's why Camaro was never put on Sigma, although on the surface it seems reasonable.

Holden, on the other hand, is all but a global expert on making modular chassis that enable them to create an entirely new car structure by designing & incorperating a structure segment on a chassis. Zeta is this idea taken to an extreme, in which the structure is engineered from the very start as a building block (or "Leggo", if you will) chassis in which GM can make a large number of RWD cars of varing dimensions and purpose for little money.

Most if not all Sigma suspension components should be the same or nearly the same as the Zeta. Though the current but new Holden AWD system is engineered to fit into the current "V" car, it's also engineered to fit into Sigma and Zeta as well.

 

Nice job on the Zeta description

On the AWD...for V6 owners its only engineered around the HFV6...standard pushrod V6's you can forget it..

Thats why at present the AWD model Holdens are only V8's.