I-77 or US321 northbound from Charlotte to Boone area? (Gastonia: vacation, driving)

[kyle19125]

I'm driving up from FL in a couple of weeks for vacation and was wondering if US321 out of Charlotte (Gastonia) is significantly slower than I-77 or the same. 321 appears more direct but I imagine the speed limits are lower? I'm looking more to make time than glance at scenery though if I get scenery and a equal drive time it's a win-win. I'll be driving through on a weekday around midday. Thanks!

[Calaway]

I always take 321, because it's closer for me. It doesn't take me very long to get to Boone, traffic usually flows pretty good. There are a couple stretches with red lights, but nothing taking significant time.

[alise007]

I call 321 the NC Autobahn. NO stop lights til you get to Hickory and from Hickory to Boone takes 1 hr with stoplights. Just be careful for cops.