Originally a 1967 model , it's shape and design changed over the years. GM eventually discontinued production after the 2002 model year. 2010 Camaro production began in Oshawa, Ontario on March 16, 2009. The 6th generation Camaro will make a return back to American soil in 2015. Assembly will be at the Grand River Plant in Lansing, Michigan.
Camaro Chief Engineer Al Oppenheiser wrote this open letter to Camaro enthusiasts on November 16, 2011 in response to internet buzz about the new 600 horse power Ford Mustang GT500.
As you know, the blogs lit up with the announcement of the new 650-horsepower Mustang GT500, and I wanted to give you my perspective on the latest challenge from Dearborn.
The Mustang has been playing catch up since the moment the fifth-gen Camaro arrived in 2009. Since then, Camaro has been the best-selling sports car in America, indicating that consumers know which car offers the best performance, style and safety.
It is no coincidence that Mustang has introduced three 100-horsepower increases to keep pace with Camaro: First their V-6 was bumped to 305; then their V-8 went to 412, and now the GT500.
Even with the 100-hp increase, the 2013 GT500 will still not match the technology and sophistication of the 2012 Camaro ZL1.
The days of “no replacement for displacement,” are over, and it’s not enough to be fast in a straight line. With the Camaro ZL1, we set out to deliver integrated performance, and be equally good at acceleration, braking, grip, and turning. As you will soon see, that’s why the Camaro ZL1 will set the performance benchmark for the segment.
Our approach was to make every Camaro ZL1 fully track-capable, from the factory. As we announced today, the ZL1 Coupe will start at $54,995 with standard Magnetic Ride Control, standard Performance Traction Management, and standard track-capable equipment such as a rear-differential cooler, brake cooling ducts, and an engine and transmission cooler.
None of our customers will have to buy extra options – or modify their ZL1 – for track-day usage. That is not the case for the current GT500, or their new car.
For Mustang fans, you’re welcome. Clearly the Camaro has encouraged Ford to throw everything they can at us.
For Camaro fans, trust me, we are always listening to your feedback, and working hard to keep the Camaro in the lead.
DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9seconds, and can reach a top speed of 184 mph. Starting at $54,095, including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride suspension, the ZL1 delivers supercar levels of performance and technology for the price of a sports car.“From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” said ChrisPerry, vice president, global Chevrolet marketing and strategy. “The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”
The Camaro ZL1 Coupe features a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $54,095, excluding delivery fees and taxes. For that price, the ZL1 compares favorably to much moreexpensive cars:
Base Price
Horsepower
Torque
Magnetic Ride
Camaro ZL1
$54,095
580
556
Standard
Audi R8 GT
$196,800
560
398
Standard
Maserati GranTurismo
$122,800
405
339
Not Available
Mercedes SLS AMG
$185,750
565
479
Not Available
Supercar Performance
The heart of the Camaro ZL1 is a supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm). – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever.The LSA features a Roots-style blower with an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler The ZL1 also features a standard dual-mode exhaust system, with vacuum-actuated valves in the exhaust pipes for a refined exhaust note at low speeds as well as a free-flowing system for peak performance. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. With either transmission, the Camaro ZL1 delivers performance that rivals someof the world’s fastest supercars:
Manual
Automatic
0 – 60 mph (from rolling start)
4.0 seconds
3.9 seconds
1/4-mile (from a rolling start)
12.1 sec at 119 mpg
12.0 sec at 119 mpg
Top speed
180 mph
184 mph
Max lateral grip
1.0 g
1.0 g
“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, the acceleration of the ZL1 is just awesome,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer, “but horsepower is only half of the story. The ZL1’s most significant measurement of performance is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That’s astounding for a 2+2 coupe, and a great testament to the acceleration, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1. It is the well-rounded performance of the Camaro ZL1 that will set the bar for the sports-car segment.”
Exclusive, track-capable technologies
To deliver that well-rounded performance, the Camaro ZL1 comes standard with several track capable technologies that are exclusive to the sports car segment.For example, the Camaro ZL1 is the first sports car to feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. This advanced suspension system employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology to varies the suspension firmness to match the road and drivingconditions. “Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding gripand body control,” said Oppenheiser. “With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers thebest of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that takes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track.”Also standard on the Camaro ZL1 is Performance Traction Management (PTM), which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced systemthat integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control, electronic stability controland electric power steering response to enhance performance. For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best-possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, thesystem holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM willautomatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.In addition, the Camaro ZL1 has been engineered to be track-capable from the factory,including a rear-differential cooler, an integrated engine- and transmission-oil cooler, and brake cooling ducts as standard equipment. As such, the ZL1 offers many technologies and features not available on the Ford Shelby GT500:
Camaro ZL1
GT500
Magnetic Ride
Standard
Not available
Performance Traction Management
Standard
Not available
Factory engine and transmission coolers
Standard
Dealer-installed option
Factory brake cooling ducts
Standard
Dealer-installed option
Factory rear differential cooler
Standard
Dealer-installed option
Additional features and options
The interior of the Camaro ZL1 features standard leather seating surfaces with suede microfiber inserts, and heated, powered-adjustable front seats. Standard technologies include a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics® audio system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-parkassist with a rear-view camera display integrated in the center rear-view mirror.
The Camaro ZL1 is available with six options:
Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185
20-inch, bright aluminum wheel package is $470
Power sunroof is $900
Stripe package is $470
Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600
The suede package, including sueded microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shiftknob, and shift boot is $500
The Camaro ZL1 Coupe will go on sale in the spring of 2012, as a 2012 model. The Camaro ZL1 Convertible will go on sale in the summer of 2012, as a 2013 model. Pricing for the CamaroZL1 Convertible will be announced later.
Supercharged, 6.2L LSA V-8 delivers 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm)
ZL1 power complemented by exclusive Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management
Track-capable standard equipment includes high-performance fuel system, as well as engine, transmission and differential coolers
DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1’s supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever.
The ZL1’s outstanding power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, including exclusive Performance Traction Management and third-generation Magnetic Ride Control.
“The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.
“The Camaro ZL1 also features exclusive chassis and traction technologies,” Oppenheiser said, “to offer the best of all worlds – including balanced handling for the track, acceleration for a drag strip, and the comfort of a daily driver.”
The most-powerful production Camaro ever.
The 2012 Camaro ZL1’s surpasses the advertised power of the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1’s 427 cubic-inch big block by more than 150 horsepower (112 kW) – while meeting modern emissions requirements. And, the new ZL1 is backed by General Motors’ five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
“The torque is going to make the ZL1 a car you won’t want to get out of,” said John Rydzewski, assistant chief engineer for small block engines. “Not only will the ZL1 have more power and torque than the competition, we’re making it available with an optional automatic transmission, to appeal to a wider group of sports car enthusiasts.”
The all-aluminum LSA supercharged V-8 is part of GM’s legendary small-block engine family. For a solid foundation, the engine’s lower end uses six-bolt main bearing caps that clamp and lock in the forged steel crankshaft to the deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads.
For the Camaro ZL1, the LSA features a unique induction system, with a lower-restriction air filter, dual inlet paths, and improved airflow through the supercharger housing. Other changes include a higher-efficiency supercharger inter-cooler and electric power steering system, which consumes less engine power than hydraulic-steering systems.
The ZL1 will be offered with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tremec TR-6060 “MG9” manual features 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS. The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing. The MG9 has also been tuned for improved shift feel, with a dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch, and triple synchros for smooth, precise shifts.
Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small block. The 6L90 features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset. To make the ZL1 perform equally well on street and track, the 6L90 features three distinct drive modes:
Drive: The shift pattern is calibrated for optimal fuel economy, including second-gear starts, while the shift feel is tuned for a smooth driving experience. Engaging the tap-shift feature on the steering wheel or shift lever engages temporary manual mode.
Sport: The shift pattern is calibrated for more aggressive driving, including first-gear starts for maximum performance. The shift feel is also more aggressive, with a performance algorithm that holds the transmission in lower gears during aggressive driving.
Manual: Here, the 6L90 offers the driver true manual control, with no automatic up shifts, and staged upshifts for incredibly fast shifts and maximum performance.
Other track-ready features of the ZL1 include:
An engine-oil cooler, identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1. The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that both the manual and automatic transmissions are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package.
A rear-differential cooler, which pumps transmission fluid to a heat exchanger, reduces temperatures in the differential by more than 100 F.
A high-performance fuel system delivers fuel to the LSA engine under any performance driving condition. For example, the system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-g cornering under low fuel conditions.
Magnetic Ride Control 3.0 adjusts damping 1,000 times per second
The Camaro ZL1 will feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC).
MRC employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology. MR fluid is a suspension of iron particles in a synthetic fluid. When the system is activated, the particles are magnetized and aligned into fibrous structures, changing flow resistance. By controlling the current to an electromagnetic coil inside the piston of the damper, the system varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions.
“Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and body control,” said Oppenheiser. “With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that makes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track.”
For the third-generation, MRC uses new twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners. The smaller dual-coil system – with one coil at either end of the damper – replaces the larger single-core design of the previous generation.
The new design allows even more precise control of the electrical current (and magnetic flux), allowing greater range between the softest setting for ride comfort and the firmest setting for track driving. The new dual-coil design also enables faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.
There are three settings for MRC in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track.
Exclusive Performance Traction Management for the race course, and the drag strip
The Camaro ZL1 will also offer Performance Traction Management (PTM) as standard equipment, exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance performance on the racetrack and drag strip.
For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver’s best effort and repeats it consistently.
Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.
Five PTM performance levels or modes are available to accommodate the given ambient and track conditions, driver experience/vehicle familiarity and driver comfort levels. They include:
Mode 1 – Traction control set for wet conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour. Mode 2 – Traction control set for dry conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour. Mode 3 – Traction control set on Sport 1, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport. Mode 4 – Traction control set on Sport 2, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport. Mode 5 – Traction control set on Race, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Track.
Launch control tuned for VHT-prepped drag strips.
“Like the Magnetic Ride Control, the Performance Traction Management system improves the ZL1 experience as a daily driver and on the track,” said Oppenheiser. “By offering five distinct modes of traction management, the driver can select what’s best for them based on their experience and the driving conditions. As a result, novice drivers will find the ZL1 is very enjoyable to drive, while expert drivers will find PTM supplements their driving skill without interfering with their intentions.”
In response to reader dismay about the previous test which Motor Trend compared the 2010 Camaro SS LS3, 2010 Mustang GT and the 2009 Challenger R/T, this latest comparison has the following:
2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8
2010 Camaro Hennessey HPE550
2010 Ford Mustang GT500
First off, we do not find this to be a truly accurate comparison as the Dodge and the Ford are OEM vehicles you can order from your dealership and are built at the respective assembly plants. The Hennessey car takes a Camaro SS and transforms it into the performer you will see here, maybe a closer representation to what GM would do with a Z28 type package.
Here are a few replies MT received after that previous comparison:
"What a crock you guys did. How do you guys sleep at night? What upset me on the test was you didn't use the SRT or the Shelby in the comparison...you used the R/T and GT to keep the price more inline...I have an idea for next month's test. Compare the Camaro SS against a Kia Rio. They're both cars, have 4 wheels, have an engine and transmission. Close enough." Monsoon via email
"This is such crap! Why the hell did they compare them? A Camaro SS vs. the Challenger maybe, but the SRT8 version would have been better to compare. And again, with the Mustang GT, the GT500 would have been a better comparison car. dturner via motortrend.com
"Motor Trend, you amaze me at your stupidity. You take a mid-range Mustang and a mid-range Challenger and pit them up against a RANGE TOPPING Camaro SS. What are you thinking?? Here is an Idea, when you compare cars, make sure they are the same trim levels. Look and learn...Dodge Challenger SRT8 vs. Ford Mustang GT500 vs. Chevy Camaro SS" 6G72AVENGER via motortrend.com
A better comparison in this case would have been the Challenger SRT8 and Mustang Cobra against the Camaro SS. Let's compare apples to apples. Dave Tatman Sammamish, WA You get the picture. If they think a Camaro SS and a GT500 or the SRT8 are comparing apples to apples, they are delusional.
I'll let you read the comparison for yourself, let us know what you think!
