The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 was revealed at Chicago Auto Show. However, the name of the top-spec pony-car is ZL1 and not Z28.
The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 was unveiled at Chicago Auto Show. However, the name of the top-spec pony-car is not Z28. It’s ZL1. The ZL1 is still in development. Performance specs will be available towards the end 2011 with a market launch planned for early 2012.
The ZL1 packs a LSA 6.2-liter supercharged motor that produces an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW / 557 PS). It also uses a Tremec TR-6060 six speed manual transmission. The transmission, which is designated “MG9”, features a dual-mass flywheel with twin-disc clutch and a greater torque capacity.
Rick Scheidt (Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing) stated that the Camaro ZL1 is all about high-tech performance, design and is unique in this segment. It’s the most technologically advanced Camaro ever built, so we chose a name that reflects the most exclusive and elite Camaro ever made.
The exterior improvements include a new front fascia (as Transformers) as well as a hood with air extractors. New vertical fog lamps and a lower splitter are also featured on the front fascia. Exterior changes include an aluminum grille with raised carbon fiber center, new rocker panels and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels.
Other notable features include Magnetic Ride Control and Brembo brakes, as well as electric power steering.
The ZL1 name comes from the all-aluminum racing motor of the same name. It was built in the late 1960s and fitted into a few regular-production 1969 Camaros. The engine was only built in 69 Camaros, but it has been cherished by enthusiasts as the ultimate Camaro performance. Camaro’s ZL1 model, which is a significant leap forward in performance capability, was designed for 2012.