Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – Automobiles Review

Chevrolet team gears the 2017 Camaro ZL1 with the almighty Hydra-Matic transmission

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 With faster gear shifts than a dual-clutch gearbox and wider gear ratio, the already available Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission sets new benchmark and new performance standards, when equipped on the 2017 Camaro ZL1.

Probably the first to-be-geared with the Hydra-Matic system, the Camaro ZL1 will benefit from greater overall performance, wider 7.39 overall gear ratio spread, smaller steps between gears and enhanced fuel consumption efficiency.

Furthermore, Chevy has already proved that the new ZL1 with 10-speed transmission is faster than Porsche PDK dual-clutch system. Also, the 1-2 upshift is 36 per cent quicker than the PDK, while 2-3 and 3-4 are respectively 27 and 26 percent faster. Cool.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Also, Chevy team has made some additional changes under the name of Creative packaging in order to optimize and harmonize the whole drivetrain system in order to fit the special transmission system. Camaro now comes with all-new proprietary electronic control system and performance calibrations. Also, there are some precise fine-tunes made onto different drivetrain system components.

Further goodies include a reduction in spin losses, thanks to the two non-applied clutches, new ultra-low viscosity gearbox fluid to reduce friction across the full temperature operating range and internal thermal bypass that allows the transmission to warm up faster for optimal performance rates.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

So, what do you think about the pumped up Camaro? Was it worth the investment? Write down in the comment section below.

Source: Chevrolet

May 12, 2016

Chevrolet Reveals the Stunning Camaro ZL1 Convertible

2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible and Coupe - Image 1 2017 Camaro ZL1Convertible has just been revealed by Chevrolet, exuding its great levels of technology, refinement, track capability and acceleration. In other words, this car was designed for performance. The exterior for example was shaped during more than 100 hours of wind-tunnel testing and on-track validation. This of course have improved the aerodynamics and cooling, especially if one rides in on the track.

Furthermore, all of its exterior elements play a part in managing the airflow over, under and through the ZL1, thus ensuring even better and more exceptional performance. New here are also the hood, which incorporates carbon fiber insert and heat extractor, larger front splitter, new rockers, a wing-style rear spoiler and wider front fenders. They have been all modified to improve aerodynamics.

The interior is defined by Recaro front seats, sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob and a Chevrolet’s Performance Data Recorder. The latter is available as an option.

2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible Interior

Next to be mentioned are the performance technologies with which the ZL1 is fitted. Precisely, features include an updated Magnetic Ride suspension, Performance Traction Management, electronic limited-slip differential, Custom Launch Control and Driver Mode Selector. The Camaro model also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor. It actually weighs 200 pounds less, but at the same time it offers 60 more horsepower and 80 more pound-feet of torque.

There are additional chassis features including: one-off 20-inch forged alloys, 285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires, Brembo brakes with six-piston monobloc front calipers, and massive, 15.35-inch (390 mm) two-piece front rotors.

Supercharged Performance and New Transmission

2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible Rear View

The ZL1 is powered by the supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine producing 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 640 lb-ft of torque (868 Nm). The transmission options are two: a six-speed manual transmission with active rev matching or the new 10-speed automatic. The latter has 7.39 overall ratio for smaller steps between gears.

At last but not least, there’s no need to purchase an optional package to make the ZL1 track ready, because every Camaro ZL1 features track capability as a standard, with comes with an impressive 11 heat exchangers for optimal powertrain cooling.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is scheduled to go on sale late this year.

Source: Chevrolet

March 25, 2016

Bumblebee Inside and Out: Meet Carlex Design Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Carlex Design Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Side View Bumblebee is probably everyone’s favorite Chevrolet Camaro model and especially in the case they are ‘Transformers’ series fans. The popular car is dressed in the aggressive color combination of black and blue and its interior has been made all black. And here is where Carlex Design tuners have found a flaw. Wouldn’t it be more harmonious if cabin’s design theme is in black and yellow too? The answer to this question is positive and here is the result.

The new striking cabin of the Bumblebee is due to the work of the talented designers at the Carlex Design. As you can see it is in perfect harmony with the exterior of the car. By the way, this particular unit comes from the model year 2014, but this doesn’t hamper us of admiring it.

So, what did happen to the cabin? The transformed and improved interior highlights the sharp lines of the chassis, but at the same time it does other things and they are regarding the materials used inside.

Carlex Design Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Interior

Here are the details: The clearly visible contrast has been created via the use of ultra rich black Nappa leather and the vivid yellow tone of the leather from Lamborghini range. As a result, the designers achieved an internal compliment to the external distinctiveness of body’s appearance.

Even more, the experts also added some artistic airbrush painting applied to the decorative parts of the dashboard and door panels. How cool is that? What do you think: should the Bumblebee be produced as a standard with this bi-tone interior or should it keep its black one?

Source: Carlex Design

October 14, 2015

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible – US Price $60 445

The new 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be offered in the USA with a competitive starting price of just $60 445 including the $900 destination charge. This number is sensational, because you will get a super-powered sports drop-top vehicle at very good value.

ZL1 Convertible is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 588 HP (432 kW) and 754 Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. This is an improvement of just 11 HP and 9 Nm over ZL1 Coupe. 0-60 mph in 4 seconds and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph).

The suspension of the ZL1 convertible uses the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. New, twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners enable 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.

GM also reported that the 2013 Camaro 1LE is priced from just $37 035 including $900 destination charge.

Source: Chevrolet

July 31, 2012

American Favorite Sports Cars to Pace Belle Isle Grand Prix

This weekend, two sporting events will come to Detroit – the Chevrolet Grand-Am 200 at Belle Isle on Saturday and the Chevrolet Indy Grad Prix on Sunday. The former will have a Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 pacing the contenders while the latter will get the Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible.

“With Corvette and Camaro, Chevrolet has two of the most popular, and most iconic, performance cars in the industry,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet Global Marketing. “It will be very exciting to see them leading the field as racing returns to Detroit.”

Looking at the statistics, its clear that those two are the right choice – back in 2011, every third supercar sold in the US was either a Camaro or Corvette. This year, that trend is still up as total sales for Camaro lead its nearest competitor, the Ford Mustang, by 13 percent through April. For the same period, Corvette sales are 39 percent higher than its nearest competitor, the Porsche 911

But we need other numbers to be convinced that the Camaro and Corvette are as appealing as they say. Fortunately, those numbers are present as well: The 2012 Camaro ZL1 Coupe which will have the job to pace the Grand Am is the most powerful one up to date – 6.2 liters of displacement, V8 cylinders, supercharged, it’s engine develops 580 hp and 556 lb-ft. of torque. It sounds raw, but it isn’t. The magnetic suspension is looked after by a sophisticated Performance Traction Management so that you have infinite amounts of grip. Then, even when the infinite comes to an end, the six-piston Brembo brakes to keep you out of trouble. As a result of all that, the Camaro ZL1 goes from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 184 mph. It’s current record at the Nürburgring stands at 7:41:27.

Similarly to the Camaro, the 2013 Corvette 427 is the most powerful convertible Chevrolet out on the markets. In fact it’s one of the most powerful convertibles in general. It has an engine from the Corvette Z06 which erupts with 505 hp and 470 lb-ft. of torque every time you step on it. Because of extensive use of carbon fiber, the 427 is lightweight as well – 3,355 pounds. (for a convertible). That means a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That puts to shame well-established brands such as Audi, Aston Martin, Ferrari and their respective convertibles. For the Chevrolet Corvette 427 to do a 0 to 60 mph run it takes 3.8 seconds and the top speed boarders 190 mph.

Source: Chevrolet

June 1, 2012

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – 11.93 at 1/4 mile [video]

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has joined the exclusive “11-second” club for stock vehicles. This means that the car is capable of doing less than 12 seconds at a ¼ mile drag race.

Only a few other production vehicles can run the quarter-mile as quickly as the ZL1. Fewer yet can also run 0-60 in 4 seconds, reach a top speed of 184 mph and lap the famous Nürburgring in 7:41.27 – all with the street-legal, factory-issued components and no time-consuming equipment adjustments at the racetrack.

“The ZL1 is great at everything and we’re very proud of that,” commented Tony Roma, Camaro ZL1 program engineering manager.

“You can take it to the drag strip and run 11-second quarter-miles all day long. You can also take it to a road course, where it’s balanced, handles well, and does exactly what you want – including lapping Virginia International Raceway’s Grand Course in under three minutes – and yet the ZL1 is sophisticated enough to use as a daily driver. It’s a supercar you can drive every day.”, he added.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rB0mEjmlm8g

The new 2012 Camaro ZL1 is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 with 588HP (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph) with the optional TapShift automatic gearbox.

“We know many of customers will take their ZL1 to the drag strip,” said Gordon Rojewski, driveline development engineer – and who is also an experienced drag racer and owner of a turbocharged, 920-horsepower street car.

“Some may just go once, to experience the full potential of the 580-horsepower LSA engine. Others may be more serious, going every other weekend with a set of slicks in the trunk. As such, we set out to make sure the ZL1 would perform for them – on the first pass and on the 100th.”, he finished.

Source: AutoSpinn via Youtube

May 7, 2012

History On Wheels: Chevrolet Camaro /1993 – 2012/

Since its production in 1967 Chevrolet Camaro became an emblematic muscle car model which had captured and still enchants many hearts (including mine). With its distinctive exterior and strong stance, combined with an outstanding performance throughout its 45 year s of history, it is no surprise that it has become one of the iconic cars of our society.

Through the years from its first appearance in the automotive world, till 1992, the model underwent three transformational stages, through which it’s exterior, interior and performance were improved and eventually made the car famous.

In 1993 began the production of fourth generation Camaros. Until the year of 2002 they had a strong presence on the market, although after 2002 there was a eight year break in the production of the model.

In this period the car was even lighter in weight. It was made from plastic body panels over a steel space frame. In addition it had several optimizations in terms of suspension, for instance. What was new here was the LT1 V8 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. However, the V8 engine didn’t come as a standard but was optional instead and only went standard on Z28 models. As a standard came the 160 hp (118 kW) 3.4 L V6 engine working with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

No matter how much it had change through the years, Chevy Camaro manged to retain its main characteristics, which made its so popular. It still got the same coupe body style with 2+2 seating and was offered in a cabriolet version. There wasn’t any change regarding the rear-wheel drive as well.

An innovation to be highlighted is that now the anti-lock brakes were standard equipment for all models of the vehicle. And in time there were slight transformations of the interior and the exterior as well.

Fourth generation 1993 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

And the year of 2002 was the 35^th anniversary of the model: its production in fact didn’t suffer any pauses but remained in continuous manufacture.

Nonetheless, due to sales drop, the Camaro was taken out of production.

The year of 2006 is that one when the model regained power and “got back to life”. This was the time when two concept models were developed – coupe and convertible, thank to which started the beginning of the fifth generation of Camaros. The new models however went on production three years later – in the spring of 2009, and been sold as 2010 model year vehicles.

2007 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Concept

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The coupe has been manufactured in LS, LT, and SS trim levels. The first two models are powered by a powerful 3.6 L V6 engine, which produces the exciting 304 hp (227 kW). Here the customers have a choice in terms of gear-shift: it can be either six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with manual shift. On the other hand the more exuberant SS version is empowered by the 6.2 L LS3 V8 engine. The latter develops the outstanding 426 hp (318 kW) and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. And if the driver is more keen of automatic gear-shift, than he or she has to be satisfied with the L99 V8 engine, which produces 400 hp (300 kW).

And as I already mentioned in the previous article, 2012 is they year when General Motors marks the 45^th anniversary of the Camaro. As a natural consequence, the Chevrolet brand will release a special limited edition model finished in striking Carbon Flash Black with bespoke red and silver anniversary stripes, dark silver 20-inch alloys, a unique 45th anniversary leather interior with red, white and blue stitching and a one-off white-backed instrument panel.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro 45th Anniversary Edition

Furthermore, the 2012 Camaro models include all of the characteristics that made the original muscle cars famous. That automatically means that they got great performance and stunning looks. All models come with six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The power of the Chevy comes from its 6.2-litre V8 engine, which delivers the 432 hp (317 kW). This makes it possible for the new model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.2 seconds.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Few, days ago Chevrolet brought Camaro further with the introduction of the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE. It includes and upgraded package and will be offered as usual in both coupe and convertible versions. The model carries V8 under its bonnet which is mated to a manual transmission as standard. The latter is able to produce the impressive 426 hp (318 kW) at 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm).

What is distinct for this model is that it has some new exterior features such as a matte-black hood, a front splitter and a rear spoiler. Regarding the interior, it includes suede micro fiber material, which covers the flat-bottomed steering wheel and the gear shift.

2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE

And by going through all the history around this emblematic muscle car, I can only say that it will undoubtedly stay in the automotive world for a long time in the future, due to its strong presence and successful history.

April 1, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE

Various Camaros have gone under the 1LE label since 1988. It’s an upgrade package inspired by the car’s involvement in Pro-Am road racing. Now it is on the horizon again for the 2013 SS coupe versions – the 1SS and 2SS that carry a V8 under their bonnets and a manual transmission as standard. Actually, the whole makeover is intentionally reminiscent of the ZL1 spec.

“The Camaro 1LE combines the best elements of the SS and ZL1 to take road-racing performance to a whole new level,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

Power levels will be pretty much the same as the ones in the SS – 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm). The transmission is an exclusive one however – Tremec TR6060-MM6: a close ratio setup tuned for road-racing performance.

The suspension gets new monotube rear dampers as opposed to the twin-tube ones previously used. That way, drivers have more flexibility in terms of adjusting the road behavior while preserving respectable comfort.

Other goodies for track days include the:

Larger, 27-mm solid front stabilizer bar, and 28-mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control
Higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts to cope with increased levels of traction
Strut tower brace for improved steering feel and response
ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 11-inch aluminum wheels
285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires front and rear (identical to the front tires for ZL1)
ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved on-track performance
ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump and additional fuel pickups for improved fuel delivery during high-cornering

At first glance, it would be hard for you to notice all of that but worry not. The 1LE gets some distinctive exterior features as well – a matte-black hood, a front splitter and a rear spoiler. The aforementioned wheels also come in black and have 10-spokes. Can’t miss that.

Inside, suede microfiber material covers the flat-bottomed steering wheel and the stubby shifter stick. Most importantly, Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment is available on all 2013 Camaro LT, SS and ZL1 models – a complex interactive system that has Bluetooth, SmartRadio, Pandora and the lot.

A smart electric power steering can sense whether we are at cruising speed or trying to park and adjust the firmness appropriately. Also new for 2013 is an available dual-mode exhaust system, available on Camaro SS models. Again all ZL1 derivatives.

Prices for the 1LE model will start at under $40 000

Source: Chevrolet

March 28, 2012

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with improved performance

The new 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will be delivered at dealerships in the spring. More importantly it will come with improved performance because of the new mounted automatic transmission with the latest General Motors’ improved TapShift technology. Since its introduction, TapShift has allowed drivers to control up- and down-shifts with paddle shifters. Now, GM powertrain engineers made a patent-pending software algorithm which enhances tap response time by up to 60 percent in comparison to the previous system! No hardware changes were required for the upgrade. This upgrade results in the acceleration time of the new 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1’s six-speed automatic transmission, which now for 0-60 mph is 3.9 seconds. This is a tenth of a second faster than the manual transmission time. In details, by staging hydraulic pressure in the clutch for the next gear, the new control module algorithm reduces tap delay for the 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, and 4-5 up-shifts by 200-300 milliseconds. The TapShift system waits for shift requests based on current gear, throttle, torque and speed. By pre-filling the clutch for the next gear, the tap up-shift response is almost momentary. This makes the new Camaro the most powerful production of the model ever, which gets the fullest potential out of the supercharged 6.2L engine that is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm).

Customers of the new ZL1 have the choice between an automatic 6L90 transmission with TapShift manual mode and a six-speed manual transmission, both unmatched in their class. With 0 to 60 taking 3.9 seconds, and a top speed of 184 mph (296 km/h), the power and acceleration of the ZL1 automatic outstrip many other supercars. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe will go on sale this spring.

Source: Chevrolet

February 23, 2012

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Price – $54 995

2012 Chevrolet Camaro is one of the most beautiful and stunning cars available on the market. It comes with unique aggressive exterior, brutal engine and nice characteristics even for everyday driving.

“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,” commented Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing.

“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.”, he added.

2012 ZL1 is powered by a supercharged 6.2 liter V8 with whopping 588PS (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft), which is enough to pool several carriages. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic. All that power is sent to the rear wheels, so the handling and fun are insane.

The performance – 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with automatic gearbox and 4.0 seconds with the manual. The top speed is 296 km/h (184 mph) – automatic and 290 km/h (180 mph) – manual.

“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, and a top speed in excess of 180 mph, the power and acceleration of the Camaro ZL1 rivals many supercars,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

“And, horsepower is only half of the story, as the most significant measurement of the ZL1’s potential is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That is a great testament to the power, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1, and to the well-rounded performance of the ZL1 that sets the bar for the sports-car segment.”, he added.

All this pleasure comes at decent price – $54 995, including destination charges, so if you consider buying a sports car, ZL1 is one of the best options available on the market.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 options:

Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185

20”, 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 suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500

Source: Chevrolet

November 18, 2011

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be exhibited at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, next month. When it goes on sale in late 2012, it will deliver more performance and technology than many exotic cars and ultra-luxury convertibles.

“The Camaro ZL1 convertible will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

“This is a car that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you drop the top – or hit the gas.”, he added.

ZL1 Convertible is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 588PS (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. This is an improvement of just 11PS and 9Nm over ZL1 Coupe.

Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to quell the cowl and steering wheel shake common in convertibles. They include:

A tower-to-tower brace under the hood

A transmission support reinforcement brace

Underbody tunnel brace

Front “X” brace and stiffer cradle as well as rear underbody “V” braces.

The suspension of the ZL1 convertible uses the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. New, twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners enable 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.

The Camaro ZL1 convertible will also offer Performance Traction Management as standard equipment, which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, it is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance both launch-acceleration performance and corning.

In one word, 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible is simply amazing.

Source: Chevrolet

October 12, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – Nurburgring in 7:41:27

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 managed to make a lap around the Nurburgring-Nordschleife racetrack in 7 minutes 41 seconds and 27”.

The times was set by GM’s own test driver Aaron Link. You can check out the whole lap in the video below provided by Chevrolet.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged LSA V8 with 557PS (410 kW) and 745Nm (550 lb-ft) of torque. It has enormous Brembo brakes measuring 370mm in the front with 6-piston calipers and 365 mm at the rear with 4-piston calipers.

The new Camaro ZL1 stands on enormous 20” aluminum wheels fitted with specially developed Goodyear Supercar F2 tires.

2012 Camaro ZL1 manages to beat BMW E92 M3 GTS and Porsche GT3 RS, so the myth about the slow and boring american cars is busted.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mhjGERugh0&feature=player_embedded

Source: Chevrolet via Youtube

October 6, 2011

Tag: Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Supercharged Performance and New Transmission