Chevy Offers New Details On Camaro ZL1

Chevrolet's Camaro has been outshined by similar Mustang models in many enthusiast eyes since the 5.0 V8 returned to the Ford Mustang. The Camaro has also been without a model to counter the Shelby GT500 Mustang, but that has now changed with the introduction of the Camaro ZL1. The ZL1 is fitted with a 6.2L LSA V8 under the hood with 580hp and 556 lb-ft of torque. The car is also about more than raw power.

GM fitted the car with the track-capable high-performance fuel system and coolers on the engine, transmission, and rear differential cooler along with Magnetic Ride Control and a performance traction control option. Some aspects sound similar to Ford's Boss 302 with the major exception that the Boss 302 is a naturally aspirated car. That supercharger that the ZL1 uses may be a hindrance on the road course though as power output diminishes as forced induction engines heat up thereby reducing the power and at times making the cars less consistent.

One thing that GM is using to lure in enthusiasts that are considering a Shelby GT500 Mustang is that the ZL1 will be offered with an automatic transmission. The GT500 is a manual transmission only car. The available transmissions in the ZL1 includes either a 6-speed auto or manual. The ZL1 engine also gets an oil cooler and the performance fuel system has an extra pickup to avoid fuel starvation when used in high-g track maneuvers. The traction management system also offers five levels with one including a launch control system for the track. Official pricing on the ZL1 is unknown.