More news on Z28 Potential
Maybe those pictures from a few weeks back were the real deal, I myself am still skeptical, but more rumours are flying in about the return of the Z28. According to one Camaro5 Forums member, a friend working in a GM driveshaft supply house had an order placed for a dozen Camaro driveshafts built for higher HP output. He calls them Z/28 driveshafts, but I imagine they have no official title yet and are in fact driveshafts designed for the Camaro body proportions and built withstand 500+ horsepower. That's normally how these machine housing orders come through. A new driveshaft, possibly to fit the LSA from the CTS-V? Maybe for a new iteration of a different engine model? Perchance a non-naturally aspirated LS3 with a higher output? Only time will tell, but for now we have a "friend of a friend" report towards the increased performance driveshaft for the Camaro.
Here's the actual post from the Camaro5 Forums:
Camaro Police Car in Texas Now
Well, American now has its first Gen 5 Camaro fully marked Police Cruiser, and its a great looking Camaro. I'm sure the boys out at the Haltom City Police Department argue about who gets to cruise in the Camaro now, because it is far and away the best looking cop car I've ever seen. While they could have just changed the paint and thrown some flashing lights on the thing, they decided to take it a step further and commissioned Classic Grapevine Chevrolet to build the one if a kind Camaro Cruiser.
The black and white, with the low profile LEDs on top and the in-grill blue lights, all make for one fantastic looking cruiser. I sure wouldn't want to try and outrun this beast with the Camaro SS 420HP beast powering it. Sorry street racers driving Mustangs in Texas, there's no out-running this cop.
Click thumbs for full size images:
SLP ZL575 Camaro – A Driver’s Car, a Fan’s Dream
The Camaro has been tuned by so many different groups and shops since it was released this past year, that it has almost become a passé thing. Almost. The new SLP ZL575 has absolutely nothing about it one might consider passé, unless of course that means it is passé-ing someone else on an open road. Outfitted with the SLP Supercharger, Long Tube Headers, stainless axle-back exhaust system, and a cold air intake (as well as some other fantastic looking and performing upgrades) the SLP ZL575 Camaro is one powerful machine. Boasting 575 bhp, which is a bump of 149 over the stock SS, this beast gets a lot out of the already awesome Camaro LS3, and couples that with fantastic suspension, braking (Brembo 6-piston big brake kit), handling, and visual modifications for one exceptional Camaro.
With the SLP Supercharger strapped on to the LS3, this vehicle is basically a rocket on 4 wheels. Combining the already great performance of the LS3 with the tested performance and quality of SLP makes for an awesome car. With stiffer springs for an inch-lowered ride height, 29-mm tubular anti-roll bars, enhanced suspension package, and wider staggered (245s front and 275s rear) 20 inch Pirelli P Zero's this car not only flies, but it can sure as hell take a corner as well. Couple all of this with some fantastic styling cues, and you have one of the greatest complete package tuner Camaros out there. The Ram Air hood, functional rear spoiler, active brake cooling rear gills, 5-spoke alloy wheels, custom paint striping, and specialized SLP interior with embroidered mats and seats, all make for one absolutely glorious looking Camaro. The styling touches were small when compared to the stock Camaro (apart from that mean looking ram air hood) but worked absolutely perfect in the context of the car.
If I had any one complaint with the SLP Camaro, it would be with their exhaust choice. This is just personal preference too, but I prefer the more steady hum of a Borla or Billy Boat or other exhaust system to the throatier gurgle of the Powerflo. It is a very mean and aggressive exhaust, and it provides fantastic performance boosts, just wouldn't be my first choice. Of course, it is one of SLP's own in-house products, and makes sense with the package. Saying I don't like it also just feels like nit-picking on my part. And, with the performance and styling this car offers at its price tag (in the very reasonable $60,000 price range), I shouldn't be complaining.
A look at the numbers shows just how impressive these performance modifications are:
- 575 bhp, 550 lbs-feet torque
- 4.3 second 0-60, and a very respectable 9.0 second 0-100
- 12.5 second 1/4 mile run at 118.5 mph
- 121 ft 60-0 braking, 215 ft for 80-0 braking
- .89g on lateral accel (200 ft skidpad)
- and a limited top speed of 190 mph
Very definitely, another great vehicle from SLP, the ZL575 Camaro is a beast begging to be tamed and one of my favorite Camaro tuners on the market!
Hennessey Camaro, or the Camaro ZR1 (if you will)!
Hennessey, the vehicle tuning shop out of Texas run and operated by John Hennessey, has been making fast cars go a lot faster for a long time now. Over the last 20 years they've introduced twin-turbo Venom Vipers, suped up 911 Twin Turbos, 1000+ HP Ford GTs, and that's just beginning to scratch the surface of what they're capable of. Well, their newest endeavor is one of their most impressive. Hennesey has taken the ever impressive LS9 (more commonly known as the stage 1 rocket booster powering the Corvette ZR1) which was already pumping 638 bhp, amped up its BHP output to 725 with some ingenious touches, and dropped it in a 2010 Camaro. Sounds like a whole lot of fun, doesn't it?
So, an extra 100hp out of an already extremely powerful motor is no easy task, how did the Hennesey guys do it? They started by installing a smaller pulley on the blower's snout, which effectively raised the supercharger's peak boost from 11.0 psi to 14.5 psi. After the shortened pulley, they installed a custom created carbon fiber 4 inch cold air intake system, utilizing a K&N cone nose filter, and paired that with a more efficient central plenum which utilized improved air to water heat exchangers to help the engine run cooler and stronger. Not finding themselves satisfied there, they also installed 1 7/8" long tube headers, which run down to a 3 inch center X-Pipe, and improved stainless high flow cats. All of these exhaust modifications equate to a more powerful, wider breathing exhaust system, with a deliciously rich exhaust note on the end. Basically, this car not only flies, but really sounds like it as well.
Of course, there were some issues with the LS9 install in the Camaro. Typically housing a LS3 V-8, the size difference between the LS9 and LS3 was not much, so very little engine bay modification was necessary to make the engine drop in and sit. The electronics though, were something totally different. According to Hennessey, in the modern Camaro system all vehicle systems communicate with one another (from the air bags to the radio to the fuel pump), and perfecting a computer system which utilized the new engine's electronics with the pre-existing Camaro vehicle was no easy task. Hennessey did figure it out though, and then went about modifying the Camaro's fuel delivery system, which ultimately required a very intensive reworking. The LS9 requires 40psi more fuel which meant that larger injectors, a higher volume fuel pump, and new fuel rails were ultimately installed as well.
Through all of this, you have one of the meanest sounding and performing Camaros ever created, but now one must beg the question: Well, how does it look? The answer to that, quiet simply, is fantastic! While it will ultimately be available in any color combination desired, right now Hennessey has it in Cyber Gray Metallic with Blue Hockey Stick Accent striping. Adorned with carbon fiber ground effects spoilers and body kit touches, and a slightly wider wheel stance, make this car looks fantastic. Add to that the gorgeous 18 spoke wheels, housing the gigantic Brembo brakes and KW complete coil-over kit, and the exterior of this vehicle is very striking and beautiful. Inside, the Hennessey Camaro has a fairly standard Camaro look. All leather, and upgraded trim touches are some of the few visible touches, apart from the short-shifter. This fantastic feeling, short throw racing shifter, looks great and custom in the center of the Camaro does a lot for the vehicle.
All of this said, the vehicle does have some issues. Currently, there's no transmission that can make the most of the powerful engine, and the engine's 741lb-feet of torque will very literally shred the Camaro tires. Because of this, and the general weight of the Camaro, the car isn't as fast as one would expect, ultimately. It does handle fantastically, and is more nimble than the stock Camaro, but that's still not enough of a difference. The Hennessey Camaro (which is almost 100 HP stronger) is .8 seconds slower than the Corvette ZR1 to 60mph. The Hennessey Camaro is also .6 seconds slower the quarter mile than the ZR1 Corvette, but is a full second faster than the Camaro SS. The vehicle does handle well and look great, but some more work is necessary before it is seemingly worth its $125,000 price tag. (Compared to the $31,000 for the Camaro SS and the $107,000 price tag of the Corvette ZR1).
VaraRam Releasing a Camaro Ram Air Intake System
VaraRam, an industry leader in Ram Air Intake systems, is about to release a new Ram Air system for the Gen 5 Camaro. If the system ends up being anything like VaraRam's other systems, then it will certainly be one of the best intake systems available for the Camaro today. VaraRam's Ram Air systems for the 'Vette and other performance cars have always been great, so I'm looking forward to seeing this when it is released.
This system is not public yet, and wont be released until late March or early April, but a friend with was able to see one in action and linked me to the early press information from VaraRam concerning the system, knowing the interest I would surely take in it. Their write up promises no less than 20 HP gains without a tune on a stock Camaro, apparently going up to as much as 32HP without tune and 40HP in gains on a tuned Camaro. VaraRam has also committed to providing multiple different options for every different level of performance Camaro out there, from stock to those pushing over 1000HP.
Of course, what do these numbers mean in a real-world setting? VaraRam claims a half second, and extra 5mph 1/4 Mile performance just by installing the Ram Air kit. Even if those numbers are on the high end though, a .3 second and 3mph improvement at the cost of a VaraRam system is very impressive. If the Camaro VaraRam Ram Air intake system runs equivalent in price to the other VaraRam systems, (anywhere from $300-400) this may wind up being the single best bang for the buck Camaro upgrade on the market. Definitely worth a look-see, so keep an eye on the Ram Air system as its release date gets closer. Remember, late March to early April.
Gen6 Camaro to get new platform?
According to a recent MotorTrend report we're beginning now to get some information about what the 6th Generation Camaro will be like (seems a little premature, no?). Apparently GM is developing a new RWD platform that will take place of the SIGMA platform on the Cadillac CTS and be the base by which the 6th Gen Camaro is also built. This platform will be the ALPHA platform. This seems a little odd of a move, but I'm alright with it personally, to announce this right now before the second year of the Camaro has hit dealerships. So, this platform will be hitting dealers in 2014, and the Camaro is scheduled (tentatively) for 2015 right now. Other changes discussed here: The 6th Gen Camaro is expected to be lightened by a good bit from the 5th Gen; Also, apparently the engine in the Camaro will not be a naturally-aspirated, but instead either a turbo or super-charged V6. It seems the goal is to continue increasing Camaro performance while also increasing its EPA gas consumption rating to guarantee it will continually be able to beat whatever Mustang Ford throws at it. All very interesting stuff, but, having just bought my Camaro not too long along, too soon for my liking to hear about!
Synergy Green Camaro Debuted
The New Green Machine: 2010 Camaro Synergy Special Edition
DETROIT, Jan 14 – Today, Chevrolet debuted the 2010 Camaro Synergy Special Edition. The special edition will be produced in limited quantities from February to May, with pricing starting at $26,790.
“The Synergy Special Edition package is designed for customers who want a unique performance car at an attainable price,” says Camaro marketing manager, John Fitzpatrick. “For under $27,000, Camaro Synergy Special Edition offers standout styling, modern technologies like Bluetooth, and 304 horsepower under the hood.”
The 2010 Camaro Synergy Special Edition is based on a Camaro 1LT, with a 3.6L direct injection V-6, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The powertrain has become a benchmark for the segment by offering a combination of performance and efficiency: The V-6 delivers 304 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, and returns up to 29 mpg on the highway.
The Synergy Green exterior color was first previewed at the 2009 SEMA show. In production form, the Synergy Green is accented by Cyber Grey Rally Stripes running the length of the Camaro hood and rear deck. Other exterior features include a standard rear spoiler, and standard 19 inch, Sterling Silver painted wheels wrapped with P245/50R19 tires.
The color scheme is mirrored on the interior, with Synergy Green instrument panel and door inserts. Synergy Green stitching also accents the Jet Black cloth seats, steering wheel, shift knob and center console. The Special Edition also includes the Camaro Convenience and Connectivity Package, with Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port for MP3 players, and remote vehicle start for models equipped with an automatic transmission.
“Synergy Green continues a long tradition of dramatic Camaro colors,” says Camaro historian Scott Settlemire. “Some of the most sought-after Camaros are first generation cars – those from 1967 to 1969 – in Hugger Orange, Daytona Yellow, and Rallye Green. Just as those colors helped make the first generation Camaro an icon, modern colors like Inferno Orange, Rallye Yellow Transformers Edition and Synergy Green will define the 2010 Camaro.”
Click Gallery Thumbs for Full Photos
Camaro December Sales Numbers
Well, the Camaro is staying strong! A look at the December numbers for sales, and the 2009 production numbers are quiet impressive, and definitely offer a lot of hope towards GM's future. Let's also remember that the Camaro outsold the Mustang (by a considerable margin) for the 7th month in a row, which is its direct, popular, competitor.So, here's to selling another 60k+ Camaros in 2010 for you GM! If they want to guarantee improved numbers too they'll have to give the public new options. Maybe we'll see the return of the Z28 finally come to fruition this year! We can only hope!
Production Stats:
Camaros produced in December 09: 8,368
Total Camaros produced to date (since March 16, 2009): 82,188
Delivery (sales) Stats:
Camaro December Deliveries (actual sales): 7,548
Total April - December Deliveries (actual sales): 61,648
He gets the driving experience right, but I have few if any of his little gripes
Through this year's upheaval at General Motors, the buzz around the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro has stayed strong. Many months now since Camaros first started arriving, they're still driving traffic around Chevy dealerships. And on the road, as we recently experienced, it still makes people turn and look—with a grin.
It's easy to see why. From the outside, the Camaro isn't just another pretty retro pony car; it has a certain urgency and aggressiveness about it, with the assertive stance and proportions that just 'pop.'
In recent weeks, this editor has driven V-6 versions of the 2010 Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Camaro—along with a host of V-8 and V-6 versions TheCarConnection.com had driven previously—and reports that although the Camaro is the clear performance winner and reigning crowd-drawing champ, it's perhaps the toughest to live with of the three when you take a closer look inside.
First off, visibility out of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is about the worst we've seen in any production vehicle as of late. Rearward vision is slim, with the steep rear window only offering a short view outward over the tall deck, while the rising beltline and thick rear pillars create a huge convertible-like blind spot. You'll soon learn the drill, of leaning forward and craning one's neck around to help improve the field of vision. But every time I leaned forward, the little magnetic snap that holds the seatbelt loop in place would come undone, leaving me to fidget with it and snap it back into position.
Many drivers will find headroom tight in the Camaro, though there's plenty of legroom. Even in a slightly reclined driving position, I was brushing the sunroof surround. If you're tall, you probably shouldn't go for the sunroof, a $900 option.
Overall, the feeling is that you're driving a relatively large car with a relatively small cabin. Don't think you're going to bring along back-seat passengers in the 2010 Camaro. This tall editor found extreme contortion necessary to get in back, and once in place there was a severe lack of headroom for all but smaller kids. What's also concerning is that there are no headrests for the two rear positions. Riding back there is not for the claustrophobic or those who tend toward motion sickness. With the shoulder-high beltline and small recessed windows it's cave-like.
How do the other pony cars compare? The Mustang doesn't have as much legroom but is clearly better for headroom; as for the 2010 Dodge Challenger, it's the biggest overall and that translates to the roomiest cabin. Although the Challenger's back seat is also tough to get into, it's almost adult-sized.
The Camaro's instrument panel looks intriguing from outside the car, but up close it's a mixed bag. The chunky climate controls are straightforward as well as stylish. But it took us a lot of time to get used to the idiosyncrasies of the sound system controls, which include a row of almost identical, smooth-surfaced buttons. For instance, to seek between stations on FM requires pressing the bottom portion of the third or fourth preset; it seems a step backwards from the more intuitive audio controls GM has used for many years. On the upside, the display was very clear.
2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Having the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro over a few days that involved heavy errands, we found a few other gripes. For instance, the test Camaro had the pricey ($4,680) 21-inch polished-rim flange-and-spokes wheels some expensive wheel options, but its power side mirrors don't include a tilt-down feature when engaging reverse. Instead, we adjusted the mirror downward for parallel parking. And the long, very wide-opening doors don't even have any lights or reflectors at their edges. The auxiliary gauge pack—in keeping with an aftermarket look, perhaps—was full of reflections during daytime and had lighting that wasn't quite consistent with the main gauges at night; it was also far from the line of sight.
In our production 2010 Chevrolet Camaro test car, some of the trims didn't meet quite perfectly, center-console trim around the shifter looks (and was, on our test car) easily scratched, and it was awash with a close-but-not-quite-matching palette of matte-matallic, gray, and pearlescent gray bezels, trims, and finishes that could have been better coordinated. On the other hand, the ventilated leather upholstery was soft and comfortable, and the contrast stitching for the seats and soft-touch elbow areas looked upscale.
2010 Chevrolet Camaro Interior Gauges
All these minor gripes did add up to a more significant impression that the 2010 Camaro doesn't quite strike the right balance inside; but it wasn't enough to damp our enthusiasm about the driving experience. Even in V-6 form, the Camaro was a joy to drive. The suspension is just forgiving enough to isolate jarring bumps yet enforces tenacious grip. Even with our ridiculously large wheels the Camaro stayed composed in tight, rough-surfaced corners that would have had the Mustang's tail stepping out. There's surprisingly little road noise on a wide range of surface types, and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) overall are astonishingly under control for a pony car. Yet the 304-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 makes all the right engine sounds. There's clearly no substitute for a V-8 under the hood, but it has enough power to rip off six-second times to 60 mph and get the tires loose for just a little bit of wheelspin at launch with the six-speed automatic.
2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Be sure to visit TheCarConnection.com's overview page on the 2010 Chevy Camaro for specs, prices, multiple Camaro reviews, news on what might be in the works, and galleries of Camaro images. And if you're considering the Camaro, take a look—a long look—around inside. To some, imperfection is part of the appeal here; don't be surprised if, even though you see some flaws, the driving experience is more than enough to maintain the seduction.
Source: The Car Connection