The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is a high performance variant of the
5th generation
Camaro.
It's been long rumored a more potent version of the Camaro was
on its way, but it was at the 2011 Chicago Motor Show that the
model was officially confirmed and presented.
Powered by a supercharged version of the 6.2 litre LSA V8, the
Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has 550 horsepower and 550 lb-ft. (677
Nm) of torque at its disposal. The power is sent to the rear
wheels through a Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission.
It is the "MG9" version of the transmission, which
has a higher torque capacity. The transmission is matched with
a twin-disc clutch and new, shorter-throw shifter.
The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine
of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and
installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros.
Only 69 were built with the engine, and today they are highly
sought after.
"Everything about the ZL1's design is directly related
to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,"
said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. "Our
designers' goal was to execute that function-oriented design
with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful
persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car
that delivers on the attitude it projects."
The most significant exterior upgrades for the Camaro ZL1 include
the new front facia and aluminium hood with integrated vents.
The ZL1's hood includes a signature center section constructed
of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. Also fitted
are new sidesills, wider tires, 20 inch wheels, and a new dual-mode
exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in
response to engine rpm.
The suspension system of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 features completely
revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic
Ride Control. The ZL1's Magnetic Ride system includes driver
selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored to the driver's tastes.
The system uses magneto-rheological technology to produce customizable
shock damping for better body control and performance.
The Camaro ZL1 features an upgraded braking system, developed
in conjunction with the guys at Brembo. The large 14.6-inch
(370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the
14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers.
The interior of the Camaro ZL1 features a redesigned steering
wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance
readouts and the "four-pack" auxiliary gauge system
featuring a boost readout. In addition the ZL1 has heated leather
seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the
front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on
the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior.
Similar and related vehicles:
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Chevrolet Corvette ZO6
Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
Chevrolet Corvette C6
Chevrolet Camaro Z28
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