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2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Camaro ZL1 is a complete high performance car, not just a Camaro with more power," claims General Motors in a recent press release. The short but informative report also boldly names the one vehicle Chevrolet hopes to best in every conceivable way, whether on the street or the track: the Ford Shelby GT500. A close look at the preliminary spec sheet suggests that the Transformers-esque 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has exactly what it takes to refuel the classic Ford vs. Chevy grudge match.
First, we must explain the iconic moniker. Aficionados of early Trans-Am racing will note that the ZL1 badge was reserved for Chevrolet's top-tier -- and most powerful -- Camaro that battled Shelby's GT500 on America's back roads and back straights. Street-licensed ZL1s are some of the most sought after musclecars around as only 69 serialized 1969 model year cars were ever made.
To live up to the name, and to create the "highest-performing Camaro" available today, GM simply reached into its vast performance parts bin. Engineers first implanted a healthy 6.2-liter supercharged LSA V-8 engine into the bay. The small-block mill with bespoke heat-resistant aluminum heads pumps out 550 horses (at an estimated 6100 rpm) and 550 pound-feet of torque (at an estimated 3800 rpm) thanks in large part to a four-lobe intercooled Eaton supercharger and dual-mode exhaust. The exhaust system opens its baffles at higher rpms to give the ZL1 an even meaner tone when pushing hard. GM says a handful of other ZL1 specific bits were added to its powertrain, but would not spill all the details until final testing is completed over the remainder of 2011.
Tremec's high-torque capacity "MG9" TR-6060 six-speed manual gearbox routes all power to the lightweight 20-inch forged rear wheels wrapped in sticky Goodyear Supercar F2 rubber. The short-throw box comes replete with dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch (the setup is similar to that of the Corvette ZR1).
Next came the sculpting of the Camaro's chiseled body. Designers penned a functional aerodynamic physique that is a substantial upgrade over a simple body kit. The menacing front clip with its wide lower intake and prominent splitter is flanked by a set of vertical inlets housing fog lights. A carbon fiber insert serves to lighten the louvered aluminum hood further. Sculpted rocker panels direct fleeting air more efficiently passed the rear end (which also sports a reworked diffuser). The entire ensemble is said to increase downforce and lower drag.