Sibling rivalry within an automaker's lineup is a sticky business. Engineers try their best to keep a stable hierarchy in place. However, particularly among sports cars, sometimes an insurrection against the status quo breaks out. Chevrolet has tried to be a generous parent over the years. The Camaro has traditionally been the recipient of hand-me-downs from its big brother, the Corvette. For the sixth generation Camaro, enthusiasts have been eager to see what surprises await now that it has been on sale for a little over a year.
The Camaro SS has already received praise for its blistering performance at a relatively affordable price. It can also become a serious supercar slayer when equipped with the 1LE package, as demonstrated at Car and Driver's latest Lightning Lap event. That car was faster around Virginia International Raceway than several more expensive cars including the 2017 Audi R8 and the 2012 Lexus LFA. Many factors contribute to this extraordinary feat, including a switch to the lighter Alpha chassis and an engine shared with the Corvette Stingray. Now, Chevy has provided the Camaro with additional firepower in the form of the 2017 Camaro ZL1.
The ZL1 is powered by the exact same engine found in the Corvette Z06. It makes a square 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The only difference is a conventional oil pan instead of the dry sump lubrication setup used in the Corvette. Aside from that, many other Z06 performance features are present. The ZL1 has magnetorheological dampers, an electronic limited-slip differential, and GM's Performance Traction Management system. To provide sufficient air to the engine, the front radiators have grown to almost ludicrous proportions. The new ZL1 also employs the hollowed-out "flow tie" first seen in the last generation Z/28.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a new ten-speed automatic developed in conjunction with Ford is optional. Chevy says that the automatic's 7.39 overall ratio spread will help optimize gear selection for acceleration and when exiting corners.
At a starting price of around $62,000 when it goes on sale at the end of this year, the Camaro ZL1 is priced in prime Corvette territory. It makes a compelling option for those who want Z06 power without the $100,000 sticker that car commands. Sure you'd have to put up with some of the Camaro's shortcomings, such as a fairly pedestrian interior and limited outward visibility, but for some the sacrifices will be worth it.
Chevrolet has established a system in which the Corvette receives first crack at new technologies and more powerful engines. Then the Camaro gets its turn to play. To stay ahead, the Corvette will receive a ZR1 upgrade in 2018 with an estimated 700 horsepower. Perhaps we can expect the next Camaro Z/28 to keep the friendly sibling rivalry going when it appears shortly thereafter.
