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Chevrolet debuts 2012 Camaro ZL1 in Chicago

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has been officially presented at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. According to the American brand it is “the highest-performing Camaro and the most technically advanced car ever developed in its class”. The new Camaro ZL1 should be available in the beginning of next year.

The Camaro ZL1 is powered by a supercharged V-8 engine which has an estimated power output of 550 hp and torque of 677 Nm and is set to become the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. Thanks to the technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems, the new ZL1 will have its high engine output complemented by balanced, track-ready handling and braking power.

“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 different design elements on the ZL1 include a new front fascia and hood with air extractors. A signature center section constructed of carbon fiber has been included in the car’s hood and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips have been also fitted on the ZL1 that is marked with the ZL1 badge located on the grille, hood and the brake calipers.

Further details on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will be released at the end of 2011 after all testing has been completed.

The Chevrolet Camaro Generations since 1966

The Chevrolet Camaro first went on sale in 1966 to compete on the market with the Ford Mustang. It was built on the same platform as the 1967 Pontiac Firebird. It is categorized as pony car, some versions though also as muscle cars. Since its introduction in the 1960s, the Camaro has been marketed through five generations, the latest being launched for the 2010 model year.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro

The first-generation Camaro was available as a 2-door, 2+2 seating, coupe or convertible with a choice of several V8 engines. It was conceived to challenge the Ford Mustang in the muscle car segment and this first-generation was produced until 1969. It recently provided the inspiration for the 2010 Camaro design.

1970 Chevrolet Camaro

The second generation Camaro was manufactured from 1970 until 1981. It was reviewed in 1974 and 1978 but as it was based on the same platform, the model showed strong similarities with the first generation. In 1971 the Road & Track magazine elected it as one of the 10 best cars in the world.

1982 Chevrolet Camaro

The third generation of the Camaro was introduced in 1982 and lasted until 1992. For the first time the model featured modern fuel injection, Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4 four-speed automatic transmissions, five speed manual transmissions, 16 inch wheels, a standard 4-cylinder engine and hatchback bodies.

Chevrolet Camaro

The fourth-generation Camaro was launched in 1993 as coupe body style with 2+2 seating or convertible with rear-wheel drive, and a choice of V6 and V8 engines. In 1997/1998 the model received updates on the interior and exterior. After 35 years the Camaro ceased production in 2002, due to declining sales.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

After being dropped from the Chevrolet portfolio in 2002, the Camaro model was revived with a fifth generation in 2009. The new series was preceded by a Camaro Concept in 2006 which eventually lead to the coupe version of the 2010 Camaro going on sale in 2009. For the 2011 model year, a convertible version became available too. Both body variants reached the European markets in 2011.