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Chevrolet Camaro

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Chevrolet Camaro
Modified 1969 Chevrolet Camaro. The rear valance, backup lights, and hidden headlights are components of the Rally Sport option package.
Overview
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Production1967–2002
Body and chassis
ClassMuscle car
Body style2-door coupe
2-door convertible
PlatformFR F-body
RelatedPontiac Firebird
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Chevrolet Camaro.

The Chevrolet Camaro was introduced in North America by the Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors at the start of the 1967 model year as competition for the Ford Mustang. Camaro advertising would first be found on AM top-40 stations of the day - stations which appealed to young adults. Although it was technically a compact car (by the standards of the time), the Camaro, like the entire class of Mustang competitors, was soon known as a pony car. It may also be classified as an intermediate touring car, a sports car, or a muscle car. The car shared the same platform and major components with the Pontiac Firebird, also introduced in 1967. Production of both cars ceased in 2002.

Though the car's name was contrived with no meaning, GM researchers reportedly found the word in a French dictionary as a slang term for "friend" or "companion." In some automotive periodicals before official release, it was code-named "Panther." Historical examples exist of Chevrolet product managers being asked by the automotive press "what is a Camaro?", with the tongue-in-cheek answer being "a small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs," a sideways reference to the competing Ford Mustang.

The Camaro was the flagship for Chevrolet, and was for many years one of its most popular models. If its frequent inclusion in automotive enthusiast magazines is any indication, the Chevy Camaro is one of the most popular cars for modification in automotive history.

Four distinct generations of the car were produced.

First generation

1967

Sharing some mechanicals with the upcoming 1968 Chevrolet Nova, the Camaro featured a unibody structure, combined with a sub-frame supporting the front end. Chevrolet offered the car in only two body styles, a coupe and convertible. Almost 80 factory and 40 dealer options including three main packages were available.
  • The RS included many cosmetic changes such as RS badging, hidden headlights, revised taillights, and exterior rocker trim.
  • The SS included a modified 5.7 L (350 in³) V8 engine (first engine of that size by Chevrolet), and the L35 396 in³ (6.5 L) big-block V8 was also available. The SS featured non-functional air inlets on the hood, special striping and SS badging on the grille, gas cap, and horn button. It was possible to order both the RS and SS to receive a Camaro RS/SS. In 1967, a Camaro RS/SS convertible with a 396 in³ (6.5 L) engine paced the Indianapolis 500 race.
  • The Z/28 option code was introduced in December 1966 for the 1967 model year. This option package wasn't mentioned in any sales literature, so it was unknown to most buyers. The only way to order the Z/28 was to order a base Camaro with the Z28 option, front disc brakes, power steering and a Muncie 4-speed manual transmission. The Z/28 featured a unique 302 in³ (4.9 L) small-block engine, designed specifically to race in the Trans Am racing series (which required engines smaller than 305 in³ (5.0 L) and public availability of the car). Advertised power of this engine was listed at 290 hp (216 kW) while actual dynometer readings rated it at 360 to 400 hp (269 to 298 kW). The Z/28 also came with upgraded suspension and racing stripes on the hood. It was possible to combine the Z/28 package with the RS package. Only 602 Z/28s were sold in 1967. Contrary to popular belief, 1967 Z/28s did not have raised cowl induction hoods like 1969 Z/28s did. In 1967, the optional cowl induction received air from a cowl plenum duct attached to the side of the air cleaner that ran to the firewall and got air from the cowl vents. The hood was a standard flat hood. 1967 Z/28s had 15 in Rallye wheels, while all other 1967 Camaros had 14 in wheels. The Z/28 could be combined with the RS appearance package.

The Camaro's standard drivetrain was a 3.8 L (230 in³) I6 engine rated at 140 hp (104 kW) and backed by a Saginaw three-speed manual transmission. A Muncie four-speed manual was also available. The two-speed "Powerglide" automatic transmission was a popular option in 1967 and 1968 until the three-speed "Turbo Hydra-Matic 350" replaced it starting in 1969. The TH350 was also an option on SS396 cars from late 1967 onwards.

The 290 hp (216 kW), 5.7 L (350 in³) V8 first saw duty in the 1967 Camaro and virtually every engine in the Chevrolet lineup was offered as an option.

Production numbers:

RS: 64,842
SS: 34,411
Z28: 602
Total: 220,906

1968

1968 saw the deletion of the side vent windows and the introduction of Astro Ventilation, a fresh-air-inlet system. Also added were side marker lights, a more pointed front grille, and divided rear taillights. The SS models received optional chrome hood inserts. On some models, multi-leaf rear springs replaced single-leaf units, and shock absorbers were staggered. A 6.5 L (396 in³) 350 hp (261 kW) big block engine was added as an option for the SS, and the Z28 became known by buyers. 7,199 Z28s were sold in 1968.

Production numbers:

RS: 40,977
SS: 27,884
Z28: 7,199
Total: 235,147

1969

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

The 1969 Camaro carried over the previous year's drivetrain and major mechanical components, but all-new sheetmetal, except the hood and trunklid, gave a car a substantially sportier look. The grille was redesigned with a heavy "V" cant and deeply inset headlights. New door skins, rear quarter panels, and rear valence panel also gave the car a much lower, wider, more aggressive look. This styling would serve for the 1969 model year only. Collectors often debate the merits of smooth, rounded lines of 1967 and 1968 model versus the heavily creased and sportier looks of the 1969.

The real treat for the 1969 model year, however, was the vast array of new performance options. A GM corporate edict forbade Chevrolet from installing engines larger than 400 in³ (6.6 L) in the Camaro. Chevrolet also knew that there was a market for ultra-powerful Camaros armed with the Corvette's L72 427 in³ (7.0 L) engine, as evidenced by the success of dealerships like Yenko Chevrolet, Nickey Chevrolet, and Dana Chevrolet, who installed their own. So, Chevrolet quietly offered two Central Office Production Orders (COPO) options, numbers 9560 and 9561, for the 1969 model year. The COPO 9561 option brought the fire-breathing L72 big-block engine, making an underrated 425 hp (317 kW) gross. Don Yenko ordered several hundred of these cars, along with a variety of other high performance options, to create the now-legendary Yenko Camaro. Overall, Chevrolet produced just 1,015 L72-equipped Camaros.

Even rarer was the COPO 9560. This option installed an all-aluminum 427 in³ (7.0 L) big-block called the ZL-1. Just 69 ZL-1 Camaros were produced, probably because the engine alone cost over US$4,000 — nearly twice that of a base coupe with a V8. Though rated at 430 hp (321 kW) gross, the ZL-1 made closer to 550 hp (410 kW), making it both the fastest and rarest of all Camaros.

The 1969 model year was exceptionally long, extending into December 1969, due to production problems with the completely redesigned second generation model. Many of the late production cars were titled as 1970 models, and there are GM press photos showing cars sporting "1970" license plates; this is also the source of the "1970 1/2" moniker sometimes applied to the second generation 1970 model year cars. Equipped with the lighter weight "split bumper" in the front (i.e., no bumper across the central grille opening) and with all the refinements and enhancements up to that point, these "1970 1/2" model year vehicles are generally regarded as the most desirable of the early Camaros, since the performance of those immediately following was to be hampered by the addition of heavy federally mandated bumpers as well as the power-reducing automobile emissions control systems of the period.

Production numbers:

RS: 37,773
SS: 34,932
Z28: 20,302
Total: 243,085

Engines

  • 1967-1969: 3.8 L (230 in³) 230 I6 140 hp (104 kW)
  • 1967-1969: 4.0 L (250 in³) 250 I6 155 hp (116 kW) @ 4200 rpm, 235  ft·lbff (319 N·m) @ 1600 rpm
  • 1967-1969 Z28: 4.9 L (302 in³) Small-Block V8 290 hp (216 kW) @ 5800 rpm, 290  ft·lbff (393 N·m) @ 4200 rpm
  • 1967-1969: 5.4 L (327 in³) Small-Block V8 210 hp (157 kW)
  • 1967-1969: 5.4 L (327 in³) Small-Block V8 275 hp (205 kW)
  • 1967-1969: 5.7 L (350 in³) Small-Block V8 255 hp (190 kW)
  • 1967-1969 SS350: 5.7 L (350 in³) Small-Block V8 295 hp (220 kW) @ 4800 rpm, 380  ft·lbff (515 N·m) @ 3200 rpm
  • 1967-1969 SS396: 6.5 L (396 in³) Big-Block V8 325 hp (242 kW) @ 4800 rpm, 410  ft·lbff (556 N·m) @ 3200 rpm
  • 1967-1969 SS396: 6.5 L (396 in³) Big-Block V8 375 hp (280 kW) @ 5600 rpm, 415  ft·lbff (563 N·m) @ 3600 rpm
  • 1968-1969 SS396: 6.5 L (396 in³) Big-Block V8 350 hp (261 kW) @ 5200 rpm, 415  ft·lbff (563 N·m) @ 3200 rpm
  • 1969 COPO 9561/L-72: 7.0 L (427 in³) Big-Block V8 425 hp (317 kW) @ 5600 rpm, 460 ft·lbff (624 N·m) @ 4000 rpm
  • 1969 COPO 9560/ZL-1: 7.0 L (427 in³) Big-Block V8 430 hp (321 kW) @ 5200 rpm, 450 ft·lbff (610 N·m) @ 4400 rpm

Second generation

1970

File:70-camaro.jpg
1970 1/2 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 RS in blue with black rally stripes.

The larger second-generation Camaro featured an all-new sleek body and improved suspension. The 1970 1/2 Camaro debuted as a 2+2 coupe; no convertible was offered and would not appear again until well into the third generation. Most of the engine and drivetrain components were carried over from 1969 with the exception of the 230 in³ (3.8 L) six cylinder — the base engine was now the 250 in³ (4.1 L) six-cylinder rated at 155 hp (116 kW). The top performing motor was a L-78 396 in³ (6.5 L) V8 rated at 375 hp (280 kW). Starting in 1970, the 396 in³ (6.5 L) nominal big block V8's actually displaced 402 in³ (6.6 L), yet Chevrolet chose to retain the 396 badging. Two 454 in³ (7.4 L) engines (the LS6 and LS7) were listed on early specification sheets but never made it into production. Besides the base model, buyers could select the "Rally Sport" option with a distinctive front nose and bumper, a "Super Sport" package, and the "Z-28 Special Performance Package" featuring a new high-performance 360 hp (268 kW) 350 in³ (5.7 L) V8.

1972

The 1972 Camaro suffered two major setbacks. A UAW strike at a GM assembly plant in Ohio disrupted production for 174 days, and 1,100 Camaros had to be scrapped because they did not meet 1973 federal bumper safety standards. Some at GM seriously considered dropping the Camaro and Firebird altogether, while others were convinced the models remained marketable. The latter group eventually convinced those in favor of dropping the F-cars to reconsider, and Chevrolet would go on to produce 68,656 Camaros in 1972. 970 SS396s were produced in 1972, and this was the last year for the SS model. This year it was changed from "Z/28" to "Z28"

1973

A new LT option was offered in 1973, and new impact-absorbing bumpers were standard. The Super Sport package was dropped, and the big block 396 in³ (6.5 L) V8 could no longer be ordered. Power was down due to new emissions standards, with the top rated 350 in³ (5.7 L) V8 producing 245 hp (183 kW).

1974

The 1974 Camaro grew seven inches longer thanks to new aluminum bumpers and a forward sloping grille. Round taillights were replaced with a rectangular wraparound design.

1975

The Z28 option was dropped for the 1975 and 1976 models, and power continued to decline drastically. Two 350 in³ (5.7 L) V8s produced 145 hp (108 kW) and 155 hp (116 kW) (power ratings were now net as opposed to the prior gross ratings. Net power ratings were taken from the engine crankshaft as before, but now all accessories had to be attached and operating, and all emissions equipment and a full production exhaust system had to be in place. These power-robbing additions — along with stringent new emissions laws — were instrumental in creating the vastly smaller power figures found in subsequent cars). A new wraparound rear window was introduced for 1975.

1977

The Z28 was re-introduced to the buying public in the spring of 1977 as a 1977-1/2. This car was an instant hit, with most cars sold equipped with air conditioning and an automatic transmission for a comfort-oriented public. The cars were also available with a Borg-Warner Super T-10 4-speed manual transmission and minimal option packaging for those buyers interested in a performance-oriented vehicle. The half-year model was one of the few American performance vehicles available at the time. The car was capable of turning in quarter-mile times comparable to many of the 1960s muscle cars, and the chassis was developed to reward the driver with a first-class grand touring experience, capable of outstanding handling, especially in the hands of a competent high-performance driver. More than one Z28 was sold as a stripped performance car, and in this trim the Z28 could outperform Pontiac Trans Ams and aging Corvettes on highways and canyon roads.

1978

1979 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The 1978 model featured new soft front and rear bumpers and much larger taillights. To go along with this new bumper, Chevrolet also gave the feature of a body kit to lower the front nose. Some of these body kits even featured sideskirts as well. This was also the first year the T-top — a t-bar roof with dark tinted glass lift-out panels — became available as an option. Moonroofs were also offered.

1980

For 1980 the aged 250 in³ (4.1 L) inline-six was replaced with a 229 in³ (3.8 L) V6, 231 in³ (3.8 L) in California. The Z28 hood included a rear-pointing raised scoop with a solenoid operated flap which opened at full throttle, allowing the engine to breathe cooler air.

1981

The 1981 model was virtually unchanged from 1980 and would be the last model year for the second generation Camaro. Total production had dropped down to 126,139 from a high of 282,571 in 1979.

Engines

Third generation

1982

The 1982 model introduced the first Camaros with factory fuel injection, four-speed automatic transmissions (three-speed on the earlier models), five-speed manual transmissions (four-speed manual transmissions in 1982, and some 1983 to 1984 models), 14 or 15 in (356 or 381mm) rims, a hatchback body style, and even a four-cylinder engine (due to concerns over fuel economy in the wake of the 1979 energy crisis). The Camaro Z28 was Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1982. 3 Models were available this year Sport Coupe, Berlinetta, and Z28.

The Sport Coupe came standard with the LQ9 four cylinder. The LC1 V-6 and LG4 V-8 were optional. *Dog dish* hub caps were standard; wheel covers were optional as were 14x7 steel 5 spoke body-colored rally wheels.

The Berlinetta came standard with the LC1 V-6 or optional LG4 V-8 . The Berlinetta came standard with its own unique 14x7 finned aluminum wheel with gold accenting and `Berlinetta' center cap, its own lower body pinstriping, gold "Berlinetta" badging, headlamp pockets were painted in an accent color and tail lights got a gold and black horizontal divider bar. The interior came standard with custom cloth interior, rear storage well cover and additional carpeting on rear wheelhouses. It also came standard with additional body insulation, full instrumentation and its own unique steering wheel with `Berlinetta' badge.

The Z28 came standard with the LG4 4bbl V-8 or optional LU5 twin TBI `Cross Fire Injection' 5.0 liter. All Z28's came with lightweight SMC (Fiberglass) hoods with functional hood air induction flaps on RPO LU5 cars. The Z28 had a different nose, 3 piece rear spoiler and front, side, and rear lower body valances in silver or gold. Just above the valance was a two-color lower body stripe that encircled the car. Headlamp pockets on the Z28 were black. Standard were new 15x7 cast aluminum 5 spoke wheel accented with either silver or gold. Z28 badges appeared on the right rear bumper, and on the side valances.

The Camaro Z28 paced the Indianapolis 500 in 1982 and over 6000 replicas were sold through Chevy dealers. The pace car edition featured special two-tone silver/blue paint and special striping, orange pin-striping on 15 in Z28 wheels, and a silver/blue interior with 6-way Lear-Seigler manual adjustable seating. Engine choices in the pace cars were the same as the regular Z28.

1984

Dashboard design changes to a smaller, sharper design because of complaints about the design quality and look. In the Berlinetta the design gets replaced with electronic instrumentation. Including bar-graph tach, digital speedometer, a pod-mounted AM-FM cassette deck, fingertip steering wheel side pod mounted controls; for turn signal, HVAC, Wiper & Headlight controls cruise control in steering wheel, and an overhead console.

Drivetrain changes include discontinuation of the 305 Cross Fire V-8, hydraulic clutch linkage on manual cars, and 700R4 automatic (overdrive) transmission (3 speed auto dropped).

L69 H.O. Z28 motor now available with automatic transmission.

Road & Track selects the 84 Camaro (and Firebird) as 1 of 12 best cars in the world and the Best Sports GT category in the $11,000 to $14,000 range. Car and Driver picked the 84 Camaro Z28 as the best handling car built in the United States.

1985

In 1985 Chevrolet introduced a new Camaro model — the famous IROC-Z, named after the popular competition International Race of Champions. The Camaro IROC-Z featured an upgraded suspension, a special decal package and a Tuned Port Injection system taken from the Corvette. Third generation Camaros also had a suspension system that was more capable in corners than the previous generation. The Camaro IROC-Z was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1985. The 305 was the only engine to receive Tuned Port Injection considering the L98 350 was not available until 1987. Also new for 1985 cars were refreshened noses for all Camaros and new, deeper valances and front spoiler for the Z28 and the newly introduced IROC-Z28

1986

A newly required CHMSL (Center High Mounted Stop Light) was installed on the Camaro. 1986 was the only year to see this attached to the hatchback glass on Z28s and IROC-Zs; in following years it was implemented in the rear decklid spoiler.

1987

1987 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

The Berlinetta model was replaced with the new 'LT' option for the Sport Coupe, incorporating most of the Berinetta's options except the electronic instrumentation

Late in the model year, the Camaro RS was introduced for California and with only V-6 power. RS had Z28 style valances that were painted body color (like IROC) and had no lower body stripes. The RS got the 15 inch 5 spoke aluminum Z28 wheel which were painted to match body color. 1

A Camaro convertible was introduced for the first time since 1969 as a regular production option. Available on the Sport Coupe, Sport Coupe LT, Z28, and IROC-Z, the conversion was performed on t-top equipped (t-top models have extra bracing) Camaros by ASC. Only 1,007 were produced in the first year of production. 1987 marked the 20th anniversary of the Camaro and the convertibles were considered the anniversary editions and were signified by a special dash badge that read `20th Anniversary Commemorative Edition'.

The 350 TPI and 5 Speed 305 TPI combinations were finally available on the IROC-Z28 after a lot of testing although the 350 was only available in the IROC-Z and only with an automatic transmission. The TPI 350 motor was not visually distinguishable from the TPI 305. Automatic 305 TPI's still got the weaker cam and 190hp rating. All 5 spd 305 TPI Camaros came with the better cam (25hp advantage) until 1990 when G92 HAD to be specified to get the better cam in the 5 spd 305 TPI. Roller lifters and new valve cover/head design on V-8 Camaros. Valve covers featured new sealing and mounting through center of cover. Heads featured new raised lip for improved valve cover sealing.G92 and L98(B2L) cars finally got the Borg-Warner HD 7.75 inch four pinion rear end, produced by GM Holden's Limited of Australia (Firebird WS6 cars went to this unit in 1986). These units can be identified by their 9 bolt (rather than 10) differential cover that has a rubber plug. The Borg-Warner logo is also cast into the bottom of the differential case. This rear axle came with tapered rather than straight roller bearings and a cone-clutch rather than disc-clutch limited slip unit. These units came painted black from the factory while most others were bare metal.

G92 (performance axle ratio) available only on IROC-Z with 5.0 TPI (LB9). G92 was available on IROC-Z convertible in 1987. All 1987 350 TPI (B2L) IROC-Z's came standard with the 3.27 BW rear end and everything that was included with G92 but did not have the G92 RPO code because it was mandatory; this changed in 1988 however when a 2.77 BW rear was standard and G92 had to be specified to get the 3.27's. All 1987 350 TPI (B2L) IROC-Z's required J65 rear disc brakes, G80 limited slip differential, and KC4 engine oil cooler

1990

1990 Chevrolet Camaro RS

1990 was the year with the lowest production to date (35,048), due to preparations for the facelift the Camaro would get for the 1991 model year. 1990 also marked the final year for the IROC-Z. Chevrolet had decided not to renew their contract with the International Race of Champions, which was later renewed by Chrysler's Dodge Daytona. This year was the first year for an airbag to be offered in any F-body. The 2.8 L V6 was upgraded to the 3.1 L V6.

1991

A big change occurred in 1991, as all Camaros received a facelift in the form of a ground effects package for both the RS and Z28 models, while the IROC-Z was no longer offered. The Z28 also featured a high rise spoiler and non-functional hood louvers. This was the first year that the B4C "Special Service" option was made available to law enforcement, the government, and military agencies. The B4C amounted to little more than a Z28 powertrain and suspension in the RS. (Car Craft Magazine refers to the B4C as a 1LE equipped with air conditioning.) Around just under 600 B4C Camaros were sold this year.

1992

1992 was the final year of the third generation Camaro. A "25th Anniversary Heritage Edition" option had been planned with Corvette aluminum cylinder heads, tubular exhaust headers, and 6-speed manual transmission, but this was scrapped in favor of an option which amounted to nothing more than a graphics package of badges and rally stripes. The Camaro B4C got the addition of 1LE brakes and suspension, making it one of the best performing third generation Camaros. Just under 500 B4Cs were sold. The B4C option was also deemed popular enough to be carried on to the next model.

Engines

Generation 4

1996 Chevrolet Camaro RS

1993

1993 was the debut year for the fourth generation Camaro, and production continued until 2002. Production was moved from GM's Van Nuys, California assembly plant to Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, Canada in 1993. The new design incorporated lightweight plastic body panels over a steel spaceframe, and a much improved suspension design. The 1993 Camaro also featured the LT1 V8 engine that had been introduced in the Corvette one year earlier, as well as an optional six-speed manual transmission when ordered with the V8. In 1993, the Camaro Z28 was selected as the official pace car for the Indianapolis 500. A pace car edition was produced in limited quantities, with a unique black and white color scheme. Base Camaros were powered by a 160 hp 3.4 L V6.

1994

Mostly minor changes occurred for 1994. The 4L60 automatic transmission was replaced with the 4L60E, which included electronic controls. A PCM (powertrain control module) interface was added for tuning purposes.

1995

In 1995, base Camaros in California were equipped with the 3800 Series II engine for emissions compliance, while base Camaros sold elsewhere retained the 3.4 L engine. For the V8-powered Camaros, the often-problematic OptiSpark distributor was updated to include a vent to remove moisture from the unit, greatly extending its longevity.

1996

1996 saw minor mechanical revisions, as well as small power gains from the new OBD II-compliant engine controls and an improved exhaust system. Two option packages also returned: the RS, an appearance option for base cars, and the SS, a performance and appearance package for V8-powered cars. The SS cars were the ultimate Camaros and included a functioning hood scoop and new, five-spoke 17 in x 9 in wheels. The new wheel and tire package on the SS resulted in better handling and braking compared to Z28s. Base Camaros in California were rated at 200 hp from the 3.8 L V6.

1997

For the 1997 model year, the Camaro got a new interior and new tailights. It was offered with a "30th Anniversary Package", which included unique orange stripes on white base paint. Also, 100 30th Anniversary Camaro SSs were modified by SLP (Street Legal Performance) and included a 330 hp version of the LT4 engine. While the LT4 made it the fastest Camaro available, it was also by far the most expensive with a price of over US$38,000.

1998

File:98-camaro-engine.jpg
An LS1 V8 in a 1998 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

For the 1998 model year, the Camaro was heavily revised and improved. The most obvious change was the revised front fascia, with more aerodynamic flush headlights replacing the quartet of square inset headlights. The change that was most important to enthusiasts was under the hood. Replacing the LT1 was GM's all-new LS1, which had been introduced with the Corvette C5 in 1997. It featured the same design, but included a cast aluminum block, reducing weight by about 95 lbs compared to the iron block LT1. While the engine had been "detuned" slightly with only a single exhaust (which would split into two when it exited the underside of the car), the small number of changes between it and the Corvette version — as well as the real-world performance — made the 305 hp rating for the Z28 a rather conservative estimate. Dynamometer results and performance figures showed that the LS1 actually produced about 345hp. Minor changes were made to the suspension and the brakes were increased in size. The SS and RS continued for 1998. A revised body kit for the RS made its debut. While the numerous design improvements did spark sales; the total production for 1998 was just 48,490 — a far cry from the 110,000 units sold in 1994 or the 200,000+ units per year sold during the 1970s.

2001

2001 Chevrolet Camaro SS in Artic White

2001 was the lowest production year ever for the Camaro, partially due to production ending earlier than usual to begin work on the 35th Anniversary cars. Only 29,009 Camaros were built this year. The Z28 and SS models received the intake manifold from the LS6, the engine used in the fifth generation Corvette Z06. Accordingly, stated power ratings were increased to 310 hp for the Z28 and 325 hp for the SS, although both models likely produced about 350 hp.

2002

2002 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The Camaro remained almost completely unchanged from 1998 to 2002. Sales continued to decline as the market gradually switched to smaller four and six-cylinder powered cars. GM announced that 2002 would be the final year of production for the Camaro, as sales numbers were not high enough to justify a redesign and the car could not be priced high enough to make low volume production profitable.

A new dash plaque above the audio system commemorated the 35th anniversary of Camaro production.

A special 35th Anniversary Edition was offered for the SS trim level. It included nose-to-tail stripes, embroidery on the front headrests, and unique 17" wheels. The 35th Anniversary Camaro was only available as a convertible or with T-tops. 3,000 Camaros with the anniversary package were produced for the United States and 152 for Canada.[citation needed]

The final Camaro was built on August 27, 2002[1]; Total production for 2002 was 42,098. The Sainte-Thérèse plant, the only GM plant in Canada outside of Ontario, then closed down.

Engines

  • 1993-1995: 3.4 L (208 in³) 60° Gen III V6
  • 1995-2002: 3.8 L (231 in³) 3800 Series II V6
  • 1993-1997: 5.7 L (350 in³) LT1 V8
  • 1998-2002: 5.7 L (346 in³) LS1 V8

Fifth generation

Template:Future automobile

File:2006 Chevrolet Camaro Concept.jpg
Chevrolet Camaro Concept (front)

The return of the Camaro name has been anticipated by enthusiasts since fourth generation production ended in 2002. In January of 2006, the first official word regarding a fifth generation Camaro from General Motors came at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, where the 2006 Camaro Concept was released. AutoWeek editors unanimously awarded the Camaro Concept "Best In Show." Based on the new GM Zeta platform, the new Camaro is expected to also share underpinnings with the next-generation Pontiac GTO if put into production. Photographs, as well as a short video of the concept car, are available in this online Road and Track article.

The concept car features a 110 in (279.4 cm) wheelbase, which is 9 in (23 cm) longer than the previous generation, but an overall length of just 186 in (474.4 cm), 7 in (18 cm) shorter. The concept is powered by the 400 hp LS2 V8 and equipped with the T-56 six-speed manual transmission. If the Camaro is put into production, it will compete with the recently greenlit Dodge Challenger and Ford's successful Mustang. Official word from GM on whether or not the Camaro will be produced is expected by the end of 2006.

File:Camaro-concept 01.jpg
Chevrolet Camaro Concept (rear)

Rumors

  • The most prominent of early revival rumors were reported in the May 2004 Popular Hot Rodding article "The Return of the Chevrolet Camaro in 2007" in which it was reported that a new pony car was being developed for 2007. The article also predicted that the car would be built on the Zeta platform.
  • In the July 2006 edition of Motor Trend, they reported the Camaro had been greenlit for the 2009 model year. Currently no other publication has confirmed this and GM themselves have not said either way. Along with those claims, Motor Trend has also said the Camaro will use the Cadillac Escalade V8 for the base V8 model and that the convertible Camaro has also been greenlit for release at the end of 2006 which conflicts with most other automotive publication's reports. Motor Trend has a history of their rumors and future information being incorrect and inconsistent so these Camaro reports are likely to be proven as false.

Trivia

  • Team Camaro An authoritative source on 1967-1969 Camaros.
  • Yenko.net Information regarding supercars of all makes, including but not limited to Yenko, Baldwin-Motion, Nickey, Dana, and other famous Camaros.
  • Camaro Research Group Home to a vast array of 1967-1969 Camaro information.
  • 5thgen.org- The first and largest 5th Gen Camaro forum.
  • Camaro5.com- Enthusiast Site dedicated to the upcoming 2009 Camaro.
  • Custom Camaro - A restored Camaro from dream car garage
  • NastyZ28.com — All about the Second Generation Camaro (1970 - 1981)
  • CamaroSource.ca — Site featuring in-depth information on the Chevrolet Camaro
  • CamaroZ28.com — A site offering a message board, articles, readers rides, and links
  • Thirdgen.org — Site for third generation Camaros (1982-1992); site includes a message board
  • Chevy Camaro @ Muscle Car Facts — A year-by-year account of Camaro history
  • AUTIV: 1967-69 Camaro — History of the first-generation Camaro; includes photos and trivia

2006 Concept Camaro

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