Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: 640 CV to take on the Mustang GT350

I’m sure that at Ford they’re following the day’s events with attention and concern, because when a rival launches an attack, it’s wise to keep every sense on alert.

Today, the rival is called the Chevrolet Camaro, and its name is ZL1. It arrives with its intentions crystal clear: to steal as much of the spotlight as possible from the Mustang Shelby GT350.

The Camaro and the Mustang have always been “arch-enemies”. Since the “dawn of time” more than 40 years ago, these two American models have enjoyed great popularity, becoming true road icons thanks to their design, performance and sporting character.

Now, in the 21st century, the battle has intensified more than ever with the arrival of successive performance versions that have driven power levels up to unprecedented heights. Now, a few months after the unveiling of the Mustang Shelby GT350 with 533 CV, it is Chevy’s turn to make its move, launching the new generation of the Camaro ZL1, with a full 640 CV.

Outwardly, it is evident that the ZL1 stands apart from the rest of the Camaros with a truly sporty look. Its entire anatomy is packed with details that prove this Camaro is more than just a pose. The bumpers with oversized air intakes, the 20″ forged wheels, the rear diffuser, the spoiler, the side skirts, the decoration over the bonnet and roof, the multiple “ZL1” badges and the huge exhaust outlets put us on the track.

Inside, the changes compared with the “standard” versions are limited to more enveloping seats signed by Recaro, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, red stitching and an Alcantara finish.

Its 640 CV give it an advantage of almost 90 CV over the Mustang Shelby GT350

It is under the bonnet where the real party begins. The Camaro ZL1 features a supercharged 6.2 LT4 V8 with a positive-displacement supercharger, delivering a final output of 640 CV. Another novelty is the option to pair this engine, in addition to a 6-speed manual gearbox, with a new 10-speed automatic gearbox, unprecedented in the segment.

Performance figures are not yet known, but it is quite possible that it will reach 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds, comfortably exceeding the 300 km/h top speed barrier.

Besides the powerful engine, the ZL1 features other elements to enhance driving, such as adaptive suspension, a braking system signed by Brembo, a dedicated stability control with several driving modes, and a limited-slip differential. Without a doubt, the battle that awaits us promises to be, at the very least, interesting.

Source | Chevrolet