Summary

• The sixth-gen Chevrolet Camaro, especially with the 1LE package, is one of the best-handling muscle cars in the world, thanks to its capable chassis and impressive driving capabilities.
• The rumored Z/28 version of the Camaro could potentially be the final send-off for the model before it gets discontinued.
• The potential engine for the Z/28 could be the 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 from the Corvette C8 Z06, although it might not come with a manual transmission.

The sixth generation of the Chevrolet Camaro has become one of the best muscle cars on the American market. From the base Camaro to the range-topping ZL1, all variants are wonderful cars to own and drive. The current alpha platform is a highly capable chassis that enhances the vehicle’s capabilities. Adding the 1LE package transforms the Camaro into one of the best-handling muscle cars in the world.

The Camaro made a comeback in 2010 after being discontinued since 2002. This generation introduced the 1LE handling package, which significantly improved the Camaro’s driving experience. The package was available with the ZL1 and the track-focused Z/28 model. The Z/28 was the best fifth-gen Camaro, and there are hopes of seeing it return for the sixth generation.

The Chevrolet Camaro is rumored to be discontinued once again after its revival. However, rumors suggest that Chevy might produce a Z/28 version as the final send-off to the Camaro lineup. The last Z/28 was produced in 2014. While it wasn’t the fastest Camaro in a straight line, it was the most track-focused and the lightest at that time. If Chevy produces the new Z/28, it is expected to follow the same track-oriented philosophy as its predecessor, and the available information has enthusiasts excited.

Aggressive Design And Aero Package

The previous generation Z/28 had minor design changes compared to the 2014 Camaro. It shared updates with the 2012 Camaro ZL1 but had some exterior differences. The wheel arches were slightly wider to accommodate wider tires, the fog lights were removed, and it sported a slightly larger spoiler.

The new Z/28 is expected to take design inspiration from the sixth generation, which received a facelift in 2019. It may combine elements from the ZL1 1LE trim, featuring new headlights and taillight designs with an aero package and flared body similar to the ZL1 1LE. This could include a larger front splitter, front dive planes/canards, a lighter carbon hood, new lightweight wheels, fog light deletion, a big rear wing, and more lightweight components. These aggressive design elements and aerodynamic enhancements would help the Z/28 achieve exceptional grip and handling capabilities, making it a formidable track car.

A Focus On Being Lightweight

The previous generation Z/28 prioritized weight reduction by removing various standard features, making it one of the lightest Camaros. Weight savings were taken to the level of high-performance manufacturers like Porsche. The Z/28 achieved weight reduction by incorporating a lighter battery, radio deletion, Recaro racing seats, thinner rear glass, reduced sound deadening, AC deletion, fog light deletion, and new 19-inch lightweight wheels.

The new Z/28 may also focus on weight reduction, although it may not eliminate as many comfort features as its predecessor. The current ZL1 1LE is 60 pounds lighter than the regular ZL1, indicating that the Z/28 is expected to be lighter than the current ZL1 1LE. Similar race-oriented mechanical parts used in the Z/28’s development may be incorporated.

A V-8 Engine From The Corvette Z06

Rumors suggest that the Z/28 might be equipped with the 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine from the Corvette C8 Z06. This engine would be a powerhouse for a car like the Camaro, considering that track-focused Camaros have previously shared parts with their Corvette counterparts. The previous Z/28 featured a 7.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine that generated 505 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque.

Engine Specifications

The most powerful Camaro engine currently available is the 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 with 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. However, the Z/28 might not receive this engine and could instead get the C8 Z06’s engine. There is a concern that the C8 Z06 engine is only available with a dual-clutch transmission, while the previous Z/28 was only offered with a manual transmission. If the Camaro receives the C8 Z06 engine, it might not come with a manual transmission and could have slightly less power compared to the C8 Z06. The Z/28 is expected to share many race-oriented mechanical parts with the ZL1 1LE, featuring manually adjustable Multimatic spool-valve shocks, carbon ceramic brakes, and wide Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires. With this engine combination, lightweight components, and high-performance mechanical setup, the Z/28 will be an exceptional track weapon.

Performance Benchmarks For The Camaro Z/28

The previous Z/28 was highly capable on the track, earning MotorTrend’s Best Driver’s Car in 2014. It competed against top performance cars such as the Alfa Romeo 4C, BMW i8, BMW M4, Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, Nissan GT-R Nismo, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Subaru STI, and the Porsche 918 Spyder.

The sixth-gen Camaro has received high praise for its incredible handling, similar to the previous Z/28. The new Z/28 would combine the best features of the current Camaro lineup, the 1LE handling package, and the finely-tuned Alpha chassis. With these enhancements, the Z/28 would be a formidable competitor against newer versions of its previous rivals, which now include the Porsche 992 GT3, Lamborghini Huracan STO, Dodge Challengers, Ford Mustang Dark Horse, and the Porsche GT4RS.

Camaro Z/28: Expected Price And Release Date

Unlike the confirmed upcoming Corvette, the Z/28 currently remains a rumor. Limited information is available, and no test cars have been spotted, suggesting a longer wait for its release, if it happens at all. However, producing a Z/28 for the send-off of the Camaro before pursuing electrification plans would be a logical move.

While there is no specific timeline, it is expected that a new Camaro, including the Z/28, could arrive in the latter part of 2024. The price for a new Z/28 could be around $80,000, with a limited production run of approximately 1000 units, or potentially more based on demand. Enthusiasts hope that Chevy will create the ultimate Camaro of this generation with the Z/28.