Preview: 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28. Click image to enlarge

So, what’s under the hood? Over 500 horsepower, American style. A naturally-aspirated 7.0-litre LS7 V8 was specified by the engineers for its compact, lightweight and power-dense punch.

Jordan Lee, small block chief engineer and program manager, comments “the broad torque curve and high redline of the LS7 mean fewer shifts are required for each lap, while the lightweight design improves the front-to-rear weight balance for better handling.”

Larger in displacement than the supercharged 6.2-litre mill in the ZL1, the Z/28’s big, free-breathing V8 was co-developed with Corvette Racing, and is hand-assembled with goodies like titanium intake values and connecting rods, CNC-ported cylinder heads, hydro-formed exhaust headers and a high-lift cam. Forged steel is the material of choice for the crankshaft and main bearing caps, too.

European and Japanese performance car nuts can whine and gripe, but the fact of the matter is that this LS7 is a highly proven engine that’s tough as nails, and will eagerly spin to its 7,000 RPM redline, breathing efficiently every step of the way.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28. Click image to enlarge

Standard dual mode exhaust and larger-diameter pipes enable improved air flow by bypassing the mufflers during hard acceleration to increase output while letting drivers blast machine-gun sound effects off of nearby buildings. Closer gear ratios, integral differential, transmission and engine oil cooling systems, and a trick new rear-end gearset help round out the package.

The updated Chevrolet Camaro range hits dealer lots later this year, while the Z/28 will arrive in time for springtime 2014 lapping sessions. It should be a great alternative for folks who missed out on the Ford Mustang Boss 302, as that model’s been cancelled. Final pricing and horsepower figures will be announced closer to the Z/28’s arrival.

Competitors:
Dodge Challenger
Ford Mustang
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Nissan 370Z