The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that
integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and
stability at high speeds. The new Chevy Camaro Z/28 also features a full
aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make
it the most track-capable offering in Camaro's history.
The first
Camaro Z/28 was introduced in 1967, created to compete in the Sports
Car Club of America's Trans-Am 2 class. It featured a smaller, lighter,
302-cubic-inch V-8 for improved weight balance, as well as quick-ratio
steering and a heavy-duty suspension for track use. In keeping with its
road-racing focus, the 1967 Camaro Z/28 was not available with an
automatic transmission or air conditioning.
While the new Camaro
Z/28 is not intended to compete in a specific race series, it is solely
focused on track capability. In initial testing, the Camaro Z/28 is
three seconds faster per lap than the Camaro ZL1. That extra speed comes
from three areas:
- Increased grip: The Z/28 is capable of 1.05 g in cornering acceleration, due to comprehensive chassis revisions
- Increased stopping power: the Z/28 features Brembo carbon-ceramic
brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and consistent brake feel, lap
after lap
- Reduced curb weight: The naturally aspirated Z/28 weighs 300 pounds
less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1, with changes ranging from
lightweight wheels to thinner rear-window glass
Like the original, the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 is offered only
with a manual transmission. In a nod to modern convenience,
air-conditioning is available, but only as an option.
The new 2014
Camaro line will arrive at Chevrolet dealers later in 2013. The Camaro
Z/28 is expected to be appearing at track events across the United
States in spring 2014.
High-performance aerodynamics highlight changes for 2014 Camaro
The
2014 Camaro represents the most significant redesign since the
introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept car in 2006.
Compared
to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change
front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary
appearance. The front fascia features a wider lower opening, and a
narrower upper opening that also updates the appearance of the iconic
"halo ring" HID headlamps on the Camaro RS package. The functional hood
vent on the Camaro SS helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. Moving to
the rear, the sculptural decklid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete
the powerful statement.
The Camaro Z/28 also features a full
aerodynamic package designed to produce downforce at track speeds. At
the front, the Z/28 features a large splitter, connected to an underbody
panel that further reduces lift. In profile, the Z/28 features fender
flares over the front and rear wheels, as well as extended rocker panels
that contribute to aerodynamic stability. An aggressive rear spoiler
and functional diffuser complete the aerodynamic package.
On the
interior, the Camaro Z/28 features trim in a distinctive, matte-metallic
finish named Octane, the ZL1 flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard
Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. The new seats (also
available on the coupe versions of the SS and ZL1 models), feature
aggressive bolsters for high-performance driving, as well as seat
cutouts inspired by the five-point harnesses found on racing seats. To
save weight, both front seats incorporate manual adjustment.
The
rear seats of the Z/28 have also been modified for weight reduction. A
total of nine pounds (four kilograms) was saved by eliminating the
seat-back pass through, as well as using high-density foam in place of
the rigid structure of the seat back and steel mesh of the seat bottom.
7.0L, LS7 the heart of the Camaro Z/28's track-capable performance
Like
the original, the new Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 forgoes ultimate horsepower
and torque for improved weight balance and track performance.
In
1967, the most-powerful engine available in a factory Camaro was a 396
cid V-8 with 375 horsepower. To prepare the Camaro Z/28 for road racing,
engineers specified a lighter, 302 cid V-8, officially rated at 290
horsepower. While the 302 was not the choice for drag racers, it proved
ideal for sports-car racing.
Today, the most-powerful engine
offered is the Camaro ZL1's supercharged 6.2L LSA, which delivers 580
horsepower. The heart of the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is the lighter, naturally
aspirated 7.0L LS7 first introduced in the Corvette Z06.
Co-developed with Corvette Racing, the hand-assembled 7.0L (427 cid) V-8 uses a number of high-performance components:
Titanium intake valves and connecting rods, and sodium-filled exhaust valves
CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads
Forged-steel crankshaft and main bearing caps
High-lift camshaft
Hydroformed exhaust headers
11.0:1 compression ratio, and a 7,000 rpm redline.
10.5-quart, dry-sump oiling system
For
the Camaro Z/28, the LS7 features unique induction and exhaust systems,
and delivers at least 500 horsepower (373 kW) and 470 lb-ft of torque
(637 Nm).
The racing-style, cold-air induction system and large K&N air filter provide maximum air flow.
The
standard dual mode exhaust system and larger-diameter pipes enable
improved air flow. By bypassing the mufflers during acceleration, the
system increases both the torque and sound generated by the LS7 engine.
The
Camaro Z/28 is exclusively offered with a Tremec TR6060 manual
transmission. The 6-speed features close-ratio gearing and 3.91:1 final
drive ratio, both optimized for the power characteristics of the LS7.
Power
is distributed to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential
featuring a helical gear set, rather than traditional clutch packs. The
new design enables the driver to apply more power and get through
corners faster, by continuously adjusting the torque bias to maximize
available traction.
The differential works in unison with
Chevrolet's proprietary Performance Traction Management system, which
allows drivers to adjust the level of throttle and brake intervention to
match their capability and driving environment.
A second
liquid-to-liquid system provides cooling for the transmission and
differential. This system pumps overcooled transmission fluid to a heat
exchanger in the rear differential before traveling to the transmission.
This reduces differential temperatures as much as 100 degrees F.