2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Faster Than ZL1

Chevrolet just revealed what will probably be the biggest surprise to come from the 2013 New York Auto Show, the revival of the Z/28 nameplate for the Camaro.

“The Z/28 will be too track-focused for most drivers, but offers road-racers one of the most capable track cars ever offered from an automaker,” Camaro chief engineer Al Oppenheiser said.”

Lifted from the last generation Corvette Z06, the heart of the 2014 Z/28 is a naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V8 that makes at least 500 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The engine can only be had linked to a six-speed manual transmission, which comes together to make the Z/28 three seconds faster around an unnamed track than the Camaro ZL1 according to the brand.

“We set out to make the fastest road-racing Camaro possible that was still street-legal,” said Oppenheiser. “While the Camaro ZL1 offers exceptional performance on the street, the drag strip, and the track, the Z/28 is entirely focused on the track performance.”

The increase in speed is also helped by chassis revisions that allow for 1.05 G in cornering acceleration, 300 lbs of weight loss, an enhanced aerodynamics package, along with 305/30ZR19 Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires. For stopping power, Brembo Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake rotors are fitted with six-piston calipers up front and four in the back.

On the inside, the Z/28 features standard Recaro race seats that look similar to the Corvette’s buckets. There’s also a flat-bottom ZL1 steering wheel and a matte-mettalic finish accenting the cabin.

“Unlike the Ford Mustang Boss 302, we felt it was important to keep the 2+2 configuration of the Camaro Z/28 as Chevrolet already has a world-class two-seat sports car in the Corvette,” said Oppenheiser. “By modifying the construction of the rear seat, we were able to reduce the overall weight of the Z/28 while still preserving the flexibility of 2+2 seating.”