Chevrolet has announced that the new 2017 Camaro ZL1 has officially become the fastest Camaro ever, clocking a 198-mph two-way average speed around the 7.6-mile high-speed banked oval at Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg GmBH proving ground. Shod with its production-spec Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires set to the recommended 44 psi and fitted with the optional 10-speed automatic transmission, the new ZL1 recorded a 202.3 mph lap in one direction and a 193.3-mph speed in the other, running flat out both ways to generate the final 198-mph wind-corrected figure.
Also: Class of 2018: The New and Redesigned Cars, Trucks and SUVs
Save for supplemental safety equipment and a data logger, the Camaro was stock. While the effort fell short of 200 mph, the ZL1 team made a second attempt using 0-degree revised front/rear camber settings and airing the tires up to their maximum allowable sidewall pressures. With the tweaks, the car exceeded a 200-mph average.
“The ZL1 was developed with high-speed performance in mind, incorporating a balanced aerodynamic package that reduces lift without significantly affecting drag,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. He added the new LT1 fitted with a 650-horsepower supercharged LT4 small block V8 also used in the Z06 was “designed to excel at everything” and is simply “the most capable and fastest Camaro ever.”
Also: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards of 2017
Key elements in the car’s impressive list of function-enhancing modifications include its unique stanchion-type rear spoiler, a aero-optimized transmission oil cooler cover, specially tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in high performance tires and Brembo brakes. Coupes also have an electronic limited-slip differential. Collectively, they contribute to the ZL1’s acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds/quarter mile in 11.4 ticks at 127 mph), cornering (1.02g) and braking (60-0 mph in 107 feet). The ZL1’s bang-for-the-buck index is high. A 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with 6-speed manual opens at $63,435 including destination and Gas Guzzler tax while the ZL1 with a 10-speed automatic starts at $65,830.
More high-performance cars:
2017 Dodge Challenger GT Video First Review
