# The Camaro Z/28 Returns **URL:** \ **Category:** NYSpeed Automotive\ **Created:** [February 27, 2009, 10:16am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719 "2009-02-27T10:16:27Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Wahoo](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/wahoo/32/8265_2.png) [@Wahoo](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Wahoo)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2009, 10:16am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/1 "2009-02-27T10:16:27Z")
[http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto\_news/2009/112\_0904\_chevrolet\_camaro\_z28\_returns/index.html](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/index.html) > [LEFT][/LEFT] > [LEFT] **The Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Returns** [/LEFT] > > [LEFT]The Ultimate Camaro is Ready to Go. But There’s One Small Problem… > text size[/LEFT] > > [LEFT]By Mike Connor > [Check Dealer Pricing On a New Chevrolet Camaro!](http://mt.motortrend.com/?rsit=3514&vehicle.make=Chevrolet&vehicle.model=Camaro&customer.address.zip=¶ms_nooverwrite=tracking.affiliate.sourceId;2722¶ms=web.tracking.section;80%7Cweb.tracking.page.template;%7Cweb.tracking.link;NC_EnthusiastArticle_PriceQuote_Link) [/LEFT] > > [LEFT]These are strange times at post-bailout GM. Having taken taxpayer money, the company is no longer master of its own destiny. It was bad enough when, late last year, new-model programs were halted to conserve dwindling cash reserves. Now, though, there’s another thread running through GM’s product planning process: not, should we build this vehicle, but is this a vehicle we should be seen to be building? > The [Camaro](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2010/chevrolet/camaro/index.html) Z/28 is one of those vehicles.[/LEFT] > [LEFT] [[LEFT]CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY[/LEFT]](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/photo_01.html) > [/LEFT] > [LEFT]Sources inside GM say the new Z/28 is basically done. The image you see on these pages is very close to the final signed-off design, based on photos of a scale clay model we’ve seen. Key details to note are the deeper front bumper fascia, with larger front aperture under the grille and the spotlights mounted in deep vents on either side. The Z/28 also gets a different grille mesh compared with the standard Camaro’s. > At the rear is a taller lip spoiler that runs the full width of the car. A new rear-bumper fascia features a deeper section with integrated exhaust outlets. The wheels are 20-inchers with an aggressive “tuning-fork” five-spoke pattern. > A new hood features a large, forward-facing scoop. Underneath is the 6.2-liter supercharged LSA V-8 that also powers the [Cadillac CTS](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/cts/index.html)-V. As we have already confirmed, this is quite a powerplant, delivering 556 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 551 pound-feet of torque at 3800 rpm. The Z/28 will also share the [CTS](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/cts/index.html)-Vs six speed manual and automatic transmissions. > The near-4300-pound [CTS-V](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/cts_v/index.html) thunders from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and nails the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds (automatic) or 12.4 seconds (manual). Top speed is limited to 175 mph in the auto (to preserve the tranny), but the manual will storm to an autobahn-melting 193 mph. As the Z/28 will weigh 200 to 300 pounds less than the CTS-V, it may nail 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and run the quarter in the very low 12s. This Z/28 could be the fastest Chevy ponycar since the legendary ZL-1-powered COPO 9560 Camaros built 40 years ago. > Only problem is the Z/28 is on hold. First, GM ran out of money to finish and launch the car. Now, some inside the company are wondering whether selling a super-fast, super-powerful two-door Chevy coupe that will likely get no better than 13-19 mpg is the right thing to do for a company that’s had to beg for money from a bunch of politicians who seem to think it really ought to be building gas-sipping [Prius](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/toyota/prius/index.html) clones. > “In the current environment, it would be very difficult to get any traction on a large rear-drive program,” says one insider. But a hard core of performance enthusiasts inside GM are hopeful they can get the Z/28 back on track. “If we leave it too long, the car will become irrelevant,” frets one source. One idea reportedly under study calls for a strictly limited production run, with each car individually numbered, to attract collectors and enthusiasts, and priced to ensure a solid profit margin. > According to sources, GM product chief Bob Lutz has said that, while he would love to do the car, “We need to make the world right first.” However, that could take cash-crunched GM a long, long time.[/LEFT] > [LEFT] [[LEFT]CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY[/LEFT]](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/photo_02.html) > > [LEFT]The Zeta platform that underpins the [Camaro](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/gm_zeta_platform_future.html#) is good through 2016, say GM sources.[/LEFT] > [/LEFT] > [LEFT]The Australian-developed Zeta platform that underpins the [Camaro](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2010/chevrolet/camaro/index.html) was the linchpin of GM’s global rear-drive strategy. Although developed as a much lower-cost architecture than the Detroit-developed Sigma platform that underpins the [Cadillac CTS](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/cts/index.html), it was being considered as the basis for an all-new rear-drive replacement for the [STS](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/sts/index.html)/[DTS](http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2009/cadillac/dts/index.html) sedans. That program, like every large rear-drive program at GM, is on hold. > It’s not just the fact that GM is short of cash; the other issue is the tougher CAFE standards that will mandate the automaker meet 35 mpg across its fleets by 2020. While being grilled by Congress last year, all three Detroit automakers unequivocally agreed they would meet that target. Which means large, heavy rear-drive cars don’t have much of a future beyond the end of the next decade. > The Zeta platform is good through 2016, say GM sources. Engineers will work on weight reduction and efficiency improvements, such as better aero and standard six-speed transmission, on all Zeta-based [vehicles](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/gm_zeta_platform_future.html#) to keep the platform viable through then. > Zeta’s future is critically important for GM in Australia, where it underpins the volume-selling Holden Commodore and variants. But there are signs GM is prepared for a post-Zeta world Down Under.[/LEFT] > [LEFT] [[LEFT]CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY[/LEFT]](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/photo_03.html) > > [LEFT]Zeta underpins the volume-selling Holden Commodore in Australia.[/LEFT] > [/LEFT] > [LEFT]The company has already announced a version of the Chevy Cruze will be manufactured in Australia. And now it plans to build a car based off the next-generation Epsilon architecture there, too. The new Epsilon can be stretched large enough to give the interior package Aussies want; more important, it can package [all-wheel drive](http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_0904_chevrolet_camaro_z28_returns/gm_zeta_platform_future.html#) and even a transverse-mounted V-8 under the hood. > If Zeta goes, where would that leave Camaro? One scenario is that by 2020 it will be a smaller, lighter ponycar built on the compact rear-drive Alpha architecture being developed for [Cadillac](http://www.motortrend.com/new_cars/01/cadillac/index.html).[/LEFT] ---
**Author:** ![ultradriver10000](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/ultradriver10000/32/7397_2.png) [@ultradriver10000](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/ultradriver10000)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2009, 10:19am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/2 "2009-02-27T10:19:04Z")
Droooooooool I really hope the fiancee agrees to buy this for her car! ---
**Author:** ![camarojoe](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/c67d28/32.png) [@camarojoe](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/camarojoe)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2009, 11:16am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/3 "2009-02-27T11:16:29Z")
I thought someone posted this in one of the other Camaro threads. But if they make it, people will buy it. Just over a month til you start seeing them on the roads 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![livin4hockey](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/d2c977/32.png) [@livin4hockey](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/livin4hockey)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2009, 11:25am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/4 "2009-02-27T11:25:56Z")
If my Dad ever needed a reason for a mid-life crisis, this would be it. ---
**Author:** ![Wahoo](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/wahoo/32/8265_2.png) [@Wahoo](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Wahoo)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2009, 11:51am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/5 "2009-02-27T11:51:34Z")
Yep looking forward to seeing these Camaro’s out on the roads. ---
**Author:** ![blk99z28](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/f19dbf/32.png) [@blk99z28](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/blk99z28)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 1:25pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/6 "2009-02-28T13:25:42Z")
Given the financial trouble GM is in and the evident green agenda by the current administration I’d be surprised if it makes it to production. Although I hate to say it ☹ ---
**Author:** ![camarojoe](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/c67d28/32.png) [@camarojoe](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/camarojoe)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 2:15pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/7 "2009-02-28T14:15:40Z")
Production is slated to start in 15 days. ---
**Author:** ![Studderin](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/studderin/32/7197_2.png) [@Studderin](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Studderin)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 2:58pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/8 "2009-02-28T14:58:32Z")
Some day I’ll get a new one. and another tattoo to match 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![TORQDSS](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/torqdss/32/5125_2.png) [@TORQDSS](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/TORQDSS)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 3:22pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/9 "2009-02-28T15:22:24Z")
They will make, I was told that 6 months ago and I believe I said that in the camaro thread so don’t worry guys. I was planning on a convertible but may have to change my mind… ---
**Author:** ![BigRon](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/58956e/32.png) [@BigRon](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/BigRon)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 5:05pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/10 "2009-02-28T17:05:06Z")
> [@camarojoe](#): > > I thought someone posted this in one of the other Camaro threads. > But if they make it, people will buy it. > > Just over a month til you start seeing them on the roads 🙂 I see 5 a day. And they don’t have “M” plates anymore. These are registered public cars. ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 5:26pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/11 "2009-02-28T17:26:40Z")
From [rodandpiston.com](http://rodandpiston.com) Production has started!!! dealer demo cars : [http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14509](http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14509) ---
**Author:** ![TORQDSS](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/torqdss/32/5125_2.png) [@TORQDSS](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/TORQDSS)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 5:32pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/12 "2009-02-28T17:32:34Z")
you’re one post too late… thanks though. ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 5:36pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/13 "2009-02-28T17:36:14Z")
Pics here: ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen1.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen1.jpg) ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen2.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen2.jpg) LOVING this color!!! ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen3.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen3.jpg) Oh, ya know just 5 SS’s sitting here waiting! ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen4.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen4.jpg) ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 5:43pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/14 "2009-02-28T17:43:23Z")
More: ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen6.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen6.jpg) ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen7.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen7.jpg) I like the stripes! ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen8.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camaro5thgen8.jpg) ---
**Author:** ![bigwoode](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/bigwoode/32/5175_2.png) [@bigwoode](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/bigwoode)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2009, 6:44pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/15 "2009-02-28T18:44:31Z")
Knew it would happen. ---
**Author:** ![Studderin](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/studderin/32/7197_2.png) [@Studderin](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Studderin)\ **Post date:** [March 1, 2009, 7:59am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/16 "2009-03-01T07:59:26Z")
:eekdance: ---
**Author:** ![Wahoo](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/wahoo/32/8265_2.png) [@Wahoo](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Wahoo)\ **Post date:** [March 1, 2009, 10:48am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/17 "2009-03-01T10:48:14Z")
Look sick! ---
**Author:** ![BigEd88](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/biged88/32/5064_2.png) [@BigEd88](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/BigEd88)\ **Post date:** [March 1, 2009, 10:58am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/18 "2009-03-01T10:58:47Z")
I thought the article was talking about Z/28 version of the Camaro? I didn’t think there was any doubt that they would produce the Camaro. ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [March 7, 2009, 1:12pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/19 "2009-03-07T13:12:28Z")
Me thinks that production has started, yay!!! ![http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camarolot.jpg](http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a76/bigjoelster/camarolot.jpg) ---
**Author:** ![system](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/2X/b/b7170c8eddc0b95ece6b88172b2f416a08489a45.png) [@system](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/system)\ **Post date:** [March 7, 2009, 1:40pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719/20 "2009-03-07T13:40:13Z")
about damn time… they started hyping the damn thing 5 years ago and its already been in movies. Too little too late if you ask me. [Next page](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/the-camaro-z-28-returns/63719.md?page=2)