That’s right — there’s a new Chevy Camaro ZL1 in the works for 2017. That’s exciting stuff, especially since we can expect only greatness after the previous generation ZL1 stole our hearts. It had exceptional performance and smooth handling, and sales of the overall Camaro beat the Mustang this past September. But, what if I told you the newest ZL1 was already tested by Chevy? They released a time attack video of the new Camaro ZL1 not only shattering it’s predecessors track time, but also the Mustang’s – Camaro’s biggest rival. Camaro fanatics are probably giddy with the euphoria of the ZL1’s triumphant track-run, and they have every right to be.
Let’s take a closer look at the track run, and why the Camaro is set to prove stiff competition even for any newly-released muscle cars the competitors throw at it.
The New ZL1 is Specifically Designed to Tackle the Hardest Track in the World
In a press release, Al Oppenheimer — Chief Engineer of the Camaro — said that the new ZL1 was designed to take on the world’s most challenging track (the Nurburgring), “making it right at home on any track, road, or drag strip anywhere.”
What does this mean? Other than the obvious fact that if it was designed to tackle the most difficult track in the world, it also means the other automakers in the muscle-car market need to step-up their game to even compete with this new ZL1. If they don’t design their vehicles specifically for the Nurburgring track, they don’t stand a chance.
Tears-Up the Nurburgring Track, Dominating Both Predecessor — and Rival
In that same press conference, Oppenheimer also said: “…to be almost 12 seconds quicker than the fifth-Generation ZL1 is a testament to the advanced design and technology of the new ZL1.”
I know this thought immediately crossed your mind: “Wait, did he just say 12 seconds? Surely, he meant one or two seconds, not 12.”
Fortunately, for Chevy lovers, that’s not a typo. The 2017 Camaro ZL1 ran the Nurburgring track in just 7 minutes and 29 seconds, which is stupidly fast. Want to rub some salt in your Ford-friend’s open wound? That time is only 20 seconds slower than the Nissan GT-R Nismo’s record time of 7 minutes and 8 seconds. Which means the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R’s (the most powerful model/trim in the lineup) time of 7 minutes and 32 seconds now reminds us of molasses in winter.
In other words, the new ZL1 screams like a banshee around the track.
The Kicker? The New ZL1 Does it All – Stock
Yup, no heavy modifications or changes were made to the ZL1 for its track run, aside from some new data acquisition equipment, roll cage, and six-point harnessed Sparco racing seats.
Other than, the new ZL1 did it all with its 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 engine with 650 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with a 10R90 10-speed automatic transmission setup with Performance Traction Management.
I think I can speak for Chevy fans worldwide that we are eagerly waiting for Ford and Dodge to pit themselves against the ZL1. Just so we can watch them (most-likely) take a back seat this year.
