Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet

Mustang's primary rival. Six generations across 56 years (1967-2024). The Z/28 of 1969, the IROC of the 1980s, the modern ZL1 of the 2010s.

The Chevrolet Camaro is an American pony car produced from 1967 to 2024 across six generations (with a hiatus from 2002-2009). The Camaro was Chevrolet response to the Ford Mustang and became the primary rival in the pony car segment. Each generation has produced iconic variants, particularly the Z/28 trim that has anchored the Camaro performance lineage across multiple eras. The 1969 Camaro Z/28 (with 302 cubic inch high-revving small block V8) is the original SCCA Trans-Am homologation special and is among the most collectible muscle cars. Various subsequent Z/28 variants across generations have continued the focused performance lineage. The fifth-generation Camaro (2010-2015) returned the Camaro to production after a 7-year hiatus. The platform was based on the Australian Holden Commodore VE platform. The Camaro SS (with 6.2 LS3) and the ZL1 (with supercharged 6.2 LSA making 580 horsepower) defined the modern Camaro era. The sixth-generation Camaro (2016-2024) was on the Alpha platform shared with various Cadillac products. The Camaro SS 1LE and ZL1 1LE were track-focused variants with Brembo brakes, magnetic ride suspension, and aggressive aerodynamic packages. The 1LE variants posted lap times competitive with European sport sedans. Production ended in 2024 with no announced successor. The Camaro discontinuation reflects broader market trends and GM strategic shift toward electric vehicles. The Camaro nameplate has been retired pending future product strategy. On WhipJury, Camaro submissions are highly active across multiple generations. Fifth and sixth generation cars (especially 1LE variants) are particularly common. First-generation Z/28 examples reliably top voting.

The 1LE

1LE is the Camaro track package. Originally a fleet code (police pursuit), the modern 1LE is a serious track-focused trim available on SS and ZL1. Stiffer suspension, larger brakes, reduced weight, aggressive aero. The ZL1 1LE in particular posted lap times that embarrassed BMW M cars at multiple tracks.

Camaro on WhipJury

Camaros across modern generations submit regularly. SS, Z/28, ZL1, and 1LE variants reliably top voting. Classic 1967-1969 first-generation cars in restored or restomod form do particularly well. Modified examples (LS swaps, supercharger conversions, drag racing builds) are common.

Frequently asked questions about Chevrolet Camaro

Is the Camaro really discontinued?

Yes, with no announced successor. Chevrolet ended Camaro production in early 2024. The decision was driven by declining sales and GM strategic pivot toward electric vehicles. A future electric Camaro has been rumored but not confirmed. The Mustang continues as the only continuously-produced pony car.

What is the most legendary Camaro?

Multiple candidates. The 1969 Z/28 with the 302 cubic inch V8 for SCCA Trans-Am racing pedigree. The 1969 ZL1 (only 69 made, all-aluminum 427 V8) for absolute rarity. The 03/04 Terminator-era Camaro SS for late-model muscle. The current ZL1 1LE for outright track capability. Each generation has supporters.

Are modern Camaros reliable?

Generally yes. Fifth and sixth generation Camaros with 6.2 LS3 or LT1 V8s are durable. Common issues are interior trim degradation, electrical gremlins, and drivetrain wear at high mileage. With proper maintenance, Camaros regularly cross 200,000+ miles.

How much does a Camaro cost?

Used pricing varies by generation. Project Camaro: $5,000-$15,000. Driver-quality fifth-generation: $20,000-$35,000. Driver-quality sixth-generation: $25,000-$40,000. ZL1 examples: $50,000-$80,000+. ZL1 1LE: $70,000-$100,000+. 1LE Magnetic Ride variants are at the higher end.

Why is the Camaro called Z/28?

The Z/28 designation originally referred to a specific SCCA Trans-Am racing class (Z/28). The 1967 Camaro Z/28 was Chevrolet's homologation special for the class, with the 302 cubic inch V8 specifically built to meet Trans-Am rules. The Z/28 name has been used periodically across Camaro generations (1967-1971, 1977-1979, 2014-2015) for focused performance variants.

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