It didn’t take long for Chevrolet to introduce a convertible version of the Camaro ZL1. Making its debut at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, the Camaro ZL1 Convertible shares the same mechanical bits as its coupe sibling, but with the added advantage of providing a more immersive experience.
According to Chevrolet, the ZL1 Convertible “offers comparable performance to the coupe model, thanks to the Camaro’s modular and rigid body architecture, which was designed at the outset to support a high-performance convertible.”
Therefore, only a few minor structural differences have been implemented on the ZL1 Convertible to accommodate its folding roof, which tucks away into a cubby hole behind the driver. Even so, the roadster still allows for 2+2 seating just like the coupe.
The powertrain remains unchanged from the ZL1 coupe as well, with a supercharged 6.2 litre LT4 engine pushing out 640 hp and 868 Nm of torque. The old-fashioned can opt for a six-speed manual transmission, but a 10-speed automatic gearbox is available as well.
Chevrolet’s Magnetic Ride suspension, electronic limited-slip differential, Performance Traction Management, Custom Launch Control, Driver Mode Selector and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tyres (285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear) are just some of the items that ensures the muscle car tackles the twisty bits well.
Moving inside, the cabin features Recaro seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and gear shift knob, both wrapped in suede, and carbon-fibre dashboard trim. The company’s Performance Data Recorder and touchscreen infotainment system with advanced connectivity features are part of the interior as well. Additional sunlight intrusion is available at a push of a button.
Like the coupe, the convertible ZL1 is said to weigh 90 kg less compared to its respective predecessor. However, Chevrolet has yet to divulge any performance figures like 0-100 km/h times and top speeds, but expect the coupe and convertible to be pretty similar in that aspect. Which version of the Camaro ZL1 do you prefer?
GALLERY: Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe
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- The ZL1 features a supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine, with intake and exhaust systems tailored for Camaro. It is rated at an estimated 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 640 lb-ft of torque (868 Nm), backed by a standard six-speed manual transmission or all-new, available paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. The 10-speed automatic has 7.39 overall ratio for smaller steps between gears. It enables the LT4 engine to remain at optimal rpm levels during acceleration, particularly when exiting corners, for quicker laps and lightning-quick responses on both up- and down-shifts.
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- The 2017 Camaro ZL1 is poised to challenge the most advanced sports coupes in the world in any measure – with unprecedented levels of technology, refinement, track capability and straight-line acceleration. A cohesive suite of performance technologies tailors ZL1’s performance, featuring an updated Magnetic Ride suspension, Performance Traction Management, electronic limited-slip differential, Custom Launch Control and Driver Mode Selector. With a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, it weighs 200 pounds less, and offers approximately 60 more horsepower and 80 more pound-feet of torque.
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- The ZL1 features a supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine, with intake and exhaust systems tailored for Camaro. It is rated at an estimated 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 640 lb-ft of torque (868 Nm), backed by a standard six-speed manual transmission or all-new, available paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. The 10-speed automatic has 7.39 overall ratio for smaller steps between gears. It enables the LT4 engine to remain at optimal rpm levels during acceleration, particularly when exiting corners, for quicker laps and lightning-quick responses on both up- and down-shifts.
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- The driver-focused interior of the Camaro ZL1 features standard Recaro front seats, along with a sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob. Chevrolet’s Performance Data Recorder is available, and allows drivers to record, share and analyze driving experiences on and off the track.
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- The driver-focused interior of the Camaro ZL1 features standard Recaro front seats, along with a sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob. Chevrolet’s Performance Data Recorder is available, and allows drivers to record, share and analyze driving experiences on and off the track.
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Undoubtedly, I would prefer the convertible version. The roadster version is as snazzy as its coupe cousin, if not more! Chevy has bestowed all the stunning looks, super powerful engine, and plush interiors to this much-adored pony car. A video review would have been more helpful; especially to hear its furious roar and to see how smoothly it tucks way the roof. Hopefully, this Cabrio also does a good job reining in the cabin turbulence without having to mount a Windblox wind deflector or something to get rid of the draft.