SEMA 2008 // THE 'OTHER' CAMARO'S

SEMA saw a handful of tuned Camaro’s make their debut. Like this one, expected to run in the Koni Challenge next season. But what about the factory option, special edition Camaro’s? I mean, we know their will be a slew of options, RS, Z28, SS, etc. But what about the special editions, something to compete with what Ford is doing with the Mustang (i.e. Hertz, Cali Special, Parnelli Jones)? Well, Chevrolet answered our question with these; the LS7, ‘Black’ concept and Dale Jr. special edition Camaro’s.

The LS7 variant (top) will draw inspiration from the legendary COPO Camaro’s of the late sixties. Fitted with drag-radials, and equipped with, you guessed it, GM’s LS7 crate motor, the special edition Camaro will be good for 550bhp and certainly some appropriate quarter mile times. A six speed Tremec 6060 transmission will handle gear changes, while a set of 20in allows and a lowered ride height will help put power to pavement.

The ‘Black’ concept (middle) takes on only aesthetic changes, with the stock 300bhp, 3.6-liter V6 remaining between the fenders. A matte black hood accompanies an aggressive body kit, powder coated (black) 21in wheels, blacked out grill and tail lights and a set of red-ringed headlights to finish things off. No superchargers, no extra ponies, no frills, just lean and (kinda) mean. We like it.

A quick survey here at ColdTrackDays, found that the Dale Earnhardt Jr. Camaro (bottom) is our least favorite of the bunch. Running on E85 ethanol (no comment), the ‘DEJR’ Camaro features a factory tuned V8 with an upgraded exhaust system, short throw six-speed transmission, 21in alloy wheels and a grey, orange and white paint job. Not sure what the draw is, but if it does as well as his father’s Monte Carlos SS, we wouldn’t be surprised... // 11.10.2008