The fastest Camaro that Chevy will sell you these days is the 2018 Camaro ZL1 1LE, and the car is an absolute beast. It’s a track-honed, hopped-up version of the already fast ZL1 meant for track day domination, and dominate it does. Chevy took the car to the famed Green Hell, also known as the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and lapped the car among some of the fastest iron and carbon fiber in the world.
Performance and Engineering
The ZL1 1LE put down a lap time of 7:16.04 seconds, and Chevy has the video to prove it. The driver behind the wheel in the video of the lap is Camaro ride and handling engineer Bill Wise. The ZL1 1LE that Wise piloted was also the manual version rather than a flappy paddle auto. This manual transmission choice highlights the car’s raw, driver-focused engineering, allowing for more precise control and engagement on the track.
The ZL1 1LE is equipped with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces a staggering 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. This power is complemented by a host of aerodynamic enhancements, including a carbon-fiber rear wing, air deflectors, and dive planes on the front fascia. These features work together to provide increased downforce, ensuring the car remains glued to the track even at high speeds.
Comparative Performance
To put the ZL1 1LE’s performance into perspective, the normal ZL1 Camaro runs the Ring in 7:29.6 seconds. This means the 1LE package shaves off a significant 13.56 seconds from the lap time, a testament to its superior track capabilities. For more perspective, the latest Porsche 911 GT3 runs the Ring in 7:12.17, the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition did the deed in 7:14.64, and the 2012 Corvette ZR1 did it in 7:19.63.
These comparisons place the ZL1 1LE in an elite group of high-performance vehicles, showcasing its ability to compete with some of the most revered names in the automotive world. The Porsche 911 GT3, for instance, is renowned for its precision and handling, while the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition is celebrated for its engineering excellence and exclusivity. The Corvette ZR1, another American powerhouse, shares the Camaro’s muscle car heritage but with a focus on supercar performance.
Track-Focused Features
The ZL1 1LE’s track-focused nature is further emphasized by its suspension setup. It features Multimatic DSSV (Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve) dampers, which are typically found in high-end racing cars. These dampers provide exceptional control and responsiveness, allowing the car to handle the rigors of track driving with ease. Additionally, the car is fitted with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R tires, which offer incredible grip and stability.
Inside, the ZL1 1LE is equipped with Recaro seats that provide excellent support during high-speed cornering. The steering wheel is wrapped in suede for better grip, and the car features a Performance Data Recorder that allows drivers to analyze their laps and improve their performance.
The 2018 Camaro ZL1 1LE is not just a fast car; it’s a meticulously engineered track weapon designed to deliver exhilarating performance. Its impressive Nürburgring lap time, advanced aerodynamics, and track-focused features make it a standout in the world of high-performance vehicles. Whether you’re a seasoned track enthusiast or simply a fan of American muscle, the ZL1 1LE is a car that demands attention and respect.
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