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THE 2013 CAMARO 1LE:
ANOTHER ICON RETURNS
The 2013 1LE Performance Package is more than just a tough-looking, aggressive Camaro. It's the latest entry in a legendary lineup of track-dominating racing machines and it's taking performance to the next level.
Here we take a quick look back at the origins of RPO code 1LE.
TRIGGERING RPO 1LE
The original intent of 1LE was to allow Chevrolet to offer a Camaro designed specifically for a road course. A 1LE-equipped car wasn't designed for everyone. Because of this, the order procedure was kept relatively quiet.
Between model years 1989 and 1992, RPO 1LE was
triggered by ordering the RPO G92 Performance axle
with an IROC-Z Coupe ('89 and '90) or Z28 coupe ('91 and '92). Each year saw slightly different 1LE packages.
When G92 was ordered, it forced other options such as
engine oil cooler, 4-wheel disc brakes, dual converter
exhaust and P245/50ZR16 tires. A G92 Camaro required either the 350ci (RPO B2L) engine with automatic transmission, or the 305ci (RPO LB9) with five-speed manual.
Basically, it worked like this. If RPO G92 was ordered
with air conditioning, the cars were built as street
vehicles. If air conditioning was NOT ordered, 1LE racing equipment was added. This included features such as an aluminum driveshaft, performance brakes inspired by the Corvette (a detail that lives on in the 2013 1LE), specialized front and rear shock absorbers, heavy-duty jounce bumpers, and fuel tank baffles. Fog lamps were deleted both for weight savings and to improve airflow into the radiator for improved cooling capability.
1993
The 1LE package offered at the start of Camaro's fourth generation included larger stabilizer bars, radiator baffles, and HD shocks and struts. As in previous years, air conditioning was not available when one ordered a 1LE package.
1994-1997
Around this time, the 1LE became known as the
Performance Suspension Package and was aimed at
anyone who wanted a little more bang out of their
Camaro, not just hardcore racers.
1998-2000
With the advent of a mid-cycle update on the Camaro,
the 1LE package changed due to suspension updates and the introduction of the aluminum-block LS1 engine. The package now primarily included heavier-duty suspension components and manually adjustable shocks/struts. Air conditioning was now available with the 1LE package, and the package could now be ordered on either the Z28 or the Camaro SS.
2001-2002
As product priorities shifted, the 1LE package was
dropped as a regular RPO option. Disheartened
enthusiasts had no way of knowing, but a triumphant
return would eventually be in the cards...
2013
The 1LE is back and ready to run. From its red BremboŽ front and rear brakes to its lightweight wheels and unique performance suspension, the 2013 Camaro 1LE Performance Package is more than worthy of the 1LE name
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