Bob Lutz interview

[boxmonkeyracing]

Originally Posted by Skyman 08

Isn't anyone going to answer my Questions? another way of asking is....What if Chevy had just called the SS a Z28 would you be happy then???

honestly that's a big N O.

[GTAHVIT]

Originally Posted by Skyman 08

Isn't anyone going to answer my Questions? another way of asking is....What if Chevy had just called the SS a Z28 would you be happy then???

I personally would. But everyone else would be looking for the SS to be the GT500 killer so we're right back where we started.

Oh, man we're gonna have another SS vs Z28 argument I can feel it.

There's been a Z28 in every Generation of Camaro. That's not the case with the SS. And the Z28 is exclusive to the Camaro not the case with the SS.

So I won't be truly happy until we have both. To be completely honest. As much as I am fan of the Z28, I' buying the most powerful Camaro I can, SS or Z28. Maybe.... The GT car BoxMonkey talks about sounds pretty cool too...


I completely understand that the SS and Z28 have swapped places at different times over the years.

As seen in this post.

Originally Posted by SilverTurtle

see above edits in bold... hope this helps out

So eitherway Some of us are left out and wondering WTF happened to my ___________???

Yes GM is damned if they do damned if they don't

All I want is an ANSWER!!!!

I don't know how many different ways I can say it?

[Robert91RS]

Originally Posted by Skyman 08

Since the Gen 5 SS will be far and above superior to the Gen 4 Z28 what would have happened if they had just called the SS a Z28 ? would you even know the difference? and would the SS fans be acting like the Z28 fans are now?... Just wondering...

I would like to respond to that. I don't believe all the Z/28 fans can be grouped as wanting the same thing. Almost everyone agrees they want a Z/28 for what it means to us, and almost everyone would agree GM needs a GT500 fighter. So that leaves us figuring, why not make the Z/28 the GT500 fighter we would all like to see it be? Some of us feel a Z/28 is more important and others feel a 500 fighter is the issue at hand, but most of these people still agree to some degree with the other train of thought. Why not combine the answer into one car. I'm not very good with words so I hope this makes as much sense to you as me.

[Shifty 6]

Originally Posted by boxmonkeyracing

just because we are on opposite sides of the fence on this one. . .


I'm sure the SS fan base isn't as dedicated. you all have cobalts, hhr's, trailblazers, etc.

I don't think that is necessarily fair to say the SS fan base has Cobalts and HHRs. Those are not true SS models. I take that back, the Cobalt is. The days of the late 90's early 200X's Monte Carlo SS, Impala SS, even the Silverado SS, those cars were marketing badges (we don nee no stinking badges). I would agree, IMO the Z28 does mean somewhat more to Camaro than SS does. I also think, because GM had the 4th gen badged V6, Z28, then SS, fans are more inclined to want the Z28 badge. You can't Z28 an HHR or a Monte Carlo, but you can SS one. Fbodfather even eludes to the fact the Z28 badge means more to the Camaro in his quote "...that hallowed name". I think everyone isn't as dedicated to the SS badge due to the fact that you can't get a Trailblazer Z28.

So to answer the original question from Skyman: I think we all would have been happy/happier.

[GTAHVIT]

^
^

Great Posts.

[boxmonkeyracing]

Originally Posted by Shifty 6

I don't think that is necessarily fair to say the SS fan base has Cobalts and HHRs. Those are not true SS models. I take that back, the Cobalt is. The days of the late 90's early 200X's Monte Carlo SS, Impala SS, even the Silverado SS, those cars were marketing badges (we don nee no stinking badges). I would agree, IMO the Z28 does mean somewhat more to Camaro than SS does. I also think, because GM had the 4th gen badged V6, Z28, then SS, fans are more inclined to want the Z28 badge. You can't Z28 an HHR or a Monte Carlo, but you can SS one. Fbodfather even eludes to the fact the Z28 badge means more to the Camaro in his quote "...that hallowed name". I think everyone isn't as dedicated to the SS badge due to the fact that you can't get a Trailblazer Z28.

So to answer the original question from Skyman: I think we all would have been happy/happier.

if you didn't know the SS monkier was used on just about everything through out chevy history not just the 90's. it's more watered down. that's why I said that.

[Angrybird 12]

Originally Posted by boxmonkeyracing

if you didn't know the SS monkier was used on just about everything through out chevy history not just the 90's. it's more watered down. that's why I said that.

You are correct, the SS has been used since 1961 on the Impala... You could even order a 6 cyl. version of an SS if you wanted to... So even way back when the SS could have been an appearance package with a sporting image.

[radz28]

Originally Posted by Skyman 08

I am not saying the Z28 Will not ever be built, but I think Mr Lutz is saying that just don't get too upset if we have to change plans.. Those that are reading into his interview saying well he never said they wouldn't be making one, on the other hand he never said they will...

With todays climate of uncertain gas prices and who our next president will be and the effect that may have on future economy standards I think it is wise economically to hold off until the waters settle and they can see what direction to set sail in...

You need to stop thinking emotionally and think economics for GM...

Originally Posted by Skyman 08

Since the Gen 5 SS will be far and above superior to the Gen 4 Z28 what would have happened if they had just called the SS a Z28 ? would you even know the difference? and would the SS fans be acting like the Z28 fans are now?... Just wondering...

To be clear, I only brought this up because there was mention of the Camaro and Z28 and the fact that he did NOT say that it was dead, as we've been constantly reminded of. You make a great statement that he may be trying to remind us that it is being scrutinized and it could be in jeopardy, but I don't think, so far, anyone is claiming this to be the be-all end-all stance from GM for this car. BTW, I don't think it's polite to tell us what to think. In addition, were it not for emotion, there wouldn't be SS, Z06, ZR1, Z28. Were it not for emotion, SS wouldn't have come to many other vehicle models because it didn't strike some sort of emotion. I agree it's definately pertinent and prudent to think economically, for GM, but they aren't going to stay alive, IMO, by cutting back - they need to selll cars. To see cars, I think emotion is an important element, otherwise, why resurrect Camaro in the first place? I think they need/want to connect with enthusiasts and bring in new customers with striking design and features. Does it make sense to have the ambient lighting, halo HID headlamps, 400+ horsepower; is it necessary? Nope, but it looks cool: Emotion - I think it's important.

If the names were reversed, and Z28 was released, and the SS not announced, I would feel close to the same way. I think it would be entirely reasonable for the SS-guys to feel the same way in that case, because I like the nameplate, personally. Personally, the way you put many of your posts regarding this topic, is borderline offensive, especially when you say, "would you even know the difference? and would the SS fans be acting like the Z28 fans are now?..." To me, it sounds like you are saying that us Z28 fans are b*tchin, and deminishing our opinions. I'm sure I'm not the only one to feel that this is not appreciated or appropriate. We are welcome to have opinions and feelings and share them respectfully just as you are/do. If I am making too much of this statement, I appologize; but if I'm not, and there are others that share similar feelings, I respectfully ask for you to be more considerate. If you don't agree with a particular mindset or way of thinking, it is not necessary to continue to force your way of thought on others and put their thoughts and feelings down. Please be respectful.

Originally Posted by boxmonkeyracing

honestly that's a big N O.

- Box'.

Originally Posted by Robert91RS

I would like to respond to that. I don't believe all the Z/28 fans can be grouped as wanting the same thing. Almost everyone agrees they want a Z/28 for what it means to us, and almost everyone would agree GM needs a GT500 fighter. So that leaves us figuring, why not make the Z/28 the GT500 fighter we would all like to see it be? Some of us feel a Z/28 is more important and others feel a 500 fighter is the issue at hand, but most of these people still agree to some degree with the other train of thought. Why not combine the answer into one car. I'm not very good with words so I hope this makes as much sense to you as me.

I agree with this obsevation too. Just because I want a GT-fighter, doesn't mean that's what's right. Look at the early history of Z/28 and how it progressed. It was the stripper road racer, and it pretty much followed that formula, although the 1LE package, with the Z28 model, followed that formula moreso in the later years. Having said that, the Z28 Box' has proposed (I'm using this example because that's the one that sticks out - and it makes perfect sense) is a great idea too. I think they way GM stacked the cards regarding the current model lineup (i.e. LS/LT and SS) leaves us with a Z28 as a GT-fighter, if there is one, and if there is a GT-500 for that matter. Why would GM make a car where there is no competition? The arguement that the 'Vette would fill that gap is a good point, especially in that case. However, if I had my choice between the Z28 I want a a Z51
Vette, I'd still go with the Camaro at similar price. I'm just not a 'Vette-guy. I think a lot of die-hard Camaro-guys are possibly similar.

Originally Posted by racedad70

Thanks for the warm welcome! If not a Z,hope they offer a power up package such as SC,exhaust ect.Just to keep it all GM.:flag2:

If those of us who want the supercharger car don't get it from GM, at least we should be able to make one, just as you're proposing.

[Angrybird 12]

Originally Posted by radz282003

To be clear, I only brought this up because there was mention of the Camaro and Z28 and the fact that he did NOT say that it was dead, as we've been constantly reminded of. You make a great statement that he may be trying to remind us that it is being scrutinized and it could be in jeopardy, but I don't think, so far, anyone is claiming this to be the be-all end-all stance from GM for this car. BTW, I don't think it's polite to tell us what to think. In addition, were it not for emotion, there wouldn't be SS, Z06, ZR1, Z28. Were it not for emotion, SS wouldn't have come to many other vehicle models because it didn't strike some sort of emotion. I agree it's definately pertinent and prudent to think economically, for GM, but they aren't going to stay alive, IMO, by cutting back - they need to selll cars. To see cars, I think emotion is an important element, otherwise, why resurrect Camaro in the first place? I think they need/want to connect with enthusiasts and bring in new customers with striking design and features. Does it make sense to have the ambient lighting, halo HID headlamps, 400+ horsepower; is it necessary? Nope, but it looks cool: Emotion - I think it's important.

If the names were reversed, and Z28 was released, and the SS not announced, I would feel close to the same way. I think it would be entirely reasonable for the SS-guys to feel the same way in that case, because I like the nameplate, personally. Personally, the way you put many of your posts regarding this topic, is borderline offensive, especially when you say, "would you even know the difference? and would the SS fans be acting like the Z28 fans are now?..." To me, it sounds like you are saying that us Z28 fans are b*tchin, and deminishing our opinions. I'm sure I'm not the only one to feel that this is not appreciated or appropriate. We are welcome to have opinions and feelings and share them respectfully just as you are/do. If I am making too much of this statement, I appologize; but if I'm not, and there are others that share similar feelings, I respectfully ask for you to be more considerate. If you don't agree with a particular mindset or way of thinking, it is not necessary to continue to force your way of thought on others and put their thoughts and feelings down. Please be respectful.
.

I am sorry if I came across disrespectful, I have noticed a tone with these type threads and people are becoming so Emotional and Angry if anyone even SUGGESTS there might not be a Z28. I wanted to try to get people to sit back and not be so emotional and consider what GM is going through right now financially.
Just give them the time to get back on their feet....and what see what the Environmentallists push on them next...THAT is what I feel Mr Lutz was trying to tell everyone.

To put it in perspective. if you were drowning in your finances(like GM), would you go out and build yourself a bigger house (Z28), just because your neighbor (Ford/Chrysler) just built a bigger one than you have now(KR500/SRT8)and your family (camaro fans) wanted you to have a better house than his?
Or Would you sit for a while and see what happens with your neighbor and see if your finances improve before making such an investment?

[Design1stCode2nd]

What I don't understand is if Ford can make 20 different versions of the Mustang and have them be a sales success what is stopping a limited production run of Z28's or whatever they want to call it. It shouldn’t be a significant cost to develop as you can use existing technology from the Corvette and CTS-V.

Here is what I’d recommend:

- LSA engine
- Adjustable suspension (the magnetic one can’t remember the name)
- Aluminum hood, trunk and roof (or CF)
- Different wheel design
- Revised front Fascia
- Quad exhaust
- Recaro seats

[Matster]

Originally Posted by Design1stCode2nd

What I don't understand is if Ford can make 20 different versions of the Mustang and have them be a sales success what is stopping a limited production run of Z28's or whatever they want to call it. It shouldn’t be a significant cost to develop as you can use existing technology from the Corvette and CTS-V.

Here is what I’d recommend:

- LSA engine
- Adjustable suspension (the magnetic one can’t remember the name)
- Aluminum hood, trunk and roof (or CF)
- Different wheel design
- Revised front Fascia
- Quad exhaust
- Recaro seats

I like your thinking I guess it would come down to whether the 422hp is already the outer limits of the current IRS design, or other components such as the frame. Will everything else handle 500-600hp?

[Angrybird 12]

Originally Posted by Design1stCode2nd

What I don't understand is if Ford can make 20 different versions of the Mustang and have them be a sales success what is stopping a limited production run of Z28's or whatever they want to call it. It shouldn’t be a significant cost to develop as you can use existing technology from the Corvette and CTS-V.

Here is what I’d recommend:

- LSA engine
- Adjustable suspension (the magnetic one can’t remember the name)
- Aluminum hood, trunk and roof (or CF)
- Different wheel design
- Revised front Fascia
- Quad exhaust
- Recaro seats

It's because Mustang sales are DROPPING they have to keep it fresh by bringing out all those models.

Isn't the SS already supposed to have an aluminum Hood?

[Matster]

It would be interesting to see the demographics regarding SS vs Z28, perhaps a poll, your age and your preference SS vs. Z28. Not sure but IMO your opinion may have something to do with how long you've been around

[camaro&T/A]

why is it that the environmentalists always get what they want and we never do? I think it's because they kick and scream until they get what they want. they vioce their opinions loudly. maybe we should too. start CAFE protests or something.