Camaro SS vs Camaro ZL1

[Big A]

I have a 2010 SS and a 2013 ZL1. The SS is a great car but there is no comparison between the two. ZL1 for $20K more LSA- intercooled supercharged engine with upgraded heat resistant cylinder heads, different pistons and connecting rods, piston cooling oil squirters, oil cooler and deep sump oil pan. Transmission- TR6060 that will handle extra HP and TQ. Dual mode exhaust. Fuel system- Modified for high G cornering. Rear Differential Cooler- reduces temperature by over 100 degrees. Suspension- Magnetic Ride Control- 3 settings, you can't modify SS to use this. Performance Track Management 5 modes. Brakes- 6 piston front and 4 piston rear Brembo brakes with front two piece rotor. Tires- Goodyear F1 supercar tires. Wheels- 20" forged aluminum. HUD. REF: Chevy web site.

There are several items I didn't list but as anyone can see you couldn't afford to modify an SS to make a ZL1 as it would cost double the SS.
If all one wants is a lot of HP start the modding. I'm all for that but don't forget the rest of the drivetrain and brakes.

Having 580 HP does cause mileage to be poor, and yes at times I do have a lead foot, but I was well aware of this BEFORE I purchased car.

The ZL1 does stop on a dime. The SS can't come close.

The ZL1 is the way to go if you can afford it but don't put yourself in debt to buy one.

The biggest grip I have about buying the ZL1 is the POS government, EPA, charges $1,300 gas guzzler tax for manual trans and $2,600 for auto

Insurance rates are similar to SS.

[klaatu barada nikto]

Originally Posted by pbretelson

I also test drove a V6 and a V8 before buying the SS. The difference was night and day as far as acceleration. Cannot believe you could hardly tell a difference.

I experienced the same thing.
The SS is well worth the extra $$$ to me over the 6 not only in power and torque but all the other performance and visual goodies as well.

SS is a great performance value.

[DP Valentino]

Would love a ZL1, way out my price range at the time. Even the SS was just a tad bit out my price range at the time. So I got me a V6, did some mods to her (Not threw modding), and I love how she drives and rides. Now that won't say in a year or two that I will upgrade to a SS or ZL1, but right now. I'm enjoying driving my 5th Gen!

[E.T.]

The warranty thing is kind of silly. How many people are going to buy a ZL1 and NOT mod it? A heavily modded SS will smoke a ZL1 on the streets. Maybe not around the Nurburgring, but how many people drive there?

[Indydriver]

So, to wrap this up, one of the hallmarks of The American Muscle Car is the vast range of it's price/performance offering. With a $50,000 spread, Camaro offers a price range and performance options that meet every buyer's priority and appeals to segments of all groups across Socioeconomic status.

[Nor Cal ZL1]

Originally Posted by E.T.

The warranty thing is kind of silly. How many people are going to buy a ZL1 and NOT mod it? A heavily modded SS will smoke a ZL1 on the streets. Maybe not around the Nurburgring, but how many people drive there?

So in other words the ZL1 is a waste of time and money.
It should be discontinued.

[E.T.]

Originally Posted by Nor Cal ZL1

So in other words the ZL1 is a waste of time and money.
It should be discontinued.

All cars are a waste of money. Especially ones that cost $60K+. BUT, they sure are fun