2017 Camaro ZL1 Tested on the Road, Track, and Strip.
With the fifth-generation Camaro, Chevrolet changed the meaning of ZL1. While it originally stood for a limited production, drag strip terror that carried the biggest, baddest engine from the Corvette, the modern version added impressive levels of road-course capability and daily driver comfort while leaving a bit of the horsepower on the table. The 2017 ZL1 now brings every bit as much power as the top-dog Corvette while also introducing a new, world-class transmission along with an improved chassis to create an all-around driver’s car that excels in any environment.
The last ZL1 had a 580hp 6.2L LSA V8 that was similar to the Corvette’s LS9 but with a smaller-displacement supercharger. Now the 2017 ZL1 brings the same 650 hp as the Z06 Corvette. From the throttle-body to the main caps, the ZL1’s LT4 powerplant is identical to the V8 found in the C7 Corvette Z06. The differences are the ZL1’s unique tri-Y exhaust manifolds and wet sump oiling system. Camaro’s slightly taller stance, compared to the Corvette, allowed for a traditional oiling system that provides ample oil control even during prolonged high-g maneuvers.
This story is from the May 2017 edition of Hot Rod.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2017 edition of Hot Rod.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Making Connections
Project T-top Coupe: We install a Terminator X Max for big power.
LET IT BREATHE!
Project X’s new ZZ632 big-block needed to breathe, and this do-ityourself stainless exhaust kit was just the ticket to make it happen.
TUNING OPTIMIZED
VARIABLES WITHIN FUEL-INJECTOR CONSTRUCTION CAN LEAD TO POOR ENGINE OPERATION. HERE'S HOW TO TUNE YOUR FUEL INJECTORS.
Re-Flange It!
We check out the fab skills needed to run a flat hood on a 1970 Mustang with a very unique and too-tall engine.
THE TRIBUTE FOR THE WIN
Ron Capps wins the NHRA U.S. Nationals driving a Don Prudhomme-Hot Wheels tribute Funny Car.
So Close
Following a nearly flawless performance, a pít lane penalty kept the C8.R off the top of the podium in the IMSA Sportscar Weekend.
A RADICAL SHIFT
When you're a teenager and the police know you by name, it's not usually because of your volunteer work or class-topping GPA. Not at all. That was especially true for Jeff Kainz when he was behind the wheel of his 1975 Camaro. In the '80s, while cruising his hometown in North Dakota, his buddies with police scanners often heard the police tell one another: \"Kainz is out on Main Street.\"
WILD MASH-UP
Built to long-haul the 2023 HOT ROD Power Tour, this 1984 Monte Carlo’s facade hides a performance secret!
6 TIMER!
Tom Bailey captures his 6th HOT ROD Drag Week Unlimited/Overall title with his Sick Seconds 1.0 Camaro.
JIM MCFARLAND'S INFLUENCE WENT WAY BEYOND HOT ROD MAGAZINE.
Jim McFarland, the multitalented, multifaceted Texan who enjoyed several careers in the automotive performance industry, passed away in October 2023 at the age of 88.