Ever since production ended
in 2002, Camaro enthusiasts have been anxiously awaiting the return of their
favorite pony car. Well, the wait is over.
The 2010 Camaro (Fig. 9) returns with all the classic styling cues --
the prominent grille with recessed headlamps, the SS front air scoop, the gills
on the rear quarters, dual exhaust outlets, and even the auxiliary
instrumentation on the console. Here's a closer look behind the retro-inspired
sheet metal of the new Camaro.
Performance
The base engine is the 3.6L
(LLT) VVT direct injected DOHC V6. With variable valve timing and dual overhead
camshafts, it generates 304 HP (227 kW) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque.
In addition to direct
injection, advanced features of the engine include variable valve timing,
roller chain cam drive, and piston cooling jets for lower temperature and
increased durability.
For those wanting more power,
there are two versions of the 6.2L OHV V8. In cars with an automatic
transmission, the V8 (L99) offers 400 HP (298kW) and 410 lb-ft (556 Nm) of
torque. (Fig. 10) With a manual transmission,
the V8 (LS3) offers 426 HP (318 kW) and 420 lb-ft (569 Nm) of torque. The L99
engine also comes with Active Fuel Management that shuts down four cylinders
based on driving conditions for better fuel economy. All feature aluminum block
and heads.
Two 6-speed manual
transmissions are available with either the V6 or V8 engine. The available
6-speed automatics -- the 6L50 transmission on the V6 and the 6L80 transmission
on the V8 -- feature TAPshift, which enables the transmission to be shifted
manually with steering wheel paddles. Performance Algorithm Liftfoot (PAL)
detects performance driving and holds upshifts and downshifts. Additionally,
the 6L80 on V8s has an internal cooler.
Handling
On V8 models, the StabiliTrak
electronic stability control system includes a Competitive Mode that limits
StabiliTrak and ABS intervention for competitive driving venues.
V8 models with a manual
transmission also offer Vehicle Launch Control, which uses traction control and
torque management to minimize wheelspin and optimize straight-line
acceleration. When the accelerator pedal is pressed to the floor with the
clutch engaged, the RPM is limited to a predetermined level. Releasing the
clutch while keeping the accelerator pedal pressed to the floor provides
controlled wheelspin and acceleration.
Four-wheel discs are provided
with ABS, ranging from 12.6-inch front and 12.4-inch rear discs, vented with
1-piston calipers, on LS/LT models and 14-inch front and 14.4-inch rear discs,
vented with Brembo 4-piston calipers, on SS models. (Fig.
11)
Wheels and tires range from
18 to 20 inches, including summer tires on SS models. It is highly recommended
that owners purchase winter tires if they plan to drive the Camaro SS in
winter.
Interior
The Camaro has a number of
unique interior features. It uses a window indexing feature to help eliminate
wind noise. The windows open slightly when the door is opened, and then move
back to the closed position when the door is closed. This feature must be reset
if battery power is disconnected.
Auxiliary analog gauges on
the console (certain models) include oil pressure, battery voltage, oil
temperature and transmission fluid temperature. (Fig.
12)
The heavy duty battery, with
rundown protection and retained accessory power, is located in the trunk,
contributing to the 52%/48% weight distribution. The accessory power outlets
shut down when the vehicle is turned off to further enhance the rundown
protection capability.
- Thanks to Marty Case and
Chris Graham
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