The new concept is more than just a modern version of the 1969 Camaro. It has very different proportions than the original. Although both are the same length, the concept car sits on a 2-inch-longer wheelbase and measures over 5 inches wider than the original. It’s also slightly taller than a ’69, despite its low roofline. No doubt some of that extra height comes from the 21-inch front wheels and tires and 22-inch rear meats.
Many of the shapes in the interior would be familiar to owners of classic Camaros. From the two big gauges behind the steering wheel to the auxiliary dials mounted down low on the console, there’s plenty of heritage packed into its cabin.
GM’s designers claim to have had more in mind than just the ’69 Camaro when they drew the concept. They looked to the current Corvette for some inspiration as well as the angular YF-22 fighter jet. Their goal was to make the Camaro appeal to current fans while giving it a shape that would attract younger enthusiasts just the same.
At first glimpse I thought this car was pretty. Then I reconsidered its exterior and figured out it was ugly. Then I decided to compromise and, using my experience as the owner of six previous F-body incarnations (’67, ’76, ’93, ’94, ’95, ’96), finally settled on the opinion that it’s pretty ugly. And the variable cylinder engine technology? Anyone remembering the Cadillac 8-6-4 should be afraid, very afraid.
What this car needs:
- Lower it 1.5 inches.
- Clip 4 inches off the belt line. It looks like an odd cross between an Audi and an Infiniti. (Or, it looks like my uncle who used to wear his pants up around his chest.)
- Ditch the BIG wheels. The aftermarket will do it better no matter what.
- 300hp base model – 340hp Z28 (at least) -400+hp Z28 SS.
- Revamp visibility through the “C” pillar area. Remember 1975.
- No pointless upgrade pairings. (Need AC to get T-Tops?)
- No more than a $28,000 price tag on the Z28.