For a very long time, it seemed that the American muscle car had gone extinct. We were left with modern, lackluster and sometimes comical interpretations of the golden oldies. Who can forget the less than stellar Chevy Nova of the 1980′s? However, things have changed in the automotive world, once more. While much of the focus is on environmentally friendly cars, the American muscle car may not be done just yet.
The Ford Mustang was the first American muscle car to have a much-needed facelift, followed by the Dodge Charger and Challenger. Chevy, not be be left out, debuted a much-celebrated concept Camaro back in 2006. However, once that car show was finished, little more was said about the car, other than vague promises by Chevy to make a production run, sometime.
That time will be 2010 (actually, the first quarter of 2009, as a 2010 model year). Full production is slated to begin in February of 2009, with the first of the cars rolling into dealerships sometime in the first quarter of the year. This is fantastic news for those who fell in love with the concept’s aggressive, sleek lines. The new Camaro is something totally new and American’s are waiting to sink their teeth into this beautiful creation of steel and chrome.
While the exterior of the car has been shown many times, with its aggressive stance, long nose and short tail, gills fore and aft and its V-shaped front end, not much has been said about the engines that will be available. However, Chevy has finally released the specs for Camaro power plants.
LS and LT Models – A 3.6-liter VVT V6 will power the LS and the LT models. This will be mated with a six-speed manual transmission, using Chevy’s trademark TAPshift system. The engine and transmission package are rated for 300 horsepower and a startling 26 mpg on the highway.
Upgraded LS and LT Models – As an upgrade, buyers can purchase a 6.2-liter V8 that produces around 400 horsepower. The manual, six-speed transmission includes advanced fuel economy technology, capable of reaching 23 mpg on the highway.
SS Models – Those with the need for even more muscle under the hood can choose the 6.2-liter V8 package with 422 horsepower. There are other upgrades for the SS model rumored, but not yet confirmed by Chevy.
The Camaro will also boast 4-wheel disc brakes, an upgrade from the disc/drum combination present for so long with many cars. For consumers who fear that the new Camaro will be a front-drive let down, fear not. The new Camaro will hold true to its roots and enjoy true rear-wheel drive power.
However, to purchase the new Camaro, you’ll have to come up with the estimated asking price. Chevy anticipates $22 – $28,000 for the hardtop and $28 – $35,000 for the convertible model. What that means is you will have to have financing, unless you have enough cash on hand to buy it outright, of course. Luckily, auto financing will be widely available for the new muscle car, but you’ll need to ensure your credit is in proper order.
My biggest fear is with the slumping economy. With so many people turning away from the SUV and gas guzzling classics like the Mustang and Camaro, we can only hope the sales of this beauty take the auto industry by storm. One of the new brands I work with (Special Finance Leads) will do it’s part in providing quality leads to the Chevy dealerships to help easy the pains. Even though the Mustang and Camaro have fought like aggravated siblings for so many year, I for one am excited to see this car back on the streets. The new era of classic American muscle is here and it is fun being a part of it.
