Designed to highlight the capability of the new Camaro as a weekend bracket warrior, the Camaro LS7 Concept combines the power of a GM Performance Parts� LS7 crate engine and targeted bolt-on upgrades to deliver the wheels-up spirit of the legendary COPO Camaros.
Made famous by Chevy dealers like Don Yenko and Fred Gibb in the late 1960s, the COPO cars were ordered for one thing: drag racing. They were quickly outfitted after delivery with the requisite tires, safety equipment and other accessories necessary for competition in popular Stock-class drag racing series.
The LS7 Concept honors the COPO ethos with features such as drag strip-ready rubber on the rear wheels � and unlike many of the stripped-down racers from 40 years ago, this strip-ready competitor serves double duty as both a racecar and a daily driver.
The LS7 crate engine (part number 17802397) uses a high-performance replacement camshaft from GM Performance Parts (part number 12480033) to help it produce approximately 550 horsepower. Complementing upgrades include GM Performance Parts-developed headers and air intake system that will be offered at the Camaro�s launch in early 2009. The LS7 also is modified with a wet-sump oiling system; the production engine features a dry-sump system that requires an external oil tank.
Backing the LS7 engine is a production Tremec 6060 six- speed manual with a GM Performance Parts Hurst shifter. Additional drivetrain details include:
- Brembo four-wheel disc brake package
- Lowered ride height
- Custom 20-inch wheels
- Driveshaft safety loop
- GM Performance Parts exhaust system
The Camaro LS7 concept is painted Victory Red, with matte black accents on the hood and taillamp panel. �LS7� logos are strategically placed and warn those in the know this Camaro means business when the Christmas tree lights count down to green. It�s all business on the spartan interior, too, with base trim and few accessories to minimize overall mass for a quicker elapsed time.
Although the Camaro LS7 Concept is just that � a concept � its duplication by enterprising enthusiasts and racers is enabled by GM Performance Parts� LS7 crate engine package. It delivers a fully assembled, production version of the engine, complete from the intake manifold to oil pan. An oil reservoir for the standard dry sump system and GM Performance Parts� LS7 engine controller (part number 19166567) are all that�s necessary to get the engine running in an enthusiast�s project vehicle � well, that and a chassis capable of handling more than 500 lb.-ft. of torque!
