The Science of Speed

1997 Camaro Z28

By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor

Question: Which of the following does the Camaro Z28 have an excess?

A. Looks

B. Horsepower.

C. Torque.

D. All of the above.

If you answered D, All of the above, you are correct read on! If you didn't answer correctly, go back to driving your Mustang.

Since redesigning the F-Body cars, Chevy Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, in 1993, GM has held bragging rights in the pony car wars. Ford has yet to introduce a Mustang GT that can keep up with the Z28, and that is where the war truly lies. We aren't going to talk about the $30,000, limited edition Z28 SS vs. Mustang Cobra SVT.

Built in Ste. Therese, Quebec, Canada, this is the 4th generation of the Camaro. 1997 celebrates, the 30th anniversary; all Camaro's feature embossed seats. Available later this year will be a special 30th anniversary pace-car replica for the 1997 Brickyard 400 NASCAR race.

The Camaro Z28 I test drove had but two flaws, both of which are optional equipment, automatic transmission and Acceleration Slip Regulation (a.k.a. traction control). To my surprise, the automatic transmission is a no cost option. The automatic transmission did make for an easy brake torque photo shoot, unfortunately the pics didn't come out. The 5.7L V8, LT1 engine, a small block V8, with 285 hp at 5200 rpm, and 325 lb. ft. torque at 2400 rpm, made it very easy to overlook any flaws this car may have.

Even if it is winter here in Michigan, I still wouldn't have traction control. Furthermore, if it ever came down to it, I would be willing to pay extra to get a manual transmission Z28. The pony cars are built for fun and speed, automatic transmissions and traction control just take away from that. These aren't supposed to be high tech cars, this is the science of speed.

The kids in my neighborhood went gaga over the Z28. Every time I drove through the neighborhood they stopped playing inline street hockey and just starred in amazement. Jaws dropped open, drool lathered in their mouths, you get the picture. They always knew I was coming because the Camaro has the best exhaust note in all of cardom!

The Z28 is a comparative bargain with tons of good stuff at a price of $23,642. That includes base price of $20,115. Skip the options, by a stripper model, heck air conditioning is standard equipment. And at the base price you can have your choice of automatic transmission or 6-speed manual. The option list included equipment group 1SJ. In that package you get: power windows, mirrors, keyless entry, theft deterrent system, leather steering wheel and shift knob for $1,266. The traction control system cost $450; upgraded wheels and tire's, $225; 6-way power drivers seat, $270; rear window defroster, $170; floor mats, $15; add in an upgraded stereo with compact disc player for $606 and destination of $525. All for the total price of $23,642.

The EPA mileage ratings for the Camaro Z28, automatic are 17 mpg city, and 25 mpg highway. During my stint behind the wheel I achieved 18 mpg. Dual front airbags, crush zones, daytime-running lights and anti-lock brakes are but four of the numerous safety feature incorporated into the 1997 Camaro.

While I haven't been a big fan of the Camaro's styling it has grown on me some and the exterior design is appealing and is certainly unmistakable from any other vehicle. The interior for 1997 has been redone. It features an all new dashboard design that is much more user friendly and more ergonomical. The problem I have with the interior is the seating position. For me to be comfortable the seat has to be all the way back and partial reclined making it difficult to see the end of the hood. The long dash, from the base of the windshield to the glove box, is a good 2 feet.

Owning this car in the winter would be a bear, but one that I could live with: a great set of snow tires would do wonders. Not to mention a tad bit less throttle, but that ruins all the fun. Oversteer is easy to bring about in the Z and it is usually just as easy to correct. These aren't practical cars but with the onslaught of SUV's and minivans who really wants practical when you can have fun. And having fun is what the Z is all about.

Until Ford gets the performance of the Mustang GT up, the Camaro Z28 is the only choice in the pony car debate. The science is simple, mix big engine with lots of torque and horsepower to pavement and you get hours and hours of enjoyment.