History of cars: Chevrolet Camaro

- "Camaro"? What does this mean?
- It's a little blood-thirsty beast that feeds on the "Mustang" ...

History of Chevrolet Camaro

It is considered that the above discussion - is just a legend, but many still believe that it actually took place at the end of September 1966 between representatives of the press and the project leaders, HR-836 of Chevrolet of General Motors. However, on this day, September 29, 1966, the light was presented one of the most fearsome predators and beautiful automotive world has ever hunted in the vast highways, and a few months earlier, in the narrow circle of associates for the first time voiced his real name: Camaro . This short succinct word company General Motors has made its response the company Ford, which from April 1964 to freely chasing the prairies of the U.S. market their herds, "Mustangs." It's time to share the territory ...

When Ford introduced the spring of 1964, the first Mustang, the immediate reaction from General Motors was not followed. Concern in no hurry to responses until August of that year, until, finally, is not seriously addressed the concept of a sports-like four-seater small (by American standards) class. Ironically, Ford Mustang has developed his model in response to the Chevrolet Corvair Monza.

This is the official version of events.

In fact, General Motors led the preparatory work on this type of car since 1958, making use of a designer brand Pontiac Bob Porter. "I remember that among our tasks in the experimental studio projects have been very popular four-seater sports type with similar size and weight machines with class, which would get and the Mustang. In 60 such developments occur regularly. Every designer wanted to create such a car, but at the time, these projects did not meet the corporate interests of the U.S. automakers, "says Bob Porter.

When selling Mustang for the first six months amounted to 100 000 copies, and for the year just do not have lasted half a million, General Motors became interested in flowing under her nose, a process in earnest. All the powers of anti-bred horses in the studio laying Chevrolet (Chevrolet Studio) within the GM Design Center (GM Design Center), which was led by Henry C Haga. Work on the interior of trusted George Engersbahu, from under the hand of which came salons Corvette, Corvair, and the Chevy II, Nova has become in the future '68 model year. By the way, and still circulating in the press is one common misconception: it is considered that the Camaro? 67 was designed based on the component is Chevy II Nova, ie practice based on it. Of course, it is not. Nova is a new project, it was referred to? 68 model year, and there is nothing surprising in the fact that it used many sites predecessors, including the use and Camaro.

Mostly amusing detail. Only the model 1967 rear shocks had lower attachment point just before the rear axle. In the future, shock absorbers have been rearranged in a checkerboard pattern to provide improved their performance. The left (driver's side) was in place before the bridge (as seen in the illustration), the right is shifted to the rear axle.

An interesting feature of the new car was the appearance in the construction of a massive front subframe, which was attached to the body through the supporting insulating elements. In their roles which were rubber pads - an engineering solution has already been used on some European cars, including many models Mercedes-Benz. In other words, we used the best that existed at that time in the arsenal of automotive schools of the Old and New Worlds. Spacious interior and roomy trunk would not be able to please their size, though at present the traditional Camaro chassis. At the same time, vehicles with a conventional monocoque body like the smoothness and quietness of the moment remained inaccessible.

Among others, designers, studios have been created layouts double roadster, fastback and station wagon. However, GM was trying to keep the cost of future vehicle at the lowest possible level. As a result, in order to compete with the Mustang, it was decided to leave only two kinds of bodies - coupe and convertible.

By the time of publication of the Camaro has a wide range of power plants, starting with a 6-cylinder engine capacity of 230 cubic inches (3.8 liters), and the last volume of 327 in3 V8 (5.4 liters). We also offer a new, specially designed for Camaro V8 Small Block engine capacity of 350 in3 (5.7 liters), which develops power 295 hp
Meanwhile, the date of the presentation was coming, but the car still had its own name. Press and the corporation itself was coined by GM set of pilot names, among which were heard: Nova, Panther, Chaparral, and even Wildcat (later used for the Buick). There were also rumors that Chevrolet decided to beat the capital letters GM, transforming them into "mini-Ji» (G-Mini), and later in "Gemini» (Gemini - Gemini - zodiac constellation). However, at the headquarters of GM did not share the enthusiasm about this idea: probably in the top management did not want to risk the name of the group in case of failure of the model. In the end, the car was released under the name «Camaro», and all thought it was a good name, mainly because no one really knew what it meant. However, the Chevrolet interpreted its origin thus: that the word was borrowed from an old French dictionary, where «Camaro» touted as a "friend", "companion."

Ford, in turn, dug another meaning of the term «Camaro», this time in the old Spanish dictionary: "fine (in the sense that the medium-sized) shrimp."

Submit Thread to Google press partied with might and main, watching the scene. Added more fuel to the fire a reporter who has discovered another meaning of the word - slang for "to make a Camaro" meant "guts" to the opponent. All the fun, however, stopped at the very moment when the world witnessed the stunning debut of Chevrolet Camaro 1967 model year.

This is the image of the "base" model 1967.

We now study the "biography» Chevrolet Camaro in more detail. So, Camaro was introduced GM in 1967 as a compact car built in order to create competition won by the time the popularity of Ford Mustang. This "pony car" as they called the class of similar cars, alluding to the genes of the founder of the family, was built on the same platform as F-Body, as the Pontiac Firebird. It is noteworthy that both models have lived on the same assembly line for the duration of life - from 1967 to 2002 (at this stage I do not take into account the upcoming Camaro, 2009).

Having said the above few words about the engines, I suggest a little delayed in transmission. The basic version of the torque transmitted to the rear wheel three-speed manual gearbox firm Saginaw. A four-manual transmission company Muncie, as well as 2-speed automatic transmission PowerGlide, were offered as options. Toward the end of 1967 at the beginning of SS 396 version installed Automatic Turbo Hydra-Matic 350. In 1969, this case was offered as an option for all Camaro instead PowerGlide, which by then was removed from production. And another thing: all Camaro control transmission, regardless of its type, is always located on the tunnel floor between the front seats.

Z28 Engine 302 V8 Small Block 1967. To be precise, with a volume of 302.3 cubic inches. Have done so simply and elegantly: block Chevrolet was taken by the volume of 327 in3 and implanted in a crankshaft with connecting rods from the 283rd motor (283 dyuyma3). Bore and stroke, accounted for the previous 4 to 3 inches, respectively.

Camaro was the car that encourages the client to the fantasy violence of the highest level - the buyer was available over seventy factory and forty dealer options. The vaunted Z28 option in the future for some reason was not mentioned in advertising literature so many buyers simply had no idea about its existence. The lack of information affected the amount of sales - only 602 copies Z28 first year of production had been delivered to customers. Meanwhile, the package contained the impressive list of important differences: first, the engine - Small Block V8 volume of 4.9 liters, etc. - disc front brakes, 4-speed manual gearbox Muncie, reinforced suspension, 15-inch Rallye ( while for the base model has 14-inch wheels), power steering. Body of the car decorated with racing stripes along the hood, and other decorative elements borrowed from motorsport. Z28 package was originally designed to adapt to the requirements Camaro Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) racing for the organization's Trans Am Racing Series. In accordance with the rules of the volume of this series of engines was limited to five liters, and the car had to remain accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Modification of the SS (Super Sport) implied the highest degree of completion and was quite popular, as sold in 1967, circulation of 34,411 copies. Under the hood is located SS V8 Small Block volume of 5.7 liters, and in 1968, as an option, dealers began to be offered a 6.5-liter V8 Big Block - so there was a famous series of 396.

The grille, alarm button, the lid of the fuel tank proudly flaunted the abbreviation SS, but if the engine capacity of 396 in3 - an appropriate label, modest, but has a truly magical attraction to this day.

Hood adorned sham intake.

In the version of RS (Rally Sport) differs from the basic model were largely confined to exterior design. The headlights were hidden under the pivoting flaps, which are a continuation of the grille. The form of the rear lights was somewhat different from other versions, a more challenging schedule of painting the body. Badges with the letters RS met on the entire surface of the car and on many panels cabin. RS option package was the most popular among the customers: in 1967 they sold 64 842 copies.

This RS / SS 396 Big Block Chevy engine in 1967. Classics of the genre. By the way, the damper on units Camaro first year of production was electrically driven, then it was replaced by vacuum.

Combination of RS and SS versions in one car. The result was a version of the Camaro RS / SS. In this combination machine conquered the showy appearance, inherited from the RS, and called forth the respect and power "muscles» SS. At the same badges were placed at the discretion of the client. That's why not too knowledgeable person can be confusing to the presence of the retractable headlights on 1968 Camaro, from all sides hung with signs «SS». Such a convertible Camaro RS / SS 396 acted as a pace car at the races 500 miles of Indianapolis in 1967.

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Its circulation of more than 220 900 copies in the first year has proven leadership model Camaro GM, that the public is yearning for just such a small, but powerful cars sporting sense.

In 1968, the Camaro design have been some improvements, was slightly modified and exterior design. According to new U.S. laws were set side repeater indicators. Salient angle of the grille became more pointed, and the taillights divided in the middle of the vertical bar. With the door gone windows. Began to be fitted dampers with improved characteristics. On some modifications monolistovye rear springs were replaced with multilistovye.

The updated design 1968 - rectangular fog lights, pointed grille, repeater turns. This is SS 350, you guessed it.

Finally, information about the version of Z28 came to a wide range of customers, and in 1968 these were sold 7199 Camaro items. RS remains the most popular modification and found a shelter in the garage 40 977 Americans. SS was produced 30 695 vehicles. In total, 1968 of the factory GM had left 235 147 Chevrolet Camaro

The car model year 1969 has become even faster and safer. But in GM announced that they will not come off the assembly line any car of this model with an engine capacity of more than 6.6 liters. Then, to bypass this rule, some large dealers of Chevrolet, like Yenko, Dana and Nickey, began to establish themselves on the big Camaro 7-liter engine L-72 for Chevrolet Corvette, reaching power of 425 horsepower. The proposed modifications were dealers so popular that in 1969 the leadership group has revised its position, and customers were invited to two formal optional package - Central Office Production Orders (COPO) 9560 and 9561. Version of COPO 9561 meant the installation of the engine L-72 from Corvette. Total sales came in 1015 vehicles equipped with such engines.

Don Yankey - a gifted rider, a brave and resolute man. In fact, he was one of the founders of this trend in the automobile business as a "tuning". His semilitrovye Camaro knew no equal in the quarter mile. The story of his life is so fascinating, and the circumstances of death - mysterious and tragic that they deserve a separate written a great article. In the photo at the top and bottom - Chevrolet Camaro Yenko Recreation Coupe 1969.

Modification of the COPO 9560 was ZL-1 engine Can Am, 7-liter Big Block. The motor was entirely made of aluminum, it is possible to significantly reduce the load on front axle. His power has been declared by the manufacturer within a 430-horsepower, but in reality, this value was close to the value of 550 hp at that time. Such maneuvers were designed to reduce tax payments to customers. Was made only 69 of these machines, and to date Chevrolet Camaro COPO 9560 ZL-1 is considered one of the fastest, and at the same time, the rarest cars of this model.

However, the rest of the mechanical part of the 1969 Camaro model almost did not undergo structural changes, which is absolutely not the case with the exterior. Designers re-traced the grille, even spearheaded its shape, making much lights moved forward, giving the car a heavy, aggressive "look." A different kind of got through the doors, rear side of the body, the rear panel. Visually Camaro started to be perceived squat, wider, smoother contours gave him finish appearance. In this form it is produced until the end of December 1969, after which the production of first generation Chevrolet Camaro was discontinued.

Engines for the Chevrolet Camaro.

Chevrolet Small Block

This is one of the most famous and successful engines in the history of General Motors. He also earned the nickname "mouse motor» («mouse motor») for his modest, compared to other V8 in those years, the dimensions. The production of this famous series began in 1955 with the motor size 265 in3 (4.3 liters), which provided the muscular superiority of first Chevrolet Corvette over its competitors. The volume of the engine over the years, constantly changing, reaching eventually the value of 400 in3 (6.6 liters), but the most common was the best and Small Block with a cubature in 350 inches (5.7 liters). This motor is still in production at the GM plant in Toluca, Mexico, where it produced for the company Goodwrench (unit General Motors, is responsible for servicing cars of concern) and the separation of GM Performance Parts *. However, this engine belts are not available since 2004. All in all, at various times were collected truly astronomical number of these motors - 90 million pieces!

Buick, Cadillac, Oldsmobile and Pontiac are also engaged in the development of the new V8, but only 350 dyuymovyy3 Small Block Chevrolet GM management was adopted as the main engine of concern. Each division of General Motors for many years used this engine for its models, and his descendants - a series of LT and LS, are still "major caliber" corporations, and to this day. Small Block of Chevrolet, according to the magazine Ward's AutoWorld, has taken its rightful place among the ten best automobile engines of the 20th century.

In the mid-70's Oldsmobile brand clients started a lawsuit against General Motors. Vehicle owners not satisfied with the fact that they have acquired new cars were equipped with motors Chevrolet, which does not meet the generally accepted ideas about the prestige of their favorite brand. This episode prompted the decision to declare a guide to all engines, and create a group within a corporate property. This meant that those engines that have previously been associated with certain brands within the corporation, could now be available in other departments at the discretion of company management. We must note the following point: despite the fact that the Small Block became general corporate engine - as well as all other engines in the GM - it is, nevertheless, has not lost many of its features that allow accurately identify any of its kind, as the early development of Chevrolet . This is important in relation to contemporary series LS, sometimes also called «Small Block», that is not entirely true.

LS does not have any common parts with the Chevrolet Small Block, not involved in its creation designers offices - it was designed in GM Powertrain Division, and it is a completely new design of the unit GM. It can be argued that the LS has the same diameter of the cylinders and the angle of their collapse, and many (though not all) engines that were released earlier from the design office Chevrolet, but it would be wrong to characterize it as a development or extension of the line of traditional engines Small Block. In most GM is careful to name Chevrolet in no way mentioned in connection with a motor LS - he prefers to call or simply «Small Block», or the "New Generation Small Block» without any clarifying amendments. In this case clearly shows that the main purpose of the concern - indirectly impose a false idea that the LS is a direct descendant of the legendary design company Chevrolet.

*- GM Performance Parts, as the name implies, Department of General Motors, carrying out the production, sale and installation of machinery and repair parts for amateur athletes, fans of hot-delivery, as well as companies and customers involved in tuning cars of concern.

Big Block Chevy

Let's talk about it in more detail. The development of the second generation of the family began with the so-called Mystery Motor. This engine was equipped with a racing car class stock, which was built on the Chevrolet Daytona 500 1963, and set many records. Mystery Motor, whose design for some time kept secret, was greatly modified form of the series engine «W», and later, in 1965, went into production under the code Mark IV. In the advertising and the accompanying literature it is preferred to be called «Turbo-Jet V8».

Mark IV differed from the version of «W» first valve, as well as the execution of the combustion chambers. Designers rejected the decision, in which the combustion chamber is cast directly from the unit, as has been done on the engines of the series «W» - including, incidentally, because of the sharp collapse of the power curve index reaches 6500 rpm. Was used a familiar scheme, when wedge combustion chamber is located in the head, gathered in their turn, the good old block V8 with the collapse of the cylinders at 90 degrees. The valves were transplanted from the engine «W», but tilted so that the open at an angle relative to the bottom of the combustion chamber and cylinder walls. The drive was carried out according to the following chain: the camshaft - bar - rocker - the valve. Changes in landing valves have improved filling of the cylinder fuel-air mixture at high speed, which, in turn, gave a significant increase in power during acceleration. It is noteworthy that unusual for that period look of this site gave rise to some "wise men" of the automotive press dubbed him "a porcupine."

On the left - Turbo Thrust V8 1958 classic motor type «W». Right - diagrammatic section of the combustion chamber engine Mark IV.

Spark plugs on the engine Mark IV changed his position after the valve, which was part of the design plan to modernize the antiquated original scheme. Now they were placed at an impressive angle to the axial line of the cylinder, rather than sticking out the bottom of the combustion chamber just as it was on the engine series «W». This greatly added engine power in a zone of high speed. Engine «W» was identified in this letter not least because of the peculiar forms of valve cap, some kind of repeating it faces. This was necessary for the convenience of placing candles and access to them. When the candles were placed at an angle, the designers were able to apply broad capacious cover of rectangular shape.

Big Block Impala 409. Here is a form of valve covers and an occasion to assign this series engines letter '«W».

Mark IV, or as it is called - "rat motor» («rat motor», by analogy with the Small Block, received at the time nicknamed "mouse motor» - «mouse motor»), was released a few heavier than its predecessor series «W» , which had about 685 pounds (310.7 kg) of dry weight. The exception was the model of the ZL-1 Can Am. However, the freshness of design Mark IV, as mentioned, does not extend beyond the modified cylinder heads and return to the traditional corner of the collapse of the cylinders. Inside this unit is really carried a lot to do with the engine «W»: the location of most of the key coincided coordinates, dimensional base, remained identical design features. For example, a block, even though he was thoroughly reinforced, had the same diameter of the cylinders. About the crankshaft bearings and main bearings can say the same thing - their sizes correspond to the same nodes in a series of «W». In fact, it is possible to install the crank shafts of relatively short-traveled motor "348" and "409", without resorting to extensive modernization. At the cost versions of Mark IV, as well as in motors «W», used aluminum alloy pistons with skirt-type crown. For augmented versions exist forged pistons, solid, without cuts, skirt, for better heat dissipation. Shortly before the release of Mark IV, on the modification of "409" appeared bearings (so-called "ear») Moraine M400 with babbit coating (anti-friction alloy based on tin or aluminum), previously applied only to the racing versions. Needless to say, that they were safely moved to a new engine, and with them, and high-performance lubricants, whose channels are able to fully put in the walls of the block, without having to use outside of the tubes. Thanks to the high pressure oil accounted for the main and connecting rod bearings. The special features of this engine can also be considered impressive and crankcase with an increased margin of safety, forged steel crankshaft, solid lid rods, which was used in the racing versions of the attachment scheme of the four bolts. So this engineer Chevrolet, forcing them to keep the right direction, think through every detail, and as a result - to make the right decision. The result of their work for many years is probably the most uncompromising, violent, but a reliable V8 engine of all time - Big Block Chevy.
Second-generation Chevrolet Camaro was launched into production in mid 1970. The car is completely refreshed appearance, significant changes were made in the design of front and rear suspensions. However, many components and assemblies remained in service since the first generation. The main event was the engine replacement for the base model, customers are now offered in-line 6-cylinder engine volume 4.1 liters and output of 155 hp Also from the lineup disappeared with cabriolet version, leaving, so buyers in showrooms alone with a compartment having a landing formula 2 +2. V8 Big Block engine was ported to 402 in3 (6.6 liters), but the Chevrolet management decided to leave for his designation 396. Modifications Rally Sport, Super Sport, and Z28 is still present in the list of options. Z28 version now offered with a 5.7-liter engine, which develops power of 360 hp

1972 was not the best for the Camaro. Like an evil fate pursued the new model. Within 174 days idle conveyors at the GM plant in Ohio - was a strike organized by the Union of Auto Workers (UAW, United Automobile Workers). As a result, copies of the 1100 Camaro had to be destroyed, to put under the press in the truest sense, because production delay caused by the strike are not allowed to equip these vehicles are in compliance with new federal safety standards that came into force in 1973. All in all, 1972 was produced 68 656 vehicles. Of these, less than a thousand machines (970 pcs.) - A version of the SS. Dissatisfied with the results of such concern management has decided to curtail production of this modification. It also meant the end of the supply of engines for the Chevrolet Camaro Big Block 396/402.

Z28 1972.

Well, like many other models, produced at the time the U.S. auto plant, Camaro had to adapt to new requirements for vehicle safety, approved by the government and the community insurance. This meant, among other things, and new standards for size, mounting, and placement of external components mounted, as well as decorative elements of nature. Much attention was paid to the location of control units in the cabin. The need to comply with new regulations on waste gas exhaust and the pursuit of efficiency, engines ruthlessly deforsirovalis, hold stricter fuel system adjustments. Cars became safer and cheaper to operate, but have lost their individuality, character ... if you want - an entity, vaguely reminiscent of that in man we call soul. The same fate befell the Camaro: now its most powerful engine was a 350 V8 in3 (5.7 liters) and a capacity of 245 hp

LT / RS 1973. Round lights are ideally suited to design the stern Camaro II. However, they were established long - just four years, from 1970 to 1973 inclusive.

In 1973, a new version, called LT (Luxury Touring), she assumed the presence of aluminum bumpers that absorb impact energy in case of emergency.

This is a rare modification: 1973 was the only year that allowed the combination of all available factory package - LT (replacing the SS), RS and Z28. The illustration - like a car. LT / RS is distinguished by the four lamps in a line, ie fog lights on this version moved from under the bumper closer to the main optics.

1974 Camaro has undergone some restyling and grew in size, mainly due to the fiercely rejected back grille and new bumpers wide. Round taillights gave way to rectangular. Appearance of the second generation Camaro won over its rough beauty, though provoked involuntary association with the locomotive, which was especially important for the design of the front of the machine. Meanwhile, the sales package Z28 tend to zero, so it was decided to strike out this modification of the option list in 1975.

I want to mention one important point: the horsepower of the engine power is measured by the car, prior to 1975 were calculated "net", ie readings were taken with the motor on the stand, since 1975 began to implement a system of measuring "gross." This led to the fact that the numbers of the installed capacity cars dropped significantly: thus, the 5.7-liter V8 now had a capacity of 155 hp Therefore we should not deceive ourselves crazy power levels of machines era 1964-1974 gg. - This is an illusion.

In 1977, in an effort to revive the falling interest in such a symbolic figure of the world muscle cars, as the Chevrolet Camaro, it was decided to revive the modification of the Z28. By that time, even the basic version of the car went off the assembly line is equipped with air conditioning and automatic transmission. Together with the newest 4-speed manual gearbox Borg-Warner Super T-10 was available to customers as an option.

1978 saw the emergence of a body targa T-top. Camaro was enlarged taillights and a new form of bumpers.

In the same proportion as the cars reached all the new safety standards, they became slower. The direction of the priorities of the ordinary American purchaser at this time move towards comfort, relegating to the background are important, but elusive to many factors, such as the aura of the car, its power, the fury, the ability to lead a person driving in a state of sincere admiration. In 1979, the LT version has been replaced by a luxurious Berlinetta, which offers another set class "luxury": wheels of special design, special coloring of a body, updated logo and improved interior trim. In fairness I will note: Berlinetta - is a rare version of the Camaro: current owners are not in a hurry to part with it.

1979 turned out to be extremely productive for the dealers of this model. It sold 282 571 copies of the Camaro. 1980 and 1981 brought some changes in the design of the machine: among other things has been re-designed air intake on the hood of Z-28 (on the Camaro II has already been used on purpose) in order to increase the flow of air into the engine compartment. In 1981, sales dropped significantly Camaro: these machines have been sold 126 000 units. As a result, 1981 was the last model year of the second generation Camaro.

Bumblebee.

This is the easiest Camaro - and 1976, and not 1977 as stated in many sources. Apparently, the authors insist on the latter, is confusing and peculiar coloring of the influx on the hood, the inherent model Z28, which reappeared only in 1977. Watching movies, you should look: This piece is riveted, and the color and stripes, as well as different wheels on the front and rear axle - fancy director Michael Bay and art director Jeff Mann. I'll tell you a little story about how the movie "Transformers" picked up the car, in the form of which was hidden for the time being courageous Autobot named Bumblebee (Bumblebee) from the planet Saybertron.

If we turn to the original cartoon series, then it Bumblebee appears as a funny and harmless Volkswagen Beetle with yellow sides and logo on the roof of the Autobots. As such, he first appeared before the kids at the 19th minute of the second series (personally watched, though no longer a child). Bumblebee prankster and a joker, but very brave, and he has a good heart. At blockbusters of our time so openly and prescription characters almost never occur. And initially, Jeff Mann envisioned a "role" of the Bumblebee something undeniably classic - something like the Dodge Coronet, late 60s - early 70s. However, from this romantic idea was abandoned at the very moment when shooting the film, has joined the corporation General Motors, brandishing a thick bundles of notes. Lord of GM outright took the bull by the horns and offered as an option for the original Bumblebee Chevrolet Camaro in 1969, which was, in general, it is quite obvious. Almost too obvious, and this is the main trick: the film was gradually turned into a long commercial products group. Another thing: the script boy buys his first car for just $ 4,000. The strangeness of the situation to understand even in GM: Chevrolet Camaro in 1969, albeit in very shabby condition, this money can not buy. To mitigate the negative trend, Mann offered his view of things - let it be a Camaro, but in its simplest and most complete set of release dismal. Why Mann decided that it was in 1976 was as follows - do not know, well, let it remain on his conscience. However, the main voice of the artist was decisive. At this time, workshops Saleen already hard boiled two copies of the work on the concept Chevrolet Camaro, donors, the basic units for which the couple has become the modern Pontiac GTO.

More recently, GM arranged around a lottery vengeance simmering passion. Needless to say, I do not mind to register and try their luck, but this pleasure is only available to U.S. citizens and Canadian, to what I am not entirely.

Incidentally, General Motors launched in the U.S. and Canada, a grand raffle, which lasted from October 16, 2007 and ended on January 15, 2008, and the top three will go to three 2009 Camaro Transformers Bumblebee Replica Edition, outwardly identical to the famous movie character. These cars will never appear in the free market, but the cost (based on recommended retail prices for Camaro 2009, already announced by GM) will be 40,000 U.S. dollars. Lucky will pay for these machines and to wait another year and a half, until the pipeline will begin production in 2009 Camaro.

I will continue the story. Next was to find the "actors" who "played" a Bumblebee in his youth: a special unit that was engaged in film group responsible for all vehicles, which should appear in the frame. It was headed by Steve Mann (not to be confused with Jeff Mann!). Without too much difficulty, through the Internet were found three Camaro: two in California, in cities Palmdeyl and Whittier, the third came from Oklahoma. And each cost less than $ 6,000, and one did not get the price up to U.S. $ 2,000. All the cars were sent back for revision - they found a 5.7-liter V8 Small Block GM Performance Parts (see sidebar, "Engines"), developing 330 hp, equipped with injection systems Edelbrock Pro-Flo, as well as groups of manifolds Jegs with a ceramic coating. Gearbox was replaced with a refurbished, three-speed, automated machines Turbo Hydra-Matic 350, found on occasion in the darkest corner of the warehouse company CRC Transmissions.

If the rust on the body of a fake Bumblebee, the dirt in a real salon. On the seats and upholstery are clearly visible traces of violent shooting routine.

In other words, the cars prepared seriously to ensure that they are necessary for the performance characteristics of tricks, as well as the safety margin for the entire period of filming. Yellow color of the body has been identified in advance the script, the artists added a picture of the fake rust and a few scratches. On the interior of the case did not go smoothly: one just thinking about details and range of salon's team spent about 11 hours! The result is a hodgepodge of quite a decent-fitting leatherette seat from 1965 Chevelle, steering Grant, automatic transmission selector B & M, dashboard Covan's Classic and much more. Not paid attention, and security - have been installed on the machine valves, shut off fuel in case of emergency and mass breakers. As such, these vehicles are presented to the audience during the first part of the picture. By turns, of course.

Sad, but after the film there are only two Camaro, retained the ability to move independently. The third was completely refurbished to capture certain scenes.

Here they are, the two surviving Camaro. One of them will go up for auction e-bay, fate of the second unknown.

In the summer, after the release of Transformers on e-Bay auction appeared very entertaining lot - it is rapidly gaining rates, and when to start trading remained a couple of days, the price has already reached 30 000 U.S. dollars. July 18th, 2007 at 18:00 bidding ended. Winner paid for this lot and forty thousand one hundred dollars and one cent. Thus, in a cozy private collection, and found their last rest of our Trinity 'hero movie screen »Chevrolet Camaro II Bumblebee 1976 release. Proceeds from its sale went to charity. You've probably noticed that there was still a machine. Her fate is unknown to me. Maybe Bumblebee returned home to Saybertron ...

In 1982, General Motors Corporation introduced the Chevrolet Camaro to the public the third series. The car looked so stylish and modern for its time, which deservedly won the prestigious national title of 'Car of the Year ", awarded by the magazine Motor Trend. And from a technical point of view and from a design standpoint, this Camaro was great. Particular attention is paid to the developers design pendants, significantly improved due to this behavior of the machine, as in the corners and at high speed in rectilinear motion.

This year was the first in the history of the Camaro, when the car began to serially equipped with engines with fuel injection. A four-speed automatic transmission replaces the three-speed, customers also offered a 5-speed manual gearbox. For the sake especially frugal customers are guided by purchasing primarily by considerations of economy, in the second half of 1982 for the model was presented to the 4-cylinder 2.5-liter engine.

Z28 1982.

Custom concept so deeply embedded in the thinking of Americans that they, for the most part, simply do not afford a car so the preservation of venerable age in its original form. Especially - her beloved. This factor makes it very difficult to work with collectors' cars manufactured in the USA and the United States. In addition, the nation's passion for fun, like hot-rodding, funny cars, and others led to the formation of an entire industry, supplying to the market relevant parts and assemblies for cars, whose production was discontinued back in the fifties. Needless to say, that the automobile giants of America themselves (or rather, they control unit) with gusto involved in this process. However, I will not go into details, but said that on this car is equipped with 327-d (327 in3)-block V8 in 1967. The front bumper of this form was installed prior to 1984, inclusive, in Berlinetta version of its central face was an additional row of rectangular apertures.

1984 Z28 T-top. None of color, in my observation, not so stressed all the best advantage of the design of third generation Camaro as white.

6,000 copies were released versions of Z28 in honor of the Camaro return to race 500 miles of Indianapolis. This limited edition car was a two-tone, silver-blue color with a thin orange stripe on the sides.

IROC-Z Convertible, 1986. Speaking about the series IROC as such, please note that it has nothing to do with intercontinental ROC (Race Of Champions), conducted since 1988, and established the memory of one of my favorite racers of the 20th century - Henry "Henkin" Toivonen.

In honor of the early seventies held with the International Race of Champions (International Race Of Champions, IROC) in 1985, Chevrolet introduced the Camaro IROC-Z. The package includes an enhanced suspension, corresponding to the coloring, as well as engine size LB9 305 in3 (5.0 liters), injection system equipped with TPI (Tuned Port Injection), established as a model Corvette. This modification came in the top ten cars in 1985 according to the magazine Car and Driver.

On both photos - Z28 1988. Only the top - T-top, bottom - Convertible with a raised top. All Z28 hoods and fenders were made of plastic, SMC (Sheet Molded Compound).

If we turn to the engine range of the third generation Camaro, the picture will be as follows: Small Block L69 mounted on a Camaro from 1983 to 1986, Small Block LB9 was, as already mentioned, presented in 1985, Small Block L98, previously put to Corvette began to be offered Camaro buyers in 1987, LO3 engine in this model appeared in 1988. Engines LB9, L98, and LO3 installed on Camaro until 1992.

In 1992, the last of this generation Camaro off the line. And in 1993 the world was its fourth generation, which remained in production until the end of 2002.

Using the latest technology and materials lifted the Camaro in 1993 at the highest level of technical performance and quality. This obliged the position of the model in the family Chevrolet: Camaro claimed the title of vice-flagship of the brand. In terms of output and prices held a commanding lead Corvette, but it is not always enough heat positive charisma, so generously exudes a Camaro. In the case of the Corvette whole thing was an excess of pathos, which always accompanied the vehicle. The last Chevrolet Monte Carlo rolled out December 11, 1987, and wait for the next generation was still two long years. Here is a picture of was a series of large coupe Chevrolet at the time of the fourth coming of Camaro - and the car is really a success! Through the use of plastic body parts (front fenders, hood, etc.), have achieved a significant reduction in vehicle weight. The new scheme is the front suspension, as well as for the first time applied to the Camaro rack and pinion steering, improved the handling. In 1993, an 8-cylinder engines, Chevrolet offered LT1, the year before its debut on Corvette. In tandem with this engine delivered a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Z28 1995.

In the same year was a triumphant return to the racing series Camaro 500 miles of Indianapolis as a pace car. Represent our model opens the race - is indeed an honor for any American manufacturer. Hence much attention to such an event. In honor of this historical fact has been released on a limited batch of machines, which had a black and white coloring.

Z28 Convertible 1997.

In the future, design and technical stuffing fourth-generation Camaro almost unchanged. Minor improvements have been introduced into the design of the fuel system. It was intended to result in toxicity indicators in line with the increasingly toughening regulations. Along the way, eliminated minor issues found during the operation of vehicles.

30th Anniversary Camaro Z28 T-top 1997.

In 1996 he re-presented version of the RS and SS. RS package meant other than the basic model, color, extra spoilers, interior more luxurious furnishings and proposed for the 6-cylinder versions. SS, in turn, in addition to the spectacular outdoor styling offers a wide range of options and technical plan applied only to vehicles with 8-cylinder engines.

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1997 was marked by celebrations of the thirtieth anniversary of the production Chevrolet Camaro. In honor of this anniversary is on sale a special series of 30th Anniversary Package. Machines of this party were painted in white on top of the box deposited orange stripes. 100 cars were equipped with this version of the engine LT4, who had power of 330 hp, was appropriate and the price - 38 000 dollars.

SS 1999.

Significantly restyled exterior fourth-generation Camaro was subjected to in 1998. This was especially true design front. The shape of headlights, capriciously adopted a round shape, replacing the previous version of the square design. New optics favorably highlighted the rapid car silhouette. In the same vein as the lights were redrawn bumper and grille. To replace the outdated engine LT1 came powerful, lightweight, all-aluminum engine LS1. Later, the family of LS will be the basis sredneobemnyh number (on the classification adopted in the U.S.) Engines Corporation GM. This power plant with a lower location of the camshaft was again borrowed from the Corvette and slightly deforsirovana in such a way that its capacity was just over 300 hp On versions with the engine mounted brake discs of larger diameter, as well as reinforced suspension was applied.

SS 1999. By this time the Camaro has already installed a limited slip differential Torsen, and used an electronic circuit of the throttle.

Sorry, but in 1998 managed to sell only 48,490 copies of the Camaro. This result appeared extremely discouraging to guide GM, especially in light of the restyling and updating the list of options very lucrative settlements. But the worst year for the Camaro was the first in 2001, when it was released only 29 000 cars. Declining sales and the prospect of the coming phase-out forced the designers too early to start work on the "Jubilee" series Camaro in 2002, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the history of this model.

Year 2002 and was the final year of life conveyor fourth-generation Camaro. The last few years the car not been technical and design refinements: its design has remained unchanged since 1999.

35th Anniversary Edition Camaro SS T-top 2002.

Special Package 35th Anniversary Edition, on the anniversary of the start of sales Camaro, could be ordered buyers scheme is applicable to all versions of this model. However, the SS 35th Anniversary version was offered only with a cabriolet and targa T-Top. About 3,000 copies of "jubilee" performance left the area dealerships. All in all, 2002 has been collected about 42 000 Chevrolet Camaro.

SS 2000.

August 27, 2002 production ceased. Chevrolet Camaro has fulfilled its historic mission, manifesting themselves worthy, and sometimes more colorful alternative to Ford Mustang, as well as other compact sports cars of America. But as time goes by, someone might rush to announce the sunset era Camaro, despite the fact that up to the next generation there are very few. And once again will be heard arguments: the latest technology, marketing, and the dictates of whining environmentalists turn cars into another kind of fast food! Only instead of lettuce and chop them into a computer shop and stuffing made from recycled materials. Do not argue, but in the case of the Camaro, I would wait a little with the findings. It is difficult to measure how great power of this car - its unseen presence can be felt among the lines of the old designs, powerful engines in the breath, under the dust of miles. Man can not hear her fluids, and people who create a new Camaro, of course, feel this secret life. And I'm sure - he will revive, the hunter, catching up with the horizon.