We've known about the development of the Camaro ZL1 for a long time, now. Chevy, however, has been pulling the oldest pre-launch trick in automakers' book: ultra-vague, big promises. Of course, it's worked, putting us on the edge of our seats - even if all they've had to say is that it will trounce the competition... not actually how much horsepower it will deliver.

As the saying goes, "good things come to those who wait" as Chevrolet has just recently provided some of the details we've been waiting patiently for. But instead of mitigating our anticipation, it's amplified it ten-fold. GM has officially announced the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will deliver 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque. Can you believe that?!

"The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment," says Al Oppenheiser, Chief Engineer, Chevrolet. "For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and better power-to-weight ratio-than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS."¹

How did Chevy create such a unique, powerful driving experience? Simply by fitting the new ZL1 with the most powerful engine the Camaro lineup has ever seen.

To add an air of customization, Chevy promises ZL1 driver the choice of two different transmissions - a six-speed manual engineered with three different modes for enhanced driver involvement, or a straight-forward six-speed automatic. And, because Chevy doesn't want drivers to have to buy new tires every two weeks, they've also incorporated both Performance Traction Management (a five-mode traction control system) and Magnetic Ride Control (a tri-setting system aimed at adjusting damping) into the ZL1.

When can you take the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for a test drive? Starting in 2012. Watch for a more specific ETA from  Berger Chevrolet, in coming months. And remember that in the mean time, you can explore our current 2011 Chevrolet Camaro lineup, online and in person at 2525 28th St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512. If we don't have the specific model you're looking for, we're happy to order it for you.

Source: ¹ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/2012-chevrolet-camaro-zl1-to-pack-580-hp/