2018 Camaro ZL1 / 1LE - One Take

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Published 2017-07-31
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The new Camaro ZL1 / 1LE is, fundamentally, the best of what GM's Performance division can do with the sixth-generation Camaro platform, while still having a road-legal vehicle. It features the 650 HP LT4 Supercharged 6.2L V8 found in the Corvette Z06, but with a much larger frontal area for better cooling and more consistent power. It has Multimatic Spool Valve dampers, like real race cars. You can only get it with a six-speed manual gearbox, and on the Nurburgring, it's faster than supercars not even a couple of years old. This car is, put simply, insanely fast. But does it work as a road car? Do I want one? Let's find out. 

I was allowed to make this video thanks to the kind people at NBC Sports, who paid my airfare, hotels, and meals while in North Carolina. See my track test of the Camaro ZL1 as part of the "What Makes Fast" episode of /DRIVE (the TV Show) coming this September exclusively on NBC Sports!


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All Comments (21)
  • @BenTroxell
    Still rather re-watch this than watch another Vehicle Virgins video.
  • @rawsketch
    Having grown up in the '80s, this is the absolute BEST time to be an automotive enthusiast. If only I had the money to truly take advantage.
  • @swishmcgee4496
    I remember when the haters used to say that Camaro could only go in a straight line. Bravo to Chevy for making one hell of a track car.
  • @auroradamien
    If I get one of these I might as well drive it straight to prison.
  • @xXAcrobatixX
    "Hey bro have you seen that new Camaro Zl1!?" "Nope not since 2nd gear."
  • @gen1c8rs88
    The rear tire size is 325/30r19 on 19x12 wheels not 315/30r19.
  • @ramivalencia
    I'm a Ford guy, but the one thing I love about Chevy is that they are not afraid to drop huge and powerful V8 engines into their sports cars. I won't mention Dodge's vehicles because it's no longer an American company.
  • @transam2002ws6
    It doesn't stir Matt's soul but it gives him the giggles. Also the ZL1 walked the 350R when Motor Trend took them out on the track. Matter of fact, the Camaro SS 1LE that is 71hp shy of the Mustang 350R. Ran the same time as the 350R at Big Willow Springs with Randy Pobst behind the wheel. So without a doubt the ZL1 1LE would out run the 350R on a track. At the end of the day. It just comes down to what you like the most or whats your brand loyalty.
  • @rbeaton16
    I absolutely love this car. There isn't a single car on the market right now that I would rather have.
  • @mikereed9963
    9:29 As soon as he starts talking about the Multimatic spool valve shocks all shit breaks loose. 🤣 Hilarious
  • @WarriorsPhoto
    Hearing the car pull away initially was amazing. I have always liked the sound of an American V8 engine. The sound alone sold me on viewing this video.
  • @hpdefun6647
    Doesn't stir the soul but being on my second GT 350, the first with motor issues and now the second with transmission issues, Ford has me thinking its time for a new track car.
  • Why do ppl get so bent out of shape about this The shelby is more of a event. It has more theater with the sound and high revving engine. The camaro is the statistical king in terms of test numbers. The hellcat is the comfortable cruiser that has horse power bragging rights.
  • Man, North Carolina has some awesome backroads. I remember a few years back we took the backroads from Florence, South Carolina to Charlotte, NC. One of the best road trips.
  • @deeznutz2646
    I have to be honest. I've been watching this guy for years. He contradicts himself so many times it's very, very hard to take him seriously. And not that I really GAF, I find it weird how many car mags today (point here) continue to hate on GM cars even though they've clearly beaten the opposing car.
  • @jeremysmith6783
    I don't know what I'd do without Smoking Tire videos, you guys are the best.
  • @mccoybyz1099
    I gotta say that Matt and the vlog have really grown on me and Matt seems like a really cool honest dude that you could definitely chill with , little BBQ, couple cold one's and that's what I really love about the vlog is that he seems normal and not some wanna be, know it all, race car dude!! And he's American!!! I feel like all the other guys that do this are English!! Lol I got no problem with the Brits I love you guys, your pretty much family the way I see it, like cousins or a step-brother!! Lol, but it's just refreshing to hear it out of the mouth of a fellow American!! But love the down to earth style of the vlog and wish nothing but success to Matt and everyone involved in making"the smoking tire" the show that it is!!!