Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 chief says it will outperform Ford Shelby GT500

After a trip to the Nurburgring with the 2012 Chevy Camaro ZL1, the automaker says its model will be faster then the Ford Shelby Mustang GT500.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Al Oppenheiser, Camaro Chief Engineer says that “We’ve done simulations. We predict that the ZL1 will be quicker to 60mph than the [2013] GT500… We ran the Nürburgring and released a time. Ford took the GT500, too, and never released a time. I guess you can draw your own conclusions.”

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While his assumption holds only a bit of weight, what really throws us about this statement is how the stats for the two models stack up. The Camaro is heavy, at 4,120 lbs, and makes 580hp and 556 lb-ft, while the lighter 3,850lb Shelby makes 650hp and 600 lb-ft of torque.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

What sets the two apart in the Camaro’s favor is the all-independent suspension is brings, over Ford’s solid rear axle. Magnetic Ride shocks can help transfer power more effectively, as well. So is Oppenheiser just talking to create a stir again? It’s possible, but no one will know for sure until they hit the track together.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012. Prices will start at $54,995.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: AutoBlog