2016 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible 6.2L V8 10AT RWD (650 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Five decades after the introduction of the Camaro nameplate in GM’s inventory, the American automaker launched one of the most potent versions of it, the ZL1, which was available as a convertible.

The sixth generation of the Camaro was available in two shapes: coupe and convertible. However, the open-top version had to rely on a naturally aspirated V8 powerhouse to impress customers, but those looking for high-performance versions were not exactly satisfied. That’s why, in 2016, at the New York Auto Show, Chevrolet introduced the ZL1 Convertible variant to the lineup, enchanting customers and thrilling competition. This version was demanded by customers who were thrilled with the previous generation of the open-top ZL1, and GM considered that it could do it easily. All it had to do was to use the chassis from the already existing Camaro convertible and install the ZL1-specific parts in the car, and the result was spectacular.

At the front, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible had a much more aggressive stance than its stablemates. While it featured the same high-intensity discharge headlights with LED signature daytime running lights like its 1SS and 2SS siblings, these were flanked by wider front fenders. The black and slim grille between them sported a similar look with its lesser-powered. On the lower side of the bumper, the automaker put a broader air intake, which was needed to cool the 11 cooling radiators behind them. In addition, a pair of broad scoops with vertical vents channeled air to the front Brembo rotors. At the same time, the hood had a power dome featuring a center functional vent and was adorned by the ZL1 badges on the sides.

From its profile, the 20-inch ten double-spoked alloy wheels were unique to this version of the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the ZL1 convertible. Due to the enlarged front fenders, the automaker had to create specific aerodynamic side sills that connected them with those in the rear, below the doors. Thanks to the ascending waistline of the vehicle and the curved, coke-bottle-styled rear fenders, the car looked even more muscular. However, it could show any muscles it wanted since it had an engine to back it up. Out back, the automaker adorned the short deck with a wing that was carefully created using more than 100 hours in the wind tunnel. It wasn’t there just for the look. On the rear fascia, GM installed the same wide LED taillights as on the rest of the range, while on the lower side of the bumper, it placed the quad-exhaust system carried over from the coupe version.

Inside, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible boasted a standard 8-inch LCD instrument cluster fronting the driver. Besides the regular speedometer and tachometer, the display also featured four gauges for the oil and water temperature, fuel level, and supercharger boost. Below them, the car also showed other information about navigation, media, and other features. Furthermore, on the center stack, GM placed a touchscreen for the infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, unlike its coupe sibling, Chevrolet couldn’t equip the convertible with the same nine-speaker Bose sound system, so customers had to rely on the seven-speaker version. The Recaro performance seats at the front were wrapped in Jet Black leather appointments, red accents, and suede inserts.

Under the hood was the same supercharged small-block 6.2-liter powerhouse as in the coupe version. The 650 hp (659 PS) supercharged V8 engine sent all its oomph to the rear wheels via either a six-speed manual transmission or a ten-speed automatic gearbox. Surprisingly, though, the convertible was not fitted with the same electronic limited-slip differential as its coupe sibling, so customers had to rely only on the ESP and TC systems to keep their cars safe on the roads or on race tracks.