1997 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5.7L V8 6MT (315 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In 1997, Chevrolet refreshed the fourth generation of the Camaro for the 1998 model year, and besides the obvious exterior changes, the engine for the Z28 version was completely new.

With a well-established reputation on the market, the Camaro Z28 gained more muscle for the 1998 model year. Not only that, but the new LS1 engine shared with its bigger sibling, the Corvette, was lighter and helped the pony car gain more respect in the eyes of automotive enthusiasts. Furthermore, the car was also better equipped and promised to be a better companion for its customers, whether using it on a track or as a daily driver. In addition, the option for a T-top was the easiest way to get a convertible feeling without the added weight of a drop-top vehicle.

At the front, the 1998 Chevrolet Camaro sported a new clip featuring broader, rounded-shaped dual headlights that replaced the squared, recessed ones from its non-facelifted sibling. In addition, the lower bumper was reshaped, featuring a broader, mouth-like-shaped air intake flanked by a set of round side scoops that cooled the front rotors. After all, it was the bio-design era, and most automakers tried to follow the trend. Customers could also get the Camaro Z28 with a hood scoop as an option, part of the Sport Appearance Package, or with the SS Performance/Appearance Package.

From its profile, there were no significant changes for the 1998 Chevrolet Camaro Z28. However, a keen eye for detail could notice the new design for the standard 16-inch aluminum wheels. These also let bystanders see the disc brakes in all corners of the car, which was a significant difference compared to its V6-powered siblings with drum brakes in the rear. Furthermore, the flush door handles and the side skirts were body-colored or black, depending on the options.

Inside, Chevrolet installed a pair of comfortable bucket seats with tall seatbacks and integrated headrests. In contrast, in the back was a cramped bench seat for two where two adults could hardly sit, especially if they were above average height. Fronting the driver was the same instrument cluster as in the 1993 model year but with white lettering instead of yellow. That particular upgrade was made for the 1994 model year and was continued until the model’s dismissal in 2002. Besides the standard AM/FM cassette player, the automaker offered a CD player and even a remote 12-disc CD changer in the trunk for long travels.

However, the 1998 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 was known mostly for what it hid under its skin. First of all, it was motivated by the fresh LS1 engine featuring an aluminum engine block instead of a cast-iron one from the previous LT4 powerhouse from the non-facelifted version. It was still a pushrod powerhouse, but thanks to new technologies, it provided an advertised 305 hp (309 PS) power. In addition, along with the SS package, that figure increased to 320 hp (325 PS). Customers got the car with a standard four-speed automatic gearbox, while the Borg-Warner T56 six-speed manual transmission was a no-cost option. In addition, the Torsen limited-slip differential was also standard for the Z28.