Chevrolet Camaro: 1993-2002, 4th generation

posted in: Muscle cars | 0

The 4th generation debuted with complete restyling in 1993. It is interesting that production of Camaros was moved from California to Quebec. Those Camaros were based on an updated F-body platform and were available in coupe and convertible bodies [T-top roof was an option for coupes]. Lightweight plastic body panel were incorporated to steel space frame.

This rear wheel drive muscle car came with these standard engines: 3.4 liter V6 [160 HP] and 3.8 liter V6 [it was an option in 1995, but became standard during the next year]. LT1 V8 was standard in Z28 Camaro [which paced Indy races in 1993 – there was a limited series of it with unique black and white color scheme]. The were a few more other options available – all-speed traction control, 4-speed automatic or the new 6-speed manual gearbox [T-56]. The anti-lock brakes came in standard package. The 4th generation Camaro got better suspension which was further improved in later years. 1994 kept Camaro the same – there was a change of automatic gearbox only – it was replaced with electronic version [4L60E]. Actually, no major changes were made up to 1998 when Camaro got its new face-lift: front bodywork was the most obvious – new headlamps, new grille and bumper, some interior updates were made too. The most interesting update was the engine switch from LT1 to aluminum block LS1 [same OHV design, but lighter material – aluminum]. The same engine was introduced with C5 Corvettes. Well, LS1 developed 305 HP, but some say that dyno tests show 345 HP. Camaro also got softer suspension, bigger brakes. SS and RS packages continues with revised body kit.

2001 was the lowest production year for Camaro due to poor sales – only 20.009 units were built. The Z28 and SS model received intake manifold from LS6 engine [310-325 HP]. Actually, Camaros remained unchanged during 1999-2002. Sales dropped because market moved to smaller 4-6 cylinder cars. It wasn’t logical to invest more money on new platform development, so the Camaro production was stopped after about 42.000 units in 2002.

Leave a Reply