I often overlook that Chevy has produced a four-cylinder Camaro. Perhaps that’s why I was particularly surprised by this video from ZZPerformance. The Michigan-based shop has an excellent reputation with small-displacement General Motors vehicles, promoting the motto of “Go Fast, Not Broke.” Thus, it’s appropriate that ZZP would contribute to this record-breaking run, where a customer from Iowa propelled their turbo Camaro down the track in 9.768 seconds at 137 mph.
Owner Jake Starr previously held the title for the world’s fastest quarter-mile in a four-cylinder Camaro, clocking in at 9.92 seconds in a former attempt. This run at US 131 Motorsports Park was significantly quicker, aided in part by a 60-foot time of merely 1.36 seconds. Occasionally, everything falls into place with a prepared track, sticky Mickey Thompsons in the rear, and an excellent reaction time at the Christmas tree.
4-Cylinder Camaro Achieves 9.768 Quarter Mile
ZZPerformance placed Starr’s Camaro on the dynamometer back in October. It registered peak numbers of 593 horsepower at nearly 6,500 rpm and 511 lb-ft of torque around 5,500 rpm. Besides a modified Xona Rotor 7164 turbo featuring a 3D-printed exhaust manifold and a Tial 38mm wastegate, the Bowtie utilizes XDI injectors, ZZP sixth port injection, an SMG auxiliary pump, and a ZL1 low-pressure fuel pump. Fisher Built upgraded the 8L45 transmission for drag racing—a world-first for that platform, according to sources—and the limited-slip differential transmits power to Camaro SS axles.
The engine has been slightly bored—by .25mm—to accommodate ZZP’s forged 86.25mm pistons, and enhancements in the valvetrain include new valve springs and stage two cams. Starr has also had sturdier head studs fitted, alongside stronger balance shafts and an ATI damper.
Factory power ratings for GM’s LTG four-cylinder were acceptable at 275 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It offered an 11 lb-ft torque advantage over the Camaro’s V6 before its discontinuation; nonetheless, it lagged 60 hp behind the larger engine. The General’s 2.0-liter also fell short against the Ford Mustang EcoBoost’s 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
GM has since introduced a larger 2.7-liter turbo four in models like the Colorado ZR2 and full-size Silverado, yielding up to 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque in these trucks. Very little is common between the LTG and the so-called “TurboMax,” which is what the manufacturer refers to its present four-cylinder. I’d be interested to see what one of those could accomplish in a Camaro, and if Chevy opts to bring back the model for a seventh generation, there’s a good likelihood we’ll find out.
Have a tip or query for the author? Reach out directly: [email protected]
**New Milestone Achieved by Four-Cylinder Chevy Camaro with 9.768-Second Quarter-Mile Performance**
In an impressive exhibition of engineering and performance, a four-cylinder Chevy Camaro has established a new record by completing a quarter-mile in a mere 9.768 seconds. This noteworthy accomplishment has attracted attention from automotive enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, demonstrating the potential of modern turbocharged engines.
The record-holding Camaro is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering a remarkable 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, in combination with a lightweight frame and enhanced performance features, allows the Camaro to compete with far larger and typically more powerful vehicles.
Significant modifications were integral in reaching this record time. The Camaro was outfitted with a high-performance aftermarket turbocharger, enhanced intercooler, and a specialized exhaust system, all contributing to improved power delivery and efficiency. Moreover, the vehicle received a custom tune to fine-tune engine performance, facilitating quicker acceleration and better throttle response.
The Camaro’s suspension system was also upgraded to manage the heightened power and provide superior traction during launches. High-performance tires were installed to maximize grip on the drag strip, optimizing launch conditions. The combination of these modifications enabled the Camaro to achieve a 0-60 mph time of just over 3 seconds, a feat that rivals many high-performance sports cars.
This record-breaking performance took place at a sanctioned drag racing event, where the Camaro faced numerous competitors. The driver, an adept racer, executed a flawless launch and maintained perfect control throughout the run, showcasing both the vehicle’s capabilities and the driver’s skill.
Achieving a sub-10-second quarter-mile performance with a four-cylinder engine is significant for multiple reasons. It underscores the advancements in automotive technology, especially in turbocharging and engine management systems. Additionally, it challenges the notion that high-performance vehicles must depend on larger, naturally aspirated engines.
Chevrolet’s dedication to performance and innovation is clear in the development of the Camaro. The success of the four-cylinder variant not only broadens the Camaro lineup’s appeal but also highlights the brand’s adaptability to evolving market demands, where fuel efficiency and performance are increasingly vital.
As the automotive landscape continues to change, this record stands as a benchmark for future performance vehicles. It paves the way for more manufacturers to investigate the possibilities of smaller, turbocharged engines in the quest for speed and efficiency. The four-cylinder Chevy Camaro’s achievement is a testament to the opportunities that await in the realm of performance cars.
In summary, the new record established by the four-cylinder Chevy Camaro with a quarter-mile time of 9.768 seconds is a significant milestone in automotive history. It showcases the capabilities of modern engineering and sets a new standard for performance in the muscle car segment, proving that size isn’t the sole determinant when it comes to speed and power.
admin