2015 Chevrolet's 1970 Camaro RS Concept: A Retro Twist with Modern Muscle
In an impressive display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Chevrolet Performance unveiled their intriguing concept - a revitalized 1970 Camaro RS, meticulously fitted with the new LT4 crate engine. The grandeur of a classic, combined with the modern prowess of a supercharged engine, certainly left a lasting impression on those present.
The Underlying Power: The LT4 Crate Engine
A beast lurks beneath the hood of this reimagined Camaro RS, and that's none other than the Corvette Z06's very own supercharged 6.2L LT4. Dishing out a considerable 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, the LT4 boasts of being General Motors' most potent production-vehicle engine to date. This potent powerplant, available in both dry-sump and wet-sump versions, presents builders with a versatile, tech-forward engine option for their automotive projects.
Unleashing the Beast: Powertrain and Suspension
This conceptual Camaro utilizes the wet-sump variant of the LT4, bundled with additional features like an air conditioning kit and a front-end accessory drive kit. The muscle car is armed with a T-56 Super Magnum six-speed manual transmission, linking the driver directly with the throbbing heart of this beast.
Optimal control of such robust power necessitates an equally impressive chassis and suspension system. The concept achieves this with an independent front suspension featuring coil-overs, a rack-and-pinion steering system, and a four-link rear suspension with coil-overs. To bring this surging power to a halt, Chevrolet has incorporated Corvette Z06-based front and rear disc brake kits, further strengthening its connection to the legendary supercar.
Classic Meets Modern: Aesthetic Elements
This restomod concept doesn't just wow under the hood - its exterior is equally captivating. The car parades a striking Hyper Blue Metallic paint job, complemented by white rally stripes, mirroring a design found in the 2016 Camaro Hyper concept also displayed at the SEMA Show. The modern touch extends to the LED headlamps and taillamps, providing a gentle nod towards the technological advances of the 21st century.
Refined Interior: Comfort Amidst Performance
The interior of this classic Camaro has been carefully updated while maintaining its vintage charm. Custom-trimmed seats from a third-generation Camaro and a custom instrument cluster create a balance between old and new. The instrument panel, wrapped in custom-trimmed leather, ties the whole theme together, while a six-point roll cage offers an added layer of protection for the occupants.
Revolutionizing Performance: The LT4 Details
The LT4 crate engine shares its Gen V small block architecture with the LT1, featured in the Corvette Stingray and the 2016 Camaro SS. However, it carries unique traits, such as Rotacast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads and lightweight titanium intake valves, designed to handle higher output and the increased cylinder pressures generated by forced induction.
At the end of the day, this 1970 Camaro RS Concept fitted with the supercharged LT4 stands as a testament to Chevrolet's innovative spirit, proving that the classics, when paired with modern technology, can still make heads turn and hearts race.
