Commemorating Speed and Legacy: The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indy 500 Pace Car
Standing tall as a testament to the historic bonds of Chevrolet and the Indianapolis 500, the 2017 Camaro SS 50th Anniversary Edition stole the limelight at the 100th running of the legendary race. It was graced by the expert hands of racing magnate Roger Penske, who celebrated half a century of unmatched racing team ownership in perfect synchronization with the commemorative Indy 500 event.
History Interwoven with Speed
Symbolic in marking the ninth appearance of the Camaro as the pace car, and the 27th for Chevrolet, this event harks back to the inception of these speed behemoths in 1948. The event served as an extraordinary spectacle, emphasizing Chevrolet's robust involvement in the IndyCar racing scene. Notably, the Penske racing team's contribution in securing four consecutive manufacturer titles for Chevrolet since 2012 was a shining testament to this collaboration.
A Quartet of Power
Supporting the race were four meticulously crafted pace cars, adorned in an exclusive Abalone White hue. Their sleek exteriors were adorned with distinct "100th Running of the Indianapolis 500" insignia, along with the renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway wing-and-wheel emblem. Mirroring the unique exterior details and graphic touches of the Camaro 50th Anniversary package, these pace cars were nothing short of a visual spectacle.
Bearing the prowess of 455 horsepower, these Camaro SS pace cars were in no need of additional performance enhancements to take charge of the racing field.
Emblems of Victory
Amid the roaring engines and cheering crowds, the sight of Roger Penske leading the race in the Camaro SS was a nod to the rich history interconnecting Chevrolet, Penske, and the Indianapolis 500. This event not only marked the entry into the next centennial of the race but also fortified the enduring bond formed over a century between these motor racing giants.
Speaking of victories, Chevrolet drivers had a considerable feat to surpass following their previous year's performance, where the top four finishers were powered by Chevy engines. The race was won by Team Penske's Juan Pablo Montoya, marking his second Indy 500 win and the 16th for Team Penske.
Special Anniversary Edition
Embodying its rich legacy and superior performance, the Camaro 50th Anniversary Edition exuded a distinct charm. Available on 2LT and 2SS coupe and convertible models, these vehicles showcased Nightfall Gray Metallic exteriors, complete with a 50th Anniversary stripe package and badges, further complemented by a black top on the convertibles.
Standing apart in their Abalone White color, the pace cars shared the Anniversary Edition package's aesthetic elements, including unique 20-inch 50th Anniversary wheels, satin chrome accented grille, body-colored front splitter, and orange front brake calipers (on LT). The interiors were crafted with black leather featuring suede inserts and orange accent stitching, along with distinctive 50th Anniversary treatments on the instrument panel, seatbacks, steering wheel, and illuminated sill plates.
Under the hood, the Camaro 2LT came standard with a 2.0L Turbo engine, outputting a commendable 275 hp (205 kW), with an optional upgrade to a 3.6L V-6 offering 335 hp (250 kW). The Camaro 2SS, however, packed an LT1 6.2L V-8, boasting 455 hp (339 kW), earning the title of the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Buyers also had the option to choose between a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Pace Cars Across the Decades
Over the years, various Camaro models have proudly held the position of the pace car, from the 1967 RS/SS convertible to the latest 2016 Camaro SS (2017 50th Anniversary Edition). This tradition, dating back to 1967, exemplifies the enduring relationship between the Camaro, Chevrolet, and the adrenaline-fueled world of the Indianapolis 500.
-Ed
2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indy 500 Pace Car (2017 50th Anniversary Special Edition)
