Chevrolet Camaro Z28
1970-1973
The Z28 embodied Chevrolet's racing heritage translated to the street, featuring a high-performance small block V8 that could rev to 6500 RPM. Its combination of power, handling, and affordability made it the thinking enthusiast's muscle car during the golden age of American performance.
Quick Take
The second-generation Camaro Z28 featured the legendary LT-1 350 small block V8 engine producing 330 horsepower. It was designed as Chevrolet's answer to the Trans Am racing series and offered exceptional performance for its era. The Z28 package included heavy-duty suspension, racing stripes, and distinctive styling cues.
Best For
Key Strength
LT-1 350 Small Block
Watch For
Prehistoric Handling Dynamics
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Born from Chevrolet's need to compete in SCCA Trans Am racing, the Z28 was named after the racing class it dominated. The package was designed by Vince Piggins and represented Chevrolet's commitment to legitimate high-performance engineering rather than just straight-line muscle.
Design Philosophy
The Z28 prioritized balanced performance over raw power, featuring a sophisticated suspension setup and a high-revving engine designed for road course racing. Chevrolet focused on creating a complete performance package that could handle corners as well as it could accelerate in a straight line.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The LT-1 350 was a jewel of an engine, featuring solid lifters, a high-lift cam, and 11:1 compression that demanded premium fuel. It delivered smooth, linear power delivery with a willingness to rev that was unusual for American V8s of the era, producing its peak power at 5600 RPM.
Chassis Dynamics
The Z28's heavy-duty F41 suspension package included stiffer springs, larger anti-roll bars, and Koni shocks that transformed the Camaro's handling characteristics. The result was a car that could carve corners with precision while maintaining excellent stability at high speeds, making it equally at home on back roads and race tracks.
Sound Signature
The LT-1 produced a distinctive high-pitched wail through its dual exhaust system, with a crisp, mechanical note that reflected its solid lifter valvetrain and racing heritage.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The solid lifter LT-1 engine represents Chevrolet's engineering pinnacle before emissions strangled performance. With 360 horsepower and a 11.0:1 compression ratio, it delivers explosive acceleration and an unforgettable exhaust note that embodies the muscle car era.
The split-bumper front end and aggressive stance created an instantly recognizable silhouette that influenced automotive design for decades. Every modern Camaro pays homage to these proportions, proving the enduring appeal of this classic shape.
Honest Tradeoffs
The solid rear axle and basic suspension setup make cornering an adventure, with significant body roll and limited grip by modern standards. The bias-ply tires and drum rear brakes compound the dynamic limitations, making this purely a straight-line performer.
GM's cost-cutting during this era resulted in thin sheet metal prone to rust, inconsistent panel gaps, and interior materials that feel cheap even by period standards. These cars require constant maintenance to preserve their condition and functionality.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for the classic car enthusiast who appreciates genuine performance pedigree and wants an affordable entry into serious American muscle car ownership.