Is there a light at the end of the Z28 tunnel?
02-18-2009 | 08:07 AM
#46
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Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,482
From: ohio
I figure this much... as the hood is already aluminum, there isn't much way to lighten up the front end except by using exotic and expensive parts. (Carbon fiber, etc.) I still argue with those that say the LSA would be hundreds of pounds more than the LS3. (We've yet to see real numbers on the mass of the complete engine assemblies.) Therefore, seeing a performance increase between ~125-150hp over the LS3/L99 package, I'd surely sacrifice the little added weight.
In a perfect world GM could merely use the already developed LS376/480 crate motor which virtually adds no weight over the LS3 yet pumps out almost 500hp. But then they'd have to certify it for production, which could delay it more, and simply saying it has 50+ more hp over the LS3 may not be enough to justify its existance without adding forced induction.
I guess they could always offer a drag package like Ford and Chrysler are doing and use whatever engine they want. But then we wouldn't get to drive it on the street.
In a perfect world GM could merely use the already developed LS376/480 crate motor which virtually adds no weight over the LS3 yet pumps out almost 500hp. But then they'd have to certify it for production, which could delay it more, and simply saying it has 50+ more hp over the LS3 may not be enough to justify its existance without adding forced induction.
I guess they could always offer a drag package like Ford and Chrysler are doing and use whatever engine they want. But then we wouldn't get to drive it on the street.
02-18-2009 | 08:09 AM
#47
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Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,482
From: ohio
they must be using alot of resin and fiber glass. the hoods ive ever seen for my old trans am were always lighter than stock.
02-18-2009 | 10:54 AM
#51
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 9,710
From: Oakland, California
GM knows the weight differences between the LS3 and LSA (which btw is what this theoretical Z/28 would get, not the LS9), we just simply haven't dug it out of them yet.
FWIW, I believe someone will have a 50-state legal bolt-on supercharger kit for the LS3 long before we ever see a Z/28 make production. Perhaps that is a route many will take.
02-18-2009 | 10:57 AM
#52
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 16,179
From: Chicagoland IL
02-18-2009 | 05:39 PM
#55
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Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 2,977
From: SeVa
or spend lots of money doing it - Dymag could help in the wheel department, but I think alot of F5 guys would balk at a 8-10k wheel option!
02-18-2009 | 06:09 PM
#56
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 146
Kiss the Z28 Goodbye
Check out this article.
GM disbands unit that creates high-performance vehicles
I don't think we'll ever see a Z28 in the current Camaro. By the time GM is financially strong enough, I don't think a low mileage car like a LSA Camaro will be possible. Maybe in the 6th gen Camaro will have a Z28?
GM disbands unit that creates high-performance vehicles
I don't think we'll ever see a Z28 in the current Camaro. By the time GM is financially strong enough, I don't think a low mileage car like a LSA Camaro will be possible. Maybe in the 6th gen Camaro will have a Z28?
02-18-2009 | 08:13 PM
#59
Registered User
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 2,977
From: SeVa
Check out this article.
GM disbands unit that creates high-performance vehicles
I don't think we'll ever see a Z28 in the current Camaro. By the time GM is financially strong enough, I don't think a low mileage car like a LSA Camaro will be possible. Maybe in the 6th gen Camaro will have a Z28?
GM disbands unit that creates high-performance vehicles
I don't think we'll ever see a Z28 in the current Camaro. By the time GM is financially strong enough, I don't think a low mileage car like a LSA Camaro will be possible. Maybe in the 6th gen Camaro will have a Z28?