Camaro Concept Video Podcast
Camaro Concept at the 2006 NAIAS
In FastLane’s first video podcast, the Wall Street Journal’s Detroit
Bureau Chief Joe White interviews GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz at the North
American International Auto Show about the design and heritage of the
Camaro concept vehicle.
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Great stuff! Would it be possible to have the video of the introduction as well as the video played during the intro on the screens with all the 1st gens, design shots, and what not to get in downloadable format? That would be awesome
The General needs some brave new designs to attract attention to its divisions. The Camaro and the (gulp) Buick Enclave are defnitely steps in the right direction.
It’s been a long time, but if the quality is up to par, and the dealer experience is better than I remember, you might convince me to come back.
Bob,
The origional Lemans Blue and a wide set of white 69 racing stripes will go a long way on that concept IMO. Two coworkers want to know when your taking deposits and I want to know when it tours and where.
Camero looks very cool, stylish and hot, but…. I think it is only for these who drive 85 mph, does any one see the Camry 2007 and Civic 2006, it is the kind of cars GM should be making, appealing to mainstream consumers, when I went to the Saturn dealer in state college, pew… Forget about it, I got a Civic, even though feeling a little bit ripped off, but would feel much worse if I went with a Saturn!
Wake up, Mr. Lutz, either make something people like or become Indepence Air who stop running 5 days ago!
Finally, GM seems to be taking steps towards what makes sales…the WOW head turning factor – the Camaro concept is a beuty…make it please and dont skimp on the inside…
Hi there Bob,
What a FANTASTIC experience it was for me yesterday, being one of the 250 Camaro enthusiasts invited by GM to be at the unveiling.
I think we’re about 90% there, but since I’ve just spent the last 2 days going into excruciating detail on likes/dislikes with many of those enthusiasts, regarding the Concept, I’ll share what I’ve learned:
1) With all due respect to all those that worked on it, I have to say that the interior was overwhelmingly NOT well recieved. Far too retro, especially the IP and dash.
2) Rear fascia could lose some bulk, many would have preferred round tail lights.
3) Rear fender vents combined with door ‘cove’, almost give a Mustang look. Looks alittle busy as well.
Beyond that, I still have goosebumps. I loved how the Z/28’s rich racing heritage was tied to the presentation. VERY nice touch.
Let me check. Yup, I still have goosebumps.
Charlie
The Camaro concept is great!!!! Fantastic job guys!! As one of Maine’s older family owned Chevrolet dealerships, we’d love to see this affordable car in production. Keep up the good work!!!
Mike Murphy
GM has a agreement with the UAW that if they ever build a “Camaro” it must be built at the factory in Canada which was leveled,so that means that no Camaro till after the 2007 UAW agreement runs out. So i do not think you will see a Camaro till fall of 2007 which will be a 2008 model.
I think that this car needs a production version now i already know a few people that want this car and i know i know GM has people reading our msg boards if its not built just like the 2002 demise there will bne people swearing never to buy GM again and we dont want that
Camaro Concept Shows Its 1969 Again!
First reaction in this corner is that it certainly captures the spirit of the original. I love the tail lamps, the extreme coke bottle-shaped fenders grab your eyes and won’t let go and the front end is, well, clearly inspired by a 69 Camaro SS.
Bob, I forgot to mention one thing. I know concept car interiors are usually a bit extravagant compared to production, but myself and several others I talked to do NOT like the interior of the Camaro concept. A little retro is alright, but it is TOO retro.
Bob,
I take back all the horrible stuff I said about you. The new CAMARO is incredible. The Camaro, solstace and Z06 Corvette are the kinds of cars that built GM. Keep up the good work and GM will again be on top.
OK Bob,
I finally thought of something I do want changed when you do release the Camaro on us all. Make it E85 ready. There are few E85 station up here in Wisconsin, (about 20 to be exact,) and I am lucky enough to live close to such a station. I really like to be able to say for sure I buy the Camaro, I’m seriously worried about what happened last summer. I really could not afford to buy such a fun car, then have to garage it for 6 month each time a Hurricane hits the south coast.
Furthermore, I think a lot of other Americans feel the same way. They really want there big cars, big trucks, and big SUVs. And they don’t mind the fact they don’t get the best gas mileage when gas is cheap. But when gas ain’t cheap, Well all we hear about is what a bunch of dumb idiots we are. I really don’t feel like being called a idiot, and I don’t feel like complain much about anything.
So how about you make someone drop the other shoe, and make all GM products E85 ready? It go a long way towards relieving fears caused by depending on foreign sources oil. It makes corn farming a honorable and patriotic source of income. And it may even give your whole automobile line a green seal of approval. (OK, I’m stretch on the green seal of approval,) but who here was not mad when gas jumped between 50 cents to a dollar a gallon?
And besides, think about what you gain just buy spending the couple of dollars more needed for stainless steel gas tank, Teflon lined fuel lines, and Dielectric sensor. You would be able to advertize not only you have the coolest products across the board, but ones that can get up to 5% better Horsepower just buying a product that costs a average of 25 cents cheaper then regular pumped gas. (After all, E85 does have a average 105 octane. Furthermore, you would be helping to reduced America’s dependency on foreign sources of fuel and help the poor American farmer that can barely scrape out a living right now.
Come one Bob, what do you say? Lets buck that notion that the American automotive industry sleeps with the international petroleum industry with some style.
Izzy
When I saw the Camaro concept car my first couple of thoughts were AWESOME, MUSCLE, GOTTA HAVE PRODUCT, and WOW! GM should productionize this as soon as possible. There is a market out there for this type of vehicle and GM needs to tap into it.
Bob,
If you add a few more modern touches to that interior, switch that bowtie out for a regular Camaro shield on the front and make sure to include t-tops as an option, you will indeed have a stellar production vehicle.
GM videocasts new concept car
“What do you think of it?” asks General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz in a post yesterday on the GM FastLane Blog. At the last count, over 225 customers and car enthusiasts have told Lutz precisely what they think of
The buzz in recent years over these retro or “throw-back” designs is a phase that GM is a little to late on. If there is all this concern over sales, sales, and sales, then why not turn there attention to the designs of the cars that are the backbone of sales! Yes, the new Camaro is neat, but in all reality, this car, along with the SSR and new Corvette are NOT contributing to the depth of automotive product ingenuity at GM. GM is getting killed, along with Ford, and Chrysler (to a certain extent) by the imports because of eyesore designs like the new Impala, Cobalt, Aveo, HSR (an obvious ploy towards the PT Cruiser), Trailblazer, not to mention the sicko designers at Buick. I mean come on people!, wake up a smell the coffee. The bureacratic filtering of design is so fricken stale its obvious why we look to Mazda, Toyota, Lexus, and Honda for cars that fricken work on all levels! Bring some spirit and ingenuity to the cars that make sales, not cars that simply are ripping off past “successes”. I mean there was a reason why the Camaro was canned in the first place Gees!
Who exactly is this car intended to appeal to?
In the podcast you mention that by pricing the car in v6 trim in the low 20’s and in high v8 trim in the low 30’s you expect to sell volume similar to Ford’s new Mustang. Simply matching price will not accomplish this.
The Mustang is a far more functional car that appeals to both male and female drivers. I don’t feel that the Camaro has the same appeal.
Part of the reason for this is basic ergonomics. Women tend to be shorter then their male counterparts, because of this difference, features like a long hood, and exaggerated rear quarter panels negatively impact the cars practicality. Other issues like poor ingress and egress and reclined seating position have an impact on the cars use as practical transportation.
While many consumers are willing to make sacrifices for performance, often times their wives, daughters, and girlfriends may not be drinking from the horsepower well of intoxication and if you think that does not have in impact of potential buyers purchase decision you need to go and do some thinking.
I think that you guys were better off without a Camaro, especially on that attempts to be both a reasonably priced streetcar and a Corvette.
GM already builds a Corvette; you guys hardly need another one.
-Geoff Chandler
-www.hotrodhomepage.com
Bob,
What a fantastic car. The interior is a little over-the-top retro, but overall it is a GREAT looking car, and much better than the “SS” Concept a couple of years back. It looks masculine and ready to compete with the Ford and Dodge competition.
I’m hoping that it comes with an affordable 3900 engine trim option, but something has to be done to squeeze better fuel economy out of the 3900 than what it gets in other GM cars – shoot for 20/29 with a 6-speed automatic!
Good Job! I would love to see it go to production. I would buy one right away.
Bob Lutz:
Mr. Lutz, I am writing initially on behalf of the new Camaro concept car revealed at the 2006 NAIAS. I was ecstatic when I heard rumor of a first gen Camaro being designed into a modern concept car. Ford really had something with their Mustang, and we (GM) really dropped the ball with the GTO. I recall reading an automotive review article comparing the new Mustang to the GTO. Despite the fact that the GTO out performed, out handled, out accelerated, and just overall, hands down beat the tar out of the new Mustang from a performance standpoint. The editors still chose the Mustang because it looked cool, if there is one thing I have learned in this business, style sells, PERIOD (followed closely by quality, but that is another letter at a later date).
This brings me to my point, once again GM has dropped the ball. I can add the concept Camaro to my list of the ‘Generals’ disappointments, although it will be in good company. The GTO, the SSR, and lets not forget the new Impala SS and V-8 Monte Carlo. Just out of curiosity, how much did the municipality sales drop when you guys killed the rear drive platform? GM needs to add a facelift to its restructuring, and hire some new designers. I will admit the new Impala does have some nice lines; too bad it still sits atop a front drive platform. Despite the nice lines of the 06 Impala, I honestly cannot think of another “new” vehicle with good lines since the 2002 HD series pickup.
I suggest you take a good look at the new Camaro, and then stroll down to the Chrysler booth and have a look at what you should have done. Chrysler’s concept Challenger followed the style lines of the car from which it takes its heritage. Take 70’s Challenger and the new concept Challenger, place them side-by-side, and grab a non-automotive person at random. Guess what, they could tell you that the concept was based on that car next to it. I believe the same could be said for the Ford Mustang, but I think it would be a tough sell on your concept Camaro.
Personally I feel the car should be designed around the 68, but I realize the sales numbers for the 69 make it a better choice. Not to mention that it is considered one of the most popular, and sought after muscle cars of all time. Why is that do you suppose, I bet it has a lot to do with the style. The straight lines, the subtle ‘hockey’ strips across the wheel wells, cowl induction hood, square nose, short rear deck, and of course the ‘vents’ in the rear quarter. Your concept has the short deck, and sort of retains the quarter vent, that is about it. You softened or chiseled all the wrong lines, and eliminated the lines that define the original. And, where on earth do you get the style cue that the 69 Camaro had a beak for a nose????
From a performance standpoint I am quite sure the concept is dead on. I have no doubt this car can run with the best of them, be it straight, through curves, or stopping. Unfortunately it is my opinion that once again we have dropped the ball, and sales will reflect that of the GTO, nimble at best. Despite being the muscle of the 21st century, it just does not fit the dress code, just my two cents Mr. Lutz.
Jim DeMarco
If you build it, I will buy. Sign me up now!
This is an awesome car. You can’t build it fast enough for me. I was devastated when i heard the Gen 4 was to the be the last. After that I had lost almost all faith in GM. But then you started making exciting cars. And this one takes the cake. Build it and we will come. If not to much to ask could you maybe give us a Firebird to for my sister.
I’m happy to see a modern car with retro cues as opposed to a retro car with modern cues. I would also like the car to stand apart and not get the “productionized” interior most cars get when they reach production. It’s not impossible…
The pontiac GTO really stands apart from the rest of the cars GM sells in the US- the unique controls and interior features are something I hope to see in the Camaro and the upcoming GTO.
This car is EXACTLY the type of icon automobile that Chevrolet – and GM – need more of. Instead of the bland, cookie-cutter products that sit on the lots of GM dealers everywhere, this car is a well designed, attractive car that calls on the heritage of the Camaro without appearing too retro. A litle tinkering with the interior and we have a classic for a new generation. Bravo!
Unfortunately, the Camaro Concept is a mismash of lines and creases with none of the charisma of a 1969. It has none of the brawn of the Challenger Concept and none of the nostalgic pull of the Mustang. The pointed beak front end with the egg crate grill is seemingly grafted onto a rather non-descript design that is neither much Camaro nor much retro. For all intents and purposes this car could have been an AMC Javelin if we weren’t told it was a new Camaro.
Fortune 500 Video Podcast – GM
Interesting look to the future – today: GM’s video podcast of their Camaro concept car. Not sure about the car, but it’s interesting that they are getting the word out using these tools….
Bob,
I’d say were not there yet with the new camaro. I am a diehard GM fan, and I love my ‘01 Z28, but if i had to choose between the new Camaro and the Challenger concept i’d likely pick the latter. I think this car looks like a mix of a 1970 Firebird and the new corvette.
Among the changes i’d like to see include:
1. Smaller wheels say 16-17″ with 50 profile tires.
2. Rear 1/4 panels need to be less corvette like and should be pushed in and be flush with doors.
3.That mustang like vent behind doors is awful.
4. The front roof line is too far forward giving less windshield.
5. The door line is too high giving less window- high door line resembles that ugly Chrysler 300 look.
6. Those ugly dials on the dash definity have to change and the dials in center console need to be up higher for the driver.
I like the back end and the fact and the decision to go with the LS2. Hope my input helps. I am glad that we are back to discussing a current/ future camaro.
Bob,
OK, the consensus is in. We love the outside, hate the inside. You over retro-ed the interior, there was no Camaro in the early fifties. But the GTO interior is perfect, so start borrowing off that. And ditch the little uni-brow on the hood.
And don’t let Pontiac touch this car! We don’t need any decals, plastic skirts, or flaming chickens on the hood. Those aren’t the F-cars we want to copy!
Bob,
The Camaro concept is truly a car that evokes an emotional response when you see it. From the aggressive stance to the low, sleek cockpit the car demands a second look. The lines on it remain true to the original car while still giving it the ability to create its own unique personality. Fit and finish seem to be up to luxury car specs. I especially like the use of high quality materials such as soft leather and brushed aluminum in the interior. All this is followed up by a great powertrain offering and suspension system. The use of four wheel independent suspension gives it a distinct advantage over the competition.
The design is great and as a current Pontiac GTO owner the new Camaro would definitely keep me in the GM family when I buy my next vehicle. Let’s build it now!
What a great looking car! A modern design with retro cues, but not overdone.
Build it and I (like many, many others) will buy one!
I’ll keep this brief.
BUILD IT! PLEASE! I’ve wanted a Camaro since I was five years old–that’s 22 years–and I’ve never been able to have one because they’ve always been just barely out of my reach. I missed my last chance in 2002. Please let me have my dream!
Mr. Lutz,
Please put this car into production ASAP. As a owner of 2 previous camaros you could not get this car on to dealer lots soon enough. Don’t lose sales to Ford(Mustang) by waiting. This should be one of GM’s top priorties to get to market quickly. Please keep the price comparable with the Mustang and only the SS should be priced with the GTO. Make a version with powerful V8 and very few options for those of us that can do with out leather, power window and seats.
And above all thanks for finally giving us GM loyalists something to be excited about.
Mr. Lutz,
First let me say I’m the proud owner of an 05 GTO. That’s not because I’m a ‘buy GM’ or ‘buy american’ fanatic but because I feel it’s the best car out of those I was condidering (domestic & import).
Second, I hope when the GTO is paid off I’ll have the option purchasing of a Camaro SS (convertible, Z06 motor & a 6-speed please) besides the Ford Shelby Mustang and Dodge Challenger SRT-8.
Thanks for your time and talent.
Mr. Lutz,
i like the new camaro. it could look a little better (although im sure pictures dont do it justice) but the interior is sweet. and i love the DOD and the 400hp.
what i love even more about it is that it shows that GM has still got some fight left in her and is willing to take some risks and make some sweet cars.
couple things i think the camaro needs:
1. make it lighter, the current GTO is powerful, but it is awfully heavy. my old f-body weighs a couple hundred lbs less than the gto and you can definately try when you drive it. not to mention it will be faster and better on gas.
2. Offer more options. perhaps the 6.0 could be a z28. a low cost (RS) version could have the 5.3 out of the tahoe. and perhaps an ss model with a detuned version of the ls7. it would also be nice to see packages like the 1le come back and actually make a difference.
3. finally, cost is key. they need to be cheaper than their ford/dodge/toyota/nissan counterparts and offer better or equal performance.
We absolutely love this concept Bob. As a proud former owner of a ‘68 Camaro RS, try as might, I could never buy a 4th generation Camaro because I wanted my son to be able to see out the side window in the rear seat as opposed to staring at a huge B pillar. It was really that simple. Now you’ve certainly got our attention, but I think the problem lies in the fact that this car is so far off from production. What ever happened to when new designs occurred nearly every year? Imagine capturing the enormous momentum in also being able to announce that the production version will begin to arrive in showrooms this summer! As demonstrated with Solstice, Lucerne and Yukon, we have faith in your work on future product without having to necessarily test the waters with concepts. Ed Welburn is also doing an excellent job IMO. GM needs to quickly close the time gap on when they announce a new product and when it ultimately arrives in showrooms.
Great Concept …now build it !!! You have alot of loyal GM’er who are craving GM to get back in the game..I think you have awinner here
Two Words: BUILD IT!
i think it looks really good for the most part, the steering wheel is too small and too close to the dash (one bad point that sticks out). i think it needs to be more retro. gm definitely needs more RWD cars and i think bringing back the camaro is something that needs to happen
Styling: Exterior is just georgious, don’t change too much. Interior is way too retro…being class leading modern, and ergonomic interior will work much better.
Powertrain shouldn’t be a big problem since GM sports cars rarely have issues here. LS2 would be nice for the base V8 models, with a higher output engine available for SS models. Having a base V6 such as the 3900 HV, or even a HO 4200 I6 may work with the long hood. Being Chevrolet, Pushrod power is probably the best way to go though. Leave OHC for Buick, Cadillac, Saturn.
Pricing is critical here…LS2 V8 models should start at ~$25k, with SS ~$30. Base 6 cylinders ~$16-20k.
These things would have no problems selling with prices like these and plentiful amentities standard.
Bob,
1. Please do not make the interior too retro. Give it a Modern Chevy outlook.. AKA Tahoe with some retro touches. I did not like the one on there.
2. Bring it to the market soon. 2008 would be good.
3. Update Malibu’s Interior. You will make more money from Malibu if you can sell it for its full price.
4. Restyle the Cobalt soon
5. Do not drop the Trail Blazer. Just give it a Tahoe like upgrade. Drop the LWB version. Those that need It can buy the sububurn or Chevy’s enclave
6. Give Buick a RWD platform soon to complement the Enclave
7. Help Saab with a sports hatch, Enclave based SUV
Why do I include all these models in a Camaro thread? Because if you do not make money on your bread and butter products, Camaro is as good as dead
Build it, Please build it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you build it, they will come! I have owned every generation and currently have a 69 ss with a 700hp 540ci in it. It is a street car not drag and was built with the motion performance vehicles in mind. I feel that chevrolet needs to put the heartbeat back in america sir. What better way than with a new retro camaro!
Please make some changes to the production model…
Flatten out the pointed nose;
Hood and rear deck should be in proportion;
Bulging fenders are silly – should be more sleek;
So many air vents are unnecessary, aren’t they?
This interior is funky – should be totally modern;
Give it a flexible fuel engine please!
Don’t forget a great stereo – 500w or better and no Bose;
Thanks.
Mr. Lutz,
I love it, and I am anything but a GM “fanboy”. The last GM I owned was a 2003 Trailblazer LT; the quality was terrible, and I vowed at that time to never buy from the General again. This will change if you produce this Camaro; it’s exactly the kind of design (and underlying hardware) that’s needed to bring people like me back into the fold.
Mr. Lutz,
I would first like to thank you and all the people at GMs design studio for the great work you guys have put into making such great cars… (E.g. Solstice, GTO, Camaro)
I love the new Camaro, and I hope that it comes out to production sometime soon.
Then I would like to say that I am the owner of a 97 Camaro, an 81 Pontiac Trans Am, an 85 Fiero and a 71 Pontiac LeMans Sport 400. but my favorites have been the Camaro and the Firebird.
Where am I going with this is? It’s great that the Camaro is back, but I can’t help but think of a classic F body without the Firebird in the picture. I am extremely glad the Camaro is back with us, as it should have been all this years it’s been missing, but I also think that the Firebird should be next on the list.
Thanks again
Xavier Menjivar
P.S. Great website by the way!!!!
Excellent job….GM is to be highly commended. Congrats…Only thing is 2008 or 2009 is too far off. Needs to be expedited and built way sooner. Come on GM…you can do it….
Kevin
Mr. Lutz,
You have a winner on your hands. I love the new Camaro. Build it and I will buy it! Excellent work by the whole team.
Build it! I want one.
That is one purty halo. Does it come in a four door so I can convince my wife we need it?
Simple put about the 2009 Chevy Camaro Concept…
Its Perfect, just two things:
1. Keep the price around where the Ford Mustang is now.
2. The camaro should be the next NASCAR Nextel Cup Series stock car in 2010 to compete with the Mustang and the Challenger, as the saying says: race on sunday, buy on monday.
Can’t wait to see the new camaro in production soon.
Great concept, I would buy it in a heartbeat!!…Now Bob, let’s right the wrong with the GTO. Let’s see a GTO based upon this same chassis with a body style that hints of GTO past, much like the camaro concept.
Mr. Lutz:
Build this car and I will buy it. Build it with the LS2 V8 and I will pay 35k for it.
Though the concept Camaro is a start in the right direction, I would like to think that for once GM would just consider the reason why the sales for these cars declined. The “kids” can’t afford them. Please GM, build something that the kids can afford with a V8 and rear wheel drive, and priced under 25,000 fully loaded. You won’t be able to keep up with the demand.
It looks like crap not a 69 Camero.I want a new Camero that looks like a 69 Camero!!!Z/28!!!!!
The Camaro is one of the best looking cars I have seen in years. I remember my father having a very clean 1969 Camaro that I had dreamed of owning, sadly he sold it. To this day I have always wondered if Chevrolet was going to resurect the retired Camaro nameplate so that I could buy a new one when I graduated College. Hopefully this new concept camaro will be produced, I fell in love with the car the instant I saw the picture. The exterior of this car is by far the best looking car to come from any auto manufacturer in years. I would gladly take a black on black 2007 Camaro SS with a 6-spd manual transmission for the 40th anniversary of the Camaro name plate. Please produce this car!
Dear Mr. Lutz,
I’d be happy with an exact repro of a 1969
Z28 with cowl induction hood, but with
modern engines, trans, safety features and
interiors.
Still, not everyone wants that, and I think
the concept is close, but perhaps I could
ask that you not follow the Chrysler design
with the too high beltline and too low roofline.
Their cars look flattened and silly, not what we
expect from a Camaro.
PS – please release this car in LeMans Blue Poly
with white stripes, and drop the plastic
engine cover that the Vette carries. We want to
see some chrome valve covers, and other bits of
shiny goodness.
Thanks for reading this.
Short and to the point: build it and they will come.
Dear Mr.Lutz,
I really don’t have much passion for the car as other do above, and I do not have any affiliation with GM or its products (besides having gone to the same engineering school as you). However, GM does need a cheaper halo car than the Corvette, and this concept may do.
However, I agree that the design needs to be touched here and there to distinguish it further from the Dodge concept. Most of all, this product needs to be put into the market ASAP if you want to grab the still-passionate souls.
Once competition catches on, this may die like so many other promising concepts due to late arrival. Time is of essence here, if you really want to sell it. If not, well, we have Dodge to play with.
OK, first of all, “retro” is just plain old silly, I mean most of the people who are into the cars of the 60s and 70s are their 50s and 60s… And with that said, and to somewhat contradict my first statement, I do have to admit that this Camaro looks very good – its not overly retro, actually I would say its sort of retro/modern. Its much better looking than the super-retro Mustang (yuck!!)… If the next Camaro is close to the concept, I would certainly trade in my 2001 Z28 to buy it…
One more thing – PLEASE dont let this car have an ugly retro interior, PLEASE!!!
Bob,
I think the new Camaro looks fantastic. The new models and “concepts” are worlds ahead of the products offered before. I really enjoy seeing GM’s new products and I love being an intern there. I just wish that I could have the opportunity to meet you and some of the other important heads at GM before I make my career and grad school decisions. I have been a car enthusiast for more than half my life and aspire to follow in the footsteps of someone like you.
I love it! Put in an LS7 and I’ll want one for sure!
As a 20 year old, I would just like to thank you for bring this car back. I have always been in love with small block power. And i really wanted a car from Chevy that i could afford with V-8 power(Corvettes are my favorite but i can’t buy that out of college). The Camaro is just phenomenal. I just can’t wait to see it in the Chevy dealer down the street from my house. Mr. Lutz, stick it to the money crunches and make me this car please! Make us GM loyalists proud to be GM loyalists and proud buyers of American Automobiles. PLEASE!
Mr. Lutz,
The new Camaro concept is HARD! (In other words, it’s certainly one of the cleanest, bold, pronounced & absorbing vehicle designs to spring from GM in the recent years, alongside the Saturn Sky and the new Corvette/CZ06. I’d certainly pick up one of these when (not if) it hits the streets. Love the fact that in going retro, the best years of the lineage were chosen.. great design call! GM is certainly stepping up to the competition with a huge stick… so swing, batter, SWING!
Wish it were shorter,
I NEED ONE NOW!!!
I have been a GM diehard from day one. I have not been without a Trans Am in 23 years, but have owned Camaro’s too. This concept is the first thing I have seen out of GM in a long time that has any promise. I think it could use a little more design work on the front end, loose the C-5 rear. Overall the inside drawings also show promise. Would I buy the car? $28k and h**l yes. Given GM’s track record, I don’t have any hopes up. Keep it simple, leave off the safety crap, anti-locks, stability control blah blah ect. Just build a d**n good car at a fair price and get it out there soon.
Excellent! (in just about every way..) Exterior…. perfect. Someone noted about the tail lights, dont change them, we arent trying to copy the corvette! The lights are one of my favorite parts of the entire car. I also like everything on the interior except the dash – this is 2006 hopefully we can come up with a better design than this. By the way i bought a Solstice not too long ago, now that is a beautiful car – from head to toe, and everyone i drive next to agrees. Use this same type of thought when you put the finishing touches on the camaro and you got a winner! Also, if you are looking to sell 130k to 160k of these to make it worth it, then perhaps i dont want to see it built. Make this thing special! or at least make a SPECIFIC # (not a %, or by order, but exactly so many a year) of SS editions, otherwise the people will become bored of it after a few years & we can then count on a repeat of the past. If you can do this then ill be on your waiting list by 2008/2009.
maybe you could offer a 5 cylinder motor only that might help!!!!!!!!!
Mr. Lutz,
I have owned various sports cars and sports sedans. My favorites to date have been my 1996 Camaro Z28, 2000 Camaro SS and 2002 Corvette Z06. I’m sure I will enjoy my 2006 Corvette Z06 when I receive it.
So obviously I’m a big Camaro and Corvette fan and have been since I was a child.
I love the Camaro Concept presented at the Auto show. If you build it and provide a Z28 and SS versions with fitting powerplants, I will buy one.
Gairy G.
Mr Lutz,
I too would like to join the thousands of posters on this and other blog sites in proclaiming “BUILD THE CAMARO!!!”. It is my firm belief that a single outstanding design can become the Catalyst to initiate a positive shift in an automaker’s fortunes. I feel that this Camaro has that potential. As a muscle car lover born in the early 1980’s, I never thought I would see a revival of the incredible horsepower and agressive style inherent to these cars. Now, with the Mustang and likely Challenger renewed to their glory days, it is time for Chevrolet to step up to the plate and capitalize on desires of these buyers. Discussion is circulating that the Camaro’s revival is scheduled for 2009. Please say this isn’t so! This car needs to be on the streets asap, while the segment is on the upswing and before the others are able to up the ante with greater horsepower numbers. The bowtie should LEAD, not follow!
Admittedly, I am a longtime Mustang fan, with very strong present aspirations of a black GT. However, were Chevrolet to build this car, as is with only minor stylistic tweaking, outpower and underprice the competition, Camaro would be impossible to resist.
Once again, I implore you… BUILD THE CAMARO!
P.S. when do we get to see the Firebird…?
I LOVE IT, I need one yesterday. Very beautiful car.
Absolutely LOVE this car and so does my wife. If GM builds this I WILL buy one. I have been waiting since 2002 to find the car that I wanted. I was ready to settle for a Corvette but now I KNOW what I want. I want that CAMARO.
Where can I send my deposit?
What a beautiful car…
Please make an RS version with hide away headlights and different rear tail lights.
First the TB-SS, now a new Camaro…my faith in Generous Motors is restored.
GM needs to stop following the others and become a leader in design. Market this but not using the Camaro name. Search for a late model Camaro and you will find mostly 4 and 6 cylinders which should be in other car models like the Vega.
The new mustang hit the mark for a retro car not that I would ever own another Ford that seems to fallen to the Fix Or Repair Daily cars of the past.
GM wake up it is a world market and you need to earn back your customers.
Being a 69 Camaro owner, I am really excited about the new Concept. Don’t go too cheap on the plastics and give me a V8 (LS7 would be ideal, but I’ll take an LS2) with a 6 speed. I have down payment money whenever you want it.
I’d buy it now, if it was available.
I’d really like a Firebird, but this is very good.
Now that is a refreshing thing to see as it is a much needed vehicle to keep this Company going. GM has enough in the parts bin to build a very well made vehicle here with the right effort and at a affordable price as well. The 3P’s should stand out in everyone’s mind when they see it. Powerful,Performance and Price are going to be the undoing of this vehicle or the great success that the Comapny needs. You have to realize that you can do the same again if you really wish to succeed with this car. The rear Wheel drive platform is very much needed and should have never been fully dropped in most of the models the Company produces. As a Retiree of GM I sincerely do want to see this car go forward and be a Very Large Success.
Fantastic. Build it, but don’t wait until 2009.
Also, coming from an advertising background, it would be good to tout any Z06 technology carry over (if there are any).
Build it and we will come. I am a forty year old Canadian car nut and until recently a die hard Chevy fan. Other than a Corvette there has been no other car on the GM dealer’s lot that I would be caught in. I had tears in my eyes when GM killed off the Camaro, lets bring it back. I love the concept car’s exterior styling and would not change a thing. Build it now!
You came close, but missed the target, in my opinion. At this late stage in the “back to the ponies” game you should have realized that taking a design to a new level isn’t what the public wants. They want to go back. Personally, I’d like to go back to my ‘69 Yenko, and you had the opportunity to do just that with the engine choices available to you. But the front and rear styling leaves me wanting. Take one more run at it (if the automotive world will allow you the time) and get it right this time.
Rick Yocum
Bob, I’m loving the direction this car is taking. However, I see it as big and bulky and hope you can smooth the lines out so that they blend in together a little bit more in rear, sides, top, and hood. The concept front fascia is pleasant, but is a little weak and needs some work.
Put some 1968 or 1969 Camaro face into it. Something along the lines of:
http://www.arkansascamaro.com/2007nextgencamaro.sized.jpg
and
http://www.arkansascamaro.com/2007camaroz28.sized.jpg
I like what I’m seeing Bob, but hope you don’t end up making a car as angular as the cartoon Batmoble in the 90’s Batman cartoon series. Or as angular as the concept car.
Many Americans have been waiting a long time for this day! Just build it.
WOW, some people just don’t know a beautiful design when they see one! The Challenger does not even compare to the design of the Camaro. The Challenger is way to close to the original, I don’t imagine it took much to come up with it’s shape. The design is to simple, it was great 35 years ago, but not for a new car. BTW, who asked for the Super Sized order of Challenger? It looks like it’s huge car.
The Mustang looks great from the front but that’s about it. Unless you throw a Saleen body kit on it, the rest of the car is rather bland and unemotional.
This concept Camaro is full of personality and style. I love just about every part of it. From the mean looking front and rear, to the flared rear quarterpanel that give it such an awesome aggressive stance. The exterior of the Camaro is amazing and inspiring! I’d trade in my ‘01 Camaro SS right now if this concept was ready to buy.
I would only ask three things though:
1- Modernize the interior. It’s a cool looking concept, but way to retro. Please don’t make it like the Challenger either, it’s dash looks like it was designed in a 2D program.
2-Where are the T-tops? It’s one of my favorite things about my car. Maybe give it a Targa top, huge sunroof, something…?
3-Should be able to get a well equipped V8 Z28 for well under thirty thousand.
Oh yeah, don’t forget the Camaro emblem on the front grill.You can’t please everyone with a design, but I think most will love this car. Some people seem to be forgetting this is an American sports car, not a Toyota, we don’t need a watered down, put you to sleep design.
Get this Camaro into production Bob, you’ll be remembered for years to come!
Thx
I really like the Camaro concept. As a taller guy, I am a bit concerned about the low roofline, so please make sure it fits tall people!
I would also second the motion to make it as light as possible.
I agree with other posters on the interior and hope you avoid going to retro with it. Also, please avoid low quality plastic/rubber dash/interior pieces that are (sorry) too common on GM products.
Lastly, please make the car handle well. Any car can be made to go fast in a straight line, it takes real skill to make one that rides AND handles well.
Bob,
Your the car guy at GM, make the Camaro happen ASAP. Let go of some bean counters if that’s what it takes to get it into production.
There are two main areas of concern with the concept. First is the front end and the styling of the grill. The Challenger and Mustang have the Camaro beat on the front end styling I’m sad to say. Get rid of the slit scoop and restyle the grill, the grill itself looks too fisher price, and overall the design needs to be tweaked a bit.
Other than that the other 7/8ths of the car’s exterior looks great IMO.
Interior, retro is not good for guages! Please make the interior updated with modern gauges that look refined and are easy to read. The reason people want a modern day muscle car is A) for the looks, B) for the power and C) the reliablity of a new car. Pretty much they want the look and feel without all the hassles of an old car, and awkard retro gauges are not what people are looking for. We have figured out that gauge clusters can look nice and actually be ledgable, unlike the ones from the 60’s.
Finally make the LS2 or upcoming 6.2L from the upscale trucks the “Z28″ model’s engine. 400hp should be very competative against the mustang and Challenger. Then leave a top level SS with another seperate engine option that has 450-500hp. The different engine in the upper model is key, it can’t be a strips, ground effects, and cold air intake upgrade on the SS model. It needs something like a model specific engine to draw people in for the premium price.
As a current LS1 F-body owner I would love to see this car succeed and help GM in the process.
Bob, The only design change I would make is to increase the size of the greenhouse on the Camaro concept. It seems to be proportioned too small to be integrated with the rest of the car. It seems passengers will bump their heads on the ceiling they way it is designed now. My feeling is that the drivers head will barely be above the door sills. Some think the 300C has a low roof – well the Camaro concept has knocked off 4″ or 5″ off even that model. Otherwise a smashing design triumph!
As a 1st gen owner I am so happy to see the resurrected model. I agree with the others in terms of updating the interior a bit and putting the regular Camaro shield on the front – add a convertible option – wowie zowie! If you keep this semi-affordable too – you’ll have them lined up to sign up!
what kind of blog is this if they comments of the bloggers are subject to approval?
keep living that lie that people actually buy a gm car because they want to and not because they cannot afford a german car.
when you drive a european car you will understand that beauty is only skin deep, the engine and interior actually does matter.
The new Camaro is absolutely stunning. It shows that GM is willing to make an affordable sports car with a legendary name that can compete with the Mustang again. Its beautiful, not too retro but retro enough. Now all you have to do is make the top model a Z28, like the Corvette has the Z06.
The “Z” name in any car makes you think of speed and styling.
the camaro concept is by far the best looking “retro” american muscle car design from the outside.
why go so retro on the interior? it should be about form following funtion. the inside looks like its as confortable as a medieval torture chamber.
we all know that its only competitor is the mustang. why stop there….why not make a great car and not limit yourself to the cheap production flaws that is your rival….up the craftmanship, innnovate, create a total original product.
every redneck in america will have a mustang, why not develop a great american sports car that can serious compete with anything any other manufactorer can throw at it.
compete with bmw, compete with audi, compete with honda….america is better than this
we went to the moon…why cant we build a car that doesnt rattle after every pothole!!!
why cant we build a car that is anyone in the world would be proud to drive.
get rid of that stupid vent buy the rear fenders…what does that do? does it cool the sheetmetal by the wheels?
its not a porsche…the engines not in the rear
CONTINUITY
Bob,
In a time when everyone wants you to do SHARP TURNS we have to remember slow and steady wins the race. Camry didn’t get to be number #1 overnight but it got slight improvements over decades and stayed true to its audience.
GM took sharp turns in the 80’s and it lost its continuity. Bringing back the Camaro is a big step to regaining a lost generation of young buyers and old faithful.
REMEMBER an object in motion stays in motion until another force…In other words if you find a good thing you stick with it. Understand, if I like a Camaro that is going to be the car I stick with forever unless of course you take a SHARP TURN and get rid of it or screw it up badly.
Remember each post probably represents ten’s of thousands of people who hold the same senitiment. It is clear the Camaro and a Pontiac version need to come back.
In this time when everyone wants you to make sharp turns remember this…
LESS THINGS NEED TO BE CHANGED AT GM THAN YOU THINK,
A lot of things need to stay the same, and some things need to get back to the way they were a long time ago.
It’s tough to be #1 but the #1 rule is,
Don’t think or be like everyone else.
designed in america
built in china…
or
designe in japan
built in america
whats more american?
Mr Lutz, congrats on your introduction of the new Camaro concept. I look forward to watching this vehicle develop and grow from concept to reality hopefully over a short period. I’m excited to see what the final production version will look like.
I’m mostly looking forward to the real special editions, that if the car is approved, will most likely appear. There all all kinds of names that can be used but I’m sure you catch my drift. My mouth is watering and my savings account now has a purpose. I can’t wait!!! Thanks!
Mr. Lutz,
If you are really serious about the possibility of building this, waiting until the 2009MY is going to deflate alot of the energy created NOW for the car. The competition is out there selling now, and we could almost buy from them now and have it paid off before the 1st Camaro hits the streets. I completely understand the production cycle, and that things don’t happen overnight, but if GM really does listen to what everyone has been saying (online especially ), you should’ve already had an idea of the impact this car would make. Not to mention that now even Dodge will have something out by then if they have their way it seems. This has the potential to be HUGE for GM’s ( moreso for Chevy )rep as creating exciting cars that just about anyone can buy. Why is the company willing to let the buzz die down for what is effectively at best 24 months before seeing one in the showroom.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m still going to be there getting in line to order one, but not everyone is that patient.
Great job on the concept, and hope this isn’t just a “design excercise” and it fades away. Thanks for listening.
I do think that the conept looks awesome. Better than the new Challenger and Mustang. If it is produced like the concept, then it will outsell and outperform all the others with that LS2 under the hood. The LS2 would be good for a Z28 model and put in a LS6 or LS7 for the SS model. And with a curb weight of about 3000 ilbs, it will fly from standstill to sixty in under 5 seconds. Maybe just as fast as the base Corvette. Then is would truly be a Chevrolet. And if the 2008 GTO is just as good as the Camaro, then it could save Pontiac and boost sales to get you guys back on your feet and on top.
I heard about your new vision for the Camaro from Daily Planet on Discovery Channel on TV. I have been waiting a long time for you to bring back a car that had some personality. WOW have you done it with the Camaro. I say sign me up for one. I think that you have captured the hearts of all muscle car enthusaists. Keep it up!
Dale
Oshawa ON, Canada
If you build it and have a v6 model under $18,000 USD and its MADE in the USA unlike the GTO Ill buy one. Looks very nice, please build it GM is the back bone of the USA, Right now Toyota is making us look bad. Get into the new motor sports SCCA, D1, etc. Get the marketing back into racing PLEASE!
Mr Lutz, Please build this Car! Just drop the bird beak grille and give it tailights reminescent of a 67-69 model. I am planning on buying a c-6 vette but I would rather have a cool camaro maybe both. Either way GM wins
Please round off some of those share lines….thin out the waistline a bit…and thin out the front a little…..I love Camaro
Mr. Lutz,
I’m glad GM is considering bringing back the Camaro. I know Pontiac is saying there will be no TransAm, but to not have one is a serious injustice. I’ve owned a ‘65 Malibu SS convertible, a ‘67 Malibu SS396, a ‘67 GTO (my favorite, I was hit by a drunk driver and the car was totaled), a ‘70 Stage I Buick GS, and still own an ‘86 Trans Am. I agree with nearly all the previous postings in comments about the styling, but will add one thing – it MUST be able to accommodate 4 people comfortably. Have you ever tried to squeeze into the back seat of a new GTO? PLEASE make it more commodious, and bring it back sooner than the 2009 model year. Thanks!
I love the exterior. The interior needs some help, it definetly needs to be brought up to modern day standards. The gauges by the shifter need to be moved somewhere else. The front grill should use the Camaro logo instead of the bowtie. Other than that, I’d say it’s perfect, just get it into production as soon as you can! I currently own a 2000 Camaro SS convertible and a 2000 Trans Am WS-6 and would love to add this car to the family.
Hello Mr. Lutz.
As an owner of 5 F-bodies I feel I have the right to throw in my two cents.
This concept Camaro clearly ignores 32 years of Camaro Heritage. Going by this car, the Camaro was only built from 67-69. What happened to 1970-2002?
Going on styling alone, I am going to have to pass on this new Camaro.
I will stick to my Firebirds.
First I’d like to commend you on an excellent design. A modern muscle car interpretation is what was needed and you succeeded very well on that front. The best advice I could give to you is to look at what you want to produce in the next 2 years and see what could be bumped to bring this to market faster. At the latest I think you need to hit autumn of 2007 to coincide with the Dodge Challenge launch.
A few comments below on particulars of the design:
Exterior:
The front and sides look great the only possible change might be to integrate LED lighting for the headlamps or bring them forward just a bit. You may also need to open up the front fascia for better engine air flow. The small scoop should be made an inch or so larger in height. The back tail lights need some modification. Either full circles or go with a completely rectangular design. Lastly is increase the spoiler a bit but otherwise the exterior is perfect.
Interior:
The seats look great; I’d recommend a two-tone color option. The dash just doesn’t seem right to me. I think it will need to be toned down a bit. Take a look at the instrument cluster on the Challenger Concept for possible inspiration (I’m a web designer and designers always take inspiration from other good designs). The center console looks good. The four indicators while they look nice are best incorporated into the instrument cluster to utilize that space better for something else. I would also recommend a vehicle information (or navigation option) display above the radio or incorporated with the sound system area.
Again a thoroughly striking and beautiful concept, I hope you can make it to production with at least 85% of it intact. If you don’t make it by late 07 or early 08 I think it will severely hamper sales when you do bring it to market.
To everyone who worked to make this car a reality – Great Job! The car is absolutely awesome! Build it!
I’ve been a GM man my whole life. I own a 72 454 Vette conv as we speak. I’ve had 3 big block pace cars and a RS Z28. Would I buy the new Camaro as I now see it? Nope, but I’ll sell the vette and grab that awesome powerful Challenger if it comes in a conv. Bad idea with the GTO, charger, and now another car that looks nothing like the one we miss. Wake up.
I like most of the car. The rear bumper(?) needs to be shortened (more of an angle upward from the back of the rear wheelwell to the back), the headlight/grill opening needs to be larger, and the tailights need to be a either round or square.
This car is right on point!
I have owner a 1997 Camaro Z28 Convertible and would still have it, if it werent for that DRUNK DRIVER!
I will own another Camaro – this Camaro.
Props to the GM/Chevy Team….
Please build this car
Nice car. im 31 years old, scca racer for almost ten years now, bmwcca member since i was sixteen. i currently own 5 cars. That being said, this car is boring. Its another live rear axle , heavy , overpriced , straight line pig. WHO CARES. The new challenger is no better. You need to let the mustang carry on the tradition of 40 year old technology. Once you have owned a rear drive , live axle , pushrod (pathetic) , american v8, you have owned them all. The only thing about a new car in the year 2007, that should be retro , is the sheet metal. gm sold this drive train in the 6o’s. look forward for you future, gm has already done the past.
Mike Murphy wrote,
“we’d love to see this affordable car in production.”
I agree. If the thing isn’t affordable, you are headed down the same path of low sales numbers. Dealers should look at picking up older classics and doing dealer factory restorations.
Once again for GM, a good idea (even if it was copycatted), but disappointing exectution.
I personally like the retro interior that other have shown disdain for, but the front end is simply hideous.
I knew I’d seen it before, but it took me a while to remember where. Then it came to me. It’s the last generation Monte Carlo SS front end with the grill section pushed back and round headlights squeezed into the reactangular openings.
That, coupled with the bump-outs above the wheel openings that have replaced the plastic moldings GM desighners were so fond of, make the concept fall short of what has the potential to be a very exciting product.
I think the concept is absolutely beautiful. The sooner it reaches production the better. I can guarantee to you that I will be putting my order in for one as soon as it’s available. Please keep up the good work and please don’t be afraid to drop the Z06 engine in this baby should the need arise
PLEASE BUILD THIS CAR !!!!! PLEASE, PLEASE …. DON’T FORCE ME TO BUY A MUSTANG!!!
when can i place my factory order i want it in black with white racing stripes tan leather interior 6sp Z28 i have cash in hand NOW!!! Its time to go hunt mopars and ponies!!!
She is a stunning concept. The lines are absolutely gorgeous and the proportions look just right. I love the gills on the rear wheel well. I’d be so excited to see a Firebird version!!
As an owner of two Camaro’s myself and my father was an owner of…16 of them. I must say that I am most definately a fan of the F-body.
With the GM release of the GTO, and the current ’spunk’ of the newfound car lines like the Cobalt, Impala, and other GM sporty cars…I have high hopes for the new Camaro.
I must admit though, that the concept that was released seems way too much of a ‘keep up with Mopar’ in it’s design. The retro interior is WAY overplayed…and the exterior does nothing to show off what GM has been working toward the last few years(and good work that was!).
I feel that if you stick with the strong ideals you came with in the GTO and other Chevrolet cars like the Impala and Cobalt…you will have yourself a stronger Camaro than what was designed.
All in all…the hype is in…you got your response that people WANT a Camaro. Now if you guys can put some strong time tweeking the design to be more something Camaro drivers want…which is power, handling and affordability(dejavu….1967)…you will NOT be disappointed with sales!
Mr. Lutz, etc,
The camaro?? Awesome!! Even if you need to price a Z-28 or SS version higher, somewhere in the 35k, dont skimp on a quality interior and luxury features like HIDs and navigation for those willing to pay. The looks?? You guys nailed it, THAT is a muscle car. If the quality is there and looks are unchanged by production, bye bye, 350Z, rx-8, mustang, and new Challenger.
Definitely invokes the retro feel. Only suggestion I have, Bob, is stick with small block V8’s with fuel management. That would help keep production cost down and maintain the performance image so vital to this car’s success.
I’m 16 and I love my 93 T/A. The new camaro looks like they took my car’s nose and grafted a grill into it. Terrible Idea, doesnt work. Other than that I love the new Camaro concept and I think GM is going in the right direction finally. With that issue resolved and maybe some bright red paint and white hockey stick stripes, this car would be a sure winner in anyones book.
Mr. Lutz:
I was there in Detroit with the Camaro faithful when you brought her out onto the stage. I will order two right now – three if my wife has her way with a convertible! The exterior of the car is perfect – federalize it and get it built. The interior is great, but am willing to make it more buildable by using the new and current center stack HVAC and radio architecture to get it done.
To those who say that the car does not look enough like a ‘69 Camaro – like the Dodge and Ford cars do, please ignore them. They are wrong! The car I saw was a fresh interpretation of what the Camaro should be – not a Xerox of an original. GM built a ‘69 Camaro already – in 1969. There are thousands of them out there. The new car is fresh, exciting, and has the ability to move forward in five or six years with a change in design. Where will the ‘05 Mustang go when it is time to redesign it? Towards the Mustang II perhaps? Ford and Chrysler have painted themselves into a corner with their designs and concepts. They are not fresh or new – merely copies of originals with a tweak here and there. The Camaro is bold, fresh and new, with enough hints to harken back to a great car in GM’s history. They will not be confused with their counterparts at the drive-ins.
I also wanted to thank you and your people for the great time you showed us in Detroit, from the Heritage Center to COBO – your people are professional car nuts through and through. Top notch!
The Camaro concept looks like a winner, assuming it makes it to production in similar form. I know we’re all getting bombarded with “retro” auto styles, but I think there is an opportunity for GM to realize a lot of profit by capitalizing on some of the more popular GM models (Camaro and others, how about a decent El Camino)that have been produced in the past. Of course, the products need to be produced in a low volume, cost effective manner, but that seems to be possible nowadays. Call them niche models if you like, but GM has a lot of history to capitalize on, at least until the ‘retro’ trend wears out.
Perhaps after the retro trend wears out, GM can give us some of that modern (even futuristic) styling that they promised back in the 60’s.
By the way, we purchased an ‘05 Mustang GT and while the car is very affordable, it doesn’t come with a lot of amenities. And you know what? That doesn’t matter a bit when you’re hitting the top of second gear and the car is hauling a** and your grin is from ear to ear. The Camaro concept should be profitable if they can retail it around the price of a Mustang GT. Don’t add a bunch of crap and bloat it into the next price range.
All I know is Chevy. I own a ‘68 Camaro, a ‘92 Astro, and a ‘01 SS Camaro. And I’m not including my parents vehicles. Last month on the Car and Driver web site I saw a spy shot of the new Challenger and thought to myself, I can’t afford a Vette, I’ll never drive a Ford, but am I willing to switch camps after all these years to be a Mopar guy?Don’t play with my emotions, by showing me a killer concept and not making it. Honestly, as long as it has a V8, is reardriven, and has a Bowtie strapped on it I will definitely buy it. And only then will I ever forgive
the General for making me think about leaving all that I know for a poorman’s Mercedes.
Bob,
Your going to need production of this car sooner. Dodge and ford have cought you guys with your pants down in this market! The GTO is an awesome car, but it just didnt sell, $35+ is too much! And while it does come nicely equipped, where are the other options, T-Tops? Sunroof? XM? Bigger/Smaller Engine? Upgraded Soundsystem? GPS/DVD? GPS/DVD might be outta place in that car, but it is a selling point. My dad is looking at getting a Impala SS soon. the Active Fuel Management was probably the biggest selling point I could convince him of. Good move on the LSX engines. But again, where is the GPS in this car!?
Now the Camero Concept is great and I hope to see it in person this weekend. But 2 things strike me as visually unpleasent. 1. The grill.. the cross is way to big on that, make it much smaller, like 1 inch grid. make it more sqaure and less angular as well. Number 2, those guages… look like they would make me go blind, i hope they are “show”.
Shoot for $26K for the v8, $30K is too much. I would think you would actaully go with wheels that large.
One other thing, I heard Jarome York suggested selling Hummer… I hope that was a joke. I think Hummer serves a purpose, if for image only, Saturn is a waste.
This car should go into production as soon as possible. it will blow the doors off the ford and the GTO!!
I can’t tell you how excited I was to hear that GM has created a concept car that lays the groundwork towards an eventual re-introduction of the Camaro. I’ve always loved the first generation F-bodies, but I guess I am in the minority of enthusiasts that prefer the styling of the Firebird over the Camaro. I hope that we’ll see an unveiling of the Firebird next year or sooner!! I would love to see the car(s) go into production as long as the final product retains some of the design facets of the first generation cars, and is price competitive with the Mustang.
Your Camaro heart and soul is a man by the name of Scott Settlemire.
He took the barbs when Camaro died and no one else from GM was around to listen to the complaints.
He held the precious resource known as “The Camaro Community” together.
He took his personal time, even when you had no car to sell, to keep the name on the lips of enthusiasts everywhere.
He was the spirit that those of us in the Camaro world could cling to when the future looked so bleak.
He took the jabs when your “30 year nap” comment hit the presses.
He is the one that rounded up 250 enthusiasts for your unveiling.
He kept the faith.
That’s passion. That’s a car guy. That’s who General Motors needs intimately involved in the new Camaro.
Bob,
Just build the car.
The decision should be an emotional one and not one that is executed by accountants.
Having owned a 1969 Camaro SS 350 it brings back memories of the best time in my life.
I will buy one.
Bob,
With these cool cars GM is merely rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. These lures will bring traffic into your showrooms to introduce buyers to another slew of mediocre products with sloppy quality. The Detroit culture simply can’t match the Japanese in manufacturing. They can’t even copy them.
It’s not an impossible fix, but making over GM. requires an outsider to do the job. I’m available.
Best of luck.
James
Wow. Talk about Coyote ugly! After the new Ford Mustang and the proposed Dodge Challenger I could hardly wait for GM to reinvent their roots with Camaro. What a dissappointment. It looks like a fat Cadillac sedan. Fat, not PHAT. Strike three GM.
BRAVO!! On balance, I really like the design. However, as an old guy who was swept up with SS396 Chevelles during the 60s, I have the following comments: Please change the proportions for a taller roof. I think that Chrysler has really overworked the chopped top/lead slead theme way too heavy. I truly appreciate the hommage shown to the 69 with the console gages, but that is an impractical/dangerous concept. You look down to check oil pressure and you’re in the next lane! Borrow the gage layout from the Silverado or the 70-72 SS Chevelle ( my all time favorite design – bar none). Please drop the big wheels, 18″ is plenty big – girth beats heighth any day. The engine is way overpowered for the average driver ( I truly don’t think you want to compete with the Corvette in the power to weight ratio). An all Al 4.8L with around 300hp might be a nice sweet spot and it would show Dearborn that you don’t need OHC and 24 valves ( by the way, the 4.6L Northstar in my GXP is really lazy down low where I drive 99% of the time – not enough port velocity to keep things moving). While the IRS is a really nice touch and obviously a far superior suspension, it’s not necessary if you can’t price the car at or below the Mustang. Ford dealers have made a lot of enemys with their capitilization on Mustang demand by charging at or over sticker – much the same that Chevy dealers did with the last Camaro ( this is the very reason I refused to buy one) along with GM overpricing the vehicle in the first place. If you hit the pricing sweet spot, you could really gain back market share. Please don’t repeat the GTO mistake – overpriced, overpowered(for the market) and overugly. Remember, not everybody could afford or knew how to drive a 375 horse 396- God what an experience!
This concept hurts my feelings and opinions of GM. I have been Camaro AND GM faithful ever since 1995, and this concept looks nothing like the beautiful 3rd and 4th gens. It doesn’t look like a sports car like the 3rds and 4ths did; it looks more like a 300C or Charger.
What about those of us who still love GM,want something that looks similarly sporty as the Corvette, and want 4 seats? Must we save up our money to buy the newest iteration of the Jaguar XK to fill our design tastes?
I was really hoping for another sports car like the 4th gen, but this think is pure muscle car, there is no doubt about it.
Any chance there will be an extended Saturn Sky with 4 seats? I could probably live with that so long as I could get a V8 stuffed in it.
Mr. Lutz: The Camaro concept looks fantastic and if this Camaro is as easy as the Mustang to get in and out of, with better rear seat room and a usable trunk I will be a buyer. I am not expecting family car room, just enough for 4 adults to take a short trip to the golf course with their bags.
Just as the Solstice and HHR have been first year sell-outs, the new Camaro will be no different. And as the Solstice needs derivative model to obtain maximum return on investment, the Camaro platform can be the basis for a full line of products.
A minimum base engine of the 3.5L would provide excellent (20/32 MPG) with a 6-speed manual or automatic and enough power for customers who love the styling. Of course the 3.6L or 3.9L would be obvious choices for the RS version with the 4.8 V-8 as an option. The Z-28 would have the 5.3L (327) or 6.0L and the SS a 6.5L 396 (4.03 stroke x 3.88 stroke) or 6.7L 409 (4.04 x 4.0) and for a very limited run ZL1 the 7.0L (427).
Convertible base and Z/28 with the more aggressive black grille and more central mounted fog lights would be logical follow-up models as would the often rumored never made sport wagon with longer wheelbase and concept front end or 54 Corvette style.
A 69 Trans Am styled Firebird Formula and 70-72 Trans Am for the new Trans Am with the 3.6L base, 4.6 Northstar for the Formula. The Trans Am would have the 6.0 or 6.5L and a limited edition Super Duty with the 6.7L.
The next GTO (68-69), Monte Carlo (70-72) and Grand Prix (69-70) SJ model could be based on this architecture. On a limited basis the Buick GSX (70) and Chevelle (69) or (70) models would be offered on pre-announced limited runs.
For the mass market a 55-57 Bel Air styled 2 Door Hardtop, 4 door sedan, Convertible with retractable hardtop and Nomad wagon with “Quad Coupe” style rear doors all with optional AWD.
For the truck market; El Camino models in both 2 and 4 door versions with optional AWD.
A panel truck and sedan delivery styled like the (55-57) truck; a more aggressive look than the SSR – with extended cab style rear doors that open 180 degrees with 5 to 7 passengers and optional AWD.
The Camaro architecture could be used for modern versions of the Caprice, Bonneville (G8) and Park Avenue. The G8 would be in the mold of the BMW 5-series with 4.2L I-6 for a base with 5.3L V8 and 6.5L (M5) versions. The Caprice could be similar to the Holden Caprice and the Park Avenue would be a stretched wheelbase luxury model. Wagon/Estate versions may also be offered. A Buick Velite 5-passenger retractable hardtop convertible is another possibility.
This broad range of models could start appearing in 18 months if the Solstice program in any indicator and would easily have an assembly plant running at 100% capacity, maybe two plants.
While most of these models will never be made, at least make some of these while the Camaro is being finalized (or plant agreement hang-ups are smoothed over). Thanks for your time and keep going in direction you have shown with the latest concepts.
Awesome pretty much sums it up. I’ll take mine in Hugger Orange to match my 69 Z/28. This is the best styling on a GM car in years. Build it soon and you start to regain the Generals proud heritage.
I’ve owned an 85 Z-28, and a 92 RS, but I’ve always wanted a 69 Z. Now I have a chance of owning a “modern 69 Z” with tremendous performance. Bulid this car, and make me want to have a GM product again! This is what the “buying public” has been looking for.
Research Ideas: Blog Comments
Look how many comments got gathered on the GM blog when the Wall Street Journal’s Joe White interviews GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz at the North American International Auto Show about the design and heritage of the Camaro concept vehicle….
Great looking car but do not call it a Camaro,it does’nt look like one,to big to wide .Ford did not make an error by going retro.Chrysler understand it with the challenger.Gm would be making a mistake building this car and naming it a Camaro.
WOW! I love it. I even went to my class late to see it unveiled live. PLEASE BILD IT!
GM should do a deal with Zippo and design some Camaro lighters. Keep the Camaro flame alive.
http://www.zippogallery.com/Automobile.htm
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/ChevroletClark1946-49.jpg
That was good marketing.
This 1953 General Motors Zippo has been engraved with the date July 7, 1953. This is the date that the very first Corvette was produced. The Corvette went on to become an American classic.
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/GMJuly71953.jpg
Just a suggestion.
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/ChevroletSuggestion1966.jpg
Bob Lutz,
–TERRIBLE INTERIOR–
Problems and Solutions:
The success or failure of the Chevy Camaro has more to do with the interior design and perceived quality then most auto executive might imagine.
The Camaro concept car has received an overwhelming positive response from the press and the general public, however, I believe it has to do with the impressively sculpted exterior and nothing to do with the nauseating interior.
The area that the Camaro completely fails is it grotesque retro inspired interior. Consumers are looking for an automobile that has personality on the outside, usually described with retro interpretation, yet conversely requiring and a thoroughly modern and functional interior.
Retro design in general is extremely difficult to get ‘just right’, especially on the interior. The Camaro concept’s weak point, like so many retro designs before, is it’s repugnant interior. A clean modern and functional design plagiarized from the well thought-out Pontiac Solstice, Pontiac GTO and Corvette would be an inexpensive and simple solution. The best part is it will be an easy sell to CEO Rick Wagoner.
PROBLEM AREAS:
1. Bizarre looking ‘retro’ dashboard.
2. Malformed speedometer and tachometer.
3. Ghastly retro steering wheel. {Use the Z06’s wheel}
4. Fake chrome and brushed aluminum looks terrible and out of place.
5. Seats appear cheap and uncomfortable. {Use the Pontiac GTO’s seat!}
6. Metallic gold trims on the doors and dashboard give it a trailer park ambience. {Hire car designers and NOT Californian interior decorators!}
7. Eliminate the four tacky looking and improperly located instruments in front of the gear-shifter. {Worst idea yet!}
8. Tactless chrome shifter (Use the shifter from the Solstice)
9. Awkward and ugly air-conditioning controls (See the Solstice…again)
10. Missing a NAV computer screen (It’s 2006 not 1966)
11. Missing a radio
Sincerely, Marc
Connecticut
It would be really helpful to understand the process of concept to production – why will it take so long? Will GM develop an entirely new architecture or tweak existing? Theta seems to be on again, off-again. Why not utilize what’s already available with Monaro/GTO or CTS platform?
i wanted to see the NEXT GEN, i already have a 1st gen. and you can buy a new 69 in a crate now……why would ya buy this?
if you look at the camaros through the generations you can see the family linage and evolution to the current fourth gen. even the “catfish” grill in the 4th gen harkens back to the 70-73 second gens. the shape of the b-pilliar goes back to the second gens also. however the design was not retro, but a progression. this design is soley a retro design. as if you took a 69 and updated it for 2009. one of the most endering factors to the GM and even more the Chevrolet product lines is that in just about every model you can see the family linage and progression through evolution through the years. if you stacked every chevy truck year for year next to eachother you can follow it, same with the vette. even though the C6 uses some cues from earlier generation vettes, it also encompasses a further development of the C5 it replaced. this car does none of that for the Camaro. in a period where ford and dodge are using their past glory to trump sales (with the exception of the charger, cuz they are just using the name and trying like h**l to make it cool) you would think GM would look forward and step away from the pack. the rendering that is posted earlier in this thread, altho not completly correct, is the direction i think that the boys at the bowtie works would and should go.
yes i am happy that they are talking big V-8 and rear wheel drive, that tickles me no end. however, if you are going to call it a name that has as much history as this one does then the shape and feel of the car should reflect that. and as pointed out earlier in this thread, by the time this hits production peole will have tired of the whole retro thing.
we should learn from history, not repeat it
after looking at this car for a few days and reading feedback from a number of sites i feel i must qualify my remarks about this concept car. i like the design, it is very clean and muscular as a car of this type should be. it is a bit over the top as a concept car should be. i guess it is more that i am dissapointed, because i expected something else. i expected a continuation of the line that we have been seeing over the last 35 years.
i own three of the for current generations, a 1st, 3rd, and 4th, we are looking for a 2nd gen and we may buy the 5th should it hit production, so we have a full set. and this may be where my predication to a further evolved 5th gen comes from. if you cannot see the design trends that carry from one generation to the next and evolve in the existing 4 generations, then maybe you havent looked hard enough. the short deck long hood is prevealnt for all generations, the grill and headlight placement of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gen shadow eachother. the 2nd gen went from the small rear windo to the wrap around rear window that caused a distinct b-pillar shape, and is further drawn out in the 3rd gen with the b-pillar leaning forward, and then nicely rounded in the 4th gen. being a design professional i noticed these little details.
yes it has been the record as of the last few years that concept cars are closer to their production cousins, but this is not the traditional way that automakers have preformed in the past. i imagine the resonse from the media and the surveys that GM is taking about this car is very overwhelming, and very positive. but as FbodFather said there will be alot of the fbody faithful that will be dissapointed. some see the “retro” and “heritage” styling as the same thing, a lack of fresh idea and inspriation.
to that end, i applaud GM for seeing that they need to be in the 2-door rear drive v-8 market, as they do make the best v-8 ever designed. as the chevrolet division again out sold the whole ford company, yes the first time in 19 years, but before that it was something like 25years running, the competion seems not to be the great factor it may have been in the past.
i predict that the bowtie boys will sell this thing like it was going outta style, particulary if they do some of the wild off center stuff that chevrolet is famous for. like offerin limited editions that have WAY too much power etc. as evident by the introduction of the C-6 and the C-6 Z06, chevrolet has been known to deliver the most “bang for the buck” and i imagine that they will continue to deliver.
To GM; Excellent job on the Camaro Concept. It combines retro and modern. I own a 94 Camaro with 280,000 miles on it and still love the car. I would definitely purchase a new generation Camaro if you build it for the legions of Camaro fans.
Don Donovan
It is with my deepest thanks to the design team I want to congradulate GM for it’s pick of the Folks whoseem to reach inside of the hearts of sport coupe enthuiast.The camaro just took the breath out of me THANX SO MUCH I AM BOW TIE PROUD.
NICK AUSTIN TX.
That new Camaro style is HORRIBLE!! I can’t believe Chevy has gone and messed up the best car every made. They have sold out to all the other “future” style cars, they think everybody wants to drive. I have owned 5 Camaros since 1994, 1 of which I have turned into a Super Gas Race car. I love the style of the 98 Camaros. This new thing they have created is something I would never ever, ever buy. It does not even look like a Camaro. I looks like the new Charger not the sleek, fast LS1 we all know and love. The design needs to look like a Camaro not a piece of junk that all the other car makers are slapping together and tricking the public into buying!! I am a Camaro lover. That car has made my life what it is today, without it I would not be the success that I am today. The LS1 engine can be pushed to run as fast as you can make it and will just keep taking the abuse. I love my Camaros and I will not give them up to buy this new ugly piece of technology Chevy is dishing out. I will start racing a Mustang before I ever move to this new body style. Sorry, but you have make a big mistake. Keep the Camaro’s style the same as it has been since 1998. Don’t give into trying to make a great car into the boring cars all the other companies are making! Also, Camaros have been the “affordable” Corvette, judging by this car it will be way too expensive. Dont’ change the Camaro. We love it the way it is!
Bob,
Overall, the car is outstanding. My family has a collection of these muscle cars; we purchase not only for the appeal, but for the simple fuctionalty of the car and the affordablity. The concept is fantastic, and if you build it, consider these points:
1) This car needs either t-tops or a sunroof. You need this on the GTO as well. With all that power, seeing the sun as you float down the road is an overall good feeling.
2) I concur with the others- the interior must be more modern. As for the exterior- bravo!
3)Affordablity- I concur with willie and james ramey that there should be an affordable V6 (3900 or 4200)an RS with the 5.3 liter v8, and the Z28/SS with your biggest V8.
Bob,I feel your design team fused the past and the future excellently, and with these suggestions I and others have provided, this car will be a titan in its class.
Please… I beg you GM, make this car into full scale production, let me tell my children of “dad’s car”, one that I would be proud to hand down to them.
Mr Lutz,You build that Camaro and make it look close to the concept and I will order one.The new Mustang is right on the money,but I am a GM guy.
I’ve been saying it since the last Camaro was discontinued, bring back the retro Camaro. The concept is a great start, got “it” mostly right. Needs Z28 badging(notice Chryslers Challenger had the RT badging) The grill needs to be more retro, maybe even the d**ned hide-away headlights that forever broke. And of course you’ve got to put on the stripes. I was thinking about a Mustand this summer, I may just wait and see when and how long its going to take for this to make it into the market.
KEEP THE BEANCOUNTERS AWAY AND JUST BUILD IT !
The concept that gm has produced could be a bat mobile if it were black. The concept that was drawn up by a student a few years back is much truer to camaro heritage. GM needs to get serious. Ford has come out with the mustang and dodge unveiled the challenger, GM is getting left behind. When dodge was designing the challenger they brought in an actual challenger, what was chevy looking at an audi/toaster?
Did you all take a 05 Mustang and graft a front end on it to make it look like what you think a Camaro looks like?
If you squint, the 05 Mustang looks exactly like a classic Mustang, and you don’t even have to squint for the Challanger to look exactly like a classic Challanger, but I would have to close my eyes to ever believe that this concept should be called a Camaro. I still have a 91 convertable, and it is much more of a classic Camaro than this concept ever will be. Actually you should sell your Camaro concept to Dalimer Chrysler as a 74 AMX. It is perfect for that.
I love the rear view of this car. Something the Mustangs and Challengers will see a lot of. I like the shape of the tail lights, very unique. Please don’t mess them up when you add backup lights. Perhaps back up lights flanking the license plate or paced lower in the rear bumper.
And PLEASE build this ASAP!
WOW! The Camaro concept is totally awesome!! It’s tough and mean looking. I really like it. The rear end is nicely done with the two exhaust pipes and the rear brake lights.
If it came with the LS2, 6 speed manual trans, 18-20″ wheels, and no gas guzzler tax – I would purchase one as soon as they come out.
My experience with GM has been a great one. I had a 2002 ZO6 Corvette that had very little trouble through it’s 16k miles I put on it.
I will buy it, Mr. Lutz. I’m positive others will too. My wife loved it too! I hope to get one soon.
Thanks for a great looking car!
This Camero is the best yet. You will surley sell millions. Make sure you equip this one with every imaginable toy… rear camera, sensors, keyless entry and ignition…. I will buy one for sure.
Please, please please build this car. I have missed the Camaro since it went out of production, and bringing it back like this would make me and many others buy American muscle again. Camaro has alwasy been cooler the Muss-tang, and it would be once again!
So why couldn’t you have put that same effort into the GTO? Maybe GM did learn something from that Australian bred turkey.
beautiful…i have a 1969 cortez silver x55D80…when this one is built…i’m buying…cortez silver of course…i only hope it it looks like this concept….awesome
Excellent design. I agree with those who have posted that it is modern with retro cues. Unlike the Mustang and Challenger that are FAR too retro in appearance. This is 2006, not 1969, and I don’t want to see an ‘updated’ 1969 Camaro. I want a Modern Camaro with hints of the past. The exterior of this new Camaro is perfect in every way. The ‘beak nose’ as someone else put it, is what gives it an agressive appearance. The squared off Mustang is just so bland. Not to mention the Mustang’s ‘frown face’ front end. I would like to see a slightly more modern interior, but that is secondary to the absolutely FANTASTIC exterior.
I’ve owned 3 Camaro’s (1982 Berlinetta, 1991 RS and 2002 Coupe) and I’d very much like to finally add a Z28 to that list.
Just keep the price competitive with the Mustang. The Mustang sells due to it’s low price point. When I purchased my V6 2002 Camaro, I could have gotten a V8 Mustang for virtually the same price. But I was willing to pay because the Camaro was so much better looking. But not everyone can afford to (or is willing to) do that.
Bring this Camaro (with NO exterior changes except the obvious change of smaller wheels) out in a couple years and I will be in line to purchase a Z28 in Silver.
An addendum to my previous post. This Camaro NEEDS T-Tops. It’s not a Camaro without a T-Top option.
Just got back from the L.A. show Had my mind made to buy a new Mustang but after seeing the camaro what was I thinking WoW so build it people will come. Converted ;
Just saw the Camaro concept at the L.A. autoshow today, and I was more than pleased with what I saw in the flesh. That is having been over joyed from simply looking at press pics beforehand online. BUILD IT!!!! GM cannot loose with this one.
Can not tell you how much I love the new concept Camaro. I am into the nostalgia cars. I own the HHR and love it. The Camaro is my next car, so please hurry and build it.
Cal I please have the concept Camaro RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!! Absolutely breathtaking, I would buy one for myself and the wife!!!
Hello GM,
I just attended the NAIAS,and I couldn’t get to the Camaro display fast enough.My friend(Ernie)and I took a front row look and WOW!!!It was a great looking automobile to say the least!
Speaking for ourselves,WE WANT ONE ASAP!Please,Please,Please bring it back.
WE LOVE IT!!!!!
I have bought GM cars all my life, and have loved 60s and 70s muscle cars since high school. This car doesn’t evoke the emotion that the new generation Mustang still has for me, though I love the 69 Camaro. The tail lights are all wrong and the front header panel has to go.
I went last night to the LA auto show, down-hearted knowing the new Camaro concept was in Detriot. To my astonishment and surprise there was a red Camaro Concept staring me in the face. My jaw dropped, I was stunned, I couldn’t move, and I was still 50 feet away. I went up to it and couldn’t move for 3 hours.
I am a proud owner of a 69 RS/SS with a 502 and an M22 rockcrusher and I would kill to place this right next to it.
At first glance at the photos from detriot I also felt the front end was lacking. All I can say is go see the car in person, its beautiful. The exterior is perfect. Don’t change a thing. Please add a hideaway headlight system of the RS, preferably without the vacuum leaks. Leave the LS2 for the SS, keep it around 30k.
Place some photos of the car in red, the silver fails to create the muscle car image.
2009 sounds fine, I graduate from law school in 08′, I will wait for the 40 year gap to place this one right next to it.
For those who feel the concept lacks the retro styling, they have never had the priveledge of owning a 69. Its dead on. The front end, the pointed nose, the smooth curve of the rear 1/4, the cowl hood, the vents (now functional for the brakes), the side marker lamps, the cockpit (just loose the orange trim), all just beautiful.
Just keep the cost down, your market, young twenty somethings need it to be affordable, and tell me when I can place my deposit down.
Thank you, this car was a dream come true!
I saw the new Camaro concept car at the L.A. auto show , WOW !! …….BRAVO !!. Now all you have to do is make it. I want one . I have an SSR already and need this Camaro to make my life complete. Please produce this car “soon” , This will finally put the Mustang to rest !……………… Hoo-ray for the Chevy Revolution.
I would like to see this new concept Camaro out on the road ASAP , it’s hot and sexy looking . Girls like to see beauty in a car too ! I would seriously consider buying one. I was going to buy a Mustang this year but I’ll wait if your going to put this Camaro out soon.
Hey I just saw the CAMARO today I could not wait since i found out it was going to be at the LA auto show. The buzz is everywhere. I swere people have been spreading the news like Did you here the camaro’s coming back & Have you seen the new camaro! I feel like a child ever since I got my first and only car the 1967 camaro I could not wait for GM to bring back the camaro to complete my collection. I have to be sincere when i say that otherwise I would look into buying an import because anything Ford just would not do. You have to make this car. I will be the first to buy it and my brother the second. I loved how it looked but agree with another comment that it looked a bit like a mustang. I’m not sure why I think the chevy label in the middle it should be off set to keep it true to the original. And you should replace the front chevy sign with the a redesigned camaro one. The inside was to fancy. I think the magic of the old style camaro was that it wasnt over the top but it was a great nice looking car. Im a simple kind of girl and too much stuff is just distracting. It might be a good idea that some room is left for people to customize it after they have purchased it. That way it would be like every cloned Mustang- Any way I can honestly say that if you do a good job and dont wait too long to make this car lots of people are going to run out and buy it. At the show I heard atleast five people say outloud I’m gonna get thta car IF it comes out. You are the IF, we are ready for the camaro. We have been waiting a long time, GM needs to be and stay on top…Oh yeah I know that the 69 did not come with t- tops but if you made that an option I think i would be great. Eagerly waiting
I like where the Camaro is going, however there are a few things that bother me about it. Firstly, the interior… Having style is fine, however when I’m in a car I want feel like I’m in a car, not a time machine. Way too much strange looking metalic stuff. The body is close, needs a few touches though. I vote for defining the front and rear bumpers. It would stop the front end from making me feel like falling forward and give the rear end some much needed feeling. Also, this is personal taste, but I don’t like exhaust that comes through the body, and the chrome rings around the exhaust especially turns me off although I see the necessity for something to catch your eye in the back. Other than that, I just hope quality is up, the suspension is well tuned, and the powertrain is tough, effective, and strait to the point. If it’s simple to modify some people will, and that’s an already proven way to start a following behind a car. Once again, I’m glad to see the Camaro return.
I own a 1969 RS/SS with original engine- check out: http://www.firewheelclassics.com/Camaroparts.htm- my car is on the photos page-Burgandy with black vinyl hood- hot! I love the Camaro- was waiting for this- I may have to get a new one to drive along with my classic- this car looks like my baby- but is going to have all the conviences of today= I love it!!!!!!!
Having just attended the LA Auto Show and observed the Camaro concept, I felt obligated to share a few thoughts.
This retro fad appears to now have gotten the better of GM! Don’t build this car. Hasn’t a lesson been learned from the SSR? This portly styling exercise is destined to be a one-year wonder as was the case with the new T-Bird a few years back. What you have presented is no longer a “pony-car” but instead a Clysdale. The fact that you needed to put 21-inch wheels to bring the car into a proper visual scale to create a link to the past design proportions is quite telling. The size of this car is in no way true to it’s predesesor. The platform used to construct this car would be more appropriate for a sedan than a sports coupe like a Camaro. It looks like it will tip the scale at nearly 2 tons. You’ll need every bit of the purported 400 ponies to create the driving excitement you hope to recreate. Other than wanting to rain on Mustang’s parade, what is the purpose and who do you think will spend 2008 money for such a package. The last Camaro built in 2002 represented the cheapest horsepower on the street – 300hp for 20 grand, but the appeal of those F-body relics has long since passed.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of GM and Chevy in particular as is evident from the ‘72 Corvette in my garage, but the current concept as proposed appears misguided.
Supposedly this blog is to find out whether this car would be in the market to sell to consumers and to find out what we liked and disliked about the vehicle. Obviously if the vehicle was not popular or had no market there would have been no purpose for it bringing back and the name would have died back in 2002 when the camaro and faithfull brethern firebird were cancelled. But it didn’t, chevy fans showed there dissappointment, and grief of it’s undoing on forums, blogs and magazines. Speculation of it’s return rained through 2005 and chevy still had no answer to loyal fans and to the Ford Mustang. And now they come out with a Camaro concept making clear that this vehicle is not for certain. Well GM if you don’t build it, dodge will come out with the challenger, Ford will keep building Mustangs and Chevy and GM will go queitly into the night. My solution rwd, ls2, and a two door coupe enough said.
The Camaro needs to be on the showroom floors sooner than 2009.It is a very beautiful car and captures the hearts of everyone.I urge you to put it into production as quickly as possible.
Chevrolet and Pontiac need competitors for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger more than a new Camaro. It’s not 1968. There isn’t a large enough market for both the Camaro and Mustang. GM needs large sedans that appeal to more than the rental car market.
I think you guys did a great job with the Camaro. I’m a little undecided about the front nose, I pictured something a little different. I agree with others here, the interior is really cool but maybe a little easier on the retro.
Can’t wait to see it at the Chgo Auto Show and can’t wait to see when we can start ordering!
Mr. Lutz, too much nit picking about the concept Camaro as evidenced on this site. Some are telling you, change the tail lights, change this and change that. Well let me tell you, The whole car is fantastic period. Inside and out. The design team did not disappoint. They got it right and are to be commended for a job well done.
The camaro is awesome, but I heard Lutz say that it would be offered with the 6.0 Liter at around 30 grand, and a cheaper V6. Sorry Lutz, nobody will pay 30 grand for a camaro. Offer a 5.3 327 for 25 grand to compete with the mustang. There are people who when faced with the fact that they don’t want a 6 (like me) and a 30 grand camaro vs a 25 grand mustang- will make the logical choice. Few will pay 30 grand for a camaro- I know I certainly won’t. 2 V8’s and a V6 option is NOT asking too much. Build me a 327 Camaro and I will buy it.
Make this car as is and you’ll break records. For those who would change anything, I’m sure GM tried many combinations before this final concept and went with what generally worked with the overall design. You’ll always have some saying you went to retro and those who will say not enough. The key is what the majority think and you have a winner on your hands. In magazine stands and internet coverage the dodge concept got bigger coverage before the auto show, because of the released pictures. Yet since the show, no one I know is talking about the Challenger. Just one bad *ss bow tie. Please get it out ASAP even that won’t be soon enough for me.
I’m very disappointed after all the modeling and concepts to end up with a Cadillac XLR with a chevy badge. I know the goal was always to use the “Y”-platform (if it’s still called that) and build a camaro off of it- but someone took it to literal. Blame it on Chip Foose or Thom, but a “restified” 1969 looks much better. Hopefully, this will be one time when the transformation from concept to production improves upon the design.
Wow! I saw the Camaro today at the LA Auto Show and all I can say is…I WANT ONE! My dad had a ‘69 Camaro 307 that he dropped an L88 into on the weekends. Now I don’t plan on doing that with this car (I’d be content with 400bhp). I’d better start saving (because I have no idea about its price) so I can get one of these babies and go tear up the streets! I’ve always wanted an old school Camaro of my own and this is definitely close enough for me. Again, WOW!
Dear Mr. Lutz,
The new Camaro is simply a beautiful car!! I was at the LA auto show when we were informed that we can vote for the production of this vehicle. If so, I would like to take this opportunity to voice my interest in the vehicle. Judging by the reaction of the crowds, they also loved the car. Mr. Lutz, please ensure that chevy doesn’t deviate too much from the original concept if it goes into production. GM has a bad habit of taking a beautiful production car and ruining it.
Also, congratulations on making the new Cadillacs look like a quality vehicles. The new interiors of the Cadillacs look like they belong in a Cadillac and not a rental vehicle. The interiors of the H3 and the Saab SUV look horrible though.
I hope you can bring the Camaro to life again. Lets kick some Mustang butt!!!
Now how can you guys speed up this process?? Get that into production ASAP before Toyota unveils a new Supra (About the only name that they think has some “Heritage”) that has 450hp, gets 50mpg, and has a base price of $22k!! If you could be ahead of the curve for a change, this car would sell like crazy!! This car is incredible looking, and is just what the division needs…now get it done before every manufacturer has one! And while you are at it, stay ahead of the truck battle before Toyota tries to take that from us too!! We need to focus on what we are good at…rear drive, V8, trucks, exhaust notes, and innovation to stay ahead of the curve.
Love the new concept.
iv’e got an idea:
GM has what they call a quality perception issue.
I believe it’s also a customer service issue. ’cause even when you have a warranty problem fixed, it’s still annoying ’cause you’re thinking, ‘I paid 30K for this ride and the thing still breaks!?’
so GM should give out movie tickets with each warranty service issue.
That would make people feeel better about getting something fixed that shouldn’t have broken to begine with.
And GM could cut deals with the movie theaters to buy the tickets in bulk so it wouldn’t cost that much.
Kyle
As a former owner of a 69 RS/SS Camaro for 19 years, I was please to see Chevy’s attempt in resurrecting one of there most popular vehicles. My first glance of the Camaro concept was on-line, but seeing the vehicle in at the LA Car Show yesterday… I like the car even more. Reading the features and specs I say you have a winner… and its about time looking at what the other car manufactures have done and are doing. The only disappointment was the lines do not mimic the original 69 as much as the new Mustang and especially Dodge’s Challenger (now that’s true retro). It appears the wheel wells come from the 67-68 model year not the 69. This difference is what made the 69 so unique. In general the Camaro concept will be a hit if the price is right. Keep the price in the same range as the Mustang, it will sell… price it like the retro-T-Bird (discontinued)($40K+) and the car will sit. Hope GM can release the Camaro in 2007… great way to celebrate 40 years of the Camaro name. I’ll buy the new Camaro for sure, if its priced right.
GM: Please build us an awesome new Camaro. You guys need a car in your lineup that will generate some major excitement again. This Camaro is the car to do it.
Put some muscle under the hood, and this car will sell. No doubt about it.
In 1976 I was 15 years old and taking drivers training. Every morning on my way to class I would ride past a red 68 camaro. I decided then and there that one day I would own one just like it. When I graduated for college it was the eighties and the new camaros didn’t appeal to me. I looked at buying 60’s model but needed a new car. Over the years I hoped the new models would catch my eye…they never did. I’ve been a loyal GM truck owner for the past 17 years (11 c/k 1500’s). I recently purchased a 2005 mustang GT. It’s a nice car but it’s not the car I dreamed of owning 30 years ago. I come from a family of GM employees and they quietly disapproved of my recent Ford purchase. I defened myself by stating, “If GM builds a retro (60’s) camaro I’ll sell the mustang and buy one. Well, I recently saw the concept camaro and if GM produces this one I’ll buy two, a coupe and a convertible!
Mr. Lutz,
Congratulations on focusing the attention of the public and automotive press onto a product that truly generates buzz and excitement. This is a great example of positive brand imaging for GM in the midst of turbulent times.
My question is whether GM will be able to seize this opportunity to bring an exciting concept to production (even if at narrowed volumes).
Or, as evidenced by the many differing opinions on product design on this very blog itself, GM will become mired in executive indecision as to the strategy, concept and execution of a production version long enough to lose the momentum it fought so hard to gain.
Admittedly, GM has experienced long concept-to-production times; and in fact, only narrowly pulled off the concept it now presents at the NAIAS.
Now imagine if GM were able to bring a production version to dealer floors by January 2007. Then truly the world would take notice. And so would the competition. And the bankers. And the stock brokers, fund managers and bond traders.
This is the level of accomplishment at GM necessary for success in the new flat manufacturing world. This is the level of execution required to compete.
Perhaps the only question really should be, am I just imagining?
Mr. Lutz–
I viewed the Camaro Concept vehicle at the L.A. Auto Show. Having owned a couple of first generation f-cars, the concept car brought back fond memories; both of the vehicles I owned, but of the glory days of GM doing well.
As a dealership veteran who has worked with Pacific Rim, American and most recently German vehicles (BMW), I can see how a Camaro could do GM well; not just as a halo car, but as a viable, salable vehicle. Plainly, productionizing any design will change some specific points, but the essential shape of the Camaro pays homage to the vaunted first generation, while making a strong modern statement of its own.
Nice work. Somewhere, Henry Haga and Bill Mitchell are smiling…but only if it makes it to production.
I’ll put it this way. As a ten time BMW owner (four of them currently) I’ll happily add a Camaro to my stable.
Mr. Lutz: An update/correction to an earlier post – the new version of the legendary 396 (6.5L) would be a derivative of the 2007 Escalade aluminum 4.06 bore block with a new forged steel 3.83 stroke crank. The 409 (6.7) would be re-created using the 3.83 stroke in the Z06 7.0L (4.125 bore block). The same 3.83 crank could create a 5.7L (3.78 bore), 6.0L (3.90 Bore) or 383 6.3L (4.00 bore) with a broad low end torque curve for the truck market.
The 4.06 block with a 3.27 stroke from the 4.8L would create a high revving 340 (5.6L) or with 4.125 block a 350 (5.7L). Either engine could be either supercharged or turbocharged as another performance option.
As the original Camaro was fitted the base RS engine could be the 4.2L I-6 which should deliver over 300 HP in the Camaro.
A power-train that would create a lot of controversy would be the 5.3L Hybrid drive-train from the Tahoe. What a Camaro rated at 30 MPG city and 40 MPG highway with the rumble of a V-8 would do to the media “experts” is priceless.
Another drive-train that would make the ultimate Z/28 and make the Camaro a great all weather performer is an AWD version. The AWD would allow all of the power available to result in acceleration and deliver incredible cornering performance.
On another topic, don’t waste time or money on “Clinics” for the Camaro; it is perfect the way it is. I have never shown a new vehicle to as many people without at least one negative comment – and have yet to hear one. Listen to what customers want and incorporate those changes on future models don’t waste time “perfecting” this one.
At least bring the next GTO to market on this architecture, with new Monte Carlo and Grand Prix to follow. Then please build the Camaro and Firebird – hopefully by the end of the 2008 model year.
Can’t wait to see what you have in store for the market at the New York and Chicago shows. Thanks again and keep them coming.
Yes! Build this car!! Its about time Chevy pulled their heads out of the ground. All I have seen Chevy do reacently that is decent is the Corvette and trucks. The Malibu is nothing like its past.. then the Impala and Monte Carlo with front wheel drive V-8’s with dated body designs??? I have been a Chevy person for most of my life and I still prowdly own a 67 Camaro. I sold my 98′ Z/28 a couple of years ago and bought a Lexus because of the lack luster new Chevy designs. If the new Camaro comes out hopefully sooner then later I could be persuaded to come back (if it’s design doesn’t change too much). I hope it will be between the 25k-35k price range. If I can give some constructive criticism, I would like to see a blacked out grill and maybe some hide away headlights. Maybe bring a little chrome into the equation as well. Royal blue with white Z/28 stripes and chrome wheels! This would be a knock out vehicle!! This could be a very exciting time with the Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger coming out to compete the new Mustang. One can only hope. Please make this car sooner then late 2008! This car looks great! Doug
This camaro is a great step. It’s awesome. The next logical step.. to take down the Magnum and the Minivan .. would be the camaro STATION WAGON. It may sound… well…. unorthodox…. but Companies insist that America doesn’t want them, but I bet if given the choice between a minivan, and a CAMARO NOMAD – people would make the right choice! A 4 door Kingswood Nomad and a 2 door Camaro Nomad based off this architecture would insure me at the dealership making a down payment. make the nomad a 5 pass and the kingswood (or whatever you might call it) a 7 passenger. Why buy a Ford Explorer or a Town and Country when you could drive home with a 350 RWD 7 passenger Chevy Station Wagon?
Hello Bob,
Just going through all my stuff from the LA Auto Show and putting up the Camaro poster in the garage next to my Suburban (454). Being a long time GM/Chevy family we’ve had chevy’s back since our 63′ Impala. You guys got to build this car to blow that Ford pony now and Dodge before it gets built. When it’s ready…let me know…I’ll buy it, but make sure you put engine in it that can make those meaty tires smoke! Will an old 502 fit? I use to live in the Valley and cruise Van Nuys were the old Camaro’s and Firebirds were built. Don’t let us down!
Art
Dear Mr. Lutz,
This is my first post to this forum and I will attempt to take slightly different way to get a few points across. I am a absolute GM fan & will remain so even if the newer “performance” models remain FWD. However, I will not buy one if it is FWD.
My collection of cars includes 3 f-bodies, 1 B-Body, 1 GMC 1500 truck, and a 1952 Chevy PowerGlide 2-door deluxe (a gift from my mom). These cars seem to speak on their own regarding style and or performance. However, the real story or message is not a focus on the OE drive trains but a focus on contributory reasons for reduced sales of new units that were intended to replace our aging machines. Examples:
1. My 1993 Trans Am with only 117K is in mint condition. However, I made the choice 2 years ago to keep it and update the drive train. Today it has an OEM 1996 LT4 Vette engine with all of the SLP items used to place it in the 97 SS or Firehawk. This 2-year project included Ram Air hood, Speed-Density based Ram Air assy and special programming/burning of the ECM chip to load all of the LT4 tables with adjustments to use the 4L60 (non E). The 4L60 has been updated to handle 500 HP.
2. My 1978 Special Edition Trans Am has a newly updated 1970 455 Olds engine with all of the attachments to make it smog legal. I even used a 1970 Olds Toronado intake to keep the Shaker hood aligned properly. I am currently working on the best mod to use a 4L60 or 80 E trans.
3. My 1952 Deluxe with the 3-piece back window will be updated with a LS7 Vette drive train late this year.
4. My 91 1500 truck will receive my extra LT1 and GM parts to make a rebuilt 4L65E, if I do not like the new GM trucks or engine options that are held below 425+ HP.
We are a nation, a people of innovators packed with ingenuity and a will to make our own path when it is needed. If GM continues to give market share away or even hand the competition gifts (i.e., the B-Body 9C1 market to Ford or the F-Body market to Ford), we will use our brains to hold on to the past “GM greats” with engine & drive train updates only (from GM direct or from the salvage markets). A new Camaro is past due, a Camaro w/o a Trans Am will be another loss of market share.
Mr. Lutz, I am very excited about the new performance Cads, but I will not buy one. I will obtain a 6L70E or 80E to make the mods to fit my 93 TA. Imagine all of the others that will do the same thing for their aging beauties. You can sell us the cars we want or when you make the best new parts in the cars we don’t want, we will get those parts and keep our dream machines updated no matter what. I wonder what method you will choose to generate revinue; $$$.$$ for GM HP parts or $$,$$$.$$ for new GM HP car sales? Sorry for such a long post but I think I speak for a few others too.
Absolutely sincere,
Gary
Anything G.M. does is great! But to be completely honest I like the older concept camaro beter. Good luck & great job!!
The new Camaro is an excellent looking vehicle. It keeps all that is expected from a Camaro and adds a hint of that old school muscle look. Many companies have tried to do the same with there cars but they have failed. The Camaro suceeds in every aspect. Its agressive yet slick look is awesome. Truely there should be no changes to this car if it gets to production. The LS2 is a great option for the engine, it really is a musle car. Hopefully in the future there will be a Camaro and a SS option which will top Ford’s new Mustand Shelby 500.
This concept for the Camaro is awesome for lack of a better word. I truely look foward for it to go to production.
I second the above motion for a Camaro wagon (Chevelle SS wagon?).
That’s definitely a car America needs!
http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060116/FREE/60116001/1024/LATESTNEWS
But if, as Autoweek suggests, you’re thinking about making it an import, then please reconsider.
The Camaro, in whatever form you decide to build it, should be an AMERICAN car.
Not too
If anyone at GM is listening with an eye to developing a business case for the new camaro… please listen… all of the revenue/cost/market forecasting you are doing this moment will lead you to red ink if the ssence and boldness of this concept design is not kept intact… Do not soften, shrink, round-off, or diminsh this styling masterpeice, yes materpeice…If brought to market as is (interior not withstanding) at a price point similar to the Mustang and in performance versions less then the 350Z, G35 Coupe with power-to-weight, NVH, and reliability levels ahead of the competition, this will be a winner… Excellent design, please do whatever it takes to keep that intact…
Raj
I attended the LA Auto Show with a few of my friends, one of which I had worked in an auto shop with and we both were absolutely blown away by the amount of detail that was integrated into the making of this concept car. Beautiful exterior, perfectly defigned interior, perfect gear ratio, 400 horses and 40 mi/g. ITS A RACERS DREAM CAR!
It’s a GREAT looking car. I love the classic muscle car lines on a modern platform. The only thing I would rework would be the tailights. In my option they just don’t fit. So, please Mr.Lutz Build the Camaro. You made the G.T.O. & Solstice happen, so don’t you think it’s time for new camaro SS? Don’t you think it’s about time that the mustang had someone to play with? Please don’t let the commitee’s and the bean counters hold up the production of this beautiful car. The people want it. So GM needs to build it. Now. This camaro I can honestly say if built I would buy one. You see I’m not much of a GM fan, but lets just say my past experience with cars or service wasn’t good. However, now that I have seen that camaro at the auto show all I could say was “WOW” what a kick a** car. I think I just might give Chevrolet another chance. So again I ask PLEASE build this car. Thank you for your time. Blake
Hi there Mr. Lutz,
I am a 29 year female that was born and raised a GM girl. Several family members of mine have worked for GM and this Camaro makes me proud to be a GM girl. I knew GM had it in them to design such an AWESOME vehicle, perfection just takes a little time.
Now I am normally a Truck girl and I have never thought about buying a sport car until Saturday when I saw the Camaro and I am excited to say that I would buy a Silver one in a minute.
It is about time that GM bring back a muscle car like the Camaro. I remember the cars my uncles raced up and down Telegraph or out at the Milan Speedway and this is it. I think you did a wonderful job at bringing back the retro look and throwing in a little of the 21st century into the design. Of course, a couple things would have to change for it to be on the road, but Please don’t change to much.
From what I saw at the Detroit Auto Show the Camaro has many new fans and potential buyers. I also noticed that the Challenger had quiet a few spectators too. My fear is that if GM does not put this car in production within the next 1 1/2 to 2 years you will loose the majority of the market that you need to capture to the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Challenger. Your market is at the perfect age and time in there life for this kind of car. So, GM better HURRY and get the ball rolling.
Thank you,
Rhonda
Detroit, MI
I saw the new camero concept at the Detroit auto show and loved the new style. It’s graps the attention with it’s new sleek body style. Genral Motors definitely needs some new styles and more sport cars. I think GM would be crazy not to put this car into production!!!
The Chevy Camaro concept is hot hot hot, yes. The Dodge Challenger is also ot hot hot hot. The difference is that Chrysler WILL build it and GM won’t. No guts, no glory GM! A pity.
At least I will have something to drive while restoring my childhood dream car,a ‘69, that has been on blocks for the last 20 years. Build it, I will buy it. Awesome. I cant wait! Thanks, Adam
If this is what GM is offering as a replacement camaro no wonder they’re in trouble.
Dear Mr. Lutz
I am an owner of a 2000 Z28 with T-tops and would kill to see the concept car enter production. Here is a list of must haves to make it a big seller.
1)Keep the exterior and ditch the interior for something modern(the GTO is a perfect example).
2)Women need to be a major concern, they are the reason why Mustang stomps GM in sales of pony cars. Make the V6 base version with high ground clearance for ease of ingress/egress, and good sized interior vanity mirrors with lights. Base price around $20,000.
3)Make a sunroof an option. T-tops blur the line between hard top and convertible. Make a separation.
4)Release the convertible and hard top versions at the same time.
5)Make the Z28 version for performance enthusiasts. Wide tires, low ground clearance, 6 speed stick only, 3.73 rear end, no convertible, no power locks/windows, no spare tire, battery relocated to the rear. Base price around $25,000.
6)Make the SS version with medium ground clearance. Power everything. 6 speed auto or stick. 3.42 rear end for good mix of performance and gas mileage. Base price around $30,000.
GM screwed up when it remodeled the camaro in the 1990’s. The lost their market because it didnt live up to its sports car/muscle car past. I hope you guys decide to return to the concept that made the Camaro the most fun car I have ever owned. Yes, that includes my vette which was reserved for more serious fun.
The Camaro was has an really hot and retro look. I feel that the interior really brought you back in time. The front end was an excellent look back in time at the 69 Camaro. I don’t know how anyone can say they don’t like the look of the interior because it really makes it look like it is one from 69. The look and feel of the body design was a real eye catcher.
I won’t buy it because GM won’t back up the warranty on it.
That being said, if GM wants it to sell, don’t make the GTO mistake. Go ahead and build the hot version, but also build one with a 4.8L and one with a V6. Build a lot of them. Don’t make 90 percent of them fully loaded. Finally, make sure fit and finish is there, and use quality materials on the thing. Make them low priced but not cheap, and make enough of the V6s that the insurance companies won’t throw a fit. This will let the young kids that want one of these cars afford them, which if you build the car well will keep them in the GM family. A Camaro (like the old RS 305)with a 4.8L would be fast and still get outstanding mileage, especially if you put an aluminum 4.8L in the car backed with a 5 speed auto. That would make for a car that does a respectable quarter and could get as much as 35MPG on the highway.
If you want the next hot product, consider bringing the Ute up from Down Under. That is one sharp looking vehicle and would go over well in the US. Match that one up with a V6, an aluminum 4.8L and an aluminum 5.7L and watch them fly off the lots.
One last thing – GM made a major mistake by killing the Zeta platform. You really need to get off the front wheel drives and start making rear wheel drives again. Why do you think trucks became so popular? The rise of the truck and SUV matched the fall of the rear wheel drive in the marketplace. Put some decent, good looking, rear wheel drives with enough room for a family in them and GM could rule again.
FINALLY a new Camaro!!!
I can’t WAIT for this car to come out!
I was upset when they stop making them and now GM has come up with a AWESOME concept. I will be first in line to purchase this new Camaro!
Thank you GM
Sharon
Jax. FL.
Went to the LA auto show and saw tha Camaro Concept. I like the design. The back panel (tail lights) could use a little help for the retro look. My only real negative comment is that the camaro has always been the poor mans sports car and with 21 and 22 inch wheels…. Wow! I wouldn’t want to have to buy tires for that thing. The size goes very well with the car design but with all that power I’m sure tire replacement will be an issue. At least it would with my foot. Just this poor mans opinion…… That would buy one tomorrow if it was available.
GM,
YOU BUILD IT, I’LL BUY IT!!!!!
Wow! The Camaro just looks TOUGH! It looks like it is ready to go on the hunt for mustang and eat it for lunch. Did I say Wow!I must confess that as a lifelong chevy guy I was tempted to buy one of the new retro mustangs but I read that GM was working on a new Camaro so I held out. Boy am I glad I did. Now the question is how long will we have to wait? I have told the guys at my local dealership to put my name on one (with the 400 horses)as soon as they come out!
I like the interior.
The Exterior screams Camaro- which is what you were going for. That said, the Mustang outsold the camaro b/c it looked beter. The Mustang looks better in the front. That weird hood scoop has to go. The grille is too upright and the entire front end looks too boxy on the beautiful curves on the side fenders. I love the cokebottle look in the 3/4 view. The grille slots are too large and the grille/light combo is not a good idea. I don’t really like front appearance of the new camaro or challenger.
The rear is tastefull, but looks a bit large, and the curves on the sides and back don’t go well at all with the front. I don’t think any car should have a front end like that. It ruins the car.
The side profile is perfect, but why is there a bowtie and not a camaro symbol like on the 1990s camaro’s?
The wheels are amazing- but I imagine they are a bit large and expensive for production.
Nevertheless, Please Mr. Lutz..PRODUCE THIS CAR!!!
GM, PLEASE BUILD THIS CAR! I have a down payment ready for it already! I am a huge firebird trans am fan but would definitely buy the camaro! 400HP for right around $30,000 or less would be just the ticket! I’m ready and waiting! This would compliment my 2000 WS6 Trans am perfectly.
I’ll put it this way…
If GM released this car instead of the GTO, it would be sitting in my driveway right now. Not to down the GTO, it is an excellent car inside (rare for GM) and out, but it lacked the body lines I was looking for while car shopping.
There are just enough small things to change on this concept to spur a good aftermarket following. If GM doesn’t touch the body, I will buy it. If they follow some of the ideas about shrinking the fenders or toning down some of the other flamboyant features of the concept, then it will be another GTO and it certainly will not be in my driveway then.
I realize that retro is important for some people, but personally, I don’t care. I just want the car to look good and in my opinion, this concept does. I don’t even care if it carries the camaro badge – if I saw this on the GM lot and it were named Yugo or Pinto I would still buy it.
I think the body is a good base that people can add their own personal touches to. Make this thing happen and then sell aftermarket parts that encapsulate the ideas that people have stated on the various internet bbs and blogs. GM might make more off of aftermarket parts then they do on the cars themselves.
A note on the interior – I thought it was attractive in some respects. I thought the leather center console was a nice touch. It definitely looks much better than the cheap plastic crap we are used to seeing in GM products. Maybe GM can use some of the interior pieces from the GTO, which I believe is one of its best features.
I would like to add one last comment concerning the engine compartment. That thing is cleaner than most restaurants! There is no way they could afford to make a production model like that. All the wires and hoses were hidden. It is beautiful!
In conclusion, if I saw this concept on a lot near me today, I would purchase it without further thought! My money is waiting GM – seriously, don’t make me wait! This is the first GM product that I’ve considered purchasing in the last couple years.
Oh, they had better build this car. What a beauty and one certain to rocket Chevrolet to the top again.
Build it, build it, build it!
http://www.thearticlewriter.com/chevy-camaro-build-it-and-we-will-buy-it.htm
Build it, but keep it true to the original in that it was well styled and reasonable priced.
Chevy does not need another corvette. This would be great if it could come close to competing in cost with the imports and still be rear wheel drive. Make it customizable like Scion, for added revenue and let the aftermarket in early so people could customize
I like the looks of the Camero. However I did not have a good experience with my 2 GM purchases. Quality issues with the motor and other parts within the car. Good incentives and a good dealer experience will assist me in making the decision to come back. Take a look at the Lexus dealerships and how they treat their customers.
If a Camaro SS close to the concept I saw at NAIAS comes to market, I will have one in my driveway as soon as my dealer can get my order thru.
Mr. Lutz,
I have to ask you why GM designer are so out of touch with the consumer ? Do you recall what happened to the “NEW” Ford T-Bird ? It was too big and boring, just like this Camaro ! The Challenger concept car is a much more interesting and relevant interpretation of the classic car we all want. I would LOVE to own a ‘65 Camaro with all todays modern safety equipment.
When I heard you were going to reintroduce the GTO, I had visions of finally owning my own version of my parents ‘69 GTO. What did I get? A slightly enlarged Chevy Cavalier or, “Cobalt” as you like to call it!!!
Trim the size of this concept car by 30% and get rid of the square edges and give us a real Camaro !!
I really like the design. The only thing I’m not crazy about is the front grille – the original ‘69 had a much larger grille that made it incredibly distinctive. I did a mockup version in Photoshop that I think looks much better – it’s in my URL if you want to see it, just click my highlighted name.
I am 50 years old now. My dad, Jim Lewis, worked for Chevrolet for years and brought home lots of cars, a 63′ split window Corvette – Gold with AC…I wanted to sleep in that car, I was 8 years old. I rode in the ‘68 Corvette in ‘67 – during the model change, with the name taped up for legal reasons. I sat in my dads lap and drove it around the subdivision in St.Louis. I remember Dad getting upset with the headlight vaccum adjustments. He always was and still is a quality minded person. I will never forget the story of when he walked the lots of Chevrolet trucks pounding the sides watching the name plates fall off and getting extremely mad. I remember riding in the Monte Carlo, the real Monte Carlo…in ‘67 I believe it was…now that is a car that should be retro’d…what a hood and grill(use that cars dash on the new Camaro, key on the dash) it was in ‘68 also, white with a black vinyl top, dad loved it but mom hated the two door…but still loved the classic lines of that car. We always had an Impala or Caprice…the ‘66 Caprice still is, in my mind one of the finest cars ever made until my dad introduced me to Cowl Induction. I remember being buckled into the passenger seat next to my brother and being glued to the seat for several seconds and a noise that put the Beatles in second place…what an engine that was…and if the Malibu had styling cues from that car…it was a ‘70 Chevelle SS. It almost replaced the Camaro as my favorite.
Then there was this new car, a Camaro he brought home. It was an Indian word I was told. I could barely pronouce it when I saw it, and must have ask a million times what it was again and again and again. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever see a car I wanted so bad. You sat in the seat and saw the rolling fender lines like that of the Corvette, but had it’s own prowess, the 6 hood vents and two white stripes. Then again, in the rear view mirror, the same rolling lines. It had a console that consoled you and emersed a young person onto an imaginary highway of dreams with gauges and clusters, but 60’s simple. That dash had depth, character and poise as your field of view scanned from the fender wells across a hood that was lean and powerful, as you scanned the road in normal driving situations. It was a true sports car and not so soft to ride in, but who noticed that then…
Mr. Lutz, I hope this gives you the vision Chevrolet created. I would hate to think the 6 weeks my dad fought Ralph Nader were a waste, I truly missed him those days and needed him…maybe bringing this car back will replace those times…what do you say? That reminds me of Dad’s Corvair convertible…last one made was my understanding. He should never have let me drive that car…another story…
Follow the lead on the Challenger and the Mustang…it will be short lived but prosperous and then gradually bring out the new and exciting. Design cues from the 68 Corvette dash in this new concept would really tie the best of two worlds together…after all, it was a four seat Corvette to me on the inside and the lines…
Stay true to the past and move forward, rear wheel drive should have never left. Call Boyd Coddington and Chip Foose, they truely understand keeping the car true to the beginnings and moving forward. They are the best in the business when it comes to that. Ford called Carroll Shelby back, right?
Thanks for the memories and thoughts of the future. Need I say I would do my best to get one?
I hate to say it, but if I were to have to choose, the Challenger would just squeak past this due to staying true to what made it what it was. Keep the Chairman out of the designs and let him focus on the others. I understand he told them the original was too retro…look at the Mustang and Challenger…how retro are their sales gonna be…I really would like to see what was before he made changes if they were to retro. How about some pictures, I know you guys have them. Let us decide, we are the ones that are gonna buy these cars.
Best Wishes -
Glen
I’m ready to order…. Also, please please please do not make leather standard (like it was on the Pontiac Trans Am in its last years) and please please please do not get carried away with the retro theme for the interior – there really was nothing to like about the interiors of the past…
To whom it may concern,
I was growing up as a kid, always into cars. Then my brother got a 2001 Camaro. I instantley fell in love with that, and the firebird. While the Firebird may be out-of-reach, I certainly expect a next-generation camaro. I refuse to buy Ford’s mustang, or even Dodge. I’m not buying anything, because I want to buy a future Camaro. Of course the concept needs a little interior tweaking, but overall I absolutely love the concept car. If you do decide to build it, I’m putting my name at the top of the order list at my local Chevrolet dealer. I hope you know I’m not the only one who wants this to happen, I bet there are millions of camaro fans nationwide who want to see it reborn. So please, I urge you, bring back the good old pony car, thats whats missing from GM nowadays. I want to be able to beat up mustangs and challengers in a new, awesome Camaro. I love the car, please make it.
Finally GM is thinking in the correct manner, a RWD vehicle that the GM lovers can relate to. All that the SSR and HHR have done is to tease us hoping better would come along
and the Camaro is it.
Being the prior owner of three Vettes (2 split windows), a 70 SS 454 Chevelle and many Suburbans to tow my track cars with, the new Camaro would be the perfect daily driver.
The only things I’d change are smaller wheels such as 18/19″ and please, a SLA front suspension that can help make the car more suitable for all types of motorsport events.
Yes, real cars have SLA and thanks for your efforts to market this new Camaro.
Just back from the Detroit Show. The grill in the Camaro Concept does not look very nice to me. I do not like the shape of the opening the grill is inserted into. Bowtie emblem looks good. Powerbulge in the hood looks good, but if it decreasess driver view – loose it. From the rear, the sculpure lines in the roof do not look good. A smooth roof would look nicer. Tail lamps do not look good. Odd shape, and do not seem to fit in with the flow of the design. Car looks great from the side! If you have to insert a B Pillar – don’t bother making the car.
GM has it right this is an exciting concept and if they can execute, by offering this in the marketplace by 08, then they can expect a lot of young buyers. I just hope that they realize that they can keep the car as close to the original concept as possible. If they can avoid the V6 base model becoming overpriced and the SS version being WAY overpriced then they will really have something. GM has got to realize that if they have something in the price range of a BMW then it has to have something that the beamers do not, American charisma and “street-cred.” Lets say a prayer for all the retired GM employees, stockholders, and muscle car fans that this generation of Camaro and Firebird (please build the sister car) that the executives at GM realize what they have and ride the mo’ they created in Detroit to the showroom.
I am glad to see GM get it together and think about bringing back an affordable rearwheel drive sports car. I just hope that it makes it out on the street. If it does chevrolet keeps dealers in check with pricing, and the car that makes it out stays true to the concept.
Please bring back the Camaro and Trans Am. I am from Detroit area, originally, and my dad is retired from GM. The Pontiac Firebird/Trans Am will always be an icon, after “Smokey and the Bandit” (probably the greatest car movie ever). I don’t like the looks of the new GTO. Please make a modern but nice looking Trans Am. And consider the black and gold color scheme like the old classic. Many who would like to buy a Camaro or Trans Am will buy a Mustang GT if that’s all that is close on the market. thanks! Mike
My Dad owned three 3rd Gen Camaro’s, I have owned 2 3rd Gen Camaro’s and I currently own a ‘02 WS6 TA. I’ve been a life long fan of the F-Body.
I have to echo the feelings of some of those that has posted here in that – the new Camaro lacks the appeal that Ford has with the new Mustang and Chrysler has with the new concept Challenger.
I was deeply disappointed in the appearance of the GTO and I was holding my breath that the new Camaro wouldn’t leave me feeling the same way. Unfortunately it did.
Of all the muscle car / Fbody enthusiasts that I have discussed the new Camaro with – everyone that I have personally spoken to all agreed that they would not buy the new Camaro. But would the Challenger – which I will own if the Camaro concept is what the production car is going to look like. I would love to own another FBody, but if GM doesn’t step up to the plate and do it right (like Ford and Chrysler has) then they will lose a lot of fans and potentiol owners to the competition. Like myself.
I am truly bummed I did not get to see this vehicle at the LA show. We were there opening day and this masterpiece was not there. That being said,I will have a 2 year stiffie or longer until the day it arrives at the dealerships. And then it will be mine. Please hurry, the stiffie might be HARD to explain to the non believers.
This is the kind of car that i would love to see GM make. The Camaro is an American icon and it needs to return, ASAP. Bob Lutz, if you make it and make it soon, i will buy 1 or 2. GM needs to bring some rear drive excitement back and bring it back as the 2008 Camaro. Do us and yourself a favor and build it and build it with a reasonable price, unlike the 2004-2006 GTO(overpriced).
Build it, and they will be bought !!
first get rid of the enginge management system and get rid of the body and make it more like the 1970 ss Z28 LT1 CAMARO that is the car with red and black stripes
If GM builds this car i will buy it
this is the best looking car gm came out with sincne the new trans am. i would buy this car in a heartbeat.its about time gm went back to real muscle cars.69 camaro was the best looking muscle car ever
this thing is absolutly awesome. Price it just a tad under the base mustang, with the 4.8 v8 as base or even the inline 6 @ around 295 HP, with a 5.3 as Z28 and whatever you think is big engough as a SS and youll have a winner!. I would buy
Dont listen to those naysayers! they dont know what a Camaro is!!!
I’m waiting.! cant wait to get a ticket for stopping traffic while it’s in my driveway.
Wow! I’ve never even considered purchasing an American made car, mostly due to poor styling, but if the 2008/09 Camaro looks anything like this, I’ll be the first in line at my local dealership.
Please put this car in production as soon as possible. I promise you I will buy one as soon as they hit the floor!.
She is beautiful!
Steve
What can I say…it is a concept car so, if it does go through, there will be some changes..as a Camaro fan, on a scale of 1-10 I rate it about a 7..I’m a fan of the retro look and loved what the Dodge people did with the Challenger, it gave a modern updated look without comprimising the original. With the Camaro, I think designer got a bit carried away…the front grill for example..it looks too much like a Nissan Murano. The honey combed grill looks like its smiling at you. They need to get rid of that grill and replace it. The back end, the lights look more Corvette inspired than they do Camaro…they need to tinker with it just a bit more to get it right.
Sorry! GM, you missed it again! Do you still have a 1969 Camaro sitting around that you could show to your designers??!! For pete’s sake, who in the world would think for a minute that this thing was based on the styleing of the 1969 CAMARO !!! Man! Hire some real designers, or better yet hire the guys that designed the new Mustang. And don’t put a CHEEP A** interior in another production car! No wonder your headed down the tubes!
Whoever reads this at GM-
My wife and I own 7 GM vehicles ranging from 1961 to 2002. Our favorite is our 67 RS/SS Camaro (SS350). We have been closely following the concept Camaro (and the rumors for both the Camaro and a Chevelle platform) for many years. We are very pleased with the progress we are now seeing on the Camaro concept vehicle. The interior is a bit much, but concepts tend to be. We LOVE the aggressive stance of this new car, and can’t wait to see it in person, we do hope the concept will make it to the Twin Cities this year. Make sure you offer the new LS7, that 505hp mated to a ZF6 or T56 would really get the blood pressure going. We would be very happy to add two of these cars to our collection, particularly when you are looking at offering the high end car for so much less than the Corvette. This is the first re-badging we have believed in, as we are VERY dissapointed in the Impala. We own 2 1968 Impala SS, and feel the current version of the Impala is almost an insult to the original ideal of the Impala. We would love to see more GM vehicles that provide the level of style, affordability, comfort and performance that brought GM to the forefront of the muscle car wars. Look back to what made the LS6 Chevelle, the SS454 Monte Carlo and the SS427 Impala such great vehicles, massive hp, tons of torque and seductive bodylines. Not all of us are conerned about hitting 40mpg in a little grocery fetcher, give us back some real cars! The only recent GM vehicles we own are a 99 pickup and an 02 Suburban. We haven’t seen any car platforms from GM that appeal to us in many years.
for who ever read’s this i have 2 3 camaro’s an thay are great but the new one to make it an lil more fancey looking thay needed to put the reaceing strip’s i put one of the pic of the new camaro’s an my pc an put raceing strip’s on it it look’s a lot like an sport’s car i love it if i get one it will have raceing strip’s !!!!!!
Glad to see GM has the guts to do a real car (besides the ‘Vette). I think the powertrain and suspension set up are just fine. Only have a few points on the styling. Exterior is too angular and busy in places. 1st Gen Camaro was mostly curves with a few character lines. Would like an RS option with blackout grill and hide-aways (ala ‘67/’69). Eggcrate not workin’ for me. As for the interior, chuck it. Make it modern and with higher-grade materials than GMs have had to date (new GTO is actually nice). Bottom line, build it or surrender the muscle market to Ford and Nissan. I will definitely buy!
built it !!!
Build it, and i WILL buy it. I think it would look good sitting next to my 1969 Impala. Oh, and im 19 and wouldnt be caught dead in an import.
I have two 1967s and a 1967 and I cant wait to get my hands on one of these. Great work Bob and to the rest of the team.
Hey GM, who’s gonna wear the daddy pants on this one? The “car-guys” who tried to channel the great 1st Gen Camaro, or the “bean counters” who ensure flaccid products like the Lumina-esque Impala SS reach the showrooms?
Build a loaded, hi-po Z/28 or SS model for $30K, add a modern interior, offer a blackout grill with hide-aways (like the 67/68 RS), and stand back while GM rakes in the dough.
Screw it up, and only the rental fleets will buy it and add to the impression that GM produces commodity transportation appliances(aside from the Corvette and Solstice). Of course, if the bean counters win, you could always add some big decals and spoilers and hope for the best. The world really needs another IROC-Z.
(This is my dare to make you build this, and build it right. Your business case rolled across the stage several times last week at Barrett-Jackson as the 1st Gen Camaros were snapped up for record prices).
I very much like the idea of bringing the camaro back online. The concept car pictured above is decent at best, it has to much cadillac styling to it, the car needs to be smoothed out more and be styled more like the 69 camaro. The 69 camaro was the best looking camaro ever built, I have many friends that agree with what I’m writing. When GM does finally start building the camaro again don’t forget to put some real horsepower under the hood, a big block option would be nice, and please don’t bog us down with only having an automatic transmission. Real cars have manual transmissions.And please none of those paddle or button shifted things, we want a real clutch pedal and a real shifter.
Excited to see the Camaro attempting a comeback, but GM’s gotta be careful about this. After reading other posts, some feel its too retro, others, not enough. But if you’re truly objective, you gotta see that if you took the bowtie off the grill of this new concept, you wouldn’t even know it’s a Chevy! The designers may “claim” a heritage to the ‘69, but I didn’t see it until it was pointed out to me. It looks closer to a Caddy XLR! A beautiful car to be sure, but a car that women WON’T drive ( or be able to see out of ) and whatever performance adventages it may have over Ford and Mopar, it will all be for naught. The concept as it is now will never be a volume seller, just another GTO, albeit a better looking car. Go back to the drawing board and get this right or if you feel it HAS to be built, give it another name and save the Camaro moniker for the real thing.
If you do reintroduce it, this time around, keep the production volumes up and costs low by keeping the exterior and interior styling the same for both “Camaro” and “Firebird” variants….just change the stickers on the outside. They were both always the same (Firebird/Camaro) cars anyway…and then this time the aggregate sales volume will hopefully cost justify the car. Also…try to avoid too much chrome on the dash…a failing of the Mustang is when the sun comes in the rear window, hits the chrome dash, and blinds the driver…had to drive for 2 hours west one time when that was happening in a Mustang rental…
Oh, and I have to agree with many others that while the exterior looks great, the interior is awful looking. I realize its just a concept car, but it is the outside that has to look retro…the inside should be nice, neat,informative (read:gauges) and comfortable. That’s not what I see in the pics…the word “garish interior” comes to mind.
If you do make a V6 version, please offer an extra cost option to have the sport suspension/handling of the V8 variant with the V6 for fuel economy…
Hello Bob: When I first seen the new ZO6 Corvette, I thought how is it possible to build another car as awesome as this one.
I never expected the new camaro to be this cool, it’s perfect, except for a couple of very small things, first of all, the grille could be just a little taller, and you could add just a little bit more of an arch the the front fender crowns.
But it’s is the most perfect thing I’ve ever seen, as far as a concept car, and I love it, I will be buying one of these cars.
I think it’s prefect comination of design meets art, and in my opinion that is what you need to to to sell cars, I must admit GM is the best at doing that.
It’s a beautiful thing to see the camaro coming back, as a camaro fan I owned a 1969 Z/28, and I think that this is the best camaro since then, you could not have possibly put more effort in to the creation of this car, all I can say is Thank You.
When I seen it my eyes welled up with tears of joy, I was all giddy just like a little school girl, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.
im 19 and i would like to say that car is “the bomb”!!!!i like everything that it has to offer, im a big fan of camaros and i just wanted to say that the camaro should come out in 2007 like that it will be a 40th anniversary car.i cant wait to out-run the mustangs on the streets and make them feel like the ponys that they are.two of my friends and myself already have the money so just bring out the camaro SS cuz we want to ride.
GM what were you thinking? I am 32 years old and have owned many different year camaros. Ford got it right with the new “retro” mustang. Dodge got it right with the challenger. One of my friends works for a local ford dealer and tells me they can’t keep the new”retro” mustangs in stock. I am sure if Dodge produces the challenger it will be the same way. GM, folks expect a 67 to 69 camaro but with crisp new lines. Not a half corvette half who knows what!! GM you will fail if you make this one. If this is the best you can do let camaro rest in peace.
The front end needs to be reworked. Something about it looks like an electric razer. I’ve owned a 1968 sport coupe with a 327, a 1967 rs with a 396. Love thouse cars. On the new one you do have the rear ends right. but hey what ever GM will do what it wants. Cars like that have become too expensive for most people and they have lost their appeal as well. They are not cars anymore they are vechicles. as so they are cold heartedy called by todays people with ther cell phones Im not saying that I can’t afford a car like that but, the looks for the money. I ‘d rather buy a Harley Davidson. And thats what I did. Nightrain softail now thats fun!! GM PLEASE TAKE NOTE THIS IS FROM A GUY IN HIS FORTIES WITH MONEY TO BURN.
Please GM build the new camaro and the people will come .. I have owned many camaros and felt lost when it went out of production.. Even that i am older now i would still buy one .. Thank you for the consept car and starting the heart beat of america camaro owners going again..
I have owned four camaro’s. I loved the concept camaro photo’s of the Camaro released some time ago. The red with the black stripes. It resembled the 69 a lot more. The front grill with the round lights was a lot better. This new design looks to much like the xlr, or the chrysler products. The other one had a real muscle car look, and feel.
Gee guys you are taking the heart out of the beast (camaro)….by dropping the engine performance down to a 4 cylinder when you want economy…The whole idea behind the camaro was performance!! It was never know as an economy car…If I was wanting to sale and you need sales I would take a tip from your boys at Ford and there Shelby mustang which back in the late 60’s was the reason why camaro was created to match or outperform the mustang….AND 350 WITH 400 HORSES….come on guys the shelby mustang at this time buts out of over 450 h.p….It will run away from the camaro….Come on guys you are coming after the baby boomer for sales and right now you are not convicing me that I need to buy a camaro…..and I own a chevrolet……
I am an original owner of a 1978 Z28 Camaro with a 1989 ZZZ H.O. 350 small block in it and the Concept Camaro looks great! My wife Kathy and I have decided that we need to have a 2008 Z28 to park next to our’78. After all, she needs a Camaro of her own to drive to our Western Michigan Camaro Club events, doesn’t she? Two requests for the new car though: Please get a rid of the catalytic converter hump in the front passenger floor and more importantly, make the Z28 again a special performance option as the Z06 Corvette is, instead of a middle option between the Sport Coupe and SS. Vince Piggins would be proud!
We love the new Camaro….and want you to build it. We will buy one….
but Don’t wait too long…or you will lose many people …..they want it now.
My brother had a 1972 SS chevelle with the cowl inductions hood, an awsome car. I was only 11 at the time and the impression that car left on me was indelible. I have bought several GM cars in my life and I finally stopped buying GM products after the horrible reliability issues and poor dealership service I experienced. I still admire GM products but out of fear of past issues, I avoid them. When the concept Camaro was presented, the adrenaline rush was overwhelming. Finally, GM is taking queues from the past that brought the greatness they once had. If GM builds this car and builds it with the quality a car like this deserves, they will not be able to keep them on the lots. Come GM, build this car and do it right, it can be done!
build it as is, do not tone it down to another run of the mill cars that I can get from japan
The new Camaro has little resemblance to the early Camaros. If I hadn’t been told I would have thought it was a Chrysler product with the high beltline and flat flared fenders. Let’s just put a 68 or 69 body on a new chassis and drivleline. By the way what happened to the terrific Nomad you taunted us with. Retro will live on until the last baby boomer is in the old folks home. Get with the program before it’s too late.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make a Firebird…. 1st gen is OK, but the 2nd Gen (supposedly based on the style of the Ferrari GTO) are still some of the most beautiful around – maybe the Firebird can take some cues from the 2nd Gen and the Camaro from the 1st? If you need reinforcement for this idea, take a look at how many Firebirds Pontiac sold in 1979…
Also, don’t go completely retro – you did a great job on the Camaro (except for the interior, which is too much of a lift from the 1st Gen). The Mustang and Challenger look like the designers couldn’t buy a new idea – GM could capitalize on an opportunity here!
Current F-Bodies:
78 Y88 Gold SE Trans Am 400 T-Top
81 Formula
87 Formula 5.0 5 Speed T-Top
00 Trans Am 6 Speed T-Top
Past F-Bodies:
77 Trans Am w/ GTO 400
89 Formula 5.0
76 Trans Am 455
Obviously – GM are you listening? – I would buy a 2009 Firebird! A Camaro? Maybe – depends on the GTO. Or maybe I would have Lingenfelter drop an LS2 or LS7 in my 2000 TA…
I just wanted to start out by saying “WOW”. I almost couldn’t believe the SEXY automobile I was looking at was a GM product. Way to go GM, it’s about time you catered to a crowd that wasn’t on the way to the grave. As an early thirties young exec. this would be something that definately catches my eye on the road, and make me turn my head. But, u must put the appropriate power supply under the hood. Did you use Chip Foose to design this? Great stuff!
I’ve owned 2 Camaros a 91 Z28 & a 99 SS, and just wanted to say MAKE THE NEW CONCEPT A REALITY!!
THX
You guys still don’t get it! If you want it to sell, then make to look MORE like the true ‘69. That car was to die for. Everytime I see the ‘69 Pace Car it takes my breath away! The new mustangs resemble their early counterparts much more than the new camaro does and the new Dodge challenger is just amazing in its design. If you want it to sell then redesign it to look more like that awesome ‘69!
Yes.
I want to see a SS version.
and a “copo” version.
and a weight no higher than 3500 lbs.
Beautiful car! It’s long overdue. My wife and I are huge camaro fans and I don’t know what car I’d buy if it wasn’t a camaro.
As has been said make it with a big V8 and I’ll buy it. Make with with the Z06 engine and name your price.
Is it here yet?
The Camaro looks ok but, the front end has to go!!!!!
It looks nothing like the 67-69 years. I am a avid Camaro person, I own a 86 and 79 Z28 and I love them but the new one looks nothing like a Camaro. The back of the car looks great and the rest of the car I know of three people that said they would buy a new mustang before they would buy a new Camaro! I am one of the three.
Thank you for your time.
Kimberly
They better make a cheap V8 Z-28 version. I don’t have 35 thousand big ones.
PERFECT
The exterior is perfect, I know their are obstacles but the sooner you can get this car into production the better. Remember when making the production model to have a user friendly interior. When people see this car on the roads, they should look at it and know it can walk the walk, the V8 should send chills up spines like sitting on woodward ave durring the dreamcruise. Keep at it, nice job with the NEW CAMARO.
It is just about perfect the way it is. Don’t change it – just build it and it will be at the top of my list. As a former Mustang SVO owner and current SHO owner, this design is enough to make me swith my allegience from Ford. The new Mustang and Challenger are too retro. The Camaro design is truly modern with just enough homage paid to the ‘69. It’s a knockout.
I absolutely love this retro design, definately make this mustang fighting machine, make it affordable and competitive with the mustang so ford won’t know what hit them. Also make the Chevy SS as a family sedan to compete head on stylishly with the charger. Go GM, kick some @&*
The New Camaro is great, but I think I speak for all Pontiac fans in saying these three words:
WHERE’S THE FIREBIRD??????????
frankly this car seems amazing it would deffinetly beat the mustang, but I hope we don’t need to wate untill 08 to see it, the sooner we see it the better.
Excellent job on the new Camaro! Here is a link that shows an excellent rendering of what the 09 Trans Am should look like. If you want to sell a lot of cars check out this link. If you build it they will sell! I’ll be 1st in line! East bound and down! Thank for your time.
http://custom.autos.yahoo.com/gallery/photos;_ylt=AibOgvdGPrsZyM9HFNv0nqtC.ckF?carid=6299
Being a first generation Camaro nut and working in the automotive field, I have discussed the new Camaro concept with literally a few hundred people and frankly, most of us agree that GM could have stepped this up a few notches to more of a retro design. Ford pulled it off with the Mustang GT500 & Chrysler masterpieced the Challlenger (VERY NICE!) but seems GM came up short on this one, again. A bit disappointing.
To Bob Lutz:
Quite spending money and effort on the retro thing. Get back to making good cars for the masses (Camry comes to mind). Rethink your hiring practices, hire outside the box. What a disgrace to see GM drop from, what 60% of the market, to something like 25%. If I were responsible to such a lousy job I would expect to be fired. Sorry Bob, I know you aren’t responsible for the mess. Get rid of the dead wood.
I have only one thing to say about the Camero concept car–
WOOOO HOOOOO !!!! What a HOT looking ride!! I hope they put it out to the public soooon!!!!
Front of that car is looking kinda ugly. Keep working on it. Good start but much more to be desired. As an owner of a 69 SS/RS, at this stage of this car, I would NOT buy one. Also an owner of a 98SS.
Retrow it more, or stand clear to make a flop in sales when this one hits. Although you dont want to go too retrow as GM claims, if you dont, then dont expect big sales. Sorry GM, but Mopars got you beat on this one. The challenger is all retro, and everyone I know said they would buy that car over yours and these are chevy camaro guys. KEEP WORKING ON IT PLEASE!
Devoted first gen Fan.
I recently saw the camaro concept at the 2006 Cleveland Auto Show. I must say it was a huge let-down. Not only are 22-inch wheels inappropriate on an American icon like that, but the prospect of Displacement on Demand is apalling for a Camaro. Put that in you pathetic excuses for impalas and monte carlos, not in a performance coupe like the camaro. The GM rep and several other sources confirm that DOD only saves 6%-8% on gas mileage. At 30 MPG, that is about 2 MPG!! Who cares! The camaro is no place to test a new “green” technology. If the DOD wasn’t an option that could be completely deleted at the dealer (as in, no mechanical or electrical remnants of such a system) I doubt that the average grassroots fan would give it a second look. I know I walked away as soon as I heard the words Displacement on Demand. Seriously, if I were to stick a blower or a cam on that camaro, which i could see happening often, what would DOD do, have a seizure? What good is that? Offer a Camaro that has no options. e.g.: no power locks, no power windows, no power mirrors/heated seats, no “OnStar”, no fancy bells and whistles, and especially no “green” technology. Give the option of those to those who want them, therefore lowering the base price. As far as publicity goes, get this thing on a commercial! Show it off! Come up with an awesome slogan, such as “Camaro: eating Mopars and fords since 1967. Now serving imports” or something to that effect. Don’t do as you are doing now and try to sell it on gas mileage. No one wants a camaro for its gas mileage. That is what the cobalt is for…
Bob,
You hit a homerun with this one. Definitely stayed with the traditional style but improved on those designs with a modern flair. Hope it becomes a reality!
Sorry, I don’t see a camaro here. What I see is another new plastic car that will sell from the name of a classic, much like the new “malibu” or “impala”. Why can’t a manufacturer bring back a classic w/o totally screwing with it. Like the new “gto” there is nothing gto about it, it’s a stinking grand am with a classic’s name. The gto was a true muscle car with classic design. Why not bring back a nearly exact 69 camaro or chevelle with a modern drivetrain? Some would say aerodynamics. Well, I say how aerodynamic are these 10 foot tall trucks/mini vans or hummers? If you left the body design alone they would sell like hot cakes and GM still has the dies to press out the steel so loads of money would be saved.
Sorry, I don’t see a camaro here. What I see is another new plastic car that will sell from the name of a classic, much like the new “malibu” or “impala”. Why can’t a manufacturer bring back a classic w/o totally screwing with it. Like the new “gto” there is nothing gto about it, it’s a stinking grand am with a classic’s name. The gto was a true muscle car with classic design. Why not bring back a nearly exact 69 camaro or chevelle with a modern drivetrain? Some would say aerodynamics. Well, I say how aerodynamic are these 10 foot tall trucks/mini vans or hummers? If you left the body design alone they would sell like hot cakes and GM still has the dies to press out the steel so loads of money would be saved.
Build It!!!!!
Bob,
Build this car! I have been a GM man since I learned to drive, but you’ve lost me over the last 8 years. You’ll get me back with this one………..please build it, and make an SS version right out of the gate so I don’t have to wait until year two.
Dave
This car is awesome. I got to see it in person at the kansas city auto show and it looks even better in person. I thought it would be a good idea to make it ipod compatible, E-85,and come with the gearing like the corvette’s. Expecialy the Z-51 package for the six spead would be very cool to put in this car
This car is perfect and i would definantly buy one it would make very happy to have one and definantly worth every dime i would give to purchase one, so please put this into production. I am currently saving now so that when you call me i will try to be the first one in line, as so many muscle car lovers will be rambling all up and down the road. Not to mention the out dated mustang whick i do not like .Every-one talkin about competition between ford and chevy. That is not even questionable. It is just right, you know who is more gives more performance, reliability, style, good taste, and worth your penny. Thank you and please give us this car, and for you ford lovers you know who you are, do not deny it you know what is good, well if you did there wouldnt be ford, just go out and get your self a Chevy. Time is running-out, but not for the camaro i will be waiting for you at my local dealer. thank you. Merle…………………
At 45 yrs of age, having owned various camaros before, I will say that since seeing this camaro on live web cast I cann’t stop thinking about when I can buy one!! This car looks the part it needs to be, A car of beauty that is not so retro that it would bore the younger buyer. The only thing I hope to see is a SS-RS package that might even have the venerable LS6 in it… With either V-8 powerplant I WILL BUY ONE !!!
Please go back to the drawing board. At least remove the Camaro badge if you actually make this thing. GM blew it with the GTO and the same thing is going to happen with this “camaro”. Look at the NEW Mustang. Ford did it correctly; and I’m a hard core CHEVY GUY!! I’m saying as it is.
Bob, this doesn’t look anything like a Camaro. I don’t think it will sell well as it is too far out from the 1967 Camaro. GM needs to do what Chrysler did with the Challenger, they had a 1970 model in the design studio to work from. I just saw a Challenger at a car show and it has the same aura and excitement as the original. The Challenger is a car I would give anything to have! Ford did an outstanding job in recreating the 1967 Mustang and it is a big seller. Don’t waste the stockholders money with this ugly design!
The exterior is excellent! The interior however I don’t like. I used to have an 89 camaro and it was great. I’m currently holding off buying a new car until this comes out, or at least until more info and production model pictures are released. I looked at the Mustang but its interior was awful. I’ve also been considering the G6, which has a good stereo (which is a big deal to me), but no auxiliary inputs. I really hope the interior is adjusted and you make a good decision on the stereo, because I would love to drive this car!
GM is not making it feel like I can provide specific input regarding producing the Camaro into production. It should have a convertible option like the original. I would round the body style a little more to add the edge. Ensure the quality is high so that former buyers of GM cars will come back.
The exterior is great, but the interior leaves much to be desired. I don’t want to feel like I’m driving an old car. It should be modern, with a audiophile stereo and an auxiliary input.
Finally at last we the Chevy people of America can hold our heads up high again.
Please please deliver GM.
If GM has cold feet they should start taking deposits to see what hype they have generated.
I’m older now and am just waiting to sink my teeth into a real Chevy pony car again.
I’ve been driving for 23 years now and for at least 20 out of those 23 I’ve owned a Camaro.
PLEASE MAKE US PROUD ONCE MORE.
Put these four door sedan wanna be pony hot rod Dodge/chrysler cars in their place as well as the mustang that is just annoying.
To GM,
I like the idea that you guys are going to make the Camaro agian, I was stationed in Iraq, and all I could think of was getting back to the states, and driving a car that defined America. Cheverolt has done just that with this car. I think that the 21″ and 22″ wheels should stay standard on the car, or perhaps they can be optional in and SS package deal. Either way it’s a hot car, take it from someone who’s defended this country for would be thevies.
OK … I must be living in a cave somewhere! Just caught wind of the Concept Comaro. My first car was a 68 and I regret ever selling it. This one impresses me enough to say I’d gladly trade in my Honda Accord for a mid-life crisis! Please build it … and sooner than 09!! I need to show my son how a real muscle car will dwarf his Pony! T.
I managed to find a link for those who havent seen the Pontiac version photochops..
Pontiac lovers, check THIS out!!!!
http://www.sounddomain.com/ride/2334729
They are photochops of the new Camaro… So it should be no problem for GM to make it… Afterall, all it is, is a different front fascia & taillights…
Check out the blue Trans Am. Its done by Kevin Morgan..
Also, check out the gold Firebird by Manoah van der Wolf…
Now THOSE are two sexy,bad@$$ cars!!!
I have no interest in the new Camaro… HOWEVER, if GM built the Firebird & Trans AM based on Kevin Morgan & van der Wolfs’ designs I would but it….
Only thing it would need would be a retractable hard top…
Are you listening GM?????
And to Bob Lutz, thank you for doing all that you have done to turn the General around…. But can I PLEASE have my Trans Am???
BTW, I dont have a mullet lol… In all actuality, the mullet guys always seemed to drive Camaros & Mustangs lol.. Most of the Firebird/ Trans Am guys had normal hair for the most part lol…. (no offense to the mulletmen lol)
IT’S ABOUT TIME!!!! I bought a 68 Camaro as a youngster.My younger brother had a 67 mustang and I wanted something like it but not the same as he. I saved all my pennies and Had the tired old 327c.i.d motor rebuilt. Even while the engine was in the shop, I would go out and just sit in it, my fingers wrapped around the steering wheel. Such was my love for that car. Looking at your concept braught all those memories flooding back. PLEASE build it!!!
I have been an owner of 4 camaros in my life. I cannot wait for the 2009 Camaro. One thing though, the back certainly looks like a mustang. Maybe that could be modified. I am sure I do not stand alone on this comment, suggestion, etc. If I wanted a mustang I’d buy a mustang. But since I am Camaro guy make it look like a Camaro. So please, back to the drawing board. Make it look like a Camaro and not an imitation of a mustang. If 2009 Camaros come out looking like a Camaro I’ll be one of first in line. Thanks! God Bless! Keep up the great work.
Bring it on GM, I do however agree that the back end needs to look more like a Camaro. Stereo will also be a key factor, need those mp3 inputs. Offer the larger rims as well. I am 45, owned a ‘75 LT and regret ever letting my ‘X’ talk me into selling it. I was in the market for a new vehicle until this was unveiled, I am holding out for it’s release. BE SMART THOUGH, listen to the enthusiast, keep the nastalga, just add some current technologies, and blow them ponies off the road. Wallet is ready and mind made up. Let’s Roll!!!
It has been said before, but the Camaro really needs either a moonroof option or at least a T-top. The Mustang coupe does not have a sun/moonroof option, and that is ridiculous. Don’t expect the people who want some kind of open top to just go for a convertible. Looking through a converible’s tiny back window is not easy for most. And not too safe either. Keep that in mind too if you consider a convertible, which I hope you do. I cannot research this right now, but from every woman I know, girls love convertibles or at least sun/moonrooves. Please! Please, put a moonroof up there!!!
The car looks great, and I’m waiting to buy!
I know an all-covered top makes it more like a racecar, but some of us just want to drive normally.
Thanks!
I’m waiting!!!…where do I sign up? Is there a waiting list? I want one of the first ones on the street!
Anyone know my 90 camaro rattles when a bump is hit? Thanks
To say Im disappointed is an understatement. The Camaro is a disgrace to the Muscle Car lovers of the past and the new Camaro lovers today. This so called New Model will never present any competition against the Ultra Successful Ford Mustang which is by far a better looking and probably will be better performing product.
My Dad retired from General Motors after over 34 years of Loyal Duty to the company. We have always purchased from GM and Chevrolet but if the powers that be dont get off their butts and make some noise the company will go under…
Too bad my education and my experience wont matter to the big wheels….By the way Im not some local redneck with no education. I have a few degrees under my belt plus a PhD and I can see that GM isnt interested in succeeding…
I myself love the new camaro and prefer it over the mustang (always have, always will). However, I am very disappointed that there will be NO firebird version (seems like Bob Lutz is a firebird-hater….)….
Anyway, I dont get what people are commenting on the design of the new camaro! Since the 80’s all american car products turned into shitty japanese/asian styling, the former american glory is gone!
now finally we are getting some good purely american designs again, and they look excellent and its good to have something different for a change…..better then putting a GTO badge on a Holden Monaro…
(ps. for firebird/transam lovers, ive got some designs over here:
http://s114.photobucket.com/albums/n261/Manoah2u/designs/
please check m out!)
greetings,
Manoah van der Wolf
MSRP for an 2009 Chevrolet Concept Camaro
The question about the waiting list, yes there is one. I just called my local dealership and had them put me on the waiting list. She said that there where only a few people on the list so far.
what about the too often overlooked nova? Any concepts in sight for this classic?
from the pictures the camaro looks nice but front end looks wrong.ive seen better from gm corvette is my personal favorite bring back cavileir and soup it up with turbocharged model hey the camaro is all good as long as its a performer and has aftermarket to make it go
PLEASE GM BUILD THIS CAR IF I COULD CHANGE ANYTING ABOUT IT I WOULD NOT ITS PERFICT GM YOU DID VERRY WELL THIS TIME I LOVE CADILLACS BUT THIS CAR WOULD MAKE ME CHEAT ITS ALL GM KEEP IT IN THE FAMALY JUST ONE THING MAKE IT AFORDABLE FOR THE YOUNG ONES LIKE ME IM 25 BUT IVE FOUND MY NEW TOY THE COST SHOULD BE AROUND $ 18K BASE PRICE AND V8 $ 24K TO $ 28K SO WE ALL CAN HAVE ONE BECAUSE THE CHEAPER THEY ARE THE MORE YOU SELL AND THE MORE YOU SELL THE MORE MONEY GM MAKES THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME IF YOU BILD IT THEY WILL COME GOOD BYE
please please for the love of god cars and american muscle and the sake of GM’s name bring back the FIREBIRD
If GM is going to recapture the hearts of Americans, it needs to produce more vehicles that made them big in the first place. They need to make vehicles we want to drive and not ones they want us to accept and drive. It would also be nice if they would once again make “bare-basic” models available again, I mean do many people care if their car has blue tooth or a tire pressure monitoring system in it? Yes those options are nice, but some of us would be fine if there was a car that offered just what we needed to get from point A to B, but was fast too. You know like the Camaro of yesteryear. The concept out now is nice, but will it come out a bit late?
I Can’t wait for the production model. The Transformer movie was a good market stratagy. Of course Retro is in and is doing well for other carmakers. Since I am biased to the classic 1969 camaro I do wish the lines on the front end resembled more of the 69′ signature. The sharp upward sweep just gives a cool look towards the future but a softer classic style will pull in more of us 40 plus buyers “with money”. The hint of school days with the cool car from the past excites everyone. Chevy has and will always dominate the performance end of cars of this class. Now lets take this to the level of total dominance. By the way, if we made the GTO look like a GTO instead of a special edition Grand Am you might sell more of those too.