The fifth-gen Camaro will probably go down in automotive history, as the car that reignited the mainstream passion for the marque. Chevrolet had no problem selling every example that rolled off of the assembly-line, and the factory-supercharged ZL1 was no different.
With 580hp on tap, in 2012, it was a Shelby GT500 killer right out of the gate in a time where the Hellcat didn’t even exist. But the Zl1 not only brought the power, it brought real-world performance; acceleration, braking, handling and ride comfort. It really was the best all-rounder in the Camaro lineup.
Time and technology has surpassed it, but the aftermarket is here to ensure the cars remain relevant, competitive, and fun to drive. Recently, a 2013 example rolled through the shop doors of Florida High Performance. FLHP has been hitting the GEN-V LT game hard since its inception, but they still turn wrenches on the higher-echelon LS vehicles like the ZL1, CTS-V, and Corvette.
This particular car was already equipped with a 427 built by Mesa Racing Engines, featuring PRC heads, an Afco heat exchanger, and an AlkyControl methanol system — which wasn’t functioning properly upon arrival. FLHP’s Erik Bentley pulled the engine, had everything gone through, made a few adjustments to several things, and the end result is nothing short of mazing. Without breaking down the complete nut and bolt recipe of engine setup, Erik was able to coax an impressive 974rwhp and 940 lb-ft of torque to the tires.
This was accomplished on 20-psi. of boost, with the methanol connected, and with DDTech handling the tuning. Not to be confused with crank horsepower, this translates to roughly 300+ horsepower to the tires of a bone stock Hellcat Challenger — while also being 300-pounds lighter than the same car.
Not only does this prove that Camaros can be more than competitor in today’s world, but there’s a lot of potential under that hood to keep us entertained until the 7th-Gen arrives in a couple of years. Until then, shops like FLHP are here to help!
Rick Seitz is the owner and founder of GMEFI Magazine, and has a true love and passion for all vehicles. When he isn’t tuning, testing, or competing with the brand’s current crop of project vehicles, he’s busy tinkering and planning the next modifications for his own cars.
