2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible

Chevrolet displayed a high-performance ZL1 version of the Camaro convertible at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. It joins the Camaro ZL1 coupe that Chevrolet introduced at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. Powered by a 580-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, the 2013 Camaro ZL1 convertible will go on sale late in calendar-year 2012.

Today’s Camaro was introduced as a 2010 model; the convertible was added for 2011. The ZL1 coupe debuts as a 2012. The standard Camaro LS and LT use a 323-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. SS versions have a 6.2-liter V8. It makes 426 horsepower when teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission, and 400 horsepower when ordered with a 6-speed automatic. The ZL1 is available with both the 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions, but with no difference in power.

Chevrolet added additional structural reinforcements to the ZL1 convertible body. These include strengthened A-pillars and windshield header, beefed up front door hinge pillars, and reinforcements inside the rocker panels. The ZL1 convertible uses the third-generation Magnetic Ride Control suspension, with new faster adjusting shocks. Other performance enhancements introduced on the ZL1 coupe will also be found on the convertible. They include Performance Traction Management, stronger drive shaft and rear axle, and a dual-mode exhaust system. Model-specific styling touches include redesigned front and rear fascias, vertical fog lamps, and a vented aluminum hood with a carbon-fiber insert.

While no pricing was announced for the ZL1 convertible, Chevrolet officials said the coupe will start at $54,995. We expect the droptop version to be $2,000-$5,000 more.