1997 Chevrolet Camaro Z-28 SS review from North America
"An affordable Corvette in a Camaro body"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
An oil leak started from the intake manifold (common problem with LT-1) at 45,000 miles.
The driver side leather seat is wearing badly on the outer edge.
The 17 inch SS wheels warp very easily and cause the alignment to go out if placed on the front.
General comments?
My 1997 SS is breath-taking fast. One stomp on the accelerator and you can see all the other drivers around you in the rear view mirror. The torque is constant throughout the rpm range and you can red-line the gears quickly. The engine mated to the 6-speed Hurst shifted transmission is smooth and flawless. Power is transferred with no obvious slippage.
The handling of the car is phenomenal. I can take sharp corners at speeds greater than 50 with absolutely no sweat. The sticky 275-45-ZR17 tires and wheels get the job done easily.
The seats seem comfortable to me and my two children love to ride in the back where they fit nicely. My wife on the other hand only likes to drive the car and not ride in it.
I have a programmer for my car and the adjustments can be felt easily. I recommend any SS owner to get one. My next addition will be a supercharger.
I love this car and have drooled over one for a long time. I own a Monte Carlo SS and the Camaro has replaced it as my favorite car to drive.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.7 LT-1 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 52000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 55000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Monte Carlo |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2003 |