Raw power. Engineering excellence. A symbol of American performance.
The Chevy Camaro ZL1 – with its LT4 supercharged V8 engine – is a beast. But, perhaps not for long, as Chevy has ended production, likely in favor of a future electric-powered ZL1.
No doubt, the ZL1s available today will only gain in popularity and go up in value, similar to how other higher-trim Camaros hold their value. In this article, we’ll look at how the LT4 engine cemented the ZL1’s reputation as one of the most formidable vehicles on the road and drag strip. Focusing on the heart of the beast, we’ll cover the LT4 engine’s history, Chevy’s earliest production of the ZL1 option, and look at all the supercharged iterations.
What Engine Comes in the Camaro ZL1?
The Camaro ZL1 has been synonymous with ultimate performance ever since its inception, and the engine that powers this monster is the LT4. Introduced to the Camaro lineup in 2017, the LT4 is a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that delivers a staggering 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Originally, this engine made its debut in the 2015 Corvette Z06.
The origins of the ZL1 reach further back than the LT4, however.
The original 427ci ZL1 engine is a legendary powerhouse that first made waves in 1969, initially designed for Can-Am racing. Crafted from aluminum, this big-block V8 was incredibly lightweight and delivered a jaw-dropping 430 horsepower, though it was rumored to produce much more. Only 1969 Camaro ZL1s were equipped with this engine, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after muscle cars ever built.
In 2012, Chevy revived the ZL1 in its fifth-gen Camaro production. This marked the first time the ZL1 was offered as a regular-production model, a significant milestone in the Camaro’s storied history. The 2012 ZL1 came equipped with a supercharged LSA engine, a 6.2-liter V8 that delivered an impressive 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The LT4 that followed, however, was a huge upgrade for ZL1 owners.
The LT4 in the ZL1 isn’t just about raw power; it’s also engineered for efficiency and durability. Featuring a compact Eaton supercharger, the LT4 produces maximum power without compromising the balance and drivability of the Camaro. With this engine, the ZL1 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars available today.
Are All ZL1 Supercharged?
Yes, all ZL1 models are supercharged, thanks to the LT4 engine and its fifth-gen predecessor, the LSA engine. This supercharging is what sets the ZL1 apart from other Camaros and muscle cars in general. The Eaton supercharger on the LT4 is a key component, designed to deliver immediate and sustained power across the entire RPM range. It’s this feature that gives the ZL1 its explosive acceleration and track-ready performance.
Chevrolet didn’t just slap a supercharger onto a V8 and call it a day; the LT4 engine is meticulously engineered to handle the additional stress and heat generated by forced induction. With advanced cooling systems, including a larger intercooler and upgraded radiator, the ZL1 is capable of handling extreme driving conditions, whether on the street or the track.
What Camaros Have the LT4 Engine?
The LT4 engine isn’t exclusive to the ZL1, but it’s certainly the most famous application. Here’s a look at which Camaro models feature this powerhouse engine, starting with sixth-generation Camaros:
- 2017-2023 Camaro ZL1: The LT4 engine made its Camaro debut in 2017 and has been the sole gas-powered engine option for the ZL1 since. Every ZL1 model from 2017 through the end of production in December 2023 is powered by this supercharged V8, making it a true modern muscle car.
- ZL1 1LE: The track-focused version of the ZL1, known as the ZL1 1LE, also features the LT4 engine. With additional aerodynamic and suspension upgrades, the ZL1 1LE takes the LT4’s performance to an even higher level, making it the ultimate Camaro for track enthusiasts.
- Corvette Z06 (C7 Generation): Although not a Camaro, it’s worth mentioning that the LT4 engine first appeared in the 2015 Corvette Z06, which shares much of its high-performance DNA with the Camaro ZL1. The Corvette Z06 helped set the stage for the LT4’s later application in the ZL1, proving the engine’s capabilities in a sports car environment.
LT4 Engine Specs in the Camaro ZL1 (2017-2023)
In 2020, Chevy produced a refined ZL1 with enhanced aerodynamics and suspension/handling technology. The all-aluminum small-block LT4 retained its raw power even with the changes. All production ZL1s run with:
- Engine: 6.2-liter LT4 Supercharged V8
- Horsepower: 650 HP
- Torque: 650 lb-ft
The Legacy and Future of the Camaro ZL1
Production of the Camaro ended in December 2023, marking the end of an era for this iconic car. While there’s no immediate successor on the horizon, the Camaro’s legacy is far from over. Chevrolet is expected to continue the Camaro nameplate with an all-electric model, potentially arriving as early as 2026 or 2027.
Of course, we expect sustained interest in classic and late-model Camaros – and stand ready to help ZL1 owners find Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts to keep their LT4 engines on the road and track. Whenever a car is removed from production, the demand for high-quality OEM parts goes up. First, be sure you find the OEM part number for the part you’re replacing on your Camaro.
You can check Wade’s Motorsports’ online inventory for a huge selection of OEM parts for Camaros – from LT4 engine noise shields to internal wiring replacements and Camaro OEM transmissions. All that we sell is professionally tested and inspected and in most cases, we can ship internationally! Get in touch with us today for help finding the perfect Camaro parts for your project.
