History of the Camaro

Part 4 - 1993 to 2002 - Tim Boles

1993
With a totally redesigned body and significant mechanical improvements, the fourth-generation Camaro debuted. All models included dual air bags along with analogue instrument displays and tachometer. The V6 bulked up from 140 hp to 160 hp and the Z28 received an LT-1 V8 similar to that used in the Corvette and rated at 275 hp. Camaro's fourth appearance at the Indy 500 was a Z28 with striking black-over-white exterior with special multicoloured stripes and interior seat covers. 40,224 Camaros, including 633 pace car replicas, were produced.

1994
The fourth-generation convertible was introduced with a power top, full headliner and heated rear window. Sequential Fuel Injection was added to the LT1 V8 engine and Z28's standard 6-speed manual transmission featured Computer-Aided Gear Selection. New options included Remote Keyless Entry and leather seating surfaces in graphite or beige. 119,799 Camaros were produced.

1995
This year Camaro focused on handling and performance improvements. Traction Control became an option on Z28 as well as a new all-season tire to complement the system. For V6 buyers, an optional 200 hp was offered. This was also the first year customers would see body-colour roof and mirrors with the T-Top option. And the optional 5-speaker sound system blew away the 3-speaker system from the previous year. 122,738 Camaros were produced.

1996
Two models were reborn for the '96 model year: the Rally Sport Coupe and the Rally Sport Convertible. They sported front and rear fascia extensions, ground effects along the sides, and a three-piece rear spoiler extension. Now standard in all base models was the 3.8 Litre, 200-hp engine, available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The SS Package made a comeback with up to 310 horses, a composite hood with a functional hood scoop, restyled rear spoiler, revised suspension and 17-inch Corvette ZR-1-style wheels. It was available nation-wide, but only through special arrangements with SLP Engineering. 61,362 Camaros were produced.

1997
To commemorate its 30th anniversary, the '97 Camaro was chosen to pace the Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in August of '96. Reminiscent of the '69 Indy 500 pace car, this Camaro was Arctic White with Hugger Orange heritage stripes and featured a special black-and-white Houndstooth interior. While all '97 models boasted a 30th anniversary logo on the front seats, a special Z4C Anniversary Package replicated the Brickyard 400 pace car. 60,201 Camaros, including 4,534 anniversary models, were produced.

1998
Camaro continued to make a statement this year. A completely restyled front end with new reflector optic headlamps, fenders, hood, grille and bumper fascia were just a few of the new parts and components this year. The biggest was the all-new all-aluminium Corvette-derived 5.7 Litre V8 engine. Horsepower was beefed up to 305 on Z28 and 320 on SS. Plus, the 4-wheel disc brake system included a new integral ABS system from Bosch. 49,218 Camaros were produced.

1999
Z28 was the racing choice for 1999. 50 identical Z28s were chosen for driver introductions at the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400. Hugger Orange, Bright Blue Metallic and Pewter Metallic were new on the colour palette. Minor improvements included a larger gas tank than the '98 model and Traction Control available on all '99 models. 42,098 Camaros were produced.

2000
SS remained a favourite this year, and Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis used 50 of them. On the inside, a new Congo-Lexington cloth replaced the previous basket-weave style, while Camaro's aluminium wheels - both 16 and 17 inch - were restyled for a fresher look outside. 45,461 Camaros were produced.

2001
Still the race-inspired performer it was designed to be, the 2001 Camaro is as spirited as ever with more horsepower than last year's model. SS takes the lead with 325 hp and Z28 follows closely with 310 hp. Check out the hot new colour, Sunset Orange Metallic.

2002
For 35 years Camaro has remained true to its muscle car heritage, offering honest American performance with rear-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspensions, exceptional power and eye-catching, fluid-themed styling. To celebrate, a limited number of 35th anniversary Camaro T-Top coupes and convertibles were built featuring special graphics and interior.

As that was the last model year for the F-body, GM said it would continue to support the millions of Camaro owners with replacement parts, reproduction parts, accessories and technical support through its Service Parts Organisation.