Click the link. There's a video too.

www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=15&article_id=3124]

I know the majority of you have strong opinions, but instead of getting personal about it, lets hear some "constructive" criticism on the concept. If you don't like....tell us why. Be specific. Tell us what can be done to improve on it. Offer suggestions, or perhaps tell us in your mind what a new version of the Chevrolet Camaro SHOULD be. When this thread has run it's course I will print it out and personally hand the pages over to Tom Peters the lead designer in charge of the new Camaro.

Let's here it.......this should be interesting.

bring it on !

I love it. Looks great, nice lines and stance. Very similar to the clay pics that "sneaked" out a few weeks ago. Hopefully, it will be in a price range that the average guy can afford. Well done!!!:D Well you asked for comments: I think that all in all this is a great look, except for the rear. To me it's a little too "Corvettish" looking in the rear. Rectangular retro looking tail lights and a little less height in the body from the bottom of the rear fender to the trunk lid would be my suggestions. But, if this car was produced as the concept sits now, I definately would buy one.

Frist of all, kudos to them for a RWD concept.

My humble observations:

Front end styling is too sharply peaked, should be flatter and more rectangular.

Grille teeth are too widely spaced.

Headlights too highly placed.

The greenhouse is too rounded, looks like it belongs on another car.

The abrupt styling of the quarter after the door doesn't match the rest of the side.

Haven't we seen enough fake "gills" ?

Looks like two different cars from front to rear.

I think it looks great!! Gimme a 500hp Z06 engine in that thing too :)

Too bad the video wouldn't work on my office computer, now I have to wait till I get home. *&%$^%

I will need a much bigger garage.
My shopping list to include the new Camaro W/LS7 engine, Plus, a new Dodge Challenger.

Love it

Nice!

Retro, yet quite modern. Something that can evolve into future Camaros down the road.

- Wonder a rally sport version will happen with hide-away headlights?

The back half of the car OK, but to me the front looks kinda like the new Cadillac. if I wanted a Cadillac I buy a Cadillac. Bring back the hidden headlights! Make the front more rectangular This car is OK But it doesn't get my juices flowing.
I'm not a Dodge guy BUT these guys get it! Check out the Challenge http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=9&article_id=3104 The interior is just as cool as the exterior. Back to the drawing boards IMO

They can try all they want to but will never build a better looking camaro than the 1969 model. :)

The back half of the car OK, but to me the front looks kinda like the new Cadillac. if I wanted a Cadillac I buy a Cadillac. Bring back the hidden headlights! Make the front more rectangular This car is OK But it doesn't get my juices flowing.
I'm not a Dodge guy BUT these guys get it! Check out the Challenge http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=9&article_id=3104 The interior is just as cool as the exterior. Back to the drawing boards IMO
I agree...It looks like a caddy...I do like it but, I think they should "soften" the hard lines in the front and rear, I also think the rear 1/4s are a little too rounded...maybe flatten a little (like the 69)...nice but the challenger might be hard to beat...

I agree with everything ZZ430DropTop67RS said. I was hoping for something a little more retro, with more of the styling of the first gen's. The front has some elements of the 69, but the rear doesn't have any Camaro influence at all. I agree that having the RS hidden headlights would go a long way. Maybe they can come out with an RS option. But I still like the Challenger better.

Kevin

I like it. But, I think if they are going to go retro with the styling, they should stay true to the era. They need to provide a version that is bare bones, and with a big engine.

Just a few of observations, but I like the car overall and would probably buy one if the price doesn't go through the roof once they produce it:

I agree that the front has too much of a V shape to it. Bring it a little more flat and possibly do something with the grill, smaller openings, or???? Also, the front end makes it look like the car is trying to smile. Maybe bring the grill more straight edge across the bottom.

If the hood is going to harken back to the cowl induction, why put the opening in the front that is on the concept car? Would it be possible to make it a true cowl induction and do away with the front opening?

The side view of the rear of the car reminds me of a late '80's or early '90's lotus Espirit. Maybe look at adding some type of bumper type bulge to the rear fascia or change the side marker lights up a bit.

The side windows on the car are very narrow and remind me of the Dodge Magnum, 300C, etc. Have heard people complain about the narrow windows on those cars. Get a little room between the roof and the top of the door itself.

The rear tailights could be more of a rectangle instead of the close to rectangle with almost a half circle true light as displayed when they light up the turn signal.

An RS version would be a nice option.

I think the desingers deserve congratulations for trying to maintain a balance between the cars heritage and trying to make sure they have a design that will be able to move forward as peoples tastes change from the retro craze of today, to a more edgy style in the future. Put the Vette LS7 in there, and the Challenger and Mustang crowd should start claiming their accolades now, because when that bad boy hits the streets, they will be tucking tail and parking them in the garage.

I like it. It does need a more classic front end less stealthy or sharp. As a classic car lover I don't want a new car that looks like a Foose worked '70 cuda like the new challenger. Don't get me wrong the dodge is hot but I think it will take the wind out of the sails for a classic mopar owner having to park next to the new challenger at the drive-in. My guess is if they produce a few hundred thousand the mopar classic car price will drop as the folks with a lump of cash in their pockets will drop out of the driver/collector market. I don't think the high end stuff will be effected though.

All in all GM did good and I really feel they should pull out all the stops and have it in production for the 2007 new model year. Market trends are screaming now but will they in 2 years. Performance cars are a nitch, if everyone in that nitch buys this year only a small amount of them will be ready for a new car in 2009...

Tom - Do a plain jane 6cyl model, a Z/28 (using the orig logo style) with a slightly smaller cubic inch engine and an SS with big block cubic inches. Fix the front end, ditch the chopper style side mirrors and have them on showroom floors by the end of the year and you'll have a hit on your hands... Edit: (shamless pitch) If you need someone to test drive one for a year I'd be glad to help out. Im in the SF Bay area, a die hard camaro fan and do Camaro club events monthly as well monthly meetings and am sure I could put lots of mileage on it for you...

My turn :) agree that the V nose is WAY too much V and needs to come along flatter like the 69 was. You need to notice from half a mile away that its a camaro not a caddy. Drop the reverse lights below the brake lights in back and really try to get the retro look closer to 69 as they indicated they are trying to do. Face it, the Mustang looks like an old mustang and thats the first thing you notice and WHAM their sales took off.
Add the RS doors in front and a little more side glass woudnt hurt, taller window I guess.
The power plant can be optioned from V6 for economy to the big V8 so whats under there doesnt concern me as much as get that thing closer to Kris Hortons rendition so that when I come tooling down the highway, people say, "there goes the new camaro" instead of "what kind of car is that". Believe me, that will hurt your production more than anything. Dont try to be European, or Caddilac or anything else. Get the clay block out and work it over a little more.
I like the console guage part and Im sure seats will be more comfy than a 69 for sure. Toss in a fold down rear seat too. That trunk wont hold alot and where do you put the suitcases and dog/cat carry box? On the seat? Nope, fold down that rear pad and have opening into trunk for maximizing storage.
Consider also, dropping the front running lights, below the grille as in 69 car. Again, another way to tell from half a mile away that it is a camaro.
Im sure everyone has their favorite ideas to request but look at the WOW factor in the thread on the Challenger and how many guys said they'd take one cuz it looks like a Challenger. Get that thing looking more like a Camaro and keep the price competitive and it will blossom. But 2009?? no way, kick that building of engineers in the butt and get that car out in 07 if possible. With lagging sales Chev has a winner in the closet there, get it out on the street looking like a Camaro and you have a winner. my 2cents :)

I like it....It looks good. If I were to study on it awhile, I'm sure there would be some things I might change...but it would be nitpicking.

I like it! I would like to see more of it though before I make detailed comments.

If they can make it, I will have to see how to pay for it. :D

Overall, I love it! Thank you General for competing with the Mustang! The changes I would make include the same as mentioned before: front bumper less "V" shaped, no hole in the front of the cowl hood (defeats the purpose), make the front end a little less "Caddy-like". I actually like the size and shape of the door glass, and especially the quarter glass and surrounding area! Rear angle needs to be a bit closer to a '69. Again, overall I love it! I would be interested in seeing a version in black! Bergundy looks pretty good, but black would look "mean"! Great introduction!

Dano:beers:

I love the roofline/sidewindows!

I would like to see what it would look like with the '69 bodylines extending off the top of the wheelwells.

The only thing that really jumped out that I didn't like are the two "bugeye" guage pods in the interior. Overall the interior looks a little spartan.

On the outside, I do like the "semi" chop top look. The back end does appear out of proportion to the front, but it's hard to tell from just the pictures. On the newer Corvettes, I 've always thought that they looked liked a sexy girl with a fat butt with that huge rear bumper cover.

It's a design that I could probably get used to.

I do like it, BUT...it seems to have a little to much going on if that makes any sense. What i mean by that is the front does look a little Cadillacish, the back looks a little to Corvetteish, and the first thing i thought when i looked at the whole car is that is has a Chrysler 300 vibe/look about it. Yes i know the 300 is a much bigger car but its just something in the look. It just needs a few tweaks here and there to give it more of a disticnt look that screams "thats the new Camaro." A little more retro i guess is the best way to describe it. I do like it and would love to own one in its current config, but some tweaks here and there would make it a homerun and a must have. Oh, and 2009 is waaay to far away, gotta have it before then...the market is hot RIGHT NOW

umm...
the linky no worky

it just took me to the main page for day 2 of the la auto show pics and no camaro there.....

Same here Jackalope.
Also the interior link took me to the Challenger concept.

:rolleyes:

R&T changed the link.

Heres an image anyway:

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2006/Q1/162006144750.jpg

Where is the vent window? Without a vent window, it's just a regular old Camaro. :)

Just got back into town and the original link doesnt work correctly - anyone got a link to other pics? Couldn't find them from doing a search.

I really wonder why they took it down....

Has anyone checked the other sites?

I've only seen the above image (not the video), but I like it. At first, I really didn't like the nose, but's growing on me. I hope the low roof/smaller windows stays in...looks tough.

Waiting until 09 is crap though...my 01 GT will never make it, so hurry! :)

Jason

Here's a link but it's not the same one as originally posted, but will give you an idea of what it will look like. In the mean time I'll be working to find the original link.

http://automobilemag.com/auto_shows/naias_2006/0601_chevrolet_camaro_concept/

I thought everyone was playing a joke on me..... I can't find it anywhere on their site.

Boy, that picture SURE looks familiar..... like I've seen that car somewhere.... Oh yeah.... now I remember! I like it with some color OTHER than silver.
;)

Without seeing more pictures of it, it's hard to judge it really. One picture at that angle really isn't fair. But I will anyway.....

Right off the bat it sort reminds me of a new Chrysler. Big fat body with a low roofline. The front clip needs to be trimmed down lower. Looks more luxury than sport to me. Slim it down lower and make the bottom grill thinner.

Reminds me more of a Rustang, than a '69 Camaro. The low body line along the bottom of the door isn't reminiscent of a First Gen. I know, I know.... it's NOT a First Gen. But personally it reminds me of a '67/'68 Rustang. Move that body line up where the '69 had it and I'd like it more.

The grill is OK I suppose. It needs another horizontal spline across it above and below the one center spline.
LOVE the cowl hood though.
I'm not real sure what the scoop is with that groove in the roof either. If it's supposed to serve some type of purpose other than styling, fine. If not, lose it.

I like how they decided on the round fog/parking lights. The Corvette inspired back end is pretty cool..... if it has tail lights that remind me of a '67-'69 and not a Corvette. And I like the wheels and hope there are several choices.

Give it to me for $25,000 in 2007, make it look like the '69 Camaro it's supposed to resemble and GM has a winner!

**EDIT**
I just saw the two pictures of it in Silver (again). I like the tail lights that shape, but still think they should be one, long lens as opposed to two shorter lenses. Also, LOWER the car more! :thumbsup:

Reading this thread over at another camaro site, I was VERY!!! surprised at how well it's being received by the newer gen folks. I only read the first couple pages but it was nice reading so many positive comments.

http://web.camaross.com/forums/showthread.php?t=420737

I will say this too, as is... its better looking than the new mustangs..in my opinion.
Edit* -Ok, i just saw the silver pic for the first time and rear end shot.. and its growing on me. The back window and quater window is very first gen looking. Pretty Sweet!! I'll take one!!

More angles.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/wp-images/media/jan7cam_2.jpg

Where is it at Road and Track? Don't see it from the link!

From Leftlanenews: "Road and Track magazine has leaked a photo and video of the 2008/2009 Chevrolet Camaro Concept on its website. The car is due this week at the Detroit auto show. They’ve pulled their article on the car, which is believed to have been published prematurely. The official announcement is expected Sunday or Monday. We’ll keep you posted as this story develops"

Looks pretty sharp so far - as with others, the grill/nose looks a little 'off' to me - but thats a pretty sharp car - so yes, as stated, based on earlier clay model, they have certainly made changes, and Im glad they did. Can't wait to see more pics and some prices ;) I know I know, way premature, but hey, gotta do something with my time till 2009. The scary part is that by '09, who knows where car design will be. The charger / challenger / mustang may have opened new "retro" doors that even this camaro can't keep up with, but as for now, pretty sharp looking car.

I think the new Camaro is fine as is with the exception of the grill. Make the rectangles 1/2 the size or smaller than they are on the red car. Offer it in a RS, SS etc... I think that it has plenty of retro without being a copy. As DJD said, the new Challenger looks great but I think it could have an effect on the old car prices. This Camaro has some old style to it but is different enough that people will either buy it or buy a 1st gen.
i would definitely buy it just as it is as long as it has 450+ hp.:thumbsup:

The answer is simple: Please make a modernized version of the classic 69 RS/SS and then get out of the way. The car crazy public is screaming for it, and GM has their ears covered. I guess we have to turn up the volume!!

wilma

I have to say that I like what I see for the most part, out of a concept camaro. If this car was on the "lot" I would have an interest in actually purchasing a new vehicle for the first time in... forever. The rear looks a little junk in the trunk to me. The grill is just fine. Good to see some styling back at GM, the big three for that matter.

Link to Video (you need to copy and paste it into your browser):
mms://c9o.earthcache.net/woc-01.media.globix.net/COMP000787MOD1/roadandtrack/2006/0601_camaro_hi.wmv

Photos of this car have been trotted out before,..some concept deal a couple of years ago. I've seen subsequent photos of concept Camaros as well,..some ok some not.

Don't like this one though,..the grill-work is cartoonish.

I don't believe this car will out-sell mustang,..it will likely out-perform it, but then that was also the case before the Camaro name-plate was shelved in 02 by GM.

Like was stated earlier,..GM has it's blinders on, and it makes me crazy.

The fact that 'new' 69's are being reproduced and sold should be a clue. The fact that Ford produced 112,000 Mustangs in 2004 and then produced 192,000 in 2005 (that's 71% YOY growth). The fact that Chrysler is currently tweaking a Challenger that resembles their 1970 model,..etc.

GM,..wake up!!!

My opinion.

Photos of this car have been trotted out before,..some concept deal a couple of years ago. I've seen subsequent photos of concept Camaros as well,..some ok some not.

Don't like this one though,..the grill-work is cartoonish.

I don't believe this car will out-sell mustang,..it will likely out-perform it, but then that was also the case before the Camaro name-plate was shelved in 02 by GM.

Like was stated earlier,..GM has it's blinders on, and it makes me crazy.

The fact that 'new' 69's are being reproduced and sold should be a clue. The fact that Ford produced 112,000 Mustangs in 2004 and then produced 192,000 in 2005 (that's 71% YOY growth). The fact that Chrysler is currently tweaking a Challenger that resembles their 1970 model,..etc.

GM,..wake up!!!

My opinion.

How about re-reading the original post and being constructive. You're doing nothing but bashing GM here and it's silly.


Anyway....

I did like it from the picture, but man, the picture does NOT do the car justice! You gotta see the video. The grill actually looks good when you see the car in the vid.

This one looks a lot more like a Camaro than the 4th gens do.

I see first gen Camaro history when I look at the video. The dash looks very similiar to a '69. 400 hp is not too shabby either!

Kel

Think it'd look great with a hideaway headlight config ala 67-69 RS. Nice lines though. If you really look closely at the profile of the Challenger, the two cars cast a more similar silouette than one would think... A blacked out rear panel ala big block SS cars might be sweet,especially if the 500 horse alloy LS7 found itself between the fenders! Sign me up...

. I LIKE IT!

At first I was going to be MAD! :angry: All this hype and all I could get to was the R&T cover page. Overall I like the design. I love the roof and window lines. :cool: Very '68-'69. The grill Looks too much like a :). Straighten the bottom of the grill out instead of swooping it up at the ends. I love the cowl hood. :thumbsup: (It save us from having to look for an aftermarket one.:D ) From what I can see I like the rear view as well. Can we get some lower RS back up lights? ;) Personally I think the dash is more '67-'68, and the center counsel is '68-'69. I will reserve my comments on the interior until I see actual pictures (not artist rendering). I agree I would like to see some RS, SS, Z28 packages ofered. Now how soon can I see the real one in person? Then we'll talk about how soon you can deliver one to my front door. :thumbsup:

I'd buy it as it is but this is what I think should be changed. The gills on the side look like chevy slapped them on to appease us 1st gen guys, get rid of them. The vent at the front of the hood should go or the hood should be a ram air hood not a cowl hood. The worst thing to me is the way the grill kind of goes up on the outside edges from the middle when you look at it from straight on in the front. This makes the car look like its got a big grin on the front. They should make the grill straight across, like a 1st gen, when looking straight on at the car. The point in the front doesn't bother me just the upward sweep of the grill. I would leave the rest of the car as it is. This is car looks 10 times better than our GM alternative the "GTO".

hmm, not sure yet, i'll have to see it in person. initially, like the body lines, very nice from the side, the rear could grow on me. but, not a big fan of the grille, its just kind of "clunky" looking. but, its too soon, i'll need to see one in person to say for sure.
showed the video to my wife however, and she likes it. shes tough to please too, she likes my old '89 5 liter ragtop better than my '68 rs.
i'll look forward to seeing, but, '09? thats a long ways off. by that time the retro trend may be gone or going, and everyone will have mustangs and challengers in thier garage. and, by the way, the challenger too me is the best looking of the retros so far, and i'm not much of a dodge fan.
no doubt the camaro will perform, but man i hope its more comfortable and better built than the 3rd and 4th gens.
i'll be waiting to see it before casting final judgement.

I like the lines. Looks strong, and I think the changes from the clay model pictures are all for the better.

The front end is a bit too "beak-like" to me. It says "mid eighties Thunderbird with a grille" to me. I can see hints of a first-gen, but not enough to be meaningful. I would prefer a more open grille, a more prominent header panel, and a tad more curve to the fender.

B+, in my opinion. By way of comparison, I prefer it to the Mustang, which in my opinion has a better grille, but a lackluster design behind it. If the car debuts with the Challenger, in any form similar to the concept, I do not think the comparison there would be favorable, as I think the Challenger is a far more exciting design... initially. But it is clear to see that GM is not seeking to unveil a 100% retro design, but rather seeks to actually create something new, with retro cues, but also strengths of its own. Something to excite the historical purist, and the newer generation of car buyers as well. Given the ultimate failure of the T-bird, Prowler, etc. to SUSTAIN sales, it is probably the safe bet. But I would still tweak that grille.

Great stuff guys...keep em coming!

I think that the car doesn't look that good myself. Ford hit a home run with the Mustang. They deserve the credit for that. There should already be a Camaro on the market competeing in this market. There should also be a fullsized rwd sedan (Impala SS) to compete with the 300s and Crown vics.
This thread aint about my opinion on GM so I will get back on topic. The car looks pieced together. Like they were trying way too hard to get a certain look on the front, the back, the roofline. the car doesn't flow together. The grill should go alot further south and I think should be sunk in further. If you are gonna make the car retro, then make it retro. I'm sorry, but it looks kind Hotwheelish to me. I think the rear seating will be way too small (ever sit in the back seat of a storm? Head to glass impact any pothole) The back of the car looks like a cross between a caddy and an integra. The production car will not look anything like that for anything less then $35,000. which will kill the cars sucess right off the bat. also; like the ssr and what ever that bad copy of the pt cruiser is called, you can't talk about building a car for 5 years while your competition is producing that cars market competition presently. by the time I saw my first ssr, I was already burned out on them. The new Mustang was just thrown on the showrooms and motorheads were on it like a crack head on the gravy. It's been 4 years now. this car should be on the lots. Not on the drawing board. Maybe they are still waiting for their Canadian issues to expire. That would explain 09. By that time maybe they will be looking at a retro 4th gen..Johnny

R&T changed the link.

Heres an image anyway:

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2006/Q1/162006144750.jpg




GOOD GREIF !!

like I always say the last camaro rolled off the assembly line after the strike in 1970 even if some do say it was problems with the 1/4's

I like the car,But in my opion as stated several times already the front end needs to flatten WAY out.The rest of the car is very nice.

I like what I see. I agree with a re-work on the grill, and I would lose the bowtie as well--it doesn't mean what it used to mean and it could actually hurt sales in my opinion (too much of a Astrovan, Aveo, Malibux Maxx reference for me). Concerned about visibility with window size too. Love the first gen influence in the cockpit, though!

I still prefer the retro lines that Chrysler applied to the Challenger, but let's give GM more time to make it right.

Here is what i would change if i was giving the job:
1) use original grill from a 69
2) use original tail lamp assembles
3) get rid of the line in the roof
4) get rid of the opening between the header panel and hood, Makes me think that there should be a red light moving back and forth.
5) the mirrors look too prowler
Other than that love the car
Thanks G.M ,Make it a HIT!!!!!
Cant wait to see them at the dearlerships.

GOOD GREIF !!

like I always say the last camaro rolled off the assembly line after the strike in 1970 even if some do say it was problems with the 1/4's

Thanks. But we were looking for "constructive" criticism.

Perhaps you should try again.

First. I'm glad this day is here.

Second: Infamous, huge thanks goes out to you for giving us the chance to comment. I guess, even bigger props if management considers this input as valuable. All these words of support of our cars over the years and the mods keeping us on course may have paid off. You mods ought to be proud.

The car. Looks like to me on first glance, GM did what the said they would do, or maybe, what they said they wouldn't do. Retro. If I were to compare the Mustang to this new Camaro. I would clasify the Mustang as a 1968 designed forward and produced in 2005. Like I said, it looks like GM decided not to go retro, yet, this new car picks up on a couple of design cues that makes me feel Camaro straight away. Bottom line: A hit in my book.

That's not to say there's opportunity to improve. (Constructive time.)

The drivers side mirror borthers me but I think this is just a rendering issue as the passenger mirror is what I wanted to see. (I think.) My desire here is to pick up on the 1970+ mirrors that every Pro-Tour junky loves. The mirrors as they are - are nice, yeah but, I think with some minor clay change, they can get a touch more 70's feel put in to them. The goal here is two fold, get another subtle Camaro design cue included and also to get a little bit away from the mirror that is on all the other cars. Give this little design element some more identity. (It's tough to talk about something so... "nit".)

The overall body design I love but there's a worry here. The roof looks slammed. Straight away it made me feel two things Caddy and (dare I say)
the Chrysler 300. Not bad company but as a goal I would be very concerned about maintaining a distinct image. Meaning nothing looks like a Mustang, nothing looks like a Mini, sure apples and oranges but these cars being so different cause a huge following due to thier uniqueness. (Getting off track) So, locate something that is going to make a very strong statement to Camaro, the grill.

The grill I think is almost there. As someone else said, flatten it. Well maybe. It needs something that clearly separates it from a Caddy. In this case, I would look to import some of Horton's grill elements. Let's face it. Almost to a man, we all loved his work. This car needs an ounce more Horton in it at the grill. Just an ounce but that goes a long way in giving it a strong identity.

I liked a redesigned tail light assembly.

The dash. I like the overall flow but I do not like the molding on the two main gauge clusters. I like the hidden message center built in to the dash trim. There's a need for something to the left or right. (Perhaps a starter button?) Or, like the Impala, put the ignition on the dash.

All in all, high marks for the design team.

Thanks for the chance to say this also. :thumbsup:


Rick

Well, overall I think the wait has been worth it. Just the fact that GM is moving forward with the concept of a fith gen and is smart enough to solicit input from the masses is heartening. My constructive criticizims follow. A 400hp V-8 version as reported in R&T is key. (Don't forget who the target audience is on this one.) A lower priced six cyl version for the masses is acceptable, but don't forget about us baby boomers in the middle of our mid life crises with money to burn on a hi tech, hi perf version of the cars of our youth! We need price/performance to at least match the Mustang. Tweak the front grill so you loose the smiley face look. Add RS style hide away headlamps. Combine the rear tailights (a la first gen), or square them off, I don't like the straight tops and half moon bottoms, and have the tops go straigh across, the 'v' shape reminds me of a Japanese car for some reason. I'm going to have to let that interior grow on me, it looks too futuristic right now, although I do love the console (wonder if one of those will fit in my '67;). Any plans for a convertible?

It could grow on me very easy.:D

it looks like a Foose creation.
the dash looks as futuristic as all those Pontiacs from the late 80's- but with a lot less buttons.
flatten the beak out a bit, maybe round off the butt a little bit. lose the "gills" in the 1/4 panel. make the windows appear a little "taller" somehow.
i do like the lack of "bling bling" wheels. that at least makes me happy. maybe do a retro "rally wheel" for it- but PLEASE no larger than 17" in diameter to get rid of the "hot wheels" vibe that someone here already mentioned.
put the Trailblazer I6 in the base version with crank up windows and no AC (yeah, i know. aint gonna happen. but AC is an option in the Solstice..) , LS2 in the Z 28 with a 6 speed standard with "comfort" options as actual "options", and the LS7 in a stripped down ZL1 model that is made to go fast.

I like it. It is a concept, and that is kind of important to remember. It sounds shorter thant he 4th gen, that is good.

The video says it could be in production by 2008 as a 2007....and then says 'as soon as 2009'. :rolleyes:

Where is the vent window? Without a vent window, it's just a regular old Camaro. :)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v359/SIBLY/Cars/churchsignVentlWindows.jpg :waving:

I like it. It is a concept, and that is kind of important to remember. It sounds shorter thant he 4th gen, that is good.

The video says it could be in production by 2008 as a 2007....and then says 'as soon as 2009'. :rolleyes:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v359/SIBLY/Cars/churchsignVentlWindows.jpg :waving:

Testify.

First off, thank you GM for bringing us a new Camaro. I know most of us in this forum have been looking forward to seeing GM compete with Ford and Dodge in the mid size muscle car market. I do see a hint of retro in it's design, but I am a bit disappointed that it doesn't distinctively yell out "Camaro". As several posts have already mentioned, re-think the entire nose section of the vehicle. Flatten the grill out a bit and maybe add hidden headlights. The tail lights should also look more along the lines of the 69 model. In my opinion, bringing this car back would be a huge splash if these few minor changes were made. This car needs to really SCREAM out CAMARO at every angle in order to bring the masses to the showroom floors. I hate to reference the new Mustang, but when I see one of them on the road there is NO doubt what it is. I realize that those of us on this forum wish to see a design that is distinctive to the early Camaros, and I am certain that we do not represent the entire market that you wish to enter the Camaro into. That being said though, it is clear to me with all of the buzz generated by the new Mustang's and the Challenger concept, perhaps this retro look is pretty important to a large market segment. Hey GM, give the masses what they crave. They will love you all the more for it. Just my $0.02

Found these shots on Team Chevelle (claims the silver one actually drives, and will be shown at the LA show).

http://www.protouring.se/files/0602_camaro_ofsk_02_900.jpg

& another one someone customized through photoshop:

http://img492.imageshack.us/img492/4653/camaroconceptrs6se.jpg

Reference Post: http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=113788&page=3

More that someone customized through photoshop

http://www.gerbonium.com/various/5thgendarkbluewhitestripes.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v164/ShaoTB/boom.jpg

Change the grill to look like an original '69, change the tail lights to one long rectangle, move that low body line up to the center of the door and BINGO!
:thumbsup:

AM I missing something? Where on the page is the Camaro concept?

Im in the market for the new camaro.. will buy one if GM listens to the guys on this board.

I really like the car, but definitely:

1) Square off the front end (make it more 1st gen)
2) get rid of the "little ram air" opening on the front of the hood.
3)Get rid of the creases in the roof and trunk..round out the trunk
4)Open up the headlights a little more (I can barely see them... big headlights are definitely sonething I love about the first gens)... yeah, make the front end look more like a 69 (proportions of headlights, grill)
5)Get rid of the caddy-like corners and edges...round it off more
6) The back half of the car looks way too much like my buddys C6
7) The car looks a little slammed to me...raise the roof up a little or something.
8) Need big power. At least the LS2 motor if not the LS7 (or better)


Things I like

1) the over all lines and stance are great
2) the gauges on the console (definitely keep)
3) The retro-esqe styling


just my two cents... if you build it, I will buy... just save me some money at the aftermarket shops to make it look REALLY good by incorporating some of the changes you read on this board.

Thanks GM!!!!!!!!!!

ps: i love the orange RS photoshop job

The car looks better on the video, and pretty dang good here:

http://www.cnn.com/2006/AUTOS/funonwheels/01/09/detroit_camaro_concept/index.html

I just implore them to de-beak the thing. Make the angle more obtuse, more blunt. Open up the grill a tad, and make the header panel line on the same vertical plane with the valence (using first gen terms). And I would not do it by shortening the distance from the window to the center, but rather lengthen the fender a bit, keeping the center constant. When doing so, I would also put a bit more curve (or "hump") in the fender, and open up the fender portion of the grill curving the opening a tad.

It's starting to grow on me.

I think the interior looks great. The front is.......umm.......well...I agree with what has been stated eariler, I don't like it, but I think with some work it could be okay, maybe a real good looking car. Nothing that I want to get out my wallet for....and the new Challenger does exactly that... But since it's a Camaro I'd at least like a test drive on both...but for now, I'd look seriously at the design team's contracts...and maybe shuffle some of them to janitorial staff...but I'm not in charge (thankfully!).... Overall, just okay, better than the 4th gens but not the greatness that they've had PLENTY of time to design...

This PhotoShop stuff is great. Look at the orange and then look at the black.

The orange yells Camaro, the black suggests Caddy. Like I said, pick up on a major Camaro element, the grill and it is a hit. (Opinion of course.)

...and thanks again for the opportunity to view.

I think someone at GM should be paying attention to these threads on the Camaro. I like the car, and would be interested in buying one, but not being available till 2009? Come on GM you are in a fight for your very existance and you are going to let Ford and Chrysler beat you to the draw again? Ride this wave of musclecar want now, before it leaves you.

nice nice nice nice nice oh and did i mention that its nice they want 20,000 for it

Tom - good job - although if it had a less-sharp nose with more grill space (height wise) and hide-away lights giving that blacked-out RS appearance and perhaps two lower valance openings (akin to first gens). The tail-lights need something - perhaps an all one-piece with a longer footprint?

Badging - One of the great things about the first gen cars is their badging. It would be great to see badges, placements, hood and paint that mimicked the first gen cars again - RS, SS, Z28, Engine Displacement (in CI), different hood styles, Blacked-out tail-pans, Blacked-out rockers and so on. Something that made Camaros great was the ability to option out the car and have everyone know which options you chose.

I'm going to make some basic assumptions when I toss my hat in the ring here:
1) Someone in GM that has influence will actually review this thread for feedback on the design since we represent a good portion of their target market
2) This car needs to be a home run since it could be a major swing towards putting GM back into the black
3) every one of you is drooling just as I am waiting for the new Camaro to come out since we have all pretty much saved a spot in the garage to park the new one right next to the one (or two for some of you lucky guys) we already have.
4) no way GM can wait until 09 to release the new Camaro. It needs to be 07 to catch the retro styling wave

I also want to say thanks for giving the Camaro another shot, and timing couldn't be better. How interesting that Ford had the Mustang (can I use that word here without being pummelled?) out for 3 years before the Camaro came out the first time around, and now again they have been alone in the market with the 2005, which by the way, they nailed with a sledgehammer. The reason that car works is for 2 reasons: first, we all knew immediately what the car was the second we saw it, and second, you actually believe you are back in one of the first gen mustangs when you are behind the wheel. The only thing that was off for me on the GT was the lack of punch when you got into it. No way that car puts out the claimed 300hp - it just doesn't feel like it.

OK, now for the '09 concept Camaro:
I like it, almost. The car needs to look less cadillacish (too many hard angles) and more 69 Camaroish. I know I am biased, but look at all the media coverage and interest recently going on with the 69. I see whispers of it in the concept, but not enough. This car needs to scream 69 Camaro, or at least suggest it a little more. The grill of this car is wrong, it doesn't say Camaro to me. I'm not sure what it says, but it's not Camaro. I would flatten the front end nose angle out closer to the original front end angle, and I agree with the comment about making the headlights more pronounced. Round out the angles on the hood and trunk a little. We need to see 69 Camaro in the grill and the tail section, and I would loose the Corvette style tail lights on this one in favor of ones paying homage to the 69. We don't need this car to look like a Corvette, we just need it to run like one - let the Corvette heritage show up under the hood where it belongs. I love the cowl hood, but the little air opening in the front between it and the grill needs to go. Let it breathe from the rear like it was designed to originally. The side view mirrors also need to be more substantial, the skinny ones don't look right on the car.

For me you want to make sure everyone knows what this car is when they see it, and I'm not really sure what this car is. If GM is trying to capitalize on the retro styling, it's close - but it's not there yet.

Very well put on the last post. This car has to say CAMARO with some stank on it.Also the sooner the better,like yesterday. I know when I talk to a lot of the "baby boomers" and they say they had a 69 camaro, or mustang, or roadrunner my mouth would just drool. Maybe this is a chance for the younger generation to have some muscle car mayhem like the old days, very exciting times. I am pleased overall with GMs new camaro,now get it here.

OK I've reserved my comments long enough. I spent quite a bit of time at work today looking through all the pics on different web sites and I must say the car is really growing on me. My list of things I don't like is pretty darn short...

NOSE: I absolutely hate it. Way to pointed.
REAR: I can take it, but does it have to bulge out so much? Take a look at a side shot to see what I mean.
TWO WORDS: Drop Top

Final note... release it in 08 (or late 07) as an 08 so it can sit beside my 68. :)

First off, Thank you for a v8 rear wheel drive!

Like others have said the front end could be better(More retro)
I know you probably did not want to go to retro, but look at the retro look of the Ford Mustang, and the GT. Ford did Good!
Now look at the Charger, It has good performance numbers, but the look, not so good.

Do us Camaro lovers proud, make the look,a little more retro.

Thank You, Roger

They can try all they want to but will never build a better looking camaro than the 1969 model. :)

You got that right!
I like how at the unvieling, they kept parading 69's down the isle. A reminder of how cool this nameplate used to be.

I like certain aspects, but overall it is too modern looking vs. retro looking. Not sure why GM tries too hard to modernize things? They blew the GTO by missing the mark on retro.

Mustang seems to get it right, and I am a diehard chevy man with a 67 Camaro!

The grill looks too modern- do not like the large bowtie look.

Anyway, I will watch closely.

best
JL

I am glad to here that some other guys are not crazy about the car, besides me. I was almost, almost, afraid to post anything because everyone seems to like it. But, I don't think the appearance is retro enough, based on the Mustang and Challenger. Jusy my opinion, but I think GM will drop the ball on this one if the keep it the way it is.

Change the front end and make it more retro with the body lines. I think I was disapointed with the car probably because I was hoping for more of a resemblance to a 1st gen or early 2nd gen. I am bummed out when comparing the Camaro to the Ford and Dodge that look more like the eariler models.

Just my opinion, for what that is worth. And no, I probably would not buy one even though it is a Camaro. I am more hyped over the Challenger.

I like it. I was hoping to see more of a 69 body line to the styling. They got it right in 69 and spent the next 30 years trying to get it back. I think a much more retro look would help us 1st generation guys feel younger. My kids however love the look of this new car. Maybe it should be a car they will want to collect in 30 years.

To 69isfine and jenpopp,

#1. This site had best not be a good majority of the target audience or they won't even send the prototype to another show! Even if all 20k+ registered here bought a new Camaro that's only about 1/5th or less of what needs to be for the car to be successful.

#2. WTH is meant by "This car has to say CAMARO with some stank on it." Excuse my crudeness but last time I heard the word "stank" used it was in reference to someones fingers after picking their butt!

If you want to be taken serious, you have to present yourself in a way that is understood and factual. ;)

I like certain aspects, but overall it is too modern looking vs. retro looking. Not sure why GM tries too hard to modernize things? They blew the GTO by missing the mark on retro.

Mustang seems to get it right, and I am a diehard chevy man with a 67 Camaro!

The grill looks too modern- do not like the large bowtie look.

Anyway, I will watch closely.

best
JL

The styling does not evoke emotion. It is a bit bland. I can't necessarily say why. I think it's the hood and front end. The hood appears rather flat. It reminds me of a Chrysler Crossfire. Perhaps it looks better in person. Also, I don't think that that particular color is well suited to the car's design.

http://gmtv.feedroom.com/iframeset.jsp?ord=294231

This is the GM live feed (replay) of the unveiling. GEESH... did they ever SCREW up the descriptions of the vintage Camaros....

There's a completely original '69 SS (which had deck stripes that were not available on the SS)
Thers a ZL1 Z28 Camaro with a crossram (um.... ok!)

GM should KNOW their history better.

Oh.. and the new Camaro is so-so... like it from the side.... hate it from the back... and the front is ok.
However... IMHO, the retro movement is passe. To little to late.
GM should come up with a fresh, restyled Camaro... not a pseudo copy of a 1969 model.

You hit the nail on the head!!! Don't forget to get rid of those butt ugly rims!!!I'm going to make some basic assumptions when I toss my hat in the ring here:
1) Someone in GM that has influence will actually review this thread for feedback on the design since we represent a good portion of their target market
2) This car needs to be a home run since it could be a major swing towards putting GM back into the black
3) every one of you is drooling just as I am waiting for the new Camaro to come out since we have all pretty much saved a spot in the garage to park the new one right next to the one (or two for some of you lucky guys) we already have.
4) no way GM can wait until 09 to release the new Camaro. It needs to be 07 to catch the retro styling wave

I also want to say thanks for giving the Camaro another shot, and timing couldn't be better. How interesting that Ford had the Mustang (can I use that word here without being pummelled?) out for 3 years before the Camaro came out the first time around, and now again they have been alone in the market with the 2005, which by the way, they nailed with a sledgehammer. The reason that car works is for 2 reasons: first, we all knew immediately what the car was the second we saw it, and second, you actually believe you are back in one of the first gen mustangs when you are behind the wheel. The only thing that was off for me on the GT was the lack of punch when you got into it. No way that car puts out the claimed 300hp - it just doesn't feel like it.

OK, now for the '09 concept Camaro:
I like it, almost. The car needs to look less cadillacish (too many hard angles) and more 69 Camaroish. I know I am biased, but look at all the media coverage and interest recently going on with the 69. I see whispers of it in the concept, but not enough. This car needs to scream 69 Camaro, or at least suggest it a little more. The grill of this car is wrong, it doesn't say Camaro to me. I'm not sure what it says, but it's not Camaro. I would flatten the front end nose angle out closer to the original front end angle, and I agree with the comment about making the headlights more pronounced. Round out the angles on the hood and trunk a little. We need to see 69 Camaro in the grill and the tail section, and I would loose the Corvette style tail lights on this one in favor of ones paying homage to the 69. We don't need this car to look like a Corvette, we just need it to run like one - let the Corvette heritage show up under the hood where it belongs. I love the cowl hood, but the little air opening in the front between it and the grill needs to go. Let it breathe from the rear like it was designed to originally. The side view mirrors also need to be more substantial, the skinny ones don't look right on the car.

For me you want to make sure everyone knows what this car is when they see it, and I'm not really sure what this car is. If GM is trying to capitalize on the retro styling, it's close - but it's not there yet.

It seems there are 3 criticisms that are surfacing from the nay-sayers

1.) It's too Cadillacish
2.) Front end needs to be flattened
3.) It's not retro enough

Fella's...you can forget about this car going any more retro than it already is. The car has to be both a retro and forward-reaching vehicle to appeal to the masses. You might THINK you are the masses...but I assure you...you're not. What do you want us to do, build a '69 Camaro and resell it to the general public? You gotta come down from this retro craze already. I mean, for crying out loud one guy suggested that we take an actual grille from a '69 Camaro and incorporate it into the design. WTF???!!!!!

"The front end's beaked!!!" Really? Hey...newsflash...so's the front end on the '69 that's sitting in your garage. Again...a modern take on a retro design. You also have to remember that we need to save room for mid-cycle enhancements. We have to be able to change the car at certain times so it keeps up with the sales pace. It's a little thing we like to call "reach". Look at Thunderbird, it was SO retro that when it started losing steam it had nowhere to go. Today it's resting in developmental purgatory.

And by the way....I don't see where you're getting the Cadillac cues from. The car has a hell of a lot more curves than the CTS and STS.

All things happen for a reason. Don't just assume because you don't agree with some of the things on the car that General Motors is officially "dropping the ball". I can assure you...the car is in good hands. No...change that...GREAT hands. Hands that belong to Camaro enthusiasts that care very much for the car and will make sure that it becomes something sensational.

If I were in the "top brass" @ GM, I would MUCH rather hear constructive criticism and TRUTH in what my buying public perceives in the 5th gen prototype. If everyone runs around sugar coating it, guess what? NOTHING will change. When more than 1/2 of the "yes I like it crowd" say that the front grille area is too V shaped/Cadillacish, then it's a concensus! When you take a stroll over to the 2nd gen site, 3rd gen site, and several others, they are saying the same things. I removed my grille from my '69 car last night to work on the fender...The grill is V-shaped, but not pointy, narrow, and sticking way out front. The prototype imho is too much in the front and needs some refreshing...Overall, I think the car is wonderful! It has many many great attributes going for it! I am thankful to GM for jumping in the game in the retro arena. It's everything that most of us have been wanting for a long time now! It will never please everyones taste, but it already gets my vote and depending on finished looks of the production model, handling and price, I WILL be buying one in '08 or '09 or even 2010 if I have to wait until it's "right"...
Dano:thumbsup:

I’ve been holding out from buying a car until 2007 just to see what GM would come out with, but there is no way I’m waiting to 2009!!

Someone earlier said it best – the car doesn’t flow together. It really looks like they just crammed the different parts together.
1. How are they going to incorporate the marker lights? That could make a big difference in the appearance.
2. Ease up on the “stealth” lines. I want to be seen driving a new Camaro!
3. I don’t like the rear of the car at all – too wide and vette like (incidentally I don’t like the C6 vette either so I guess I’m biased).
4. The front is ok but I would like a larger grill and headlight opening.
5. Lose the big rim/tire combo. I live in NY and the potholes will eat those up in a second. Hopefully the 22” fad is dying anyway.

I’m surprised people don’t like the ram air vent. From a performance standpoint aren’t we always trying to get cold air into the motor? That vent makes it easy without having to route hoses all over the engine or down too low where it picks up road debris.

This is just the concept and has done its job of sparking interest. If you remember, the Mustang concept didn’t look exactly what made it to production either. In any case 2009 is too far away!

Bottom line is that whatever they come out with better be priced right or it will be a sales flop for GM. The tradition for Chevy has always been a good performance car at an affordable price. Let’s get back to tradition!!!

Sorry DjD. It was a Tina and Ike reference "Hit me again Ike and put some stank on it". Not necessarily trying to be factual, just humorous. I know we are supposed to be critical of the concept, but I am just glad there was one.

Over all it is a good lookin car. True it is not very retro, but based on what infamous said it isn't suposed to be. I think I'd like the rear-end to lose some of its bubble., as it to closely resembles a vette. Maybe re-shaping the taillights would help?? I hope the '09 has some bigger side mirrors too.

I can live with the front end. If you refer back to the photoshop pics, you see the orange w/ white stripes car has a different grill. I really LIKE that compared to the other grilles.

An RS option seems to have some appeal too.

One last thing: DON'T WAIT TILL '09 TO MAKE IT!!!!!!!!! We need it NOW!!!!!!

Greg

First off, thank you GM for bringing us a new Camaro. I'll second that. For a while I thought that there would never be another.

OK to the concept. I just got my first glimpse of it and for the most part I like it. Things to improve on, I think, need to be:

1) The main thing that bothers me is that the roof appears to be a little low, like that car was chopped an inch or two (maybe add an inch or two in height or headroom there). Keep the lines in the roof I think it accentuates the body (despite what others may think, I like the look).

2) The ram air look of the hood, has to go. The car is not a Pontiac. Keep the cowl induction, if possible make it functional, and get rid of the opening at the base of the hood.

3) The grill, it is too v shaped. Although I like it, I do agree with everyone that it needs to be flattened out but only a Little. If they are going to keep the milk crate design the squares need to be smaller.

4) The mirrors gotta go (too narrow).

5) The taillights (keep them). I like the look, Alot.

6) Move the fuel door behind the license plate like on the third gen. (this will clean up the Quarter on the driver side and give symetry to the body)

7) Make the radio antenna hidden. And If there is going to be a satelite radio please dont make the antenna as big as on the new corvette or put it in an position that takes away from the body lines.

As far as the interior goes from what I've seen I wouldn't change a thing. The Body colored two tone look is a must, along with the guage pod that is ahead of the shifter. Other than that I really would like to see GM put out the same variety of options that they did in 1967-1969 with the Base Camaro, RS (with the hidden headlights), SS, RS/SS, and Z28. I think that if this car is going to be successfull it needs to be versatile. Not everyone here likes the same thing and if they give us as many if not more options as they did in the first generation, then we will have a car that can out sell the competition and be around for a very long time.

One last thing: DON'T WAIT TILL '09 TO MAKE IT!!!!!!!!! We need it NOW!!!!!!

Just my .02 cents. Like I said earlier I like the overall design. These are just the things that I would change.

Gene

Originally posted by DjD
#1. This site had best not be a good majority of the target audience or they won't even send the prototype to another show! Even if all 20k+ registered here bought a new Camaro that's only about 1/5th or less of what needs to be for the car to be successful.

I never said we are a good majority of the target audience, I said we represent a good portion of their target market since we are representative of a percentage of holders of not only the first gen Camaros but all Camaros sold. Get the production numbers by year from 67 until the end and add them up - quite a large market, wouldn't you say? Even when you remove the cars that are no longer around, you still have to add in a two and threefold increase in penetration for those who have been influenced by these cars as they have changed ownership through the years. Now add to that those who never owned a Camaro but wish they would have. I understand GM has to play to a wider audience than us, but my point is GM hits their target number of cars sold to turn a profit on this one even if they convince a percentage of us (read: current or former Camaro owners, not just Team Camaro members) to buy one. The rest is gravy and will happen all by itself as these cars hit the road and start turning heads. So, Gentlemen, GM would be crazy not to listen to input on this concept from groups just like us.

Retro styling enough already? I beg to differ. In my book the biggest mistake GM could make on this one is to miss the market potential by coming in with something that pretends to be retro but instead is hard lined and angled, and yes, Infamous - Cadillacish.

Like I said in my earlier post, this car is almost there - for me it needs a few changes before it says Camaro. The public is crying for a true 69 inspired Camaro - why not give them a little more of what they want?

I'm almost done, I promise. GM, some of us could use some more headroom and legroom in this car. At 6'7" I'm taller than most but can fit in my 69 just fine. However, I can't come close to crawling in and out of some of the later model Camaros. How about a little more room in this one?

Here you go, this review should say it all.

http://www.cars.com/go/features/autoshows/vehicle.jsp?vehicletype=concept&autoshowyear=2006&vehicle=concept_chevrolet_camaro&aff=boston

Note the Mustang references to it in the defining characteristics.

To bad I don't have enough hair (read the review) to grow a mullet anymore.

For your reading pleasure..

Powerful Nostalgia

To Prop Up Sagging Sales, Detroit Turns to Muscle Cars That Recall the Glory Days
By NEAL E. BOUDETTE
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
January 10, 2006; Page B1

DETROIT -- The sleek, silvery Chevrolet Camaro concept car that rolled onto the stage here yesterday fittingly came at the end of a parade of four classic 1969 models, their V8 engines in full, earsplitting roar.

The Camaro prototype was just the latest example of how Detroit auto makers are reaching back to legendary cars of their past in hopes of brightening their future.

General Motors Corp., desperate for a hit, with its North American operations losing millions, is gearing up for a likely relaunch of the Camaro, the muscle car that prowled American roads starting in the 1960s.

In a similar move, DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group is planning to reproduce the Dodge Challenger, a sporty coupe that had its heyday in the early 1970s. The two auto makers are showing prototypes of these cars this week at the Detroit auto show.

"The Challenger and Camaro are stealing the show," said Mike Jackson, chairman and chief executive of AutoNation Inc., the nation's largest chain of auto dealerships. "The way for American car companies to compete is to build cars their competitors can't do."

The Camaro and Challenger join Detroit's revival of bold "pony cars" that were revered by car enthusiasts and teenagers in the tie-dye era. Ford Motor Co., which like GM is losing millions in North America, has a rare hit in the Mustang, the original pony car, that it redesigned last year to hew closely to the look of the 1960s original. In 2005, two other muscle-car nameplates returned in the Dodge Charger and Pontiac GTO, although neither one of those cars looks much like its original.

Shortly after the Mustang was launched, Helaina Semmler of Mt. Laurel, N.J., ran out and ordered a blue-and-white one -- the sixth Mustang she has owned -- and it comes closest to reminding her of her first car, a '68 model. "I'm reminded of when I was in college and carefree," she said. "I love it, and I get a million compliments on it."

The return of the muscle cars -- a small, inexpensive car with a large engine -- is part of a broader trend toward retro-styling that has been going on for several years. The Volkswagen Beetle returned in the late 1990s, followed by Chrysler's retro-styled PT Cruiser and the Ford Thunderbird a few years later. Late last year, Chevrolet launched the HHR, a boxy wagon that borrows lines and curves form the 1947 Chevy Suburban. After several years of disappointing sales, Ford has stopped building the underpowered Thunderbird.

The success of the retro models is important for the three U.S. auto makers, particularly GM and Ford. Both are closing plants, cutting jobs and losing market share under increasing competitive pressure from Toyota Motor Corp. and other foreign rivals. Chrysler is making money and increased its U.S. market share slightly but still needs models that resonate with customers in hopes of maintaining its upward momentum.

Except for the Mustang, reborn muscle cars so far have mixed track records. While Ford sold more than 160,000 Mustangs last year, Chrysler sold 44,804 Chargers and GM only 11,590 GTOs.

Both the Camaro and Challenger generated buzz at the Detroit show, but neither GM nor Chrysler has publicly committed to producing them so far. People familiar with Chrysler's plans, however, expect the Challenger to be launched sometime in 2007. It is expected to sport a 6-liter, 425-horsepower Hemi V8 engine. The Camaro concept was shown with a 400-horsepower V8.

Auto executives say they think those cars can tap into nostalgia for the 1960s and '70s among baby boomers, as well as an increasing appreciation for Detroit's past glory among younger car buyers.

"There are 1,000 Camaro clubs in this country," Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peeper said amid a throng jostling to glimpse the Camaro. "We have 250 Camaro owners who flew in here on their own money to see this car. There's tremendous enthusiasm for the Camaro name."

For many potential customers, the new muscle cars are appealing because they stand out among the dozens of bland, look-alike designs that populate today's auto market. "It's getting harder and harder to distinguish cars you see on the road," said Blake Greenstein, a 43-year old bank executive and owner of a 1973 Challenger in Columbus, Ohio. "They all look kind of rounded and boxy."

Mr. Greenstein said he loves the look of the new Challenger and would be interested in buying one. "I'd love to have a car that looks like my '73 but has all the comfort and modern technology -- air conditioning, air bags."

With the Camaro, GM tried to produce a new car that would remind buyers of the old models without reusing any specific design elements from the past -- a formula similar to the one Chrysler used with the Charger. For example, the new Camaro features creases and angles on its back and front ends where '60s Camaros were more curved.

Mr. Peeper said GM thinks its approach has yielded a car that can appeal to both older and younger customers. A pure reproduction "is not where you want to be," he said. "We think we're hitting the sweet spot."

Chrysler is going the other way, creating a near-reproduction of the old Challenger -- the same approach Ford used with the hot-selling Mustang. The bright-orange concept Chrysler design chief Trevor Creed unveiled features a wide grille, hood scoops and taillights taken almost directly from the 1970 Challenger.

"We want people to look at it and say, 'That's a Challenger!' " Mr. Creed said.

Oh yeah, my opinion. The fact that a lot of 1st genners think it is too far off the 1st gen , and the late model guys think it is too 1st gennish, I think they are very close. It is great, a solid off-wall double. Raise the roof a bit, tweak some angles and boom, it’s a homerun. To me, the Challenger, while very nice, looks too much like a 70 Challenger. Let’s move into the future.

I’ll take mine in silver with black stripes please. And more HP to go with that IRS and 6 speed. :thumbsup:

BTW, it better have a trunk! Sail windows are nice too. :)

For your reading pleasure..

Powerful Nostalgia

...said Mike Jackson, chairman and chief executive of AutoNation Inc..."The way for American car companies to compete is to build cars their competitors can't do."


That's got to be one of the smartest things I've heard from the Auto communitity in the last few years...

The Grille, I love the Grille! I know it's not first Gen EXACTLY, but from a head on stance (I just saw a straight on pic), it has that angry SH%T-eating grin like it's going to chew up a new Mustang/Challenger and spit it back out. EVIL, I love it!

Like I said in my earlier post, this car is almost there - for me it needs a few changes before it says Camaro. The public is crying for a true 69 inspired Camaro - why not give them a little more of what they want?

The public is crying for a 69 inspired Camaro? I'm not. I like the 69s and all, but I myself would prefer something closer resembling the 67-68 model. I know it will never ever happen because the body lines are just not squared off enough for today's consumer. If I had to go down tomorrow and chose between the concept Camaro and the concept Challenger, even if the Challenger costs more, I'd buy it ten out of ten times over the Camaro as it sits right now. I like the look of the new Camaro and all, but it does not inspire the same type of feelings that the conceopt Challenger does. I have never been one to shop with my wallet (meaning I will pay more for what I like rather than pay less, or equal amounts in order to maintain some mystical alliance with a particular car company). I am going to hold out buying a new car until 2009 (just got my 05 Jeep a few months ago) and see what happens. I hope to have my 67 done in time to drive it to the dealer to pick up whatever I decide on.

I would just like to say that I am unconvinced that the retro market is passe, for the following reasons:

A.) I have been hearing that since about the time the prowler ended production. Heck, even before that people were saying that the 1994 Mustang's retro cues were unsustainable. Certainly that was not the case when we saw the next gen mustang. Chrysler's entire performance car platform is retro in one way or another, and it has the cars people are most excited about. Granted, GM hasn't had as much success, but what do you expect with the overpriced pseudo-retro-truck and the PT-wannabee. The Ford T-bird is not an apples to apples comparison, as like the Prowler, it was all show, no go, and it's rollout execution and pricing were awful. The T-bird failure was more a statement of consumers toward an effeminite looking, underpowered, overpriced novelty than a wholesale boredom with "retro".

B.) I am unconvinced that car lines "evolve" anyway. Development over time is far more quantum. The 2nd gen hardly evolved from the 69 Camaro. The IROC (Which is incidentally where I suspect the design team got the 2009 concept's fenders) is not similar to the 2nd Gen. So just make the car everyone wants for a few years, then change it. Kill the car IF people get bored with retro, rather than continually assuming it will happen and missing the boat. It may be a trend, but what in car design isn't? I am involved with consumer marketing, and one can always sit idly by and say "this whole XXXX thing is just a trend, we'll ride it out", but profit and share are lost to competitors in the interim.

C.) The death of the 60's era muscle car was not due to consumer boredom. It was external factors in fuel economy, environmental issues, and foreign competition in practicality and manufacturability, given the fuel issue and a relatively stagnant economy. Why are we assuming that "retro" is such a temporary nostalgic look back, rather than a picking up of where we left off now that we have displacement on demand, lean manufacturing with essence on smaller batch sizes, and better emmissions control?

Keep in mind, I am not saying that retro is here "to stay", but rather, "show me the evidence it is unsustainable for the next 8-10 years", which is a decent "generation" length for a car nowadays.

I hate to say it, but I would buy the Dodge Challenger......Everyone has already given the reasons why I am not thrilled with the Camaro.

69isfine and Jenpoop,

I understood what both of you were saying, even without the later explanations, I think some on this site take themselves a little to seroius sometimes.

Infamous, are you in on the RD of the new camaro, not to call you out in public but if you are and if your looking for feedback I think the guys and gals here have hit the nail on the head. Sometimes those who do the creating get to close to the project and will not see contructive criticisim for what it is. I too think the front end is a little to cadish as well as the door lines being a little to abrupt. I do like the window shape and the rear of the car.
I say do a little tweeking on the nose and the cowl and maybe a small change on the door and it is a perfect place to being production.

The Wrooster

Per Lutz...

"The Camaro, if built, would be priced slightly higher that the 2006 Pontiac Solstice roadster, which starts at just under $20,000, Lutz said."

also, Fom B. Lutz web log....

"And for those of you who might say, “Well, the Challenger has 35 hp more,” I would just reply that we have a certified 1OO more on tap from the ZO6 engine, should the need arise."


I'll take this one...I figure this one should come in around 26-28K with an LS2 and several options.......

http://homepage.mac.com/bond2/camaro/CamaroConceptWhiteOranges.jpg

Can you say "MINE!!!" Love it!, Want it, can't afford it...

I like it!!! I would buy one "as-is".

But, if I could have my way, I would flatten the nose just a little to loose the smiley face look.

Well said, Gideon.

See, my problem with the Challenger is that it looks too much like the original. This looks like an evolution, a 5th gen. Not a copy.

The wheels are too big for the car, it makes it look like a Hot Wheels toy car. The back end of the car looks like it was rear-ended by a truck. It doesn't extend far enough behind the rear wheels and it curves upward. In fact, the whole rear of car, behind the doors needs reworking. The lines are too sharp and it looks too boxy, it lacks a smooth aerodynmic look. The rear wheel gills don't fit with the rest of the design. I also think the greenhouse is too small. Don't go the Chrysler route with the shrunk greenhouse - that look is going to be dated real fast. The car needs a better proportional balance between the front and rear and also top to bottom. It needs to more influence of the timeless first-gen design, rather than forcing it look modern. The forced modern look detracts from the pony car retro effect, and that is fueling the Mustang sales. There are many other cars on the market that are similar to this Concept Camaro, whereas if it were more retro looking, it would separate itself from the crowd.

So, does it look like this Hot Wheels car? Like the guy from HMM said?

http://img368.imageshack.us/img368/7990/lf34sm015of.th.jpg (http://img368.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lf34sm015of.jpg)

I just wanted to add that I never met to dis the new camaro concept. It is a great car and a great achievment for GM. I have nothing but the utmost respect for this forum, its administrators, and GMs taskmasters that created the new camaro. I am just as excited or more than anyone to see the camaro resurrection. It is like a part of me has returned. We can hope GM gives us a chance and produces this automobile, so we can at least quiet the blue oval boys down. I am too much of a loyal chevy guy to stray.

Coach420 hit the nail on the head. It reminds me of the Chrysler Crossfire too. It has that Chrysler high belt line, meant to give it a chopped or low roof line look. I'm not crazy about it and wonder if it gives the sensation that you're sitting on the floor of the car, stretching to see out.
All in all, I'm glad GM is trying, I just hope the final product is more appealing.

It is for real. I saw an article in the Toronto Star today about the concept car at the Detroit auto show.
For me the car looks real good. I love the interior shots, it does look like a retro 69 style cockpit. The only thing I think that detracts from it is the rear. It is too abreviated.
Just think about the major competitor. The mustang. Their retro new car has faithfully reproduced the 69 mustang style body with modern styling. A great melding of the two. The Saleen is to die for.
I would love to see a Z/28. I am partial to the 69 Z/28 having owned three.
just make it a foot longer and print more order books.
I for one I would not buy it as it looks now. It HAS TO BE LONGER! That was the appeal of the 67 to 69 body style, a balanced look overall.
A lot of us Boomers would love to have that little baby in our garage, sitting beside our 68 Camaro. Did I say it HAS TO BE LONGER in the tail! I am sure you get the picture.

It LOOKS fine!

Just get rid of that flimsy IRS and build it with a 12 bolt derivative, room in the engine compartment to transplant any GM engine (big block), and room in the wheelhouse for 10"X29" slicks.

Then build one bare bones to keep the cost and weight down, around 3200-3300lbs. Remember, you're gonna have to run against Mustangs if ya have one!

I'd buy one in a NY minute!

Randy

Overall I like the car.Something needs to be changed in the grill area.It does look like a Vette from the rear.Its a concept the production car will be different.The main problem I see is the 2009 release date.The Rustang has a 4 year head start.It may be like the Chrysler E bodies ( Cuda, Challenger) that came out in 1970 all they caught was the tail end of the show.

Ok, here's my spew....the fact that this car is that far along and the other 2 (Mopar and Ford) are that far ahead, this car will happen, it just has to. I hope for a few things....a base model to spread the costs and put as many on the street as possible, and also have a full range of performace and handling options. I like the previous posts that asked for a base v-6, a Z, a std V-8, and a big block. As far as styling, it looks a bit fat, and the nose is too pointy. Other than that, I can live with it. The aftermarket guys are already drooling and designing concepts. When this set of new pony cars (Camaro and Challenger) hit the streets, it will further expand and re-explode our hobby. It will be unbelieveable!! This country will become more car crazy than ever. I can't wait. And by the way, I suspect that the buyer motivations for these new muscle cars are different than the collector/old muscle car motivations. My opinion. I see no end in sight for the soon to be re-escalation and booming of our hobby. Enjoy it. It will be quite a ride, in many senses.

If thats a real car why does the side glass and quarter glass look like one piece?

I think they did a fantastic job with this concept. It is a modern interpretaion of retro, but not EXACTLY like the original. The problem with the new Mustang is that it is almost identical to the '67. While that is awesome now, in a couple of years it will be old and boring. This new Camaro is modern with tributes to its roots. The interior is a great example. It is totally state of the art looking, but the air vents, guages, and steering wheel are styled like my '68. In summary, I think this car is the perfect mix of modern styling with classic camaro cues.

That is why the mustang is selling like hotcakes! If it becomes boring in a few years then they can change the bodystyle. Remember that they canned the camaro b/c of poor sales. If GM will do like Ford and make it a copy it will rejuvinate the interest. The older generation of people is who is buying the mustangs. Older being over 35yrs. old. They are the ones with the spare cash and the ones with the interest for the 1st gen. body style! The new design may appeal to the younger gen. but all of the people that I spoke with over 35 yrs. of age does not like it. If they make a copy then I will own one, but if they try to make one like the concept then they can keep it. The wheels are far too big, the nose is too pointed, the grill is too closed, it looks like the nose of a caddy, and on and on and on. It would be interesting to see a poll of who likes it by age group. I think they did a fantastic job with this concept. It is a modern interpretaion of retro, but not EXACTLY like the original. The problem with the new Mustang is that it is almost identical to the '67. While that is awesome now, in a couple of years it will be old and boring. This new Camaro is modern with tributes to its roots. The interior is a great example. It is totally state of the art looking, but the air vents, guages, and steering wheel are styled like my '68. In summary, I think this car is the perfect mix of modern styling with classic camaro cues.

If thats a real car why does the side glass and quarter glass look like one piece?

Not sure what pic but I bet the windows were down...

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2006/Q1/162006134829.jpg


This one. Looks like they are up.:confused:

This one. Looks like they are up.:confused:

Wow it's your monitor then cause it's obvious there is 2 pieces of glass in that pic. There is a line straight off the door line and the quarter glass is angled different and has reflection on most of it...

There is a parting line, it didn't show up real good in some of the photos, but check this one:

http://www.autoweek.com/files/specials/2006_detroit/chevy/camaro/images/17.jpg

How about a couple of quick and dirty modifictions by a couple of guys on the F-body classic emai list:

RS grille, knight rider vent removed, front fender eyebrow added, rear spoiler size increased a little.

http://www.f-body-classic.com/newCamaroPictures/modified2009camarofix.jpg

Mark, the rendition on the right "SCREAMS" Camaro. There is no doubt that if that was coming up on you on the street, you would know right away that it was a Camaro. Just a couple of quick mods to the original concept and they are right on. LOVE the retro grill and RS doors!! If they would make the new Camaro like the one on the right, with the front end mods, it would be a BIG BIG homerun.

It looks like a 70-71 Challenger from the side.

Mark,
Your piture isn't showing up for some reason - at least I can't pull it up.

picture, sorry

The car is bad to the bone. Retro, and modern, it has the best of both. All the front needs is a retro Z-28 emblem, or an SS. I think the only things missing from this car is pronounced retro emblems, and stripes. Forget the solid colors, we had enough of them for the past 2 1/2 decades. We need stripes, from the factory. The aerodynamics of this car can be seen clearly, look at the mirrors, and the low roof! This car will fly! GM is smart, they will take the lead in their design by being the first to incorporate retro cues in to a new sleek, and modern technological design. There is enough retro in the lines, so much so, that it makes it look angry, and mean! Why recreate a 69 entirely? Its a nice idea, but i'd rather see the Camaro get more and more advanced! Some of you may not see this right now, but believe me, this design is awesome! Its lower, leaner, and meaner! Pull up next to a Challenger in one of these, even with the 400hp small block, vs. Hemi.. the Camaro will win easy. That Challenger R/T Space Shuttle will see nothing but tailights, and a Z-28 emblem. The 70 Z-28, when it came out with the 350 LT-1, it kicked the Hemi's ass. History will repeat itself. Camaro will rule the streets again soon.

99ZSS

I think people warm up to style changes. I cant help to say flaten the nose, lower the rear trunk a tad to work with the roof line (more similar to the first gen) , Why not do a retro 67 in 07 retro 69 in 09....... Those early models were the best. I would feel like im groing up again! Launch it on its original B-day. I want production #159223 The interior is real nice! mabe recess the cluster a LiL.

Sorry, I don't really like it,

But I think I'll will like the convertible. I don't Like the new BUG, I hated it but I really liked the Ragtop BUG. So I quess that I don't like the Corvette/Cadilac squashed top thing. But any Camaro is better than no Camaro.

I've been playing around with the pictures above in the "Paint" program.

I painted the rockers black (ala 67-69 RS). To me, it looks more like a first gen. with them blacked out. The body doesn't look as bulky, and the roof line fits the rest of the car better. This is just going by the pictures; might be a different story on the real thing.

Mark,

Now that's what it needs!!!

Absolutely perfect!!

If GM uses it, they owe you some royalty fees.....

MARK, that is great!!!!!

I would like to see the grill a little flatter, and that car is right on!!!!!

Since this is going to GM, I figured I had better get in or shut up!

First, ya'll have done a great job on the car and thank you for considering bringing this legend back! :thumbsup:

I realize it's a concept and there will most likely be some changes. I love the pic above with the RS/SS options added. Please consider doing that! As others have stated, I would suggest flattening the nose some. Not flat, just flatten a little.

I would also like to see the rear quarters slimmed down a little and extended to the back a few inches. A little more sleeker looking back there. My first impression of the tail lights was "Corvette". Maybe if they were housed behind 1 lens or possibly, 2 lenses that's a little more rectangular might help.

I have no suggestions for the interior....it looks great!! I love the round speedometer/tach and the console gauges. I don't recall what the A/C vents looked like but I prefer round ones.

I am definatly a first gen guy! None of the other models have ever done anything for me. This one is headed in the right direction but I'd like to see it a little more retro. I don't mean a '69 replica but just let it hit the ground and say "I'M BACK"!! Let there be no doubt or second thought about where it started, with 40 yrs of improvements behind it.

One last very important suggestion....please do all you can to beat the Dodge Challenger off the line!! If there's any way to get this car out first, please do! The Challenger is going to pull a lot of water and if it's out first, the Camaro might be in trouble. Even if the Camaro turns out to be everything we wanted, there's a lot of people who might jump on the Challenger if it hits the streets first.

Keep up the good work and I wish you much success!!!!

I didn't make those changes, they were done by a guy in Texas (grille, front fender line, and rear spoiler) and another guy in Ohio (removing the knight rider scoop).

Everybody has to remember this is a Concept Car. The car you see in the pictures may not be the exact car that goes on the market in a few years. I am sure Executives from GM will be looking at the popular Camaro forums like this one to get Camaro enthusiasts feedback and make changes.

Personally I don't think the grille is so bad. It would be nice if you saw more of the headlights. I understand the designers want the car to look mean but you don't have to hide the top of the headlight as if the car is actually angry. What I think definitely has to be done away with is the Corvette style taillights and the narrow door mirrors. Another thing is where do these rim sizes stop? 22 inch rims on a car from the factory? Like one guy said from New York in an earlier post, I also bend at least one 17” rim on my Cobra on pot holes here every winter. (Last year two.)

I like the car and I am surprised GM designed such an aggressive looking car that isn't a Corvette. As far as the Camaro concept not being as retro as the Mustang keep in mind Chevy is planning on putting the Camaro on the market in 2009. Retro is popular NOW. How popular do you think retro will be in another three years? Yes the first generation Camaro has beautiful body lines that will always grab attention but the new Camaro will be a fifth generation. Another thing to think about as far as the whole retro phase goes is the 2005 Mustang will be 4 years old in 2009 and who’s to say the next model will be retro? One last thing about the retro craze: Let’s face it guys, retro is popular because nobody has enough originality to design a new car with nice body lines.

I look forward to 2009 and think one of these new Camaro’s would look sweet in the garage next to my 69.

Ok, all the guys that were crying about no new F-Body's can stop. GM HEARD YA. As with any new concept, there will always be tweaks for the real world version, and ...errr huh hum....things like the wierd mirrors will be fixed. It's all about the revival of the best damn car ever, and we should ALL be thankfull the development time wasn't spent on yet another damn SUV. I for one will be in a 5th Gen as soon as God graces me with the oppotunity. GOOD JOB, DETROIT!!

I think the center of the car is cool, rear of the front fenders, doors and front of rear quarter panels. The rear looks to much like a Corvette, needs a little rounding off, it looks to square. The nose looks like a new Cadillac. I am no designer, but I would say they need to refine the front end a ton. I am however a Camaro junky. I am not that impressed with what I see. I won't be buying one if they come out like the concept. Take some lessons from Mopar. Look at the Challenger concept. Very cool, it looks like a very refined 70? Challenger. Even the 05 Mustang is a pretty cool looking car with a ton of early Mustang influence. Obviously there are details on the camaro from the first gen Camaro's. But I think there needs to be more refinement with the car. I am not interested in a Camaro that looks like some kind of sports car. It needs some muscle. I hope the cars will have some hefty power plant options too. Not just limited productions just for the millionaires either. Look at what's popular and what sells, take more insight from your original muscle cars. I have not looked the car over in great detail. What I have seen just didn't catch me. You need something to blow the competition away! I have seen some very cool concept drawings that I like very much. Please take all your faithful GM lovers ideas into consideration. They pay the bills!

Here is my version of what I'd like to see. Build this, and I'll buy it.
http://www.nabba.com/DVnewmaro1.jpg

Hey Dvinny, Thats The Best Version I've Seen On The Grill!!! Just Needs A Little Work On The Rear Tailpanel And It Should Be Ready.

Here is my version of what I'd REALLY REALLY like to see.

http://www.nabba.com/DVnewmaro2.jpg

What I'd love to see in my driveway.
http://www.nabba.com/newandold.jpg

Its hard to remake and American Icon, but I'm not crazy about this one. Red or Silver.

I'm a 69 camaro freek, but given the choice I would take the Challenger prototype over this Camaro prototype hands down.

This car does not feel like red hot detriot muscle to me. More of a Cadlac-vet hibrid with some clasic camaro stylings sprinkled about.

Still needs work. Have a contest or something.

I re-did the tail end on the blue version. I shortened the back window and put more of a downward angle on it, extending the "trunk" area.
http://www.nabba.com/camaroREAR2.jpg

Many 1st gen Camaro lovers have a strong preference for their "chosen year" (mine is the 68). I hope the new production Camaro is strongly based on all the first generation models, without being too exclusive to any of the 3 years. For instance, I love all the 60s Camaros, but I strongly prefer the rounded 67-68 wheel wells (which the concept Camaro has) over the harsher square wheel wells of the 69. Overall, I think the concept Camaro could be a little more retro and be a great success.

Anyone has the paint code? Love the color! Beautiful car that will run into some competition with the Dodge.

nice car, in my opinion the exterior is too far "out there";

the grille does not resemble a camaro, take some of the cadiallac look out and add r/s hide-away lights

add front spoiler, rear spoiler if possible

add 69 z28 striping package

the rear facia resembles my vette a bit much, redesign tail lights to have three contiguous panels

interior looks great!

will this guy have an LS-7 standard? Will it be competitively priced to compete with the mustang?

IMO: from the side, it looks like a Caddilac ...it looks big and bulky...
FIX: "slim" it down
IMO:Front- AWESOME, but I would like to see some more Grille and less valence(sp)
FIX: Copy the 1969 camaro grille.
IMO:Interior
FIX: LEAVE IT ALONE.... IT IS PERFECT
IMO:Exhaust- I know about all of the emmisioms tests and all, but what about some good sounding mufflers(i.e FLOWMASTERS)
If it were like the 1969 camaro, everyone would buy it. No doubt in my mind.

where will it be built ? the
USA or JAPAN ?

Japan? Are you serious?

If the car happens...it will be built in America.

I hope someone at GM is reading this...

I am 22 years old, In College and presently own a 95'Camaro Z28. I bought the car to cruise fast and look good, and not much contends with a Camaro when it comes to performance value and price.

Although I really like the new Mustang GT's, I will hold out to see what GM will bring to the table. My dad owns a Vette, my brother owns a 25th Ann. IrocZ, and I have my LT1. Although Mustang's were slower, they appealed to more people because they had more of a relaxing formula and it worked out well. The problem with the 4th Gen was its strict focus of Camaro and performance enthusiasts. ( Which I love, but was a factor in its decline )
Plus, the V-6 Versions prior to 96 were horrid, and they looked just like the V8's in some cases... big mistake.

GM needs to make sure this new Camaro is a vehicle average people can enjoy, without taking away its Lionlike prowess.

A Car that is comfortable,easy to drive for all ages ( and woman :) ) VERY attractive, but smooth and compliant sounds like a winning formula to me.

And one more thing. The V-6's I'm sure will look nice, but you have to make the Z28's, not just the SS's, more appealling so people know what theyre getting. Stripes, Standard wheels, Interior Colors, Nice Sound and a loud exhaust are a definite sale. Ohh, and one more thing... its almost 2010... supercharge the SS... please! :beers:

95'Black Lt1
Magnaflow, K&N FIPK, Chip, Foil, Therostat, 3.23's 13.5 1/4 :thumbsup:

if they make a vert I am buying

They say opinions are like certain holes... Mine is that they should take clues of the '67-'68 also, not only the '69 (Again, please: no '69 speedo/tach! the '67 is much smoother). But the thing about the good looks of the'69 grille is that ONLY the grille is pointy, not the sheetmetal. Remember it is recessed?

Japan? Are you serious?

If the car happens...it will be built in America.
Just like the CF4 was.... wait..... :D

I think it looks like the cadillac! The idea of making a 1st gen retro, specifically 1969- is great, giving the surfaces facets like a stealth fighter is not so great! The 1st gen camaro though, rectangular, looking at it from one side- each face curved to meet the next. This gave the car beautiful flowing lines - not the abrupt angles of this vehicle. Also I would have to question the noise at high speed this car might make. This car competes in the Mustang market- and though every Mustang wants to grow up to be a Camaro- Care should be given to produce a car that does not make the mistakes of the Mustang, for examplethe wind noise over 120MPH. GM can do better- Go back to the 1969 body and don't over-think- make the front cross section smaller, lower the entire vehicle- keep the smooth transitions from the sides to the top and bottom, and from the front to back., Keep the protruding creases from the top of the wheel wells on the 69, that fade out at mid door but make them more subtle. But the most important thing is performance! Offer the vehicle with a Z06 package! Make the car look more like a camaro and less like a cadillac!

First off, I like the new concept a lot, it's not perfect but it is a real good start. Forgive me, I bought the new Mustang GT but I don't have loyalties to any car companies, they just had the right design at the right time. In owning the Mustang I have been looking at the 2002-04 GT's and Cobras and I have discovered one thing, I like the Cobra because the grill is like a black hole with a badge in the middle. You can't see any grill work. All the Ford talk outta the way (sorry GM guys) I would say this, the grill on the Camaro concept is very distracting. I say GET RID OF THE PLASTIC and flatten the point a bit. It would look more menacing that way. Black hole with a badge.

I love the interior, I wouldn't change a thing. About time GM.

If they fix the front end I would put my GT in the garage for a while and buy a Camaro.

I agree with everything ZZ430DropTop67RS said. I was hoping for something a little more retro, with more of the styling of the first gen's. The front has some elements of the 69, but the rear doesn't have any Camaro influence at all. I agree that having the RS hidden headlights would go a long way. Maybe they can come out with an RS option. But I still like the Challenger better.

Kevin yea like he said,
I have a 67 (drag) and a 68 SS street, I feel GM deserted us, Like they are trying to tell us what we want in a retro, I will have a new retro, in 08,09 or 10 but if they stick with the look they have now it will be a mopar.

It's a nice car , but i think it has to much Cadillac then a camaro . The dodge boys hit the nail on the head with the challenger and so did ford with the mustang . I thought the interior was sharp in the camaro , but something's just not right with the body lines .

I think chevy needs to build this car and not something that looks like it was a candle that melted. I will buy but only if they make that car! I also dont agree with some that say to make it more rectangular in the front. Leave the sharp lines in the front. Come on let s not get back to the 80's - everything w