Which 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE Should You Choose?

2017-Chevrolet-Camaro-1LE-front-three-quarters-2

Chevy recently decided to take the fan-favorite Camaro and make it even better than it was before. As you probably already know, the 2017 Camaro SS and LT V6 Coupes will be available with an elite track packages called the 1LE. You may be familiar with the performance handling package which dates back to 1988 when it was available to only those who knew how to tick the correct combo of boxes on the order sheet. However, this will be the first time Chevrolet has ever offered the package on a V6 model.

“With a curb weight under 3,500 pounds, excellent front-to-rear weight balance and the precision of the FE3 suspension, the Camaro LT 1LE offers unmatched capability in its class,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro Chief Engineer. “As a result, it offers incredible performance for Camaro V6 customers.”

V8 FTW

While the two may appear similar from a distance, and the V6 is easily the most capable sub-V8 version of all time, lets detail some of the differences between the LT and SS models. While both packages boast upgraded engine performance, braking, suspension, and aesthetics, the General didn’t create both equally.

2016-culture-Camaro-1LE-Flipper1-2-EMB-648x263

The V6 model comes equipped with the SS’s standard FE3 suspension components which includes improved dampers, rear cradle mounts, ball-jointed rear toe links and stabilizer bars. The LT model also receives four-piston Brembo brakes, sourced from the ATS-V. A mechanically operated limited slip differential, stuffed with 3.27 gears, is used to split the power out back and lightweight 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels, wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 245/40R20 front and 275/35R20 rear rubber, keep the car firmly planted.

The SS model comes standard with FE4 Magnetic Ride Control suspension (a la Z06) and six-piston monoblock calipers squeezing two-piece rotors. A “segment-exclusive” electronic limited-slip differential, stuffed with 3.73 gears, handles the final drive while unique forged-aluminum wheels, shod with 285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires specially formulated for the 1LE, keeps the SS planted at forces exceeding 1g.

Both models are available only with the six-speed manual transmission and also include a dual-mode exhaust, additional oil coolers for the engine, trans, and differential, extra engine coolant capacity, and microsuede covered shift knob and steering wheel. On the exterior, both offer an aggressive three-piece rear spoiler and slightly different front splitters. The hood, mirrors, splitters, and spoilers of each are wrapped in satin black (as with the fifth-gen), distinguishing them from their otherwise relatively pedestrian counterparts. The Performance Data Recorder is also available on both models.

Camaro LT V6 1LE

“The new 1LE Performance Package looks to build on the legacy of its predecessors while helping Camaro attain even higher benchmarks on the track,” Oppenheiser said.

The 335 horsepower V6 is advertised as the perfect daily driver and “track” combination while the 455 horsepower V8 is our favorite 1LE; not just because of the motor, but because of the included electronic limited-slip differential, Magnetic Ride Control, and heavier bolstered Recaro seats — none of which is available on the LT model.

Camaro SS 1LE

“The Camaro 1LE packages follow a recipe any track-day enthusiast will appreciate,” said Oppenheiser. “Start with a lightweight, stiff structure and then add higher levels of suspension stiffness and damping, more aggressive tires, higher downforce, more powerful brakes and more cooling. The result delivers better performance in all measures.”

While there is no exact release date for these performance oriented platforms, Chevrolet stated they will start shipping out in the fourth quarter of 2016.

About the author

Jenna Schiebe

Jenna’s addiction to all things automotive began soon after she was introduced to the car scene at age 16. She has a special interest in imports but, at the end of the day, is a enthusiast that loves anything that goes fast.
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