The LS7’s cold air intake is among the Z/28 parts offered as upgrade packages.

While GM may be restricting the availability of certain parts exclusively found on the new Z/28 Camaro, we recently learned from our friends at Camaro5.com that the company will offer performance packages for lesser Camaros based on components from the Z/28. 

Per Chevy’s official release, nine packages will be available this summer, and many will preserve the factory warranty when installed by a Chevrolet dealer. “We have taken some of the very best components of our track-capable Camaros –and packaged them together for easy installation on other fifth-generation Camaros,” said Mark Dickens, director, Chevrolet Performance Engineering. “Each package gives customers the performance upgrades they want, and the peace of mind knowing each part has been engineered and tested to the same specifications as our production cars.”

Here’s the breakdown from the announcement:

• Camaro Z/28 Suspension – The kit includes front and rear spool-valve dampers, springs, and stabilizer bars; front ride/handling links; and rear upper control arms and trailing links.
• Rear Differential Cooling System – This kit includes the rear differential cover, integrated heat exchanger, and all cooling lines and fasteners. On the Camaro Z/28, this system reduced the temperature of the differential fluid by 100 degrees Fahrenheit – and is ideal for track usage.
• Recaro Sport Seats – Compatible with 2012 and later Camaros, the Recaro front seats feature more pronounced side bolstering – ideal for performance driving. The driver and passenger seats are offered individually, and feature manual adjustment for reduced weight.
• Z/28 Cold Air Intake – This kit includes the full air induction system, including a K&N high-performance air filter and cold-air intake box assembly for improved engine power and cooling.
  
  

  The Z/28 uses unique 4-2-1 headers.

• Camaro Z/28 Exhaust Manifolds – This kit includes dual, hydroformed “tri-Y” headers from the 7.0L LS7 engine, offering increased airflow for other LS-series V8 engines.
• Camaro Z/28 LS7 Exhaust System – This includes the cat-back exhaust system from the Camaro Z/28. For an additional $150, an adapter kit is also available to join the 2.75-in diameter Camaro Z/28 system to the 2.5-in diameter LS3 exhausts.
• Camaro Z/28 Aerodynamics Package – Compatible with 2014 model and later Camaros, this package includes four components that contribute to the aerodynamic performance of the Z/28: front splitter, front wheel-lip extensions, underbody belly pan, and rear spoiler.
• Camaro Z/28 Brake Ducts – Compatible with 2014 model and later Camaros, this package includes the front-fascia opening and ducting to direct cooling air to the front brake rotors to increase braking performance for track use.
• Camaro Z/28 Helical Differential – This kit includes a zero-preload limited-slip differential with helical gears rather than traditional clutch packs. By continuously adjusting the torque bias, this differential maximizes available traction for faster lap times. The kit also includes the 3.91 axel ratio and integrated heat exchanger in the cover.

Aero parts like the splitter and wheel lip extensions will also be offered.

While it might seem odd that Chevy is restricting certain Z/28 parts while actively promoting the sale of others, by comparing the lists it’s easy to see what’s going on.

Many of the items restricted to those who can prove they already own a Z/28 are cosmetic in nature, while these nine packages are all strictly performance-related. The announcement ties in well with Chevy Performance’s existing line of Camaro upgrade packages we saw at the SEMA show last year.

Pricing and availability dates haven’t been announced yet, so keep an eye on Chevrolet.com/performance for updates.