Reportedly, Chevrolet is planning to replace the sixth-generation Camaro with an electric performance sedan. While it is not confirmed, they are definitely building an exclusive drag-racing model named 2022 COPO Camaro.
If you are familiar with the history, Central Office Production Order (COPO) is a system the American automaker introduced in the late 1960s. It was a kind of bespoke division allowing customers to choose the vehicle of their choice in different shades and features. The main idea was to accommodate fleet customers such as trucking firms and the police force. However, a few knowledgeable dealers used the system to order drag-racing vehicles through COPO. Chevrolet renewed COPO in 2012 and has been creating unique drag-racing Camaros since then.
The 2022 COPO Camaro comes with a huge 572-cubic-inch (9.4 litres) big-block V-8. The automaker claims it “channels the spirit of the original 1969 COPO Camaro.” While Chevy didn’t disclose its power and performance stats, they did tell us the powerplant employs a cast-iron block with aluminium heads, a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and forged aluminium pistons.
When the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro hits the dealerships, it will also be accessible in two LS-based small block V-8s. The first one is a supercharged 350-cubic-inch (5.7-litre) engine appraised by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) at 580 horsepower. The second one is a naturally aspirated 427-cubic-inch (7.0 litre) unit good for 470 horsepower. All three mills pair with an ATI Racing Products TH400 three-speed automatic gearbox motivating the rear wheels.
Those looking to have it for city commuting would be disappointed to know that Camaro does not offer any street-legal COPO. However, racers would be happy to run it in NHRA Stock and Super Stock eliminators. The 2022 COPO Camaro boasts a carbon fibre hood and wheelie bars. On the other hand, a trunk-mounted weight box and parachute come for an extra price.
Previously, the company only built 69 examples of COPO Camaro to pay tribute to the original 1969 COPO Camaro. The company picked the customers through a lottery. However, now Chevrolet isn’t making any excuses. The 2022 COPO Camaro will be accessible on a first-come, first-serve basis. The pricing of the 572 model starts at $105,500, while the 427 goes for $117,500. The most expensive 350 sets you back $130,000.
For tax, registration, and destination fees, buyers should talk to their respective dealerships. Furthermore, the interested customers can apply online and visit the COPO Build Facility personally in Oxford, Michigan, while riding in their 2022 COPO Camaro.
Source and Images: CarandDriver