CAMARO SPORTS NEW LOOK
AND MODIFIED CORVETTE ENGINE FOR 1998
It's one of the only American sport coupes that's stayed true to its lineage for more than 30 years. While others have come and gone, Chevy Camaro has always stood for style, agility and performance. For 1998, that performance bloodline continues, as Camaro arrives with a number of dramatic changes, including a new exterior appearance, a modified Corvette LS1 5.7 Liter V8 engine in Z28 models, as well as chassis and braking improvements, an available Sport Appearance Package (formerly the RS) on all models and a factory-direct Z28 with the SS Performance/ Appearance Package.
NEW EXTERIOR APPEARANCE - Buy The Camaro Here
The updated exterior appearance is the first update Camaro buyers will notice for 1998. The front-end design includes a new sheet-metal hood, new fenders and front fascia, composite headlamps with reflector optics for improved nighttime visibility and new sporty, optional foglamps. Also new are two exterior colors - Sport Gold Metallic and Navy Blue Metallic. New body-color door handles complement any exterior color. A Chevrolet bowtie embossed on the hood blanket contributes to the overall sporty look of Camaro. The Camaro Coupe is available in standard and Z28 models. Optional removable roof panels give the feel of open-air performance. Or, for the ultimate "wind-in-the hair" ride, Camaro Convertible is available in standard and Z28 models as well.
MORE POWERFUL ENGINE - Buy The Camaro Here
Prospective Camaro buyers will be excited to learn that the '98 Z28 features a version of the new-generation 5.7 Liter LS1 V8 engine found in Corvette. In Camaro Z28, the LSl engine develops more horsepower than last year's LT1 V8 engine - an impressive 305 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine features an aluminum engine block and a composite intake manifold and air intake system. And, of course, Camaro Coupe and Convertible continue to offer the standard 3800 V6 SFI engine, which offers proven performance. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on Camaro Coupe and Convertible, while a 6-speed manual transmission is optional on Z28 models for those who desire a little extra hands-on performance. A 4-speed automatic transmission is optional on Camaro Coupe and Convertible and standard on Z28 models.
OTHER 1998 IMPROVEMENTS - Buy The Camaro Here
The Camaro chassis receives a number of improvements for 1998, including a revised 4-wheel disc brake system (now standard on all Camaro models), new anti-lock brake system (ABS) components and new suspension tuning. Also, optional for Z28 models, improved Acceleration Slip Regulation (traction control) provides drivers with optimum control during slippery driving conditions. Underneath, Camaro features a new, one-piece, all-welded exhaust system designed to reduce noise and vibration. It’s more than performance that attracts buyers to Camaro. Its fun-to-drive quotient and expressive styling have also attracted many buyers to the Camaro fold. In fact, 70 percent of buyers currently choose the standard Camaro and its award-winning 3800 V6 engine for their daily transportation needs.
SS PACKAGE - Buy The Camaro Here
A new SS Performance/Appearance Package takes Camaro Z28 to the ultimate level of power and handling. Available on both Z28 Coupe and Convertible, the Camaro SS includes an exclusive composite hood with a functional air scoop and modified induction system upping the LSl to a healthy 320 horsepower, new P275/40ZR-17 Goodyear Eagle Fl performance tires with specific 17" x 9" wheels, a 3-inch stainless-steel exhaust tip and a new SS-specific rear spoiler with LED center high-mounted stoplamp.
SAFETY - Buy The Camaro Here
Buyers also appreciate the standard safety features. For 1998, Camaro continues to offer Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) with Automatic Exterior Lamp Control, so others can see Camaro more easily during the day, and standard driver and front-passenger air bags, which help reduce the chance of injury in certain moderate to severe frontal collisions. A reinforced safety cage helps minimize intrusion into the passenger compartment with strong structural components, while standard anti-lock brakes help reduce wheel lockup and help the driver maintain steering control during severe braking, even on slippery surfaces.
MAINTENANCE - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro is designed to make the ownership experience an easy one. Platinum-tip spark plugs can go up to 100,000 miles before replacing and extended-life engine coolant is good for 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. And, on models equipped with an automatic transmission, there's extended-life transmission fluid which, under normal operating conditions, never needs replacement. Scotchgard™ Protector on cloth seats, door panels and floor covering resists stains and makes cleanups easy. For added convenience, Camaro features standard battery-rundown protection, which automatically turns off the headlamps or interior lights if they are inadvertently left on after 10 minutes. The 1998 Camaro is an impressively equipped, fun-to-drive, genuine American sports car. Whether looking for the exhilarating open-air experience of a convertible, the sleek look of a coupe with a hardtop or the convenience of a coupe with removable T Tops, Camaro delivers performance excitement.
COMPETITORS - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro Coupe competitors in the regular sport segment are:
Ford Mustang
Eagle Talon/Mitsubishi Eclipse
Toyota Celica ST
Competitors for Camaro Z28:
Ford Mustang GT
Mitsubishi 3000 GT
Toyota Celica GT
Toyota Supra
MODELS AND TRIM LEVELS - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro Coupe
Even with standard trim, Camaro Coupe offers a long list of features that make it a great sports car value:
3800 V6 SFI engine
5-speed manual transmission
4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Driver and front-passenger air bags
Air conditioning with CFC-free refrigerant
Daytime Running Lamps
Tilt-Wheel™ Adjustable Steering Column
Gauge package with tachometer
AM/FM stereo with cassette player
Day/night interior mirror with dual reading lamps
Power rack-and-pinion steering
Stainless-steel exhaust
PASS-Key II theft-deterrent system
Scotchgard™ Protector
Ride and Handling Suspension
16" bolt-on wheel covers
P215/60R-16 all-season blackwall tires
Camaro Convertible
Camaro Convertible offers the same standard features as Camaro Coupe, plus the following:
Electric rear-window defogger
Power convertible top with a three-piece hard tonneau cover.
Camaro Z28 Coupe and Convertible
Camaro Z28 Coupe and Convertible offer the same standard features as Camaro Coupe and Convertible, plus the following:
5.7 Liter LS 1 V8 engine
Electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission (6-speed manual is a no-cost
option)
16" aluminum wheels
P235/SSR-16 all-season blackwall tires
Performance Handling Suspension
Limited-slip differential
Special black roof treatment with black mirrors (Z28 Coupe only)
55 mph speedometer
CAMARO POLICE PACKAGE - Buy The Camaro Here
Police fleets can order a Police Package for the 1998 Camaro. First introduced in 1991, this package has become popular for both highway and interstate traffic control. The B4C Police Package includes:
5.7 Liter LSl V8
6-speed manual or electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission
Performance Handling Suspension
16" aluminum wheels
P245/SOZR-16 speed-rated blackwall tires
3.23:1 limited-slip rear axle (automatic transmission)
3.42:1 limited-slip rear axle (manual transmission)
Automatic transmission oil cooler
155-mph speedometer
SAFETY - Buy The Camaro Here
With a long history of setting automotive safety milestones, GM is a world leader in automotive safety research, development and testing. The 1998 Camaro exemplifies that dedication, providing an impressive list of safety features. And, with a comprehensive system, emphasizing crash avoidance and occupant protection, Camaro owners not only get genuine sports car performance, but additional peace of mind, as well.
Crash Avoidance Features
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) activate parking lamps when the ignition is turned to the on position, increasing the vehicle's visibility to other drivers. Automatic Exterior Lamp Control turns on headlamps and other exterior lamps at dusk or in low-light conditions.
4-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS), standard on Camaro, has been improved for 1998. The system automatically adjusts brake pressure to the front and rear wheels during hard braking situations, minimizing wheel lockup and helping maintain steering control. All the driver needs to do is maintain firm pressure on the brake pedal.
Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (traction control), revised for 1998, decreases tire spin on slippery surfaces, optimizing traction and stability under changing road and vehicle load conditions (Z28 only).
Starter safety switch, on Camaro models equipped with manual transmissions, requires drivers to depress the clutch pedal to activate the ignition.
Brake/transmission shift interlock, standard on Camaro models equipped with automatic transmissions, requires drivers to depress the brake pedal to shift out of Park.
Second-gear-start feature, standard on Camaro Coupe and Convertible, provides an extra measure of control in low traction driving conditions.
Limited-slip rear axle, standard on Z28, optional on standard Camaro, helps improve traction on slippery surfaces.
Occupant Protection Features
Driver and front-passenger air bags are designed to supplement safety belts, by helping restrain front-seat occupants in the event of a moderate to severe frontal impact.
A three-point safety belt system helps restrain outboard passengers by distributing forces to help minimize injury.
Front-seat safety belt guide loops make wearing safety belts more comfortable.
Reinforced safety-cage construction surrounds occupants with a cocoon-like system of structural components. This structure consists of reinforced roof rails, door pillars and beams, which are designed to help minimize intrusion into the passenger compartment.
Front and rear crush zones are designed to deform in a controlled manner in the event of a collision, to absorb impact energy in order to reduce intrusion into the passenger compartment.
Camaro Coupe and Convertible models incorporate body reinforcements and energy-absorbing foam pads in the doors to meet dynamic side-impact protection requirements. Convertible models feature foam attached to the rear-quarter trim panel and additional bracing added to wheelhouse areas.
Energy-absorbing steering column and instrument panel are designed to absorb collision impact, in order to help reduce injury to the driver's body.
Laminated windshield safety glass and tempered side and rear safety glass help prevent occupant injury and reduce the risk of occupant ejection in the event of a collision.
INTERIOR - Buy The Camaro Here
Let's face it. When a typical American looks at Camaro, the first thing that comes to mind is "Killer looks!" But, stylish looks and exhilarating performance aren't all that Camaro has to offer. The interior has many features that help make every driving experience a comfortable one. A user-friendly center console features ample storage space, two front and two rear cup holders and a convenient front auxiliary power outlet. A standard, manual, four way seat adjuster on all models allows the front passengers to adjust the seat to a number of comfortable positions. Also, a power six-way driver-seat adjuster is optional. Standard air conditioning uses CFC-free refrigerant. Standard Tilt-Wheel™ Adjustable Steering Column tailors the wheel to the most comfortable, individualized steering position. A standard, electronically tuned, AM/FM stereo with cassette player features seek-scan, search functions and extended-range speakers on coupe models, and premium coaxial speakers on convertible models, for high-performance sound quality
CAMARO LOCKS OUT THIEVES - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro comes standard with the highly effective PASSKey II theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key II has a sensor in the vehicle's ignition lock that measures the resistor value of a key when lt Is inserted into the ignition, If the correct key is not used, or if someone attempts to bypass the system, the Vehicle will remain inoperable for approximately three minutes, even if the correct key is subsequently used.
A CAMARO GUARDIAN ANGEL? - Buy The Camaro Here
There was a time when Camaro topped the list of the most-stolen cars in America. WeIl, times have changed, thanks in no small part to the standard PASS-Key ll theft deterrent system. In a recent study, Camaro not only dropped from the number one most-stolen position, it no longer even places in the top 25 A long time Camaro rival, Ford Mustang, comes in at number five, (1995 model). Not surprising, as Mustang doesn't offer the standard level of theft deterrence provided by the Camaro PASS-Key II system.
CAMARO INTERIOR FEATURES - Buy The Camaro Here
The Camaro interior compliments the sporty exterior. Gauges are well laid out and easy to read. Instruments and controls are easy to locate and reach. Basic design highlights include strategically placed air conditioning outlets for maximum cooling effectiveness, a cockpit-style wraparound instrument panel and sporty seat contours.
The Camaro instrument panel includes the following gauges and warning lights:
125-mph speedometer
155-mph speedometer (Z28 models)
Tachometer
Voltmeter
Engine oil pressure
Engine coolant temperature
Liquid crystal display odometer and trip odometer
Fuel level
Low engine coolant level indicator (Z28 only)
Low engine oil level indicator
Low Trac indicator when ABS or traction control systems are active
Other Features Include:
- Floodlight illumination, located above the door controls and switches, makes after-dark operation easy
- Tilt-Wheel™ Adjustable Steering Column tailors the wheel to the most comfortable, individualized driving position
- PASS-Key II theft-deterrent system temporarily disables the starter and fuel injectors if an incorrect ignition key is used
- Padded sunvisors have covered vanity mirrors as well as elastic straps to hold maps or papers
- Full-folding rear seat increases cargo capacity
- Rotary heater/ventilation/air conditioning controls with high-contrast graphics are backlit and have a tactile design for easy operation
- New carpet and basket-weave seat fabrics enhance interior appearance
- Scotchgard™ Protector helps protect cloth seating surfaces, carpeting and door panel trim from stains and makes cleanups easy
- A center console with handy storage compartments, two front and rear cup holders, cassette CD storage and an auxiliary power outlet adds to convenience
- Door map compartments and a locking glove box provide additional storage for personal items
- Intermittent wipers allow the driver to match wiper speed to weather conditions
- Theater lighting gradually dims the interior lights when the doors are closed, instead of turning them off abruptly
- Low oil level indicator alerts the driver to check/add oil when the level is low, helping to prevent engine damage
- Low coolant level indicator (on Z28 models) alerts the driver to prevent engine damage
- Close-out panel for the cargo area conceals personal belongings and reduces interior noise
- Standard air conditioning uses CFC-free refrigerant
- Retained Accessory Power (RAP) allows certain features like a convertible top, power windows and audio system to remain operable for up to ten minutes after the ignition is turned off
- Optional Remote Keyless Entry with interior lighting feature and theft-deterrent alarm system locks and unlocks the vehicle doors and hatch, turns on interior lighting and arms the alarm system from a key ring transmitter. The theft-deterrent alarm system adds to PASS-Key protection by utilizing a motion sensor and door jamb switch sensors to detect vehicle break-in
- Optional power windows with driver's Express-Down feature lowers the driver window with a single touch of the switch
- Optional power outside rearview mirrors make mirror adjustments simple with an easy-to-reach switch.
AUDIO SYSTEMS - Buy The Camaro Here
While it's impossible to forecast everyone's musical tastes, Camaro offers a sound system with the technology and features designed to complement all varieties of music, from jazz to country and in-between. Uplevel cassette and compact disc player systems feature speed-compensated volume, which automatically adjusts the volume of the audio to the vehicle's speed, compensating for road noise; as well as automatic tone control, with preset equalizer levels providing one touch operation for talk and music programs. Also, optional Delco 200-watt music systems have an eight-channel amplifier with active crossovers and equalizers.
Available Systems On Camaro:
- Standard electronically tuned AM/FM stereo with cassette player, seek-scan, preset digital clock, station scan and extended-range speakers
- Optional Delco 200-watt music system w/electronically tuned AM/FM stereo with cassette player, seek-scan, digital clock, automatic tone control, speed compensated volume, Dolby Noise Reduction, Music Search, Theft Lock security feature and eight speakers (Coupes only)
- Optional electronically tuned Delco AM/FM music system with cassette player, seek-scan, digital clock, automatic tone control, speed-compensated volume, premium coaxial speakers, amplifier and Theft Lock (convertibles only)
- Optional Delco 200-watt music system with electronically tuned AM/FM stereo with compact disc player, seek-scan, digital clock, automatic tone control, speed-compensated volume, Theft Lock, eight speakers and amplifier (coupes only)
- Optional electronically tuned Delco AM/FM music system with compact disc player, seek-scan, digital clock, automatic tone control, speed-compensated volume, premium coaxial speakers and Theft Lock (convertibles only)
- Optional remote compact disc changer with 12-disc magazine located in the left rear of the cargo area (requires uplevel cassette player). Controls are built into the radio for easy operation and convenience.
ABS - Buy The Camaro Here
Buying a car with anti-lock brakes may require drivers unfamiliar with this feature to "unlearn" past braking habits. Drivers accustomed to traditional brake systems have been taught to "pump" the brake pedal when braking hard on slippery surfaces to keep the car's wheels from locking up. ABS is designed to pump the brakes faster than is manually possible, automatically adjusting the brake pressure at each wheel independently to avoid wheel lockup. All the driver has to do is maintain pressure on the brake pedal. To become familiar with the system, drivers should take the vehicle to an unoccupied parking lot (preferably one with slick pavement) and practice sudden hard braking maneuvers to get a feel for the benefits of enhanced steering control ABS provides.
Camaro SS Is "In The House." - Buy The Camaro Here
Formerly upfitted by an independent special equipment manufacturer, the famed SS Performance Appearance Package is now available directly from Chevrolet. An option on Z28 Coupe and Convertible the SS Package takes Z28 sportiness to the ultimate level.
Features of the Camaro SS include:
- An exclusive composite hood with an air scoop. The air scoop works with the modified air induction system to boost the SS power to 320 Horsepower
- Beefy P275/40ZR-17 Goodyear Eagle Fl Performance tires and specific 17" x 9" aluminum wheels provide road-gripping performance and good looks
- SS badging on the fenders and rear fascia
- 3-inch stainless-steel exhaust tips add to the sporty rear appearance
- A new SS-specific rear spoiler with LED center high-mounted stoplamp adds the final sporty touch
- SS specific Performance Ride and Handling Package
Interior Colors - Buy The Camaro Here
Interior Colors For '98:
Red accent (cloth, door trim and seat inserts only)
White leather now available on all models.
Other Colors:
Dark Gray (available in cloth and leather)
Neutral (available in cloth and leather).
EXTERIOR FEATURES - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro features an aerodynamic design that reflects the classic Camaro hallmarks- a long hood, a short deck, an aggressive stance, a low-sloping front end and beefy tires mounted on Performance wheels. The exterior also features a steep, 68-degree windshield angle and an integral rear spoiler with built-in center high-mounted stoplamp. And, these are just a few of this genuine sports cars distinguishing exterior characteristics. All Camaro models now feature body-color door handles for a more flowing exterior appearance. Camaro features a new front-end design that includes a new hood, new fenders, a new front fascia, new composite headlamps with reflector optics for improved nighttime visibility and foglamps.
Camaro Removable Roof Panels Option (T Tops)
Optional T-Tops are available on all coupes. T-Tops are a lower-cost alternative to convertibles for those who wish to experience open-air driving. Camaro T Tops have a rich, dark translucent exterior surface for security, and offer good visibility from inside the vehicle. Removable sunshades are included with the T-Top option. The removable T-Tops also include security locks for theft deterrence. T-Top panels can be stored and locked in a compartment in the rear cargo area.
EXTERIOR PAINT - Buy The Camaro Here
Standard basecoat/clearcoat paint on Camaro resists fading and provides a highgloss shine for long-lasting exterior beauty. The clearcoat system is formulated to minimize the effects of acid rain and other environmental damage. Clearcoat finish is used with all colors - solids and metallics.
Exterior Colors
Paint Colors For '98:
- Sport Gold Metallic
- Navy Blue Metallic
Other Colors:
- Black
- Bright Green Metallic
- Bright Purple Metallic
- Bright Red
- Cayenne Red Metallic
- Sebring Silver Metallic
- Mystic Teal Metallic
- Arctic White
BODY STRUCTURE - Buy The Camaro Here
All Camaro models share a body structure that includes a fully unitized steel frame, steel-reinforced composite body panels and honeycomb-constructed front and rear bumpers for added strength and durability. Extensive anti-corrosion measures include the use of composites, two-side-galvanized steel and electrode position primer (ELPO). Camaro makes extensive use of dent resistant, rustproof body panels. The roof, doors, hatch and spoiler are made of sheet-molded compound (SMC), a material comprised of finely ground glass in a polyester resin. Reaction Injection Molded (RIM) process- reinforced with mica - is used for front fender and fascia production. Rust-resistant, two-side-galvanized steel is used for the rear-quarter panels and hood.
Camaro Convertible
Camaro Convertible is manufactured online at the Ste. Therese assembly plant. The convertible's rigid body structure provides a solid foundation that minimizes flexing and squeaks and rattles, while providing precise handling and steering. The convertible top features a standard full headliner, a glass rear window and an electric rear-window defogger.
OODLES OF SAFETY FEATURES - Buy The Camaro Here
Camaro has more safety features than you might realize. Here's a sampling:
Occupant Protection
- Driver and front-passenger air bags
- Manual lap and shoulder safety belts Energy-absorbing steering column and instrument panel
- Breakaway inside rearview mirror
- Laminated windshield glass
- Front integral head restraints
- Side door beams
- Front and rear crush zones
- Tempered safety glass on side and rear windows
- Pressure-lock radiator cap
Crash Avoidance
- Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
- Daytime Running Lamps
- Side-marker lamps and reflectors
- Optional traction control on Z28 models
- Parking lamps
- Four-way hazard-warning flashers
- Brake system with dual master cylinder plus warning light
- Center high-mounted stoplamp
- Dual-action hood latch
- Tires with built-in treadwear indicators
- Brake/transmission shift interlock (automatic)
STEERING - Buy The Camaro Here
Power rack-and- pinion steering enhances handling and responsiveness and provides a feeling of precise control under demanding driving conditions. The steering ratio and hydraulic valve settings are individually tailored to standard Camaro and Z28 models. Camaro Coupe and Convertible have a 16.9:1 steering ratio, 2.67 turns stop-to stop. Camaro Z28 models and standard Camaro models equipped with the Y87 Performance Handling Package have a 14.4:1 steering ratio, 2.28 turns stop-to-stop. A new power-steering cooler on Camaro Z28 models, equipped with optional high-performance packages, ensures a cool running power-steering system during high-performance driving maneuvers. A new, unique steering gear for Camaro Z28 improves overall steering feel. A new, intermediate steering , shaft on Camaro Z28 improves overall steering feel and provides more precise steering.
BRAKES - Buy The Camaro Here
Four-wheel disc brakes, now standard on all models, dissipate heat more effectively to help fight brake fade. New, larger front and rear rotors provide better surface cooling for improved performance over a period of time during aggressive use. New non-asbestos organic brake pad material provides quieter performance and enhanced durability. New parking brake system features a more robust design for improved reliability and easier operation. New ABS module and calibration employ a new electronic brake force distribution in place of a hydraulic proportioning valve, allowing for full utilization of the rear brakes and shorter stopping distances. Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) is standard equipment on all models. Some things to keep in mind about anti-lock brakes:
ABS helps maintain steering control during severe braking situations and minimizes wheel lockup on most slippery surfaces. All the driver has to do is apply firm pressure to the brake pedal and steer ABS can adjust brake pressure several times per second, a rate even most skilled professional drivers cannot attain The system automatically adjusts the brake-line pressure at the wheels. Drivers should not "pump" the brakes in emergency braking situations. Rather, they should maintain constant pressure on the brake pedal, allowing the system to work effectively. Plated brake calipers and corrosion-protected rotors enhance performance and appearance.
WHEELS AND TIRES - Buy The Camaro Here
DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING - Buy The Camaro Here
All Camaro models are manufactured at the General Motors assembly plant in Ste. Therese, Quebec, Canada. Originally constructed in 1965, the plant was completely refitted to produce the fourth-generation Camaro in 1993. Camaro benefits from this new precision tooling and a highly skilled workforce. The employees are organized into teams, and each department functions as a separate business unit committed to making its particular operation defect-free. The plant's state-of-the-art waterborne paint system produces a bright color palette of paint that has a high level of fade-and-weather resistance. Before this unique system is employed, the entire exterior of the Camaro body is thoroughly cleaned with ostrich feathers to remove all dust particles. After experimenting with a number of different materials, both synthetic and organic, designers found, somewhat surprisingly, that ostrich feathers were best suited for providing a smooth, clean surface for the paint application. Several manufacturing strategies were used to streamline Camaro engine designs and simplify the manufacturing process. A team of engineers and manufacturing employees looked for ways to maximize the commonalities between the engines. Their teamwork resulted in the use of a common air conditioning compressor and air cleaner, a similar accessory drive (with shared connections and attachments) and identical main and rod bearing fits. These changes improved the engine and vehicle-assembly process, as well as serviceability.
Copyright © 1985-2001 AutoPricing / VIS. All rights reserved. *Values are subjective opinions based on the Staff of NABA / VIS and recent market conditions. National Automobile Bankers Associates / Vehicle Information Services is not responsible for actual or claimed deviation. Copyright 1993-2001 NABA/VIS. Auto Pricing a service of VIS. 561-394-0610