Chevrolet has accompanied the unveil of its Camaro convertible with the release of a potentially surprising factoid. The new model apparently boasts better torsional stiffness than the BMW 3-Series convertible.
Whether the new Camaro convertible betters the 3-Series in any other meaningful ways hasn't been declared. Unlikely as that proposition may seem, we should be able to find out next year when the first 'official/factory' Camaro imports to the UK (rock and?) roll off the boat.
The convertible will be offered in similar model configurations to the Camaro coupe, so the standard model will have a 312hp direct injection V6 engine. The SS model will feature the 6.2L V8 producing 426hp, and a six-speed manual transmission will be standard, with an optional six-speed automatic.
Priced from $30k in the US, the Camaro's architecture was designed from the outset to accommodate a convertible model, says the maker. Strategic reinforcements include a suspension mount brace under the bonnet, a transmission support reinforcement brace, underbody tunnel brace, and front and rear underbody "V" braces. There's no mention of how the changes affect weight in the official press release.
There's also a hydroformed tube in the A-pillars, an inner reinforcement bracket in the windshield header, a reinforced front hinge pillar and reinforcements inside the rockers.
It's those structural changes to the Camaro convertible body that give it superior bending and torsional stiffness than its closest competitor, and better torsional stiffness than the BMW 3-Series convertible, they say. The powered fabric top retracts in about 20 seconds.
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