Chevrolet Camaro reviews

1995 Chevrolet Camaro Walkaround

The Camaro product line has been simplified since the 1993 model year, with only the coupe, the new-for-1995 convertible and the high-performance Z28 in either a hardtop or soft-top version. The SS, RS and other intermediates have been dropped, taking some of the confusion out of choosing a Camaro.

There are four drivetrain combinations to choose from: You can get the basic 3.4-liter 160-hp V6 engine with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed electronic automatic transmission; or you can get the thundering 5.7-liter 275-hp LT1 V8 with the 6-speed manual or the optional 4-speed electronic automatic transmission.

The Camaro comes with dual airbags, a built-in theft-deterrent system (PASS-Key II) and standard anti-lock brakes. This year, body-color side-view mirrors are standard, and they pull the whole car together better than did the previous design.

The Z28 high-performance version of the Camaro gets the V8 engine, larger tires and a substantially upgraded suspension. It also gets exterior badging and a rather uninspired and commonplace interior, which we think is a mistake.

We're of the opinion that there should be more interior flash with a Z28, perhaps standard leather or a jazzed-up dash - anything to wake it up a bit.

New items for '95 include three additional colors, an optional monochromatic roof paint treatment on the Z28, and new aluminum and chrome-plated wheels.

The Z28 also offers a version of the Chevrolet Corvette's Acceleration Slip Regulation, a special type of traction control that reduces engine power and applies the brakes if you corner too quickly. Also new this year on the Z28 are optional high-performance, all-weather tires, available only in size P245/50ZR-16.

Options on all Camaros include air conditioning, power windows/door locks/mirrors, and a respectable range of sound systems and wheels.

We found the level of exterior fit-and-finish to be generally pretty good on our coupe. None of the plastic panels looked like plastic, the paint job was brilliant, and the car had the wonderfully slick, predatory presence that we think all sports cars should have.