1997 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS SLP

Description

This 1997 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 SS was built at a time when SLP was at the very top of the Camaro food chain. With factory connections and the ability to order one of these incredible F-bodies directly through your local dealer, it was the quickest, easiest way to get all the hi-po goodies without looking through a catalog and building it yourself. Add in that this car has only 6,000 original miles and you have a pure collector car.

The fourth-generation Camaro was unquestionably a great-looking car, and SLP's modifications only enhance the aggressive attitude. Almost all the bodywork is stock, but SLP added their own custom hood, which became the SS's signature design element, a gaping, fully-functional ram-air setup that actually worked as advertised. Bright red paint certainly doesn't hurt, and it's probably the signature color for the SS, particularly with the blacked-out B-pillar that gives it a fighter jet cockpit look. The rear wing is better-integrated into the design than just about anything built since, and thanks to composite body panels (except for the quarters) it'll look this good practically forever. With just 6144 miles, it's easy to see why the car still looks almost showroom new. A few SS badges help identify the car to those unfamiliar with the top-of-the-line Camaro, but by the time anyone notices, the car will be long gone.

SLP knew that real drivers were their primary customers, so the supportive chairs inside this SS wear grippy fabric instead of leather, and it's in virtually new condition in every way. For the most part, it's purely stock Camaro hardware inside, including the fat airbag-equipped steering wheel, comprehensive instrument panel, and leather-wrapped shifter knob. Niceties include power windows, locks, and mirrors, a tilt column, and A/C, none of which seem to hurt performance in any notable way. The upholstery, carpets, and door panels are virtually unmarked and feature subtle 30th anniversary embroidery on the seat backs. SLP added an SS badge on the dash, just above the familiar GM/Delco AM/FM/CD stereo, which still sounds great today. Open the large hatch and you have a decent-sized trunk that doesn't seem to have ever carried any cargo, given that it looks almost new. This is a seriously nice car.

SLP excelled in making the most of Chevy's small block V8s, and thanks to a few time-tested tricks, this SS was the fastest, nastiest pony car on the market in 1997. The most notable upgrade is, of course, that functional ram-air hood, which includes a massive air filter right under the scoop, which force-feeds the LT1 nice, cool air. Other tweaks include a special cat-back exhaust system that gives this Camaro a rebellious roar instead of a stock mumble, and a few other tweaks to add a few ponies here and there. The engine bay is extremely clean with all the factory parts still intact and sings of careful maintenance that keeps it in top mechanical condition without spoiling its authenticity. A 4-speed automatic transmission snaps through the gears like you're power-shifting it yourself and the hunkered-down suspension is far more capable than you'd expect from a car with a live rear axle. You'll note that the floors are immaculate with factory overspray and no signs that this car has ever seen rain, let alone snow - it's really impressive. Classic 5-spoke "A-mold" wheels are one of Chevy's very best designs, with these wearing new 275/40/17 BFGoodrich rubber.

Unquestionably an important part of Camaro history with only 108 being built, this extraordinarily well-preserved, low original mileage, and nicely documented SS is a treat for drivers and collectors alike. Call today!