Rogers Auto Group

The Chevrolet Camaro began production in 1966 for the 1967 model year.  Although the car's name was derived from French slang meaning "companion" or "friend," Chevrolet originally publicized, tongue-in-cheek, that a Camaro was "a small, vicious animal that eats mustangs," since the vehicle was designed as a competing model to the Ford Mustang.

There was significant buzz prior to the first unveiling of the 1967 Camaro, with rumors circulating about its code name "Panther" and several press conferences held to announce and display the new vehicle.   The first generation Camaro (1967-69) was built on a rear-wheel drive F-body platform and was available in four engine options, 2-door coupe or convertible, and three trim variations (RS, SS, and Z-28). The new Camaro was immensely popular, selling more than 220,000 units in its first year.

The second generation of Camaros lasted from mid-1970 through 1981 and featured an all-new body that was longer and wider with a more pointed look, along with improved suspension and new engine options.  The convertible was no longer offered in this generation, but T-tops became a popular option beginning in 1978.  Over the course of this generation, the RS, SS, and Z-28 were eventually phased out and engine and horsepower options were revised to comply with new emissions standards and rising gas prices.

The third generation was produced from 1982-92 and was a smaller and more modern design than its predecessors.  Weighing in at 500 pounds lighter than the second generation, the 1982 Camaro offered modern fuel injection, four-speed automatic transmissions, five speed manual transmissions, four-cylinder engines, 16 inch wheels, and hatchback bodies.  The new design was a big hit, and the 1982 Camaro Z28 was named Motor Trend's Car of the Year and was also the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 that year. Other notable benchmarks for the third generation were the introduction of the high performance IROC-Z models in 1985 and the return of the convertible in 1988.

The fourth generation Camaro ran from 1993 until its temporary discontinuation in 2002, and featured a sleek new profile, plastic front fenders, upgraded front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. Improvements during this generation included standard antilock brakes, optional all-speed traction control and a six-speed manual transmission, along with interior upgrades. A 35th anniversary edition was offered in 2002, the last year before production was ceased until the rebirth of the fifth generation in 2010.

The fifth generation Camaro was launched in 2010, honoring its heritage with a retro look harking back to earlier generations while also delivering on customer expectations of a sports coupe for the present day.  A perfect combination of performance, comfort and technology, even after an eight-year hiatus, the new Camaro didn't waste any time getting back in the game.