The Chevrolet Camaro is a legendary sports car that has been around since the 1960s. Over the years, it has undergone several changes in terms of design, performance, and features. The Camaro comes in multiple variants, including the SS and RS. Although they might look similar at first glance, there are some major differences between the two that any potential buyer should be aware of.
Let’s take a closer look at the Camaro SS and RS and explore what sets them apart.
1. Performance:
The Camaro SS is a higher performance version of the Camaro that is designed for speed and power. It comes equipped with the powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces an impressive 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. The SS can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds and is capable of reaching a top speed of 165 mph.
On the other hand, the Camaro RS is a more basic version that is known for its great looks and handling. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The RS can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and has a top speed of 149 mph.
2. Appearance:
The Camaro SS and RS both have distinct exterior styling that sets them apart from each other. The SS has a more aggressive look with a functional hood scoop, larger air intakes, larger brake calipers, and a more prominent front grille. It also comes with larger wheels and tires that are specifically designed for high-speed performance.
The RS, on the other hand, has a more subtle look with a smaller grille and less aggressive body lines. However, it does come with LED headlights and taillights that give it a more modern look. The RS also has 20-inch wheels that are designed for better handling and traction.
3. Interior:
The Camaro SS and RS both have comfortable and well-appointed interiors. However, there are some differences in terms of the features that come standard with each model. The SS comes with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and an upgraded infotainment system as standard.
The RS, on the other hand, comes with cloth upholstery and a simple infotainment system that is easy to use. However, there are several options available that can be added to the RS to make it feel more luxurious, including leather upholstery, heated seats, and a premium sound system.
4. Price:
The Camaro SS is a higher-end model than the RS, and as such, it comes with a higher price tag. The starting price for the 2021 Camaro SS is $42,000 for the manual transmission and $44,590 for the automatic. The RS, on the other hand, has a more affordable starting price of $26,900 for the manual transmission and $28,600 for the automatic.
It’s important to note that the prices for both models can vary depending on the trim level and optional features that are added.
5. Fuel Economy:
When it comes to fuel economy, the Camaro RS is the more efficient of the two models. The 2.0-liter engine that comes standard with the RS is capable of delivering an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
The larger and more powerful V8 engine that comes standard with the Camaro SS is naturally less efficient, but Chevrolet has managed to improve its fuel economy over the years. The 2021 Camaro SS with the automatic transmission is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Conclusion:
The Camaro SS and RS are both fantastic sports cars that offer great performance and style. However, they are tailored to different types of drivers. The SS is perfect for those who want the ultimate high-performance experience, while the RS is ideal for those who want great looks, handling, and efficiency at an affordable price. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and individual needs.