When it comes to muscle cars, the Chevrolet Camaro is a fan favorite. But, have you ever wondered what the different trim levels and badges mean? In particular, what does RS mean in a Camaro? In this article, we’ll discuss the history of the Camaro, what RS stands for, and compare the different Camaro trim levels.
History of the Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro was introduced in 1966 as a competitor to Ford’s Mustang. Both cars had the same goal: appeal to young American buyers with a love of speed and style. The Camaro has gone through six generations since then, with the newest model introduced in 2016.
The Camaro was a massive hit during its first few years of production, with over 220,000 sold in 1969 alone. Throughout the years, the Camaro has maintained its position as a popular muscle car, with a loyal following of enthusiasts.
What Does RS Stand for in a Camaro?
RS stands for Rally Sport. This was a package offered on early Camaros that offered a sleeker, more “European” look. The RS package was first offered in 1967 and continued through 1973. It was then reintroduced in 1996 and has been available through the current generation of Camaros.
So, what do you get with the RS package? The original package included hidden headlights, revised taillights, and other exterior tweaks. It also included special interior options, including a custom steering wheel and upgraded seats. Today, the RS package includes LED headlights, a unique grille, and different wheels.
Camaro Trim Levels
In addition to the RS package, the Camaro has multiple trim levels. Here’s a rundown of what each level offers:
1LS: This is the base model Camaro. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 275 horsepower. It also comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission.
2LS: The 2LS is similar to the 1LS but comes with an automatic transmission.
1LT: The 1LT is the first step-up from the base model. It comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that makes 335 horsepower. It also comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2LT: The 2LT includes everything that the 1LT does, but it also adds a Bose audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and additional safety features.
3LT: The 3LT is the luxury version of the Camaro. It comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that makes 455 horsepower. It also includes a head-up display, wireless phone charging, and a heated steering wheel.
1SS: The 1SS is the first model that comes with the 6.2-liter V8 engine. It makes 455 horsepower and comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission.
2SS: The 2SS includes everything that the 1SS does, but it also adds the features from the 2LT trim level.
ZL1: The ZL1 is the performance version of the Camaro. It comes with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that makes 650 horsepower. It also includes a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a rear spoiler.
FAQs about Camaros
1. How fast can a Camaro go?
The top speed of a Camaro varies depending on the engine and trim level. The base model can hit a top speed of around 150 mph, while the ZL1 can hit speeds over 200 mph.
2. How much does a Camaro cost?
Again, the cost of a Camaro depends on the trim level and options. The base model starts at around $25,000, while the ZL1 can cost over $70,000.
3. Are Camaros reliable?
Overall, yes, Camaros are known for being reliable. However, like any car, they can experience issues over time. It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they’re discovered.
4. How many miles per gallon does a Camaro get?
The mileage of a Camaro also varies depending on the engine and trim level. For example, the base model can get up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the ZL1 gets around 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
In conclusion, the Camaro is a beloved American muscle car with a long history of speed, style, and performance. The RS package adds a unique look to the already sleek Camaro, and the different trim levels offer a range of options for both luxury and performance. If you’re in the market for a Camaro, consider which features are most important to you and choose the trim level accordingly.