Chevrolet Camaro6 SS 1LE / Toyota GR Supra A90/A91
The Chevrolet Camaro6 SS 1LE and the Toyota GR Supra A90/A91 represent two distinct approaches to rear-wheel-drive sports cars, each with its own engineering ethos and performance characteristics. The Camaro6 SS 1LE is a muscular American V8 powerhouse, boasting a naturally aspirated 6.2L LT1 V8 engine producing 455 horsepower and a hefty 617 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Supra features a more modern, turbocharged 3.0L inline-six sourced from BMW, delivering 387 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, emphasizing a balance of power and agility.
On paper, both cars share a similar 0-60 mph time of around 4 seconds, but their driving experiences diverge due to differences in weight, chassis dimensions, and drivetrain characteristics. The Camaro is significantly heavier at approximately 3772 lbs compared to the Supra’s 3351 lbs, and it is longer and wider, which influences its handling dynamics. The Camaro’s 6-speed manual or optional 10-speed automatic transmission contrasts with the Supra’s 8-speed ZF automatic, reflecting differing philosophies in driver engagement and shift responsiveness.
Analyzing lap times across a variety of tracks reveals a nuanced competition. The Supra generally holds an edge on tighter, more technical circuits such as Laguna Seca, Barber Motorsports Park, and New Jersey Motorsports Park, where its lighter weight, shorter wheelbase, and refined chassis allow it to carve quicker lap times. For instance, at Laguna Seca (Current), the Supra clocks a 1:36.09 compared to the Camaro’s 1:36.83, and at Barber Motorsports Park, the Supra’s 1:34.90 significantly outpaces the Camaro’s 1:43.62. These differences highlight the Supra’s agility and ability to maintain momentum through complex corners.
Conversely, the Camaro demonstrates superiority on tracks favoring raw power and stability, such as Ridge Motorsports Park and Watkins Glen International. At Ridge Motorsports Park, the Camaro’s 1:45.68 bests the Supra’s 1:47.28, and at Watkins Glen, the Camaro is quicker by about five seconds. This advantage is likely due to the Camaro’s robust torque delivery and aerodynamic enhancements in the 1LE package, which provide strong acceleration out of corners and confidence on high-speed sections.
Interestingly, on longer, flowing circuits like Thunderhill and Road America, the Supra again shows faster times, leveraging its balanced chassis and efficient powertrain to maintain higher cornering speeds despite less outright horsepower. The Supra’s lighter curb weight and shorter wheelbase contribute to nimble handling and quicker directional changes, which are critical on these tracks.
Modifications and tire choices also play a role in performance disparities. Both vehicles were tested with medium-level modifications and similar tire grip ratings, yet the Supra often benefits from a higher UTQG tire rating in some runs, which may enhance its cornering grip and braking performance. The Camaro’s setup, while potent, may require more aggressive tuning to fully exploit its power advantage on technical tracks.
In summary, the Chevrolet Camaro6 SS 1LE excels in delivering brute force and stability on power-centric circuits, making it a formidable competitor where straight-line speed and torque dominate. The Toyota GR Supra A90/A91, meanwhile, shines on technical and flowing tracks where agility, chassis balance, and precision are paramount. Drivers seeking a raw, muscular American muscle car experience will appreciate the Camaro’s character, while those favoring a refined, nimble sports car with modern engineering will gravitate toward the Supra. Both cars offer thrilling performance, but their strengths manifest differently depending on the demands of the circuit.