Camaro Z/28 IMSA GTO
The Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 IMSA GTO, competing in 1980s IMSA GTO championship, represents the golden era of American GT racing with tube-frame chassis, widebody aerodynamics, and naturally aspirated V8 power. The race cars featured small-block Chevrolet 358 cubic inch V8 engines producing 550-660 horsepower depending on specification and year, with advanced examples like 1985 Peerless Racing chassis PRC-851 achieving 660 hp and 525 lb-ft from Hilborn fuel injection and Holley EFI control. Weighing approximately 2,630 lbs with RWD configuration, power transmitted through Weismann 5-speed transmission and Winters aluminum-center rear end, the IMSA GTO Camaros delivered extraordinary performance.
The 1985 Peerless Racing Camaro pioneered carbon fiber tub construction, groundbreaking technology for GT racing of the era. The third-generation Camaro coupe introduced 1982 received dramatic hourglass widebody design for GTO competition, creating some of wildest American race cars ever built. The 1986 season saw Peerless Camaro win three races including Miami Grand Prix, finishing 3rd twice and helping driver Jack Baldwin finish 3rd in driver standings. The 1980s-1990s IMSA racing built the wildest widebody Mustangs and Camaros the world has ever seen, with naturally aspirated V8s hovering around 550-600 horsepower. The IMSA GTO Camaro Z/28 represents American racing at its most spectacular: big V8 power, advanced aerodynamics, and fierce competition creating unforgettable motorsport spectacle.