Chevrolet Camaro Z28 - 2nd Gen (1970 to 1981)

After the huge success of the 1st Gen Camaro Z/28 on and off the track, the 1970's ushered in a new take on the Z28 for the 2nd Gen Camaro. Introduced for the 1970 model year, the 2nd Gen Z28 saw the "/" dropped from its name, and debuted in a new body style. Buyers could now order an automatic transmission in their Z28 and spoilers were now standard equipment. The SCCA Trans-Am series no longer limited cubic inches to 302. The 360hp 350 cubic inch V8 engine that was borrowed from the Corvette LT-1 debuted in the Z28 for 1970, but government clamp downs on emissions saw horsepower ratings decrease over the course of production. The Z28 would disappear in 1975, but would return midyear in 1977 with special graphics and marketing which would try to capitalize on its past glory. The T-top option became a favorite and could be ordered on a Z. A 4 speed was still an option on the Z28 but even with upgraded suspension components, the Z28 presented as more of an appearance package with a monochrome grill that incorporated the government mandated safer bumpers. Despite the downgraded horsepower, the late 70's saw the sale of more Z28 cars than ever, leading them to be regarded as a sales sucess with over 200,000 Z28's sold from '77-'81 alone. Production of the 2nd Gen Chevrolet Camaro Z28 ended in 1981, but the Z28 name would reappear in the next generation as the 3rd Gen Chevrolet Camaro Z28.