What is the difference between a 1993-02 Camaro SS or Z28?

[StopThisGame]

What is the difference between the 1993-02 Camaro SS or Z28? Which model trim is higher between the SS or the Z28? I believe the RS is the base model with the V6 engine and the SS and the Z28 comes with the V8 engines.

I have a friend who used to own a 1997 Camaro SS V8 w/leather interior.

[Eric M]

Different trim packages, both interior and exterior. They both have the same motor, chassis, and suspension.

[johnny]

You can look it up on the internet so you can see the differences it can explain everything in detail.The SS package is more then the Z28.1993-97 camaro's with a v-8 had an LT1 motor.98-02 had an LS1 V-8.The LS1 cars are reasonably faster then the LT1 cars.Although the ss may make a bit more horsepower they dont run any better times at the track then a Z28 because the increase in horsepower is minimal.

[JC]

The base Camaro is just that - a Camaro. The RS model usually has an appearance package on top of the base Camaro. The Z28 is the V8 performance option package, and the SS is a step higher, usually with modified suspension and a better flowing set of exhaust manifolds. Horsepower difference between the Z28 and the SS is usually in the 15-30 hp range, depending on the year.

http://www.edmunds.com will give you all the info you could want on these vehicles. Hope that helps.

[Don B]

Camaro - base model which comes with a Series II 3800 3.8L V6 engine rated at 200 HP. Prior to 1996, the standard engine was a 3.4L V6 with 160 HP with the 3.8L being an option in mid-1995. A 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (4L60E) transmission is available. A performance package (Y87) is also available starting in 1996 which includes a posi rear, rear disc brakes, 3.42 gearing in the A4, exhaust pipes/tips on both sides, and sport steering ratio.

RS - appearance package available starting in 1996 for the base Camaro (V6) only. It includes ground effects and an up-level spoiler. "RS" badges are located on the front fenders and rear passenger bumper. In 1998 the RS was dropped, however the appearance package was still available as an option.

Z28 - The high end model. From 1993 - 1995 it came with a 275HP 5.7L V8 (LT1) engine. In 1996 power was increased to 285HP by going to a 2 catalytic converter setup. In 1998 the Z28 went to the all new LS1 which was rated at 305 HP and 335 ft-lbs of torque. A black roof treatment was standard on all 1993 and 1994 Z28s, and 1995 models and later offered a roof that was the same color as the rest of the body as an option. A 6-speed (Borg-Warner T-56) or 4-speed automatic (4L60E) transmission is available. The suspension and brakes are enhanced for improved handling. Two available Preferred Equipment Groups make the car either moderately or fully loaded. "Z28" badges are located on the front fenders and rear passenger bumper. In 1993, an Indy 500 Pace Car version (with automatic transmission) was made with a black and white paint scheme and multi-colored paint stripes along each side of the car.

SS - available as an upgrade to the Z28 model starting in late-1995 (as a 1996 model). The package include a functional ram air hood scoop and reworked exhaust manifolds resulting in 305 HP and 335 ft-lbs of torque. An optional freer flowing exhaust system brings HP to 315 and torque to 342 ft-lbs. In 1998 with the introduction of the LS1 engine, power was boosted to 320HP, and with the optional SLP exhaust power was boosted to 327HP. The stock wheels and tires are replaced with 5-spoke 17" ZR-1 style wheels with 275/40ZR/17 tires. Hurst shifter and Torsen differential were available options. Bilstein shocks, stiffer rate springs/bushings, and a larger front sway bar make up the optional Level-II suspension. The stock spoiler is replaced with sleeker looking one. "SS" badges replace the "Z28" badges on the front fenders and rear passenger bumper. All cars were shipped as stock Z28s to Street Legal Performance (SLP) Engineering where the above modifications were made through 1997. After that, GM made the modifications on its own assembly line.

SS/LT4 - available only in 1997 with all of the standard and optional SS equipment, but the LT1 was replaced by a balanced and blueprinted LT4 engine with 330 HP. Additionally, they got a new stainless steel exhaust system and exhaust manifolds, and a new Bilstein performance suspension set-up. The cars had to be special ordered as 30th Anniversary cars with a 6-speed transmission, and no T-tops or convertible, and they were then sent to SLP for modification. Production was limited to 100 cars.

[Gee]

Well to keep it simple, the engines are the biggest difference. in 93-95 z28 you have 275 hp, in 96 you had 285 hp, 97-02 you has 305 hp. unless you had a SS which had more. If you can swing it, I'd recommend the SS. I've had the 99 z28 and loved it (need to find me another). The RS which came out in 96 I think? Was only a v6.

Good luck on your search