2020 Camaro SS 1LE Track Review - Is It REALLY That Good?

[@drewmorg.]

Goated car. I see the 2016-2018 for sale recently for around $30k with manuals and low miles. This is the bargain of the century.

[@Ryan-cp4rh]

Likely out of warranty too. I’ve seen these cars with rod knock at a red light and a hole in the block a few miles afterwards.

[@nobleperez4558]

@@Ryan-cp4rhreally? What year would you get ?

[@danielmembrillo6472]

@@Ryan-cp4rh Meh, the 6.2 is reliable, I wouldn't listen to one anecdote on youtube. These cars are pushed hard on track with very little failures.

[@mrjjthor]

​@@Ryan-cp4rh lol, never heard of that issues but ok

[@warriorplutotrent3827]

​@@Ryan-cp4rhit's not a rod knock but the lifters. This has been an ongoing problem for a while. Once you change the lifters and valve springs it will last over 200k miles. I think they got a bad batch of parts from Mexico from what I've read.

[@TRZ0612]

I LOVED my SS 1LE. I also did the ZL1 1LE solid rear subframe bushings and it makes the rear-end more precise and predictable. I have since moved on to a 718 GT4 PDK and honestly out of the box driving dynamically, the SS 1LE is better with its MRC dampers. MRC is SOOOO much better than Porsche's PASM. I have since gutted my suspension for MCS 2-way remotes and now the GT4 is very capable and can pull more lateral G's than what my SS 1LE could and the weight difference is very noticeable. Being passive though and with less suspension travel, the SS 1LE still have a broader range when the roads turn to sh*t with large bumps and dips. As much as I love my GT4 now with its light weight, PDK, mid-engine, high revving flat 6, out of the box there is not a better performance car for under $150K than the SS 1LE.

[@Zygrene]

That's very high praise for MRC, but I don't doubt it.

[@TRZ0612]

I am a BIG MRC fan. I have had it on two cars now , my SS 1LE and a previous Audi TTRS and they are the only two performance cars that I have not felt the need to touch the suspension on and add aftermarket coil-overs. The 4th generation MRC on the C8 Corvette and Blackwing are even better.@@Zygrene

[@dabjabar]

I’ve seen you on both Camaro and Porsche forums. I’ve wondered about your perspective because I recently test drove a Boxster/Cayman GTS 4.0. Beautiful car, felt sublime and performed well. That said, I think I’d be too scared to drive it as hard on the track. But again, it was impressive. Fit and finish stellar. Of course, you do have to pay for it! Maybe prices will finally fall again and it’ll be more in reach. But I’d still keep the Camaro ;)

[@TRZ0612]

@@dabjabar The 1LE is stellar. I only moved from it for the things that it couldn’t provide… Interior quality, PDK, high revving motor, light weight , mid-engine. If you leave all safety systems on, they are very easy to drive fast. I can carry about 15-20 MPH more on fast sweepers compared to the 1LE. My favorite local on/off ramps I could see 1.25 lateral G’s in the 1LE on fresh tires , on the GT4, 1.49 G’s. That mid-engine layout and light weight allows for much higher cornering speeds.

[@dabjabar]

@@TRZ0612 That sounds incredible. GT4 is an amazing car, one that I can only daydream of having. I’d likely be more in the GTS camp. Used GTS Camp. Used GTS camp with maybe even the unappreciated 2.5 power plant! That’s probably more in my budget

[@CarStory]

I've had my 2022 SS 1LE for six months. Got it preowned with 3100 miles for under $50k out the door with full ceramic coating. I love the LT1 engine, Tremec manual, magnetic ride and tall gears. It's so much fun to drive with the exhaust in track mode. The pops and cracks never gets old to me. The 1LE is really hard to find now so if you want one it could take a while. Absolutely love this car.

[@RaceCarFriends]

How did I know I'd find you here 🙂

[@CarStory]

@@RaceCarFriends haha hello hope all is well! About about to go drive my 1LE right now! Love my mid afternoon drives!

[@RaceCarFriends]

@@CarStory Haha enjoy brother I plan on getting another one myself they really are awesome cars!

[@CarStory]

@@RaceCarFriends 1LE's are getting really hard to find! It's much better than a Mustang GT and similar to a Dark Horse with a little less HP but 25k less!

[@BMWho]

can get a ct4 blackwing pretty much drives the same, was hanging with two 1le's with better and wider tires in mine. But sadly these are going soon too, well it was good while it lasted! c7, camaro, ct4vbw/atsv bargains of the century for performance. Shame camaro is gone this spring and blackwings probably in 2025

[@GERONIMO326]

The 1LE is the most capable sports car under 60k dollars no question. Alpha chassis is one of the best chassis ever made, steering is fantastic, tremec trans is amazing, brakes are insane. Tons of power

[@CrimpKeeper]

Ahhh yeah, that must be why it sold so well and Chevy discontinued it.

[@GERONIMO326]

@CrimpKeeper they discontinued the Hellcat as well, and it sold very well. The Ford shizbox Mustang is a rental car, and they sell a ton to fleets, is the ONLY reason it's still around.

[@CrimpKeeper]

@@GERONIMO326 Is that why the new Mustang Darkhorse beat the Camaro ZL1 1LE on the Throttle House track by 1.1 seconds while having 150 less horsepower and torque? 🌝

[@GERONIMO326]

@CrimpKeeper ok, I can see you clearly know nothing about cars, or Throttle House. The Throttle House test track is an extremely bumpy track. When they ran the 1LE, it was during the time they had just started running vehicles on that particular track. It hadn't been in operation in quite some time, and was in extremely bad condition. They have came out and said, that they need to re-do some of the vehicles to get more accurate track times. And if you're trying to compare a big heavy Dark Horse with no torque, to a monster eating ZL1 1LE then that's our first problem. The Dark Horse benefits from the super sticky Trofeo R's, and new brake technology. Period. It is EXTREMELY slow. The SS 1LE was neck and neck with it during the 1/4 mile drag race 🤣 🤣 🤣 the only thing that competes with the 1LE is the GT500, and even then, the 1LE has the better chassis, less weight, and more torque.

[@CrimpKeeper]

@@GERONIMO326 you’re making excuses as to why a car with 150 more HP and torque lost. Cope harder Chevy fanboy

[@MLeeder53]

Visibility is a non issue when you’ve spent a lot of time In these cars. Seems odd but you get used to it and you get a good feel for the car. Having owned a mach1, fk8 and fl5 ctr the bang for buck in the Camaro is well worth it!

[@MikeShero]

I have a 22 2SS 1LE. By far one of the best cars I’ve driven

[@dadhats]

nice to see an owner who knows his stuff and seemed comfortable on camera

[@dabjabar]

Thanks man! I initially assumed he would just take it out alone but it was nice sharing all the details in flight!

[@opmike343]

I love the passenger! Such a good sport. Seeing you develop your own driving and the way you can push with an unfamiliar vehicle is a real inspiration for my own development. One of the most underrated car channels on KZbin.

[@Zygrene]

Dan's hollering from shotgun was definitely motivating me to drive better lol. Thank you for the kind words!

[@dabjabar]

Thanks bud! Had a great time!

[@dre32pitt]

didnt even watch it yet. Yes the 1LE will destroy your FWD car, lol.. Edit: Surprised you didn't beat the ITS time.. Given equal seat time, I bet you monster it.

[@mcbat8]

Thunderhill West is a short track that rewards light weight agile car over HP. My friend did a 1:22.9 in a stock power Gen 2 BRZ on V730 tires.

[@TheBb6prelude]

I love owning a front wheel drive car just for people who think the way you think. The satisfaction of trolling and gapping AWD and RWD cars in my front drive car is unmatched. Built H22 stage 2 cams 66-62 turbo at 2700 lbs with factory LSD and pretty close ratio transmission. Plus full suspension with both strut bars/sway bar and r888s reverse staggered setup for front wheel drive all around.

[@knz5893]

@@TheBb6prelude I would love to have a track prepared light weight fwd ek or eg but comparing your built car on r888r with a full stock car with 200tw tire and no weight reduction isn’t really a fair comparison Edit: seems like you are a drag guy. Nvm lol

[@TheBb6prelude]

@@knz5893 I have built a drag car. My cars have always been street cars. My prelude especially. I love roll racing and drag racing and I'm veteran at it but I love to hit the canyon too. I took my other NA prelude with cams ,Tein flex 16 way adjustable coil overs ,Proxes R1Rs to streets of willow. Unfortunately I had to drive with one hand on the wheel because my 3rd gear decided to start popping out. I mustered a 1.34 first time at the race track,stock braking system but new. As I was getting used to the track I started running out of gas and just called it a day. My turbo prelude has more suspension mods and slightly better tires and LSD. The other NA prelude was non LSD with terrible long ratios.

[@TheBb6prelude]

@@knz5893 both of my preludes still have AC/PS and completely stock from the front seats forward. The NA one is 2640 lbs and the turbo one is roughly 2700 lbs. Both with only gutted trunk and rear seats .

[@gigi9467]

This car will be a classic

[@J.Wick.]

Yes. Its that good. I have a 17 2SS 6M w/ MRC & NPP. Not even a 1LE, and its amazing. Living 15m from the Dragon, ive considered upgrading to the 1LE suspension bits, but the MRC is so good already IMO, i havent felt the need. Excellent cars. So glad i got mine a couple years ago. Its a proper car.

[@Highlander1432]

1le sway bars are cheap af like $100 used

[@backnu]

And people are talking about prices. The market is still super overpriced. I got my last 1le (2019) 2SS 1le for 39k, 3 years ago. It had 4k miles and it was also a certified pre-owned ( no accidents). It was my 2nd one. I may go back to another one. I just didn't want a white car anymore. Awesome car! I also had purchased another 2 SS 1le before that. It had 29k miles and it was being sold for 30k. So looking at these prices today, I'll wait until the market settles.

[@WTFNoNamesLeft2]

We need a CT4 sedan 1ss 1le with the v8 and no blower.

[@TornadoOfSouls777]

Watch Chevy bring back the V8 Camaro after the EV sales crash!

[@ka124as]

They get subsidized by government for more than they lose. No big deal for them.

[@jmmch3358]

Hopefully👍

[@SleeperHonda]

I drove one of those but it wasn't a manual. Crazy ass car. Cant see shit though. Lol

[@Carlos.Rivera]

You have the clear view pedal in your right foot.

[@CarStory]

With the mirrors adjusted correctly, I can see everything without a problem.

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

It's like the Supra just get 2SS and you'll get blind spot monitoring and set mirrors

[@SleeperHonda]

@@CarStory you would have to install a periscope on that submarine!

[@CarStory]

@@SleeperHonda For track use I can see visibility being a problem.

[@robbyrockets1]

Had a 19 ZL1 1LE and it was an absolute beast at Mid-Ohio, got a crazy mafia level offer on the car and sold it, wish I'd turned the offer down. Ordered a new 22 2SS 1LE as a replacement, more livable daily driver suspension, but still exceptional on track, standard 1LE is world class all around except maybe on the interior if I had to complain about anything. This one is a keeper long term, especially since production has stopped.

[@dabjabar]

Yep!! I am considering another car but I’ll be hanging onto this one too!

[@AllIsWell_22]

Man…those Camaro 1LE’s are all future classics! You should drive a ZL1/1LE on track once as well.

[@robbyrockets1]

Owned a 19 ZL1 1LE and ran it at Mid-Ohio, absolute monster.

[@ruru2500]

Weird how you felt like the throttle was on/off. Track mode is very linear compared to tour/sport mapping. Maybe it was just getting used to a higher torque engine?

[@dabjabar]

I think you may be right… Fenton could’ve misunderstood what I shared off camera. Throttle in Track is the most linear. Sport is more aggressive and like an on/off switch.

[@A-A-RonRaces]

I think you may be mistaken. Track mode throttle shape curve is sort of like a hockey stick graph. With 30% throttle input fees like it’s apply about 15% power, etc. Tour mode is more linear, meaning 30% throttle input gives you equal power application. Sport is between track and tour.

[@dabjabar]

@@A-A-RonRaces ​ The story goes, Randy Pobst gave feedback about the throttle map and the GM engineers listened. ... Unsure I can post a link but you can read about it on the Camaro6 forums. I just reread the thread. I really don't know for sure. lol

[@boost331]

Better than a FWD honda..? What kind of question is that..!? IMO the BRZ that got replaced by the type S was already better, personally. FWD has come a long way but it is not and will never be the same experience as a rwd car.

[@kgthegreatone943]

Awesome car!!! Gonna be worth a pretty penny one day

[@web]

4:00 the video is not complete without s2000

[@pv4083]

This car will be missed and sought after in the upcoming years.

[@Highlander1432]

Definitely faster than any factory Honda/Acura (aside from the newer NSX)

[@FL50ssp]

Yes so much so that you shouldn't even compare it to the SS 1LE. A better comparison is against the V6 1LE Camaro. But don't take my word for it... 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE, 2:54.8 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE, 3:04.0

[@danziger69]

Can't touch the Camaro in performance per dollar. It's totally fine as a daily too...

[@Doing_The_Thing]

Sport 2 might have been more natural for you to switch to after driving in sport 1 and getting the tires hot. Sport 2 lets the car yaw more (by disabling DSC) without changing the amount of TC intervention. You probably would have laid down a faster laptime within this session.

[@dabjabar]

Yeah, I shared the PTM chart with Fenton. So many choices! Could’ve spent the whole day playing with modes but I think he tested four or five cars !plus tracked his ITS. That’s a lot in 1 day

[@Doing_The_Thing]

@@dabjabar No doubt a lot to take in, and the PTM is probably not very intuitive for someone accustomed to an analog car / all assists off. I’m just now starting to drive with sport 2 after getting comfortable pushing in Sport 1. Are you finding yourself turning it all off or prefer to keep it in Sport 2 / Race? Not sure if the PTM creates bad habits with how the TC intervention is linked to steering angle.

[@dabjabar]

@@Doing_The_Thing I started with PTM Sport like you and then continued to progress towards Race. Now that my car is on square tires, I believe it's best to use Race or All Off to avoid Ice Mode. I also prefer these two modes over everything else. If you find PTM cutting power or not allowing more yaw when you feel like you're otherwise totally in control, then it's time to select the next less intrusive mode. In Race, you can get totally sideways and the car won't save you so you need to exhibit some control. However, Race will help put down power on corner exit. If you mash the throttle out of a corner, you can actually hear PTM intervening through the exhaust. If you have a course with good run off, I encourage to try Race. Maybe take it easy near walls or dangerous corners but if you have a low speed/ high angle corner, that's the perfect spot to test and learn the car/ptm/driver limits

[@maloy6462]

My 2014 Dodge Challenger about 640 hPower “all I do press star engine next put in gear next push gas pedal next car goes crazy fast “ very simple no need to choose or click somewhere lol funny cars this days ! I think of getting camera I will feel special

[@xmadman19x]

Awesome video!! Here i am using my 1LE to get milk and bread!! Maybe this spring i’ll grow a pair and take it to the track!!

[@dabjabar]

Take it out! You won’t regret it! In fact, you may be surprised how much more it can do

[@josels1292]

I have a 22 SS1le that I purchased new in March of 22. I use this as a daily driver Mon-Thurs. on Friday I take the C5 out just to keep the battery fresh.

[@pan4632]

if they make a V8 6mt 7th gen with better visibility...oh boy that would be unstoppable

[@ShaiyanHossain]

all they had to do is make a CT4 with this engine and manual

[@pan4632]

@@ShaiyanHossain I agree, but to be fair it would probably be slower than the current ttv6

[@dabjabar]

I’d buy a 7th Gen! Probably never happen tho

[@justinleuropa]

I drove one in 2018... man I still think about how hard that car rips. And i ended up with a 2018 mustang gt premium because it was cheaper and it was beautiful red on red. But that camaro is like a track car for the road. From the inside it feels like you do a wheelie from 0-60 the way the front end lifts. The stang rolls better tho

[@millll111lllI]

It seems like people don’t keep these cars

[@project_piston]

Honestly if you don't need the room of the CTR/ITS this is a much better track car. Hands down faster around every track than those. You honestly get used to the visibility over time I'm not the tallest driver. Alpha chassis is just so confidence inspiring. Even with the passenger you should have been a few seconds faster around the track sure you could with more seat time in the car.

[@dabjabar]

Yep. No offense to the CTR/ITS. The Camaro performs especially well even on this tight technical track. Put it on a bigger road course and the variance would be even greater

[@kevintran963]

I would to see you drive a ZL1-1Le on the track. I know you reviewed one on the street, But its an entirely different animal on track

[@dabjabar]

If you find one local to us, I’d happily step in and review it for Fenton and you! That car is a beast!

[@nickydrifts]

The "throttle weirdness" you were feeling in PTM "Race" mode was not your imagination, the car modulates throttle % when yaw is detected in such a way that limits your power in turns. In other words, if you kept your foot to the floor into a turn, as you turn in the car will automatically decrease fuel by some coefficient that it determines is enough to keep you from spinning out. Then, when you finish the corner and the wheel turns straight again, the throttle % will jump back to 100% because the car knows you're going straight. It's honestly a very smart tactic as it takes a lot of stress off the driver when it comes to throttle modulation, but if it bothers you then your only option is TCS system fully off. Love the videos by the way, I subscribed so keep them coming!

[@jmmch3358]

Even the 6th gen Camaro SS has great handling. On '16 Motortrend did a Camaro SS VS a BMW M4 and the Camaro beat it. Later on R&T did in '19 a Camaro SS1LE VS the BMW M2 Competition. And the Camaro did a better lap time than the M Competition👍🏆

[@TheCrazyBalt]

What brand is the cell phone holder on the side of the instrument panel?

[@dabjabar]

ProClip

[@Sonic_1000]

It's really that good

[@gsxr5922]

Not even a comparison only reason to get fwd for 50k is being a fanboy nothing else

[@StirlingMossDrives]

You need to be smoother. That ptm mode was saving you. Think you would of spun with everything off with those exaggerated oversteer moments. Big v8 torque is a whole animal when the tires are loaded up.

[@northcamarolina7453]

I agree (BTW I've seen your vids in your car control skills are impressive). I think FWD cars are very tolerant of rough control inputs because they really only understeer and they typically can't put power down instantly. Makes it easy to build bad behaviors. Now on the SS 1LE, stomp the gas too quickly coming out of a corner and it'll rotate the rear end instantly.

[@StirlingMossDrives]

@@northcamarolina7453 Thank you! Impressive driving of your own as well. I agree with you as well. Also a lot of the cars he has driven have been very high revving cars so coming out of corners at lower rpm, you can stab on throttle and pull yourself through with nice rotation. The camaro will want to do big smokey drifts. Honestly a good platform for a drift car I’m surprised 6th gens are still not being used. Otherwise Zygrene is an amazing driver and pushing a car like the ss1le on the whim like that was good driving.

[@dabjabar]

I’ll have to check out both your channels! I too like to drift this thing. Lots of fun but not great for lap times!

[@csavage63]

Was the audio from the gopros or did you use separate mics? Looking for a solution for more in car content with quality audio at high speeds.

[@georgejin1764]

God I love this channel and your observations. I am a car nerd. keep the content coming!! Integra type s vs e90 m3 would be nice. And thanks for giving a shoutout to the Camaro SS. I rented one and I was so suprised and amazed! (I own a 2016 VW GTI 6MT)

[@JFlogerzi]

100% yes! The limits are much higher on the 1LE. If spice of life is what you want ITS is still a fantastic car. Better DD than the 1LE for sure.

[@dabjabar]

Funny enough, I’ve thought 1LE for the track and ITS/CTR for a DD. Instead, I chose to stay married ;)

[@JFlogerzi]

@@dabjabar Good choice. 🤣

[@j.jmcquade5278]

This video really shows the focus & engagement needed for high speed racing. Love it!

[@NightriderX2]

Yes, yes it is. Now I'll watch the video.

[@Daintrain2120]

I didn’t watch the video just wanted to answer your question….. yes

[@KARMAL82]

Settings like steering don’t override in PTM mode, at least not on my 2021

[@dabjabar]

That’s strange. For me, I drive in track race or TC all off but keep the steering in tour mode. I don’t care for heavier steering. It doesn’t feel like it transmits more information. It just feels heavier to feel heavier. lol. Just my opinion of course.

[@2URLex]

Very impressive weight and Chevys recipe for balancing power ratings.

[@landerwyoming9720]

Amazing driving on track and amazing owner for sharing. Thank you for showing us how it's done in a 1LE. Keep up the amazing driving and videos!

[@maziyarebrahimi997]

Next time you get to drive a SS 1le, put the drive mode in sport and then override the suspension and exhaust to track (kinda like the owner did for the steering). This will help with the throttle pedal feeling like an on/off switch. You can’t control the throttle in the settings like you can the steering, suspension and exhaust. The throttle is dependent on the drive mode you are in.

[@aluijbajjek]

If you just adjust the seat height up there are no visibility problems.

[@jeprodigalson792]

Can it turn? Why so aggressive to newbies? Why the ego? Seems like it's struggling

[@mauriceconger1926]

Best car for the money right now! Especially if you can find a 16-18! They’re so fast and very reliable! I can say so myself after owning one for almost 6 months!

[@dabjabar]

Great choice!

[@mauriceconger1926]

@@dabjabar nice car man, love seeing these get used for what they’re made for!

[@dabjabar]

@@mauriceconger1926 yep! No garage queen here ;)

[@dabjabar]

@user-gz9tq9fo5b It’s bad but you know what’s harder to see?! All those cars I leave behind in my rear view mirror! Haha! That sounds very douchey. I’m only kidding. Kinda.

[@wessark884]

What offset did you go with on the wheels? The fitment is excellent.

[@therealjonnyringo]

Great video... Was fun to watch and get your perspective.

[@mcbat8]

Should have give you PTM Race to begin with. The rear tires were pretty much done when you switched to that mode.

[@Zygrene]

Next time I'll probably drive it with everything off.

[@TornadoOfSouls777]

@@Zygrene It's amazing that your Type S plays in the Camaro league

[@knz5893]

@@ZygreneI think the car actually feels pretty different when turning all off compared to ptm race. I would start with race and turn all off after warm up. It’s also significantly faster

[@dabjabar]

You have to remember, Fenton is driving cars, like mine, to give you content. Yet, he has to practice responsibility. If this were a press car, by all means, he should beat the living shit out of it. But if anyone is going to beat 10/10ths on this car, it better be me! ;) And I do on my channel! Ha

[@jmmch3358]

@TornadoOfSouls777 then it would be surprising to see the Civic type R perform at that level. I would never imagine that they would be closer in performance to the Camaro SS1LE

[@wheeler3073]

Had that car. Put -3 camper in rear and 2.7 in front. Monster easy on track.

[@dhyskRand]

Such a cool car in either trim. I passed on it because i wanted a daily driver I can track and I just felt like I had no vision out of the thing.

[@dabjabar]

You do get accustomed as every Camaro owner will say but yes, there’s not a lot of glass.

[@NEMESISISDEAD]

like sitting in a tub

[@evanescent0311]

I’m so bummed they stopped making these

[@Maxaker]

The internet tells me this is the best car to ever exist

[@ericm8368]

How do the driving dynamics and track readiness of the 1LE compare to a C7 Z51 or even grand sport? The C7 Z51 are in similar prices for the early years but 400 lbs lighter. Leaning towards that since there’s better visibility and lighter weight.

[@jmmch3358]

Throttle house did a Corvette C7 Grand Sport VS the 6th gen Camaro SS1LE, and the Corvette easily beat the Camaro. Per C&D at VIR the Grand Sport has a faster lap time than Shelby GT350R, Corvette C8 Z51, Camaro SS1LE and ZL1. I was very surprised to see that the C7 Z51 was faster than the SS1LE.

[@FL50ssp]

@@jmmch3358 "Per C&D at VIR the Grand Sport". And the price of that GS was ~96K so not really a fair comparison now, is it?

[@1LE_LUISS]

Literally bought a 2023 SS 1LE sharkskin metallic thing is NASTY I AM IN LOVE ❤️🤌🏽

[@aria5973]

Hey love the video. What phone mount is that? I have a SS 1le phone placement sucks

[@dabjabar]

It’s a Pro-Clip mount. I then taped a magnet to it so my iPhone would stick. It holds fairly well except on very harsh bumps.

[@hsucduw]

To answer the title, ugh obviously lol

[@NitroAdventure]

What is your opinion on the c8 Corvette vs the Porsche Cayman for the 60-80k price

[@Zygrene]

I haven't driven a C8 on track yet, but on the road, it's more exciting than any Cayman trim level below the GTS 4.0 in my opinion.

[@1023llc]

@dabjabar you are very brave and gracious letting @zygrene drive your car on the track. @zygrene here is some constructive feedback/observations. Early on with Track 1 setting (some TC) you have some scary moments where you were very lucky you had some TC and in a Camaro, you were in a really limbo area in the Camaro - you let it float, off throttle into a turn and hitting bumps which unsettled the car more. You never once avoided these bumps by adjusting your line, which tells me you have tunnel vision and you are apexing early which means you are not looking far enough down the road because I suspect you are not use to the speed of the Camaro. Also you mention the gears are long - but you do not make the adjustment of dropping down a gear even for an extra 800-900 revs before shifting up but you do not realize that shifting up at full throttle 900 revs sooner means by the time you get to the next corner the car will be more settled because the engine will be maxed out at recline. You need more practice learning how to manage weight transfer regardless of the car. @dabjabar is approx 2+ seconds faster than your fastest time, and says it is even capable of more, it's just a matter of stringing it all together. 1. Drop down to 3rd then upshift to 4th 2. At the hairpin don't drop to 2nd, leave it in 3rd so you can mat the throttle without worrying about oversteer or traction 3. Avoid the bumps as much you can on approach to corners that require a lift or trail braking 4. Look far ahead, commit yourself and be ready to slam on the brakes the moment you loose concentration-or else you're gonna to go off at high speed And left foot brake And keep it in rev match unless you are Senna

[@walahmelons5504]

Third gear going to 107 blows my mind lol

[@dabjabar]

108 actually. ;) but it has torque way down low so you never feel the engine bogging

[@j.jmcquade5278]

Rookie here: What does 1LE mean? What's different between that & a ZL1? I'm looking at buying a ZL1. What does the 1LE give me on top of that?

[@blaqjac21]

parted out my built my evo 8 to buy a SS 1LE , i miss BOTH those cars sometimes . was able to hit a 1.38.6 at road Atlanta last year during peak of the summer on used cup2's . just a phenomenal track weapon and ST-45 pads and fluid made that thing stop harder than you could think now im in a evo x cause boost awd & 600whp pretty hard to beat as a daily driver lol

[@austinalanis655]

I have a 2018 Golf R right now that I have been hitting up some track days in, it currently has all the common Stg 2 mods with a tune and some additional supporting suspension mods. I am wanting to get a bit more serious with developing my driving skills and a little curious to try something other than the typical turbo 4 cylinder formula I have been in. I was def considering one of these but have concerns about visibility and daily use since I need a 1 car to do it all. Those of you guys who have experience with these, how is the DD experience? Also can you squeeze 18"s on these in a square fitment? I am only 5'7" so wondering if that amplifies some of the vision concerns as well

[@maziyarebrahimi997]

I’m 5’5 and visibility isn’t an issue for me. While the visibility is worse than other cars, it’s not nearly as bad as people make it out to be. Also most people don’t know how to properly adjust their mirrors (if you can see your rear quarter panel in the mirrors you’re doing it wrong. Google it before replying). The reason I believe people bitch about the visibility is because there is nothing else to bitch about with these cars aside from storage space. I believe people with these cars go square 19’s not 18’s but I could be wrong. I have only tracked with the stock 20x10/20x11’s that came with the car. Mine isn’t my daily but if I had to make it my daily I would. It’s too good of a car to pass up on and these types of cars won’t exist in the future.

[@austinalanis655]

thanks for the feedback! Yeah, my thoughts exactly regarding this being the last opportunity to try something like this @@maziyarebrahimi997

[@dabjabar]

I’m 5’8”. I agree with the response above. However, you can fit 18”s. Have friends that run 315/30/18 on square 18x11. The smaller diameter gives you increased wheel torque and reduced top speed per gear. I think speedo is off 4-5mph at 100. I think 18’s are also cheaper to run and you can even get slicks. If you get a Camaro, shop tire options before you select what size wheel to buy. Also, check Apex wheels. They have an online figment guide.

[@shiftmotorsports9803]

I had a MK7 Golf R which I totaled and now have an SS 1LE because I wasn't crazy about the MK8 looks and price. Completely different ballgame. If your goal is a track weapon, this car is lethal. You get used to the visibility (5'9"), but there is no storage anywhere but the trunk. I think the Golf R was a better daily, plus it's a sleeper. This car gets lots of attention. Everyone wants to race, or wants you to rev it, or just talk about it. I love them both for different reasons

[@julian_sp]

Would love to see someone driving a 5G Camaro like this.

[@jmmch3358]

Only the Camaro SS1LE, ZL1 or Z28, because the Camaro SS was very heavy and understered like crazy.

[@NEMESISISDEAD]

damn 3700 lbs ...if only these things were lighter i test drove one its nasty

[@MrSuzbndt]

Ss 1le comes with great pads stock. Just remove backing plates and change fluid.

[@dabjabar]

You’re right, it does. I just keep the stock pads for street use and use these for track. They don’t really stop faster than OEM but they do withstand longer track sessions/ more heat.

[@FL50ssp]

@@dabjabar Odd that you make that statement. Do you have proof? I only ask because I've run 45 mins sessions with 100 deg ambient temps on a few road courses that are hard on brakes. The only issue I experienced was when I made the mistake of using Motul BF instead of Castrol SRF.

[@dabjabar]

@@FL50ssp fair challenge. I don’t have any proof. I can say that near the end of the pad life, I felt as though the stock pads started to lose some stopping power but I can now say I may have been mistaken. I would say the main difference is the stronger initial bite of the dtc60 which provided me confidence.

[@FL50ssp]

@@dabjabar Agree on DTC60 great product from Hawk. As for your end of life (EOL) comment... you do realize that all brake pads participate to some degree (no pun) in shedding heat? As the pads get near EOL they dump heat into the braking system... which can have the effect you mentioned. As well as the potential to boil BF with a low wet boiling point. Sort of like a light switch... not much linera fall off. Ask me how I know! Anyway glad to see another knowledgeable enthusiast using his SS 1LE for its intended purpose. Take care and be safe out there.

[@_novaya_republic_]

shift much?

[@fkhothatchi]

gearing is hella tall which might be advantageous for this track but I feel like this car would be even more fun with a tad bit shorter gearing

[@dabjabar]

Perhaps… Rowing gears is definitely more fun. However, I think long gearing in say a Cayman is more of an issue due to lack of torque down low. That’s not a problem in the Camaro. You can still row gears without having the need to redline. You’ll still get pick up and go and all the sound you want.

[@fkhothatchi]

@@dabjabar I'm pretty sure objectively oem gearing is better but subjectively it's just more engaging but I get it big displacement engine with shorter gearing is just a recipe for inefficiency. Just always have a belief that if you're going to put hella tall gearin in a manual you're better off putting an auto just for pure engagement standpoint. I'm still a fan of this car I think people should develop more TA Camaros

[@eljefe3993]

I feel like you were a little timid over all

[@northcamarolina7453]

Give him a break. It was his first time driving this car on a track, AND it was a friend's car. And despite all that, he had the car near the limit of grip several times, and a few times beyond (oversteer catch).

[@Bujubadmon]

How did this compare to driving the C6Z?

[@panagiotisf7228]

What phone mount is that? And also what is that on the driver side mirror

[@dabjabar]

ProClip phone mount and it’s a small piece of metal that supposed to remove interior wind noise. I think it reduced it by 5% if that. It really was a waste of money.

[@panagiotisf7228]

Is it somethig thats for sale​@@dabjabar

[@DoctorSoftie]

👀 Noble at 2:11?

[@Zygrene]

It's a Rossion Q1, basically a rebadged Noble! Video coming soon.

[@jmmch3358]

I wounder which one is better for spirited driving and some track time: a '22 GR86/BRZ or the Elantra N?

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

I think "better" is going to come down to personal preference. Drive both if you can. You can't really go wrong with either. I will say, I was a little surprised that the GR86/BRZ twins had a fairly tight foot box that made heel-toe shifting harder than expected. Specifically, the brake and gas pedals aren't close enough to be able to "rock/tilt" your foot for a good blip, and the gas pedal itself is too close to the transmission tunnel for a comfortable full heel swing out technique. That was disappointing to me.

[@spectralopticalvision]

Tuis is a car!!! ❤👍

[@nycyabber7103]

Love your videos dude

[@backnu]

How are the Nankings? I'm thinking about getting them.

[@dabjabar]

I’ve run them about 6 days now. So far, I’m really a fan! I’m going to try the CRS model next. See if they last a little longer yet provide very close levels of grip.

[@backnu]

@@dabjabar do they warm really fast? I'm running Goodyear Supercar 3Rs and they take some work to get them warm. I would like a tire that warms really fast, but has some durability. I don't need ultimate grip - just fast acting and on the better side.

[@backnu]

@@dabjabar do they heat fast ? I am running Super Car 3 Rs and they take forever to heat. I'd like a tire that heats up fast.

[@jamieleanderson]

I would love to own one of these if visibility was better. I grew up driving 90s to early 2000s cars with no technological to help you drive and pay attention. Saying that to say, not being able to see over your shoulder what's on side of you sucked. Car I drove was a 2020 2SS 1LE. I loved everything else about it, especially seating position.

[@robbyrockets1]

The 2SS ILE has so many blind spot sensors its nearly impossible to get into an accident. I got used to my 2SS 1LE within a few days, Love, love, love this car.

[@bryanrowlands6331]

My ‘23 2SS 1LE has so many sensors and the rear view mirror camera. Visibility is not an issue. Amazing car! Buy one!

[@dabjabar]

3/3 doctors recommended

[@Chasethe1le]

@@robbyrockets1 I agree, The visibility issue seems to be overblown by those who test drive the car for 5 minutes. I get it, but you get used to it quickly. Even just in the 1ss

[@markskippy5880]

knuckles that was gnarly

[@bicboi46]

Hey i wanted to ask, how does the handling feel compare to the manual GR86? I absolutely love the way my gr86 handles and was thinking about upgrading to the manual 1LE SS. Do you think ill have regrets?

[@northcamarolina7453]

Depends on where you do your fun driving. If on public roads only, you'll enjoy the GR86 in the corners more than the SS 1LE. The handling limits of the 1LE are so high that on public roads, you'd have to be going through corners at 2X+ the posted speed limit for things to feel exciting (it is otherwise glued to the road). Don't get me wrong, I can still have fun in the SS 1LE on back roads, but the track is really where it needs to be to enjoy the handling. The GR86 can be fun anywhere. If it's lacking something, it would be the V8 experience (torque and sound), but you asked about handling.

[@dabjabar]

I haven’t driven a GR86. Really need to give it a go! My gut agrees with the above though. The limits are higher and the car is louder than a GR86. So, you’ll be pushing harder and will be more noticeable. The car does stick unless of course it’s cold outside. The stock tires need to be warm to perform. In winter, like right now, I break traction very easily. It makes for a fun but somewhat dicey drive. For the most part, I leave it in the garage when raining and take another car. If you want to drive fast in the rain, then you’ll want to be on another set of tires.

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

I think the point Zygrene was making about visibility should not be discounted either. It's one thing to have to be extra careful in parking lots and such, but if you are missing apexes on a track because of not being able to see properly out of the front and over the hood of the car...that's an additional negative that should be considered.

[@danielmembrillo6472]

He should have put you in Track, PTM RACE. Or had you held it to turn everything off. He discussed it at the end of the video. The PTM is very intrusive.

[@Zygrene]

It was my request to keep things on. Now that I've had some seat time, next time I'll turn everything off!

[@gbass7328]

Looks like that setup tends to oversteer. Doesn't look confidence inspiring but sure it could be improved on. Diff rear camber, pressures, 325 rears, more front bar/less rear bar etc.

[@dabjabar]

It is more aggressive than factory settings. I set front toe to zero. Very little rear toe in. It is setup for fast response intentionally but I’ve worked my way up to it. Probably would’ve been uncomfortable if I drove it that way off the lot.

[@princeontrack4647]

Thank you for posting!

[@Sayu2x]

Really wish they continued the 1LT(V4) 1LE would’ve been a great value RWD car for me

[@roadfordays]

Definitely the wrong track for the car. End-of-straight speeds barely higher than well-driven NA S2000s because the corner exit speeds are so much lower. But it looks like a blast regardless.

[@dabjabar]

Yes, tight and technical tracks like this are better suited for smaller cars. However, this still handles pretty damn well despite the 1000lbs over the S2000. And yeah, it is a lot of fun throwing it around and drifting out of corners!

[@sunnyvalentino]

I was going to buy this but holding out for a GR 86 PP. This is a Goat but the horrible visibility killed it for me. I also enjoyed the 86 a lot more around town and ramps as it's lighter and feels that way

[@dabjabar]

You have a very fun car! Great looker too!

[@jmmch3358]

The '22 GR86 its a great sport car but short on power and needs better brakes. Probably Toyota would take care of it in '25 with the upcoming Turbo engine.

[@Chasethe1le]

You get used to the visibility very quickly. Maybe not from just a test drive but drive the car for a week (or even a few days) and its a non factor.

[@importenthusiastchannel]

dude shouldve got the auto for the track

[@kgthegreatone943]

Is the CAMARO SS 1LE a better track car than a S550 Mustang GT?

[@travisdurham29]

Ummmm YES

[@robbyrockets1]

Had both, and to answer your question, absolutely. Road course, not quarter mile, quarter mile its a drivers race.

[@danielmembrillo6472]

I've had both, S550 doesn't hold a candle to the 1LE. S550 is a touring car.

[@mk5rob42]

Only a GT350 or a Dark Horse can compare to a 1LE and they are way more expensive....

[@travisdurham29]

@@mk5rob42 I think a C7 Grandsport would compare also

[@JROC734]

After going from a 19 1SS 1LE to a 18 F150, the one thing I realized is the perfect car would have been a GEN6 Camaro SS 1LE with a GEN3 Coyote.... And a TR6060.

[@1LElife]

it has a TR6060

[@JROC734]

@@1LElife not a GEN3 Coyote.

[@FL50ssp]

@@JROC734 And that is a good thing.

[@optronix]

I like the Camaro, but "daily friendly" can mean very different things to different people. For me, if I couldn't get my dog in it, it wasn't "daily friendly". Competition gets a lot narrower for the ITS if the extra doors are taken into consideration.

[@ericm8368]

It’s just too bad the GM design team screwed this up. The chassis is so capable. If this car had better visibility and looked a little better I’d own one. Now the camaro is getting killed off because of their mistake. If it had sold better they’d make a new generation.

[@George-by5hd]

This is now the second of recent videos I’ve seen where people are just now learning that pulling the seatbelt out all the way locks it…