2013 Chevrolet Camaro SS gets 1LE track option

Chevrolet is resurrecting the 1LE order code for the 2013 Camaro SS. It will turn the pony car into a dedicated track toy with an upgraded suspension, ZL1-based wheels and tires and a high-capacity fuel pump for handling 1g corner loads.

The original 1LE was introduced in 1988, inspired by Pro-Am racing. It turned the Camaro into a showroom stock racer.

The 2013 1LE package is offered only on 1SS and 2SS Camaros with the six-speed manual transmission. The 1LE code makes that manual a close-ratio transmission tuned for road racing and adds a 3.91 final drive ratio.

The twin-tube dampers are replaced with monotube units that allow the suspension to keep most of the ride quality while still focusing on optimal body control. Larger front and rear stabilizer bars are installed along with higher-capacity rear -axle shafts and a strut tower brace. The 1LE also gets the wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts from the Camaro ZL1. Twenty-inch wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle Supercar G2 tires.

Chevy says the extra stick allowed it to get around Virginia International Raceway's Grand Course in less than three minutes.

The new option package adds a matte-black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler to the Camaro. It also borrows the flat-bottomed steering wheel from the ZL1 and the short-throw shifter. Both are trimmed in microfiber suede.

The new option package sets up a Camaro rival to the Ford Mustang Boss 302, which is hard-core version of the GT built for track days. The 2013 Boss 302 is fitted with a 444-hp version of Ford's 5.0-liter V8. The 1LE Camaro rolls with the SS's 6.2-liter V8, rated at 426 hp.

The Camaro with the 1LE option will go on sale in the fall, and pricing will be released later this year. Chevy says it will be less than $40,000. For comparison, the Mustang Boss 302 starts at $42,200.

By Jake Lingeman