This article is about the hero of the movie Fast X (2023), and it’s not Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, or Jason Momoa, but the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which appears in the film. The car does not participate in the typical “Fast and Furious” speed race. Still, it is critical and urgent to evacuate the characters as a reliable, fast, and high-quality vehicle. Below, we will analyze the technical characteristics, discuss the model’s origin and its role in the film, and recall the key episodes of the Camaro featured in Fast X.
2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: The Standout Car of Fast X
Why did the ZL1 become an iconic Fast X movie car? In Fast X, Camaro ZL1, being a rare, iconic car, fits perfectly into the atmosphere of the franchise. After Dante Reyes’ ambush in Rio, Tess, who is Mr. Nobody’s daughter and an Agency agent, was wounded by a mercenary team. When Isabel Neves, a street racer connected to Dom’s past, recognized that Tess required urgent medical attention, Dom quickly placed her in a nearby 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE (probably abandoned by a fleeing commuter), and Isabel drove her to the hospital. In this scene, the Camaro is used solely as an emergency escape vehicle, not for street racing.
In this film, everything turned out for the best: the car appears in an emotional, dramatic scene, just as the Camaro is being phased out of the market (GM has announced that the 2024 model year will be the last for the sixth generation Camaro due to falling sales, a shift in the market towards crossovers, and the brand’s transition to electrification).
Chevy Camaro ZL1 Background and Key Features
The ZL1 index first appeared in 1969 as a tag for a rare Camaro built for racing under the COPO program. Only 69 of these aluminum rarities were produced, making the ZL1 a cult classic. Chevrolet wanted to bring this legend back, and when modern supercharging and lightweight chassis technologies became available, the company refreshed the ZL1 in the new generation Camaro. It was also a worthy response to its competitors. When Ford released the powerful GT500 and GT350, and Dodge released the Hellcat and Challenger SRT Demon, Chevrolet showed that it had more to offer than just the Corvette.
It differs from the standard Camaro ZL1 with a significantly redesigned chassis, enhanced aerodynamics, increased power, and a more aggressive suspension setup. This is not a mass-produced car, but a limited-production model chosen precisely for its character and rarity.
The lineup includes 2022 versions with a factory track-oriented package: these feature genuine 1LE upper and lower components, improved port-system ventilation, and reinforced bodywork. The ZL1 badge emphasizes that this is not a basic coupe.
Performance and Specifications: Deep Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Review
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 from Fast X is the flagship version of the iconic muscle car. Originally designed to be the most balanced sports coupe possible, it stands out for its power and precise handling. The ZL1 was designed using Chevrolet performance parts created for high-performance track-oriented vehicles such as the Corvette Z06.
- Engine: The Camaro ZL1 is equipped with a 6.2-liter LT4 supercharged V8 that delivers 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. This is what sets it above the average muscle car. The engine works on a pushrod system. This system provides quick response and high torque at low revs. The LT4 engineering base enables further power increases, and the ZL1 is often tuned with components such as a ported throttle body, a ported supercharger lid, and a ported LT4 supercharger.
- Speed: Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 3.5 seconds, and peak dynamics are achieved through a combination of the factory supercharger system and improved aerodynamics (the aerodynamic package reduces drag and increases stability at high speeds).
- Interior: This model is available in coupe and convertible body styles, both featuring two doors. The car seats up to four people comfortably. It comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing independent temperature settings for the driver and passenger, complemented by an outside temperature display. On the road, the ZL1 handles confidently thanks to its Magnetic Ride sports suspension, reinforced Brembo brakes, and 20-inch wheels. The cooling system is designed for sustained loads, and the front aerodynamic package stabilizes the car at high speeds.
- Driver-friendly Technologies: A comprehensive set of performance data lets you track acceleration, braking, lateral overload, and other performance indicators. These extensive modifications collectively lead to a significant increase in power.
On-Screen Appearance in Fast X
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 appears in the scene after the conflict in Rio, when Dante Reyes ambushed Rio Tess, who was wounded, and Dom placed her in the Camaro. Isabel Neves then drives her to the hospital. Movie scenes were filmed in Rome and Turin, on bridges and city streets. The Camaro scene may take place in one of the city episodes, but the exact locations of those scenes are not detailed in public sources. The ZL1 is not used for long street chases; its role is more symbolic and plot-driven, associated with the evacuation of the wounded Tess, which emphasizes the reliability and safety of this model.
The Character Behind the Wheel
In Fast X, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is driven by Dom’s team during critical moments, highlighting boldness and precision. This model reflects the character’s daring, high-performance personality.
Visual Styling and Modifications for the Movie
For Fast X, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 received visual enhancements to make it stand out on screen. Its paint and color accents were adjusted to highlight aggressive lines and create a cinematic presence.
Aerodynamic elements such as the front splitter, rear spoiler, side skirts, and bonnet vents were emphasized to give the car a sportier, race-ready appearance.
Details like badges, wheel finishes, and rear diffusers were chosen to enhance its high-speed visual impact while preserving its authentic muscle-car identity.
The Camaro’s styling also reflects real-world tuning inspiration from brands like Jokerz Performance, Mamo Motorsport, Nitrous Express, and CoolingMist, suggesting track-focused upgrades that highlight performance and aggression.
Engine and Performance Upgrades
The car features a 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 with 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Movie-inspired tweaks like a ported throttle body, supercharger lid, and LT4 supercharger suggest increased airflow and power. However, most of the tuning was done for external improvement and cinematic effect rather than to change the technical characteristics.
How It Compares to Other Cars in Fast X
A combination of power, engineering refinements, and rare status has made the Camaro ZL1 a cult favorite. It is a model that feels more composed, precise, and rigid than the regular Chevy Camaro, while retaining the authentic spirit of an American muscle car. Let’s compare it with other Fast X vehicles:
- Lamborghini Gallardo: An exotic supercar with a high top speed. The ZL1 is less prestigious but is better in handling on the track and in corner stability.
- Alfa Romeo 159: The ZL1 is significantly more powerful and dynamic than this sporty European sedan, especially in acceleration and maneuverability.
- Nissan Silvia: A lightweight drift car. The ZL1 has better acceleration and braking, but the Silvia may offer more precision for drifting.
- Porsche 911 997 GT3 RS: Famous for track performance and aerodynamics, the ZL1 is heavier and less precise but offers superior V8 power and sound.
- Pagani Huayra Tricolore: An exotic hypercar with a distinctive design, which is more expensive and exclusive, but the ZL1 is more practical for track and city driving.
- Datsun 240Z: A classic sports car, and the ZL1 outperforms it in power, modern brakes, and handling.
- Chevrolet Impala: This is a well-known vehicle from the “Supernatural” TV series, a classic American sedan. The ZL1 is faster, more agile, and ready for the track.
- El Camino: The ZL1 has better acceleration, traction, and sporty handling than this American pickup truck.
- Lenco BearCat Armored Vehicle: This is an armored vehicle. The ZL1 is less durable but surpasses in speed and driving experience.
- 1966 Ford Fairlane: This model is a classic muscle car, and the ZL1 exceeds it in power, braking, and modern aerodynamics.
Real-World Pricing and Availability
Prices for the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 vary widely in the UAE market, which is normal, as offers include both early generations and nearly new cars with low mileage.
On average, current ZL1s cost between AED 180,000 and 320,000, but you can find cheaper options starting at AED 50,000.
To understand the real value, consider three factors:
- Year Of Manufacture
- Mileage
- Condition
Versions from 2018-2023 with a transparent service history and original parts are usually at the top of the price range. Older ZL1s, especially those with high mileage or after body repairs, can cost significantly less.
The model has been discontinued since 2024, so the ones available are mainly used.
This affects availability: good ZL1s come up irregularly, and attractive options often sell quickly. Suppose the desired version is not for sale. In that case, many buyers consider alternatives such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Mustang GT, and Dodge Challenger SRT, which are similar in terms of dynamics and the feeling of an “American muscle car.”
For those who don’t want to buy a sports car but want to experience its dynamics, there is always the option of renting one. For example, Octane has a collection of over 350 car models across all categories, including sports, muscle, and luxury options.
Where Fans Can Experience a Similar Ride
The popularity of the Camaro ZL1 has made muscle cars highly sought after in Dubai. Many people want to drive similar sports cars and muscle cars. Renting a car from Octane is an excellent opportunity to enjoy this experience at a reasonable price.
We offer a wide selection of cars, from Dodge, Chevrolet, Challenger, and Mustang to Corvette, Lamborghini, and Ferrari.
With us, you can rent a car without a deposit, hidden fees, or unexpected surcharges. Our collection features new vehicles that undergo a detailed 60-point inspection before being delivered to the customer. The cars arrive with a full tank of fuel, perfectly clean, and equipped with everything you need. Many models are equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and inside you will find a phone charger, sanitizer, and complimentary water.
We deliver within 2 hours to anywhere in Dubai (including Dubai Marina, the airport, Dubai Mall, or your apartment).
