Tale of the tape
The matchup
This race showcases the clash between American muscle and Aussie heritage. The ZL1 represents raw power with its supercharged small-block engine, while the Commodore SS embodies the spirit of the last Aussie V8. Both cars are RWD, but they come from different performance philosophies.
Off the line
In the first 60 feet, the ZL1's superior torque and power should give it the holeshot. With a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds, it’s likely to leave the Commodore in its dust, which lags behind with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds. The ZL1's drivetrain is tuned for explosive launches, making it a formidable opponent off the line.
The back half
As they hit the back half of the strip, the ZL1’s power-to-weight ratio will come into play. With 485 kW pushing a sports coupe, it can maintain a strong lead. The Commodore, with its 304 kW, will struggle to close the gap, especially given the ZL1's gearing and shift character designed for performance.
The x-factor
Driver skill can always tip the scales, but the ZL1's inherent advantages in power and acceleration make it a tough competitor. Factors like heat soak and battery state could also play roles, especially in a street-tire scenario. Track prep will be crucial too, as it can significantly affect launch performance.
Check out the embedded video to see how this race unfolds without spoiling the result.
Questions from the fence line
Which is faster in a drag race?
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is faster in a drag race, with a quarter-mile time of 11.3 seconds compared to the Holden Commodore SS's 13.0 seconds.
What engine does the Camaro ZL1 have?
The Camaro ZL1 is powered by a supercharged small-block V8 engine.
Is the Holden Commodore SS still in production?
No, the Holden Commodore SS is no longer in production, marking the end of an era for Aussie V8s.