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Thursday, June 10, 2010

1,000 bhp Camaro

A standard Camaro SS is already pretty powerful, with 426 bhp (317 kW / 431 PS) available from its 6.2 litre V8. But that now looks a bit weedy when compared to what Hennessey Performance has achieved.



The latest in Hennessey’s line of increasingly powerful upgrade packages for the Camaro is dubbed the HPE1000. And yes, as the name implies, that means 1,000 bhp (745 kW / 1,013 PS).





To achieve such an output, first the standard engine is ditched in favour of an LSX block from GM Performance Parts. Its capacity is then increased to 7.0 litres, and twin turbochargers plus an intercooler get bolted on. That’s not all, though. Essentially, just about every other component is modified including the pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, cylinder heads, intake manifold, fuel injectors, fuel system, air filters and oil cooler.



In order to cope with the huge increase in power, cars with the six-speed manual gearbox require a dual friction clutch, while those with an automatic transmission need a torque converter upgrade - unsurprising given that the HPE1000 has over 1,000 lb ft (1,355 Nm) of torque.



Hennessey Performance badging and plaques for the engine and dash complete the package, although a body kit, lightweight wheels, coilover suspension (probably a wise choice?), exterior graphics and a leather interior are all available as options.



This YouTube video shows the HPE1000 on the dyno. Admittedly, race fuel was used for the run, but Hennessey Performance reckons that after a few more tweaks the figures will be easily attainable using normal pump petrol. No word on fuel consumption, strangely enough…