2023 Camaro SS 1LE Track Day Review: Best Track Car Owned?

Track Day Performance at Waterford Hills

• 🏁 The 2023 Camaro SS 1LE, equipped with a track alignment and CT5V Blackwing brake ducts, performed exceptionally well during a high-performance driving experience.
• 💡 The car's stock Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires (305 rear, 285 front) held up well, with tire pressures adjusted to a sweet spot of 33-34 PSI hot.
• 💨 Chevrolet's offering of brake cooling ducts from the CT5V Blackwing and ZL1 models was highlighted as a significant factory feature for track use.
• 🧠 The track alignment made the chassis feel super adjustable and neutral, significantly reducing understeer and allowing for throttle-induced adjustments.

Lap Times and Driving Impressions

• ⏱️ Harry's Lap Timer recorded a best lap of 1:17.7, with other laps in the 1:18s and 1:19s, indicating strong performance on the Waterford Hills course.
• 🔊 The 6.2L V8 engine provided an exhilarating soundtrack, with the car being mostly a third-gear course, occasionally dropping to second for added fun.
• ⚖️ A child seat in the back provided useful ballast weight, contributing to the car's balanced feel.
• 🚗 The car's neutral handling on throttle was a standout feature, making it fun and predictable during spirited driving.

Comfort and Practicality

• ❄️ Features like heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and wireless CarPlay were noted as enhancing the daily driving experience.
• 💨 Fuel consumption on track was comparable to a Civic Type R, burning about a quarter tank per session, with the Camaro's larger tank being an advantage.
• 🛠️ Modifications using OEM parts like brake cooling ducts proved highly effective, keeping components cool and performing optimally.

Tire Wear and Final Thoughts

• 📈 Tire wear was even and manageable with the track alignment (approx. 2.5 degrees negative camber front, 1.7-1.8 rear), suggesting the Supercar 3 tires could last longer than initially expected.
• ⛽ The need for extra fuel for future track days was identified as a key takeaway for extended sessions.
• ✅ The 2023 Camaro SS 1LE was praised as a fantastic track car, offering a great combination of performance, handling, and surprising comfort for its capabilities.