Chevrolet Camaro convertible on hold
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept
We weren't surprised when Chrysler decided to nix plans for a Dodge Challenger convertible. The LX-based coupe wasn't developed with a drop-top variant in mind and it would've taken far too much cash to shore up the chassis with the roof removed. And if you hadn't heard, Chrysler isn't doing too well in the cash department.
Now, MotorTrend is reporting that General Motors is delaying the launch of the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible for the same reason, putting off the introduction for another year as the General attempts to keep its head above these financially troubled waters. Spending on such extravagances is hard to justify for both GM and consumers, and if the Federal bailout goes through, it's safe to assume that legislators and
Gallery: Chevy Camaro Convertible Concept
[Source: MotorTrend]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 3)
coolremo 4:05PM (11/13/2008)
too bad, thats a damn nice car. but why do they make the side-view mirrors so small in the concept- obviously they are too small to see with.
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BLS 4:10PM (11/13/2008)
Probably concept rearview cameras or something. And good God is that a great looking car.
Ted Krygier 4:08PM (11/13/2008)
NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
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Dude 4:10PM (11/13/2008)
This story doesn't make sense. The vert is done. There is no reason to hold it back at this point. I think Motor Trend just needed the hits on their website.
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K Dawg ONE 4:16PM (11/13/2008)
Actually, it DOES make sense. What doesnt make sense is MT trying to pass off old news as new news. Since day one, its been coupe productions to begin in Feb09 for spring release and for the vert to begin production in late Fall09/Early Winter10. It has always been MY10 for coupe, MY11 for vert.
Old news (unless its been pushed backed even further than that?)
Joe 4:11PM (11/13/2008)
yeah, 'bumblebee' will transform convertible in next tranformer movie.
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Todd 4:11PM (11/13/2008)
This is just a way to breaking next weeks "All V8 production cars are canceled!" announcement to us gently.
P.S. All executive golden parachutes and Gulf Stream private jets are GO!
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Berto 4:30PM (11/13/2008)
Seriously.
If the AIG F#$@S can have their Bailout hotel retreats and spas, the American people should be able to have their convertible muscle cars.
Torrent 4:13PM (11/13/2008)
It's always been scheduled for the second model year. The Convertible isn't delayed in any way.
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Torrent 4:17PM (11/13/2008)
It's a proven fact. If anyone knows FbodFather, ask him and he'll know.
iohiohhho 4:14PM (11/13/2008)
This is why GM needs to go under, no bailout!
Yet another GM vehicle we waited for and then in the end we get the shaft. Whether its price, no manual available as promised, or this - we never get what we want!
And why does nobody have a problem with the federal government in exchange for bailout money getting part ownership in the company?
THAT'S SOCIALIST!!!
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Torrent 4:17PM (11/13/2008)
You can always get a Camaro Coupe with a sunroof..
Jj 4:35PM (11/13/2008)
The government having a noncontrolling stake in a company is not socialism. I love the definition of the word has been expanded to spread fear.
Bottom line: The closing of GM would be a huge blow to a healthy economy. In the current economic climate, it could be catastrophic.
For the sake of the economy and jobs GM should be helped, but it should not be free money. The best way to ensure that taxpayers are made whole in the future is to own a stake in the company. This type of thing goes on all over the world in all sorts of industries.
Todd 5:18PM (11/13/2008)
@Jj
"...closing of GM would be a huge blow to a healthy economy..."
Whoa dude? What country are you in? Obviously you are somewhere other than the United States! US economy collapsed back in October and has been artificially propped up ever since.
I am guessing you are in France.
Jj 5:24PM (11/13/2008)
@ Todd
Read the sentence right after the one you quoted.
Tim 5:35PM (11/13/2008)
Yeah - as if you were in line to buy one. Idiots like you that think the U.S. auto industry needs to fail should be exiled to Afganistan and put on the front lines.
Dave T. 4:21PM (11/13/2008)
I hadn't heard this either. I wouldn't be surprised if they're holding off on it as there is a freeze in work in general. However, it doesn't matter if its niche or not if it MAKES MONEY which a first year or two run of a Camaro vert likely would. Heck, the challenger is selling well even in a crappy economy.
After next week we'll know a lot more about everything.
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Level 4:20PM (11/13/2008)
one thing that always had me puzzled, look at the foot print, its huge to only fit 2 adults and 2 kids in the back seat...
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Hanoi Jane 4:52PM (11/13/2008)
People are afraid to have too much fun in a smaller car like Miata. That's why Sky and Solstice are so big too.
Jason 4:55PM (11/13/2008)
A stubby-nosed Camaro would look dumb. You also need room up front to fit the different motor/trans combos plus the room required to meet front end crash test regs. And some of us use our vehicles for more than hauling passengers, so meaningful trunk space is nice to have as well.
I think its proportions are great.