In the world of muscle cars, few vehicles are as iconic and revered as the 1970 Camaro. With its muscular design and raw power, it has captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts for decades. The Roadster Shop, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative builds, took the 1970 Camaro to new heights with their creation named ‘Split Second.’ This remarkable machine boasts an astonishing 1500 horsepower, thanks to the legendary Nelson Racing Engine. In this article, we will delve into the captivating features and engineering prowess behind the 1500hp TWIN TURBO 1970 Camaro ‘Split Second’ – Roadster Shop Build Profile.
The Nelson Racing Engine
At the heart of the ‘Split Second’ Camaro lies the Nelson Racing Engine, a name synonymous with high-performance turbocharged motors. Tom Nelson, the mastermind behind these powerhouses, has perfected the art of turbocharging, making his engines the gold standard in the industry. The ‘Split Second’ Camaro features a street warrior 427 small block Chevy engine, producing an awe-inspiring 1500 horsepower. This potent motor employs a dual fuel setup, utilizing 16 injectors and an ECU programmed to call upon C16 race fuel as needed. With a conservative tune currently generating 14 pounds of boost, the ‘Split Second’ Camaro puts down nearly a thousand horsepower to the wheels.
The ‘Split Second’ Camaro’s performance is not limited to its impressive horsepower figures alone. The transmission plays a vital role in delivering a thrilling driving experience. Equipped with a manual valve body 4L80 transmission with a reverse pattern, the ‘Split Second’ Camaro demands the driver’s involvement. The crisp and precise shifts create an engaging connection between man and machine, adding to the overall excitement of piloting this beastly Camaro.
The Roadster Shop Fast Track Chassis
To harness the prodigious power of the ‘Split Second’ Camaro, the Roadster Shop implemented their Fast Track chassis. This advanced chassis design provides unmatched rigidity and performance, allowing the driver to exploit the car’s full potential. With a solid axle nine-inch rear and a meticulously crafted chassis, the ‘Split Second’ Camaro sits astonishingly low to the ground, with every component tucked up flush for a visually striking appearance.
Complementing the Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis is the Fox SV 4.0 suspension system. Although single adjustable, these shocks are carefully calibrated to strike a balance between ride quality and weight transfer, crucial for transferring the immense power to the ground effectively. The ‘Split Second’ Camaro’s suspension setup, combined with 315 NITTO drag radials, ensures exceptional traction and stability, even under the most demanding driving conditions.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The performance of the ‘Split Second’ Camaro takes center stage, but the Roadster Shop recognizes the significance of driver comfort and ergonomics. Through precise engineering and solid modeling, they have achieved an optimized driving position within the chassis.
Every detail is considered, from the placement of the Recaro bucket seats to the positioning of the steering wheel and shifter. These elements are meticulously tailored to create an immersive and comfortable driving experience. The result is a car that not only performs but also provides a heightened sense of engagement.
The low-slung seating position adds to the sports car feel, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road. Furthermore, the integration of the chassis and interior has been thoughtfully executed, ensuring ample headroom and a spacious cabin. This attention to detail enhances both comfort and enjoyment during every drive.
With the ‘Split Second’ Camaro, the Roadster Shop has gone beyond raw power, delivering a well-rounded driving experience that combines exceptional performance with ergonomic design. Whether pushing the limits on the track or cruising on the open road, this muscle car provides an unparalleled level of comfort and engagement for drivers who seek the best of both worlds.
The Turbocharging System
One of the most exhilarating aspects of the ‘Split Second’ Camaro is the twin-turbocharging system. The 73-millimeter Nelson turbos are fed by a unique louvered fin scoop located near the headlights. This ingenious design delivers a constant flow of fresh air to the filters, ensuring optimum performance and power delivery. The air-to-air intercooler efficiently cools the compressed air, providing the necessary charge density for the engine to produce mind-boggling horsepower.
Braking Power
With great power comes the need for exceptional braking capabilities. The ‘Split Second’ Camaro features 14-inch Brembo Gran Turismo brakes on all four corners. These high-performance brakes, coupled with 19-inch front and 20-inch rear HRE wheels, deliver outstanding stopping power and lend an exotic aesthetic to the car.
The combination of power and braking prowess ensures confidence-inspiring control and safety during spirited driving sessions.
Exterior Modifications
The ‘Split Second’ build of the 1970 Camaro stays true to its classic lines while incorporating carefully executed exterior modifications. These modifications have been carried out with meticulous attention to detail to ensure a seamless integration with the original design. One notable modification is the subtle reshaping of the rear quarter panels, which has allowed for the accommodation of wider tires without compromising the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.
By reshaping the rear quarter panels, the ‘Split Second’ Camaro achieves a harmonious blend of form and function. The wider tires can now be accommodated, providing improved traction and handling capabilities. Despite these enhancements, the exterior modifications maintain the timeless appeal of the 1970 Camaro, preserving its distinct and iconic look.
The result of these carefully executed exterior modifications is a ‘Split Second’ Camaro that sits low to the ground with a wide and aggressive stance. The combination of the classic lines and the subtle reshaping of the rear quarter panels creates a visually striking appearance. This blend of form and function showcases the Roadster Shop’s expertise in enhancing the performance and aesthetics of the 1970 Camaro, ensuring a truly captivating and unique muscle car.
Conclusion
The ‘Split Second’ Camaro built by the Roadster Shop exemplifies the perfect marriage of classic aesthetics and cutting-edge performance. From its sleek and aggressive exterior modifications to its meticulously engineered chassis and powertrain, every aspect of this build is designed to deliver an unrivaled driving experience. With its twin-turbocharged engine, exceptional suspension setup, and thoughtful attention to detail, the ‘Split Second’ Camaro is a true automotive masterpiece that showcases the pinnacle of American muscle car engineering.
