Chevrolet Drops Camaro 45th Anniversary Edition at Indy 500

The Chevrolet Camaro is one of the most iconic Pony cars in the US, and it’s turning 45 this year. In order to stave off its mid-life crisis just a little longer The General has created a special edition model with a more powerful V6 and sports suspension, and has thrown together a birthday bash at this weekend’s Indy 500, inviting fans, dealers and enthusiasts alike.

"The appeal of Camaro design and performance has powered it to the top of its segment," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "For 2012, we're capitalizing on that momentum with enhancements to Camaro's performance and comfort."

The 2012 model features a unique graphics package that includes a special red stripe and badging along with imposing 20-inch wheels. The vehicle's lighting has also received a few tweaks for the occasion, including dark-silver trim for the fog light and taillamp bezels. Inside, show goers found a Jet Black leather interior with red, white and blue stitched seats adorned with a 45th anniversary logo. Special white gauges are nestled in the vehicle's dash, as well.

But the biggest news is that 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 featured in the Camaro will now boast 323 horsepower – an 11 pony increase over last year.

In addition to the celebratory anniversary model, The General plans to introduce a new FE4 suspension package just for the SS Coupe. Along with re-tuned dampers on all four corners, the vehicle sees a solid 23-mm stabilizer bar up front and a 24-mm bar out back along with 20-inch aluminum wheels. In case you forgot, we’ll also remind you that there’s an awesomely epic ZL1 coming next year.