http://www.cheersandgears.com/forums...topic=9518&hl=

 

While having a more rabid following and more favorable name recognition, using the Chevelle nameplate is riskier (see current backlash on the GTO as a proof). The Chevelle faithful with memories of LS-5/6 Chevelles may not like the idea of a less the all dominating Chevelle. Yes, I recall they came in many varieties back in the day, but what do most people remember?

 

Sounds like BS and wishful thinking honestly.

 

Honestly.... I don't have any reason not to believe it...

We've talked about Monte Carlo and Chevelle here in the past... it all makes sense.

Especially with the retro-mania that's going on, you'd think they'd be sillly NOT to do design studies like these.

 

This does seem to simply confirm what has been discussed here before, but it is another supporting post (the reliability- who knows), but:

A comfortable, 5 passenger RWD coupe with excellent styling (not an appliance).....

Add the performance of an LS2 and a 6 speed auto (throw in DOD to boot) in a RWD platform with a sports suspension availble...

Put it together with attention to detail and good QC.....

I'd sell the Camaro in a heart-beat!

Call it Chevelle, MC, I don't care if the call it Vega.... just build it!

Allen

 

It sounds plausible to me, not sure if it is correct, but I like the idea.

 

I can't believe this is plausible but heaven forbid people mention the word "firebird" around here.

 

I was under the impression the Chevelle died when Camaro moved to the forefront and took on the initial styling of the car (the Chevy "GTO" was designed to pass as either a Chevelle or a Camaro).

The GTO, since it's certainly not even the same size as Camaro, will need a high volume car to be based on. The Monte Carlo is the best selling large coupe in the US, so there is a market for a big coupe at Chevrolet. Finally, I was told about the Monte Carlo during the early auto show season, and Bob Lutz himself confirmed it in Geneva.

Alot of what the guy says is dead on what I've been told from people at GM. But there's alot of things he adds that's conjecture, and a couple of items I find very hard to believe.

I don't believe GM is going to make what amounts to a full sized car with a hatchback. The reason hatchbacks are scarce today is because coupes are lighter, structurally more rigid, and fit better over time (wind noise, rattles, etc...). I don't see GM, or anyone, creating the C5-sized cargo hatch needed for a Monte Carlo sized coupe.

Also, although I'll be the 1st to admit that it appears that way, I'm not quite convinced that Chevrolet will be introducing the Malibu, RWD Impala, Monte Carlo, & Camaro the same year. I see Malibu next year for 2008, Camaro late 2007-early 2008, and then Impala & Monte Carlo at the same time. I will say my guess on the MC is a very wild stab in the dark since it and the GTO are approved while Camaro isn't, and by logic it would mean those cars will be out 1st or that Camaro is being rushed to fit in with the other cars intro.

Overall, I'd say the guy is probally 75% right, 20% unprovable in either dircection, and 5% in left field. Pretty imprtessive overall.

 

So, Guy...you're coming around to the 2007 release of the Camaro now aren't ya

 

It sound good and is what should be done, but for that same reason I have doubts.

Chevelle > Monte Carlo

 

if the chevelle is a hatch- i'm buying.

 

I think it is interesting that he mentioned the use of the 3 valve head. I thought that was a no go now?

 

That's the last I heard as well.

 

Thats interesting. It certainly seems well thought out. Although if Zeta is as flexible as they say I don't see why GTO will NEED a high volume sibling to be profitable.

I suppose that depends on rather the new GTO is a cruiser or hardcore performance car. In any case I have no problem with them switching the name "Chevelle" for Monte Carlo.

 

With Monte Carlo's long history in Nascar, I just don't see them replacing the name with something else. If they build such a car, the Monte Carlo name will stay.