I know about as much about Zeta as anyone here but I have notice that there has been talk about 2 different Zetas. Originally this was thought to be 2 different wheelbases, this seems to be false. We have heard talk that there are 2 different front suspensions for the platform, one V-car like(McPhearson strut) and one Sigma like (SLA style). We know NA and Aus will build the 2 in at least 3 different plants, with Europe possibly getting a plant as well (although I doubt it).

My theory is that there are 2 versions because the Aus version will be more rugged and therefore more structurally dense (AKA heavy). With the Aus roads being rougher on cars than here in the states and with GM wanting to save every dollar on each car it makes (and rightfully so). Then wouldn't it make sense to make the US version less thick boned and lighter, better for CAFE and performance, than to make a heavier and more costly version in both countries?

If the GM NA version is lighter and a little less rugged then the Aus made one I believe we could see a Camaro, produced in NA, that would be lighter than the GTO/Monaro twins made in AUS and it could cost less because of less steel in the body.

Does this sound possible to those who know the ins and outs of product clearances?

 

To answer your theory: Yes & No.

Read the highlighted part of post #10:
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...press+releases

It's from Bob Lutz himself (best source of leaks at GM ).

 

Guy you are killing me with the half answers. So the NA Zetas will be slightly different than the AUS ones in style, but how much diffence could there be in the engineering side. Are we talking a 100 or 200 lbs weight savings?

 

Read it again.

It says nothing about Australia getting a different version. But it does mention 2 types of cars based on the chassis. A large car & performance car.

Do you think that a performance car can be the same size (or as heavy) as a "large" perhaps somewhat expensive car?

 

Expect certain structural differences in NA Zetas and Australian Zetas.

No, it's not to save on steel. (Steel goes for 50 cents a pound).
No, it's not to make them less rugged than Australian Zetas.