Modified Chevy Camaro Has Reached 1,800 Horsepower
The owner of this custom-built sixth-generation Camaro ZL1 reports an 8 mpg fuel efficiency for the street-legal vehicle.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Performance Vehicles
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Owner Justin Keith has modified a sixth-generation Chevy Camaro ZL1 to produce 1,800 horsepower. The vehicle features a custom 390-cubic-inch engine and achieves mid-to-low 7-second quarter-mile times.
Why it matters
This project highlights the extreme performance capabilities achievable through extensive aftermarket engine and chassis modifications. The build demonstrates how factory platforms can be reconfigured for drag strip competition while remaining drivable on public roads.
The vehicle utilizes a custom 390-cubic-inch engine paired with twin 80-millimeter Garrett G45 turbochargers. It weighs 3,900 pounds and delivers 8 mpg, with quarter-mile trap speeds reaching 180 mph.
The players
Justin Keith
The automotive enthusiast and owner who custom-built the modified sixth-generation Chevy Camaro ZL1.
General Motors
The American automotive corporation and parent company responsible for producing the Chevy Camaro platform.
The details
The owner replaced the factory supercharger with twin 80-millimeter turbochargers to increase air induction for the custom engine. To ensure structural integrity, a roll cage was welded into the chassis, and an RPM Transmissions TH400 three-speed automatic transmission was installed to handle the power increase. The vehicle also incorporates a parachute to assist with deceleration from high-speed drag strip runs.
Timeline
1969: General Motors introduced Hugger Orange paint.
8 years ago: Justin Keith purchased the vehicle from a showroom.
7 years ago: The owner began daily driving the modified vehicle.
The Home Front
This project redefines the potential of the sixth-generation Chevy Camaro ZL1 beyond its original factory capabilities. It marks a clear departure from standard manufacturer configurations to reach extreme performance benchmarks.
Owners interested in similar modifications should prioritize working with a licensed professional for any welding or chassis-stiffening work to ensure vehicle safety. It is also advisable to verify local emissions and road-use regulations before altering fuel-delivery systems or powertrain components.
The takeaway
This custom build demonstrates the extreme power levels possible when replacing factory components with race-grade induction systems. Owners of modified vehicles should regularly inspect chassis welds and engine components for fatigue given the high stresses of street-and-strip use.
Further reading
For more on high-performance automotive projects, visit Performance Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Autoevolution.
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Should highly modified vehicles be allowed to drive on public roads?
