The new Camaro ZL1 will do 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds

It's already been nicknamed 'The Hammer', and now we find out how fast the hammer falls. Chevrolet has confirmed that the V8-powered ZL1, slated to go on sale in the States later this year, will go from 0-60mph in 3.5secs.

That's... quick. Though it is the most powerful production Camaro ever built, so you'd expect some fireworks. It packs the same supercharged, 6.2-litre 'LT4' engine from the Corvette Z06, producing 640bhp and 640lb ft of torque.

Which, along with that 0-60mph time, also allows the ZL1 to run a quarter mile in a claimed 11.4secs, at 127mph. Chevy also tells us it produces just over 1g of cornering force, and will be able to brake from 60mph to a standstill in 107ft.

All these stats were conducted using a ZL1 equipped with the new ten-speed automatic gearbox (you can spec a six-speed manual if you prefer) with factory tyres on a "non-prepped" surface.

How much for this speed and face-contorting g? It'll go on sale later this year for $62,135 for the coupe, and a $69,135 for the convertible. If you're sat in the UK and fancy weeping onto your keyboard or smart phone, that's around £47,000. For 640bhp...

We've had a quick passenger ride in the upcoming ZL1 too - here's what we found out...