First Drive Experience-Chevrolet Camaro Cabrio

When it arrives in two years' time, Chevrolet's Camaro will be one of the most affordable and exclusive sports cars available .

The muscle car is back! Last week, we drove the all-new Vauxhall VXR8, but it's worth bearing in mind that the Aussie-bred super-saloon will share its mechanicals with this recreation of the legendary Chevrolet Camaro.

And if the reaction the Chevy got on our exclusive first drive is anything to go by, the performance legend is still one of the hottest new cars in the world - despite the fact it celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.



Finished in dramatic orange, this cabrio version - due on sale in 2009 - looked amazing in the Californian sunlight. While it's lost some of the aggression of the coupé, its muscular lines are still sharp from all sides.

The interior is just as eye-catching, and even though many of the classy materials in this hand-crafted cabin won't make showrooms, it's clear the cockpit will be roomy and practical.

While the production version will also come with a V6, the concept is powered by General Motors' legendary 'small block' 6.0-litre V8. There's plenty of pace under full throttle, but once cruising, the unit cleverly shuts down half its cylinders, giving fuel consumption of 30mpg.

Our speed in this amazing drop-top was limited, yet it was clear that the suspension isn't too stiff for a car that's intended as a daily driver. Of the 150,000 Camaros Chevrolet intends to produce at its Canadian factory, around one-third will have a soft-top. Although the official announcement has yet to be made, both coupé and cabriolet are almost certainly set to be brought to the UK. Prices should start from around £30,000...