2008 Chevy Camaro Convertible By ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.net It was a celebrated star of the Detroit Auto Show and the Chicago Auto Show in 2006. So how could Chevrolet top all that? By having a huge, splashy event, complete with celebrities, food, couture, and of course, fancy automobiles. And they did just that in January 2007 on the eve of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The Camaro convertible concept car was gorgeous. It was a beautiful Orange pearl tri-coat pain. It had dual sport stripes in gunmetal gray. Of course, I'm slightly partial to orange anyway, being an ex- of the University of Texas Longhorn Band. The Camaro convertible displayed was a perfect representation of the Camaro's strong heritage for a lot of the slightly-aged drivers, yet had all the appeal necessary to make a very distinctive statement for a new generation. The Camaro has always represented a real-life sports car that was in the reach of just about everyone. It was a personal car, powerful and sporty. This new Camaro convertible is no excpetion.

Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager, probably said it best, "For some of us, an emotional bond was formed… It is magnificent. But now this year, if this Camaro convertible doesn't make your heart beat faster, you should see either your optometrist or your cardiologist, because you have a problem." I totally agree with Ed. When you look at this new Camaro convertible -- even a swift glance -- your mind races back to your teenage glory years, or else races forward to where you picture yourself. Whichever, your heart skips a beat. You envision yourself behind the wheel. This is one fantastic car.

The design reflects somewhat of a fun spirit in all of us. It's a dramatic look, with a classic long hood, a short deck, and wide wheels-at-the-corner. Peper commented, "It's a car that begs to be driven."

Inside, there are simple yet very purposeful gauges and switches. The interior design was inspired by the muscle car era -- a light and dark color scheme and round gauges in square holes design. The steering wheel has a three spoke design. The front seats are hinged at the center rather than at the sides. When the ignition button is pushed to start the engine, it rumbles to life and the full-sweep needles on the tachometer and speedometer flip back and forth in active response..

The Camaro Convertible -- making a statement with performance and style.