2020 Chevrolet Camaro SC630 by Callaway - Near ZL1 Power $10k Cheaper

Exterior

Like all available Callaway models, the SC630 is identical to the Camaro it is based on. This means that it will look like the Chevy Camaro you order from the factory, so customization is up to you. The package is available with both the LT1 and SS, so it depends on the model you choose. You can go with one of three trims: LT1, 1SS, and 2SS. The LT1 and the SS trims feature notable differences up front. The LT1 boasts a bigger main grille between the headlamps and a narrower grille in the bumper. The 1SS and the 2SS go into the other direction with a slimmer upper grille and a much larger bumper grille. The SS trims also come with a small rear wing as standard.

What sets the Callaway SC630 apart from the Chevrolet Camaro?

Once you’ve picked your trim and the styling options available through Chevrolet, Callaway will add an "SC630" badge on the lower grille and "Callaway" lettering on the front fenders and between the taillights. All told, the SC630 is a full-fledged sleeper, as the exterior doesn’t have many hints as to what lurks under the hood.

Interior

The same goes for the interior, with only small changes being made at Callaway’s shop. Again, it’s up to you to configure the cabin based on what features you can get with either the LT1 or SS trim, or from the Camaro’s options list.

What sets the Callaway SC630 apart from the Chevrolet Camaro?

You’ll notice the first upgrade when you open the doors, an operation that will reveal aluminum sill panels with "Callaway" lettering and the brand’s red, white, and blue flag. It also features custom floor mats with white "Callaway" letters embroidered on a black background, and a special plaque on the dashboard. The latter includes the company’s logo and flag, as well as all three locations that the brand has in the United States and Germany. Finally, the key fob is also customized to include Callaway’s badge.

Drivetrain

There’s a reason why the SC630 is based on the LT1, 1SS, and 2SS trims only. All three are equipped with the naturally aspirated, 6.2-liter V-8 engine. This mill cranks out 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, so it’s already pretty powerful, but Callaway is taking it to a new level.

What makes the Callaway SC630 more powerful than the Chevrolet Camaro?

Callaway is adding three important components under the hood, but the one that makes the biggest difference is a TVS2300 supercharger.

Based on an Eaton unit, this 2.3-liter supercharger increases total output to an impressive 630 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of twist.

But Callaway’s TripleCooled intercooler system and high-flow intake also contribute to the power increase, while also helping the engine manage the new rating.

How much more powerful is the SC630 compared to the Chevrolet Camaro?

Callaway’s upgrades take the Camaro LT1 and SS to a whole new level as far as output goes. At 630 horsepower, the SC630 cranks out an extra 175 horses. Torque is also up by a significant margin at 610 pound-feet, 155 more than the standard Camaro.

But the really interesting thing is that the SC630 is actually almost as powerful as the range-topping Camaro ZL1.

Also motivated by a supercharged V-8, the ZL1 comes with 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. That’s only 20 horsepower and 40 pound-feet more than the Callaway SC630. Is this a big deal? Yes! Especially when you compare prices of these cars, but we’ll talk about that below.

Is the Callaway SC630 quicker than the Chevrolet Camaro SS?

Chevrolet has yet to release specific performance figures for the SC630, but the extra oomph should make it notably quicker than the Camaro LT1 and SS. The latter needs four seconds to hit 60 mph from a standing start, so the SC630 should be almost a half-second quicker. My guess is that it hits the benchmark in 3.6 seconds, which is only a tenth-second slower than the Camaro ZL1.

What else sets the Callaway SC630 apart from the Chevrolet Camaro?

On top of the upgrades mentioned above, the Callaway SC630 also features a cool carbon-fiber engine cover with "SC630" emblems. Although it’s not visible from the outside, it will let you know that this isn’t a regular Chevy Camaro as soon as you open the hood. But you’ll also find a build plaque with a vehicle identification number in the engine bay.

How much does the Callaway SC630 cost?

Callaway says that the SC630 is priced just under $54,000. There’s no specific number, but we do know that the SC630 upgrade costs $17,995. This means that a Callaway based on the LT1 will cost you $52,990, while an SC630 based on the 1SS will fetch $55,990. Go with the 2SS as a base car and it will cost at least $60,990. The base SC630 is the most powerful new car available right now under $54,000. More impressively, it’s around $10,000 more affordable than the Camaro ZL1, while offering similar power.

Making things that much better, the SC630 comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile warranty, meaning that it retains the full GM warranty. Optionally, Callaway offers an extension to five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Both are transferable if you sell the car before the warranty expires.

Conclusion

While it’s not as powerful as the SC750 based on the ZL1, the SC630 is a good way to add more oomph to your V-8-powered Camaro without losing the warranty. Callaway has been modifying Camaros and Corvettes for decades now, so it’s not only safe to have the company upgrade your car, it’s also fully backed by General Motors. This update is also a good alternative to save some money by getting a Camaro that’s almost as powerful as a ZL1 without paying for the latter’s more expensive sticker. Sure, the SC630 doesn’t look as menacing as the ZL1, but it’s the perfect choice if you like sleepers.

• Love it
  • supercharger adds extra power
  • almost as powerful as the ZL1
  • cool new features inside
  • upgrade is relatively affordable
  • retains GM warranty
• Leave it
  • no changes on the outside