The Garage 56 entry that will compete at Le Mans in a modified NASCAR Chevrolet Camaro, is hitting the track to get ready for every race this weekend.
Early tests have yielded good results for this car, outperforming a number of LMGTE-Am rivals, including Corvette Racing and cars from Ferrari and Porsche. However it does appear a little ridiculous given that the Next Gen car, which is painted to resemble a Camaro ZL1, is large compared to its European contenders.
The Garage 56 contender measures 193.3 inches in length, 78.4 inches in width, and 50 inches in height. Le Mans hypercars can be longer and a little broader overall, like the Ferrari. However, they aren’t nearly as tall.
The NASCAR Cup Chevrolet’s cockpit is also not redesigned to fit a single driver, which enhances the viewing experience. In comparison to its competitors, it is just large.
The car’s extensive integration of aerodynamic surfaces to the front and rear of its body is the most obvious modification.
Three drivers will be racing the 670 horsepower car. The only American driver in the Garage 56 lineup is NASCAR champion Jimmy Johnson, who is supported by former Le Mans champion Mike Rockenfeller and Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button.
The Camaro, which is in a different category, outperformed every LMGTE Am machine in testing on the 8.46-mile course by a few seconds, however there is a significant gap—over 10 seconds—between the entry and cars in the LMP2 class. As a result, it will probably be contending for a spot in LMGTE Am’s top row.
The official 24 Hours of Le Mans race will start on Saturday June 10 at 10 a.m. and end on Sunday 10 a.m. local time.
