The true meaning behind Chevrolet’s Z28 name

There’s an interesting reason behind Chevrolet’s Z28 – it’s not named after its engine size but its particular performance package.

There are actually numerous models released with Chevy’s Z codes, including the ZL1 Corvette and the Chevy Impala SS Z11.

In fact, Corvette has been producing its Z range of vehicles since the 1960s, with the introduction of the Z11 Impalas and Z06 Corvette.

You may have even spotted a Z-code on a Chevy and wondered what it all meant.

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Chevrolet didn’t name its Z-cars after engine size

Many marques name their models after their engine size.

For example, the Mercedes E320 has a 3.2-liter engine, and the Lexus IS 300 has a 3.0-liter engine.

However, with its Z range Chevrolet bucked this trend.

Chevy’s Regular Production Order, or RPO, have always featured an alphanumeric code and for many cars since the 1960s this code began with Z.

The letter doesn’t stand for anything special, nor do the numbers that follow it.

It’s just a code used to different between different performance options on the car.

So, the Z28 doesn’t have a 2.8-liter engine – it’s actually 4.9-liter – but does come with a performance package that has been given the number 28.

The Z28 has been displayed in various forms

The codes were never meant to be known by the public, according to Chevrolet, but car enthusiasts soon worked out their significance, so the Z decals – such as Z28 – began appearing on the cars.

Interestingly, Chevrolet has messed around with the format of the Z28 over the years – at one point changing it to Z/28 before seemingly having a change of heart about the additional slash and reverting back to the original Z28 later on.  

It’s also been referred to as the Z-28 in the media, but whether its Z28, Z-28, or Z/28 it’s all the same thing.

Other examples, include the cowl induction hood on a 1969 Camaro, which was given the code ZL2, while the Rally Sport option was Z22.

And if mostly useless but still quite interesting car trivia is your thing, then you may be keen to learn why the Audi badge has four rings; or what the Bugatti badge actually signifies.  

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