When it was unveiled in 1993, we thought some of its individual design licks were outrageous, especially the overstated side-view mirrors, the maximized windshield wipers and the deep well in the trunk. We hated the original multicolored graphics with pale gray on slate gray plastic instrument panels. And we weren't happy about the confusing levels of differentiation between the various models.

Two years down the road, though, with the full line of arch-competitor Ford Mustang coupes and convertibles having been introduced, the Camaro looks a great deal better than it did initially. The stubby Mustang, the overwrought Pontiac Firebird and the host of Japanese coupes that use headlamps as a main design theme on otherwise colorless noses have taken a step back to let the Camaro stand out.