On the eve of the Camaro Convertible Concept's debut at the British International Motor Show, Chevrolet has pulled off the wraps of the production version of the car intended to revive one of the most iconic names in motoring history.

Unveiled in Detroit, the coupe version makes its first appearance in US Chevrolet showrooms in the first quarter of 2009, with European sales starting a year later.

With a design that's faithful to the concept car, the new Camaro is a 21st century sports car that acknowledges its heritage. A long bonnet and short rear deck give the car classic proportions, while the muscular wheelarches and sleek windscreen profile give it an aggressive stance.

The theme continues inside, with a combination of modern LED lighting and retro-styled recessed instrument binnacles, featuring round gauges in square housings.

Yet despite the obvious styling cues that hark back to the original 1967 muscle car, the new Camaro isn't lacking on the technical front.

"The new Camaro is just that — new," said Ed Wellburn, vice president of GM Global Design. "We acknowledge the nameplate's strong heritage in the form of the design, but recognise that keeping this modern sports car relevant meant more than simply honouring a classic car. The line forms, stance and overall execution are consistent with other new Chevrolets."

Under the skin, the Camaro uses a four-wheel independent suspension system with a multilink rear end, along with a "StabiliTrak" stability control system and four-piston Brembo brake callipers.

Other features of the new model include an ultrasonic park assist, Bluetooth connectivity, a premium audio system, six airbags and — for Europe — 20-inch alloy wheels.

In the USA, two alloy-blocked engines will be offered: a 3.6-litre V6 and a 6.2-litre V8, developing 224kW and 313kW respectively. Both are to be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Details of European and UK-specific model options will be unveiled much closer to the car's on-sale date in 2010.