Ford thought they got it wrapped up with the new 650-hp Shelby GT500, but Chevrolet strikes back by releasing pricing details for the 2012 Camaro ZL1.

Chevy’s 580-hp muscle car is priced at $54,995. This handsome Camaro does 0 to 60 in 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 184 mph. It is almost impossible to go faster for less.

Granted, the new GT500 does 200 mph, but will it be able to beat the Camaro’s acceleration time? In the real world you may never be able to max these cars, but drag race is something you can do everyday even between the lights, so it’s more important and more relevant than top speed.

Standard features of the ZL1 include leather seating surfaces with suede microfiber inserts and heated, powered-adjustable front seats. Standard technologies include a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics® audio system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-park assist with a rear-view camera display integrated in the center rear-view mirror.

Options:

• Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185
• 20-inch, bright aluminum wheel package is $470
• Power sunroof is $900
• Stripe package is $470
• Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600
• The suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500

Chevrolet has done some comparisons to put the ZL1’s value for money into perspective. First they compare it to other similarly fast cars:

And then with the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500: