Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet's answer to the Mustang that became an icon in its own right.
Launched September 29, 1966 as a 1967 model, the Camaro immediately became the benchmark for American pony cars. Its combination of aggressive styling, diverse engine options from inline-six to 427 big-block, and legendary performance variants like the Z28 and COPO have made it one of the most collectible American cars ever built.
History
Chevrolet introduced the Camaro to directly challenge Ford's dominant Mustang. The first-generation car (1967–1969) offered an extraordinary range of powertrains — from thrifty inline-sixes to the 396 and 427 big-block V8s used in the COPO racers. The 1969 model year is the most sought-after first-gen, featuring revised styling and the legendary ZL1 variant of which only 69 were built.
The second generation (1970–1981) debuted with dramatically revised bodywork designed by Bill Mitchell's studio — longer, lower, and distinctly European in character. The 1970½–1973 cars are the most valuable second-gen examples; post-1974 models suffered power losses from tightening emissions regulations. The Z28 was revived in 1977, bringing renewed performance focus to the nameplate just as the muscle car era was ending.
Notable Versions
Z28 (1967–69)
302 V8 built for Trans-Am racing homologation, 290 hp. One of the most collectible Camaros.
SS396 (1967–69)
396 big-block with 325–375 hp, the performance halo of the first generation.
COPO ZL1 (1969)
All-aluminum 427 V8 installed by Central Office Production Order. Fewer than 70 were built.
Rally Sport (RS)
Appearance package with hidden headlights, available on any engine/trim combination.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Inspect the cowl for rust
The firewall area below the windshield is the #1 hidden rust location on first-gen Camaros. Probe every inch before buying.
Verify the partial VIN stamp
The partial VIN stamped on the engine block must match the dash plate. Mismatched numbers drop resale value significantly.
Demand the broadcast sheet
SS and Z28 models were frequently cloned from base cars. The broadcast sheet or Protect-O-Plate is the primary authenticity document.
Check floor pans and trunk floor
Both rust regularly on first-gen cars. Probe with a screwdriver — soft spots mean replacement is needed.
Second-gen rear quarter rust
1970–73 cars rust at the lower sail panel of the rear quarters. This area is expensive to repair correctly.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 230 I6, 302, 327, 350, 396, 427, 454 V8
- Horsepower
- 140–375 hp (pre-1972 gross)
- Wheelbase
- 108 in
- Weight
- 3,295–3,585 lbs
- Transmission
- 3-spd, 4-spd manual; TH350/400 auto
- 0–60 (Z28)
- approx. 6.0 seconds
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Chevrolet Camaro For Sale
14 listings currently available
