When talking about the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro, you’ll likely want to focus on the Z/28 specification, because COPO models aside, it was the most desirable, not to mention the rarest (among factory specs). Sure, the RS was cool, and so was the SS (duh), but the Z/28 had history on its side seeing as how it also served as a direct competitor to the Boss 302 Mustang.
Anyway, when the Z/28 option was first introduced, it brought along with it an upgraded suspension, power disc brakes (front), a close-ration manual gearbox, plus some cool racing stripes for the hood and trunk lid. You could also get it without the racing stripes, but why would you?
For the 1969 model year, all-new sheet metal was introduced (except for the hood and roof), resulting in a considerably sportier-looking car. Some still say that the changes weren’t drastic enough, but if you look closely, you’ll see that they are – it's only the design language that remains similar.
As far as the Z/28 option is concerned, 1969MY cars still came with a 302 ci (4.9L) small block V8, producing 290 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, with everything going to the rear wheels via a Hurst shifter (new for that model year).
Just over 20,000 Z/28 Camaros were sold for the 1969 model year, among them this stunning example (for sale), which actually left the factory in Forest Green but was subsequently repainted in Corvette Millennium Yellow.
Other visual highlights include the black racing stripes, Z/28 and 302 badging, the cowl induction hood, faux quarter-panel vents, a black rear panel, plus a set of 18” Rushforth wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires that are thicker at the back.
Meanwhile, mechanical upgrades include a Power Steering Pros steering box, custom subframe connectors, custom sway bars, Bilstein shocks, disc brakes and Wilwood calipers (six-piston setup at the front, four-piston at the rear).
Moving on to the interior, you’ve got your black vinyl front bucket seats and rear bench combo, a Delco AM radio, custom cupholders, a Vintage Air climate system, a Bluetooth-enabled Custom Autosound stereo, plus an aftermarket three-spoke steering wheel to go with a set of additional gauges displaying coolant temperature, battery status, fuel level and oil pressure.
Photo: Bring a Trailer
As for what’s going on underneath the hood, well, there’s a replacement V8 with a 350 ci block – sourced from a 1970 Chevy. The engine also has SRP forged aluminum pistons, an Eagle forged steel stroker crankshaft, and H-beam connecting rods, resulting in a total displacement of 383 ci.
Other mods include a Champion aluminum radiator with SPAL electric puller fans, Hooker Super Competition headers for the dual exhaust system, plus the Flowmaster mufflers.
In terms of output, the seller claims a total of 554 horsepower at 6,600 rpm, with everything going to the rear wheels via a Tremec five-speed manual gearbox. Something tells us this Camaro should prove really fun to drive.
Sergiu got to experience both American and European car "scenes" at an early age (his father drove a Ford Fiesta XR2 supermini in the 80s). After spending over 15 years at local and international auto publications, he's starting to appreciate comfort behind the wheel more than raw power and acceleration. Full profile
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