1971 Chevrolet Camaro

Description

If you weren't around in the early '70s, you don't know what a radical machine the second-generation Camaro really was. There was simply nothing else on the street as slick as this 1971 Chevrolet Camaro, and even the hottest engine of the era was probably no match for the strong-running small block that's under the hood today. No frills, just lots of power in a clean body shell, this is an awesome second-generation F-body that's ready to rock.

The factory correct Nevada Silver Metallic finish is the perfect choice if your goal is staying under the radar with your new Camaro. Nicely finished, it shows off the restyled Camaro's curves without drawing undue attention. The RS split front bumper and billet grille were added during the restoration, but nobody can argue over that particular choice; it's what we all would have ordered if we were buying this car in 1971 and it looks clean and high-tech. It retains its flat hood, but painted-on black Z/28 stripes give the sophisticated paint a bit of an attitude, and the rear spoiler and shaved badges will at least give the other guy something to look at while you're pulling away from him. Decent gaps, a nice shine, and no questionable modifications make this car stand out, even without flashy paint. The bumpers are nicely rechromed and the stainless is in excellent condition, with everything sparkling like jewelry against the icy silver paint.

The interior got a big makeover in 1970 as well, and this one keeps the good stuff that the factory offered. Both front and rear seats look to have new reproduction seat covers that are in excellent condition and are a lot more inviting-looking than I recall, and the 4-speed sticking out of the transmission tunnel without a console tells you what this car's true purpose really is. The instrument panel was a new wrap-around design, with this car getting only the basic setup of speed and fuel level from the factory and a set of aftermarket dials under the dash. The car was obviously built to go fast and everything else is secondary, so there's only an AM radio, but that also means that it's ready for the entertainment system of your choice. The trunk shows very clean floors and correct spatter-finish paint, suggesting that this was a well-cared-for Camaro for most of its life.

Although it's doing its best to look period correct, the 350 cubic inch V8 hides in plain sight. The dual snorkel air cleaner looks like factory-issue, but upgrades like the Edelbrock intake manifold and Holley carburetor suggest there is a bit more horsepower on tap today than what came from the factory. The finned aluminum valve covers are a traditional Chevy touch, and the bright Chevy Orange paint on the block really stands out against the satin black engine bay. Manual steering and brakes are more indicators that this car was built for combat and the Flowmaster exhaust system has the right sound to match its performance. Underneath, the chassis is mostly original, but shows no signs of having lived in a snowy climate. Black SS wheels and 235/60/15 white-letter radials complete the hardcore performance look.

If you like your horsepower fast and slightly subtle, this is your Camaro. Call today!