1969 Chevrolet Camaro

Description

If you like to drive, small block Camaros are what you want. Cars like this 1969 Chevrolet Camaro are nicely balanced, with great handling and acceleration that still intimidates other drivers on the street, all without the fuel economy penalty of a big block. This fresh-looking hardtop offers all the virtues and few of the vices of an early F-body.

Repainted recently, this SS sparkles. The Lemans Blue finish is a great choice today as much as it was in 1969, when it was second only to Hugger Orange in popularity. Somehow this one looks longer and sleeker, perhaps due to the gray SS stripes that are less harsh than the usual black or white, or maybe it's the stance, which is more road race than quarter mile. It proudly wears '350' badges on the front fenders, along with the requisite SS emblems on all four sides. A cowl induction hood, chin and deck lid spoilers, and the perfect stance give it a performance look that works. Finish quality is quite good and the 1969 Camaro sheetmetal doesn't tolerate sloppy workmanship with that sharp crease running along its flanks, so this one looks pretty darned good in the flesh. Shiny chrome bumpers, quarter panel inserts, and polished stainless window trim all add some glitter that sparkles against the Lemans Blue paint.

A black interior in a Lemans Blue car is perhaps the best possible combination, and with nice-looking seat covers, clean door panels, bright wood appliques throughout, and carpets that look fresh, the interior is ready to rock. Even what GM called the "standard" setup was pretty stylish, and with a center console and that horseshoe shifter, the Camaro becomes a pretty nice place to spend some quality time. It may seem strange to us, but even the SS models didn't get a tach or auxiliary gauges as standard equipment, so this one has the basics plus a pair of auxiliary gauges under the dash. The original AM radio is gone, replaced by a digital AM/FM unit and the original "Astro-Ventilation" is still in place and still effective. The trunk is fitted with a correct mat and spatter-finish paint.

The reason I like this Camaro is the 350 cubic inch V8 up front, which is hundreds of pounds lighter than a big block, improving handling and braking in a big way without a major sacrifice in acceleration. With an Edelbrock 4-barrel carb and intake up top, HEI ignition, Z/28 style finned aluminum valve covers, and some Chevy Orange paint, it looks every bit the part of a hi-po bowtie. It's not shiny and perfect but a deep cleaning would pay big dividends because the basics are excellent. Long-tube headers and a new dual exhaust system give it a great V8 rumble that few other engines can match, as well as a fat torque curve. The TH350 3-speed automatic transmission snaps off shifts like rifle shots and the 10-bolt out back is built to take it. The front end appears to have been lowered to get that awesome stance, although the 17-inch wheels and 215/50/17 front and 225/55/17 rear performance radials certainly help in that regard.

If you've been looking for a great early Camaro, try bending this SS350 into a corner before making your decision. You'll love the way it feels! Call today.