1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 396

Description

This numbers matching 1969 Camaro RS/SS is not only gorgeous, but it also packs some serious blasting powder under the hood in the form of a numbers L78 396 cubic inch motor and a Muncie 4-speed gearbox. Thanks to a comprehensive restoration, it's simply stunning inside and out, highly detailed, pedigreed, and outrageously fast.

The RS, or Rally Sport package was available on any Camaro, from the lowliest six-cylinder grocery-getter to the hairiest big block brawlers like this one. The most noteworthy feature, of course, is the hidden headlights, which give the front end a unique look that sets it apart from the standard '69 Camaros. We should probably note at this point that without a factory build sheet, there is no 100% way to verify that this is a real RS, but with the numbers matching 396, we can verify that this car was definitely born a real SS. But it certainly has all of the proper symptoms for both, and it likely is. Finished in original code 76 Daytona Yellow with a set of black "hockey stick" stripes, it is both aggressive and instantly recognizable to anyone with even a passing familiarity with cars. Front and rear spoilers are, of course, a big part of the SS image, and the stock hood with chrome velocity stack inserts is, in my personal opinion, a lot cooler than any cowl induction setup. Finish quality is excellent and thanks to modern urethane paint, the paint shines like nothing they had in 1969. The chrome was restored, too, and while there isn't a lot of bright trim on an early Camaro, the stainless pieces all took a trip under the polishing wheel before being reinstalled. With only 50 miles on the restoration, the car just sparkles.

The black bucket seat interior is new, with the current owner having spent a considerable amount of time and money to get it right. The front seats feature recent seat covers, which are better detailed than most of the reproductions, and there are fresh door panels with correct hardware. The black carpets, headliner, dash pad, and even the rear package tray are all recently installed and look great. All the factory gauges are in great condition, including the optional tach, and Chevy totally nailed the center console with those white-faced auxiliary gauges and Hurst cue-ball shifter. Given this car's ambitious look, it's no surprise that even the stock radio was left in place, showing a dedication to getting the car right that you don't always see in early F-bodies. The trunk was also detailed with a new mat, full-sized spare with cover, and a proper jack assembly.

Few engines get Camaro fans more excited than the mighty L78 396, especailly when their original to the car, like this one is. Rated at a very stout 375 horsepower, this snarling big block was rebuilt to L89 specs save for the aluminum heads. There's a forged steel crank swinging in 4-bolt mains, 11:1 forged aluminum pistons, and a mechanical cam with 1.70 rockers. Square port heads stuffed with oversized valves helps the big Holley breathe better. It snarls and roars like the powerhouse it is, yet is tuned so well that you can drive it in traffic without concern. The chrome valve covers and air cleaner are factory-style eye candy for the potent big block, and with bright Chevy Orange paint it has a very correct look. There's even factory smog pump equipment restored and installed, hinting at the fact that this car was likely born in California. The original and fully rebuilt Muncie 4-speed manual transmission and 12-bolt rear end are virtually indestructible, making this one of the nastiest point-and-shoot machines you can own. The chassis is highly detailed as well, with almost entirely new components throughout. And there aren't any wheels on the market that look better than the factory 14-inch SS wheels on this car, which wear a set of correct F70-14 Firestone Wide-Oval tires.

If you've been waiting for a big block Camaro that's done right, this is your opportunity to get one of the nicest we've seen in a long time. With an authentic pedigree, and high-dollar restoration, this is one of the best '69 Camaros on the market. Call today!