A heavily deteriorated 1967 Camaro convertible recently changed hands for $5,000, marking what may be the final chapter for a car that once represented one of the most versatile nameplates in American performance history. The sale highlights the stark contrast between the Camaro’s broad appeal when new and the harsh reality facing unrestored survivors decades later.
When the Camaro debuted, Chevrolet positioned it as a direct response to growing demand for sporty, customizable cars. Buyers could tailor the Camaro to nearly any taste or budget, with two body styles, a wide engine lineup, and a staggering list of factory options and accessories. The model was designed to be everything from an economical daily driver to a serious performance machine, depending on configuration.
Entry-level buyers could opt for a 230-cubic-inch six-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower, while those seeking performance had access to increasingly powerful V8s. At the top of the hierarchy sat the Z/28, a rare variant with only 602 units produced in 1967. The Super Sport package added further performance appeal, including availability of a 396-cubic-inch V8 rated at 325 horsepower.
The Camaro that recently sold online falls far from those high-performance examples. Born as a six-cylinder convertible, the car surfaced as either a rough restoration candidate or a parts donor. According to the listing, it had been sitting for approximately 35 years, a claim supported by an inspection sticker dated 1991.
Time and exposure took a severe toll. Rust was present throughout the structure, including the floors, rear subframe, and lower sheet metal. Panel alignment issues were evident, with doors no longer closing properly. The seller described the car as barely holding together, underscoring the extent of deterioration.
Despite its condition, the Camaro retained much of its original equipment. The six-cylinder engine remained in place and reportedly cranked with compression, though it lacked spark. It was paired with a Powerglide transmission. The car rolled and steered, simplifying removal by trailer. Missing items were limited, with front seats noted as absent.
While unlikely to be restored, the sale reflects ongoing demand for first-generation Camaro parts. For this white-on-red convertible, the transaction may represent the last visible chapter, unless it unexpectedly resurfaces with a second chance at life.
Photo: Finger Lakes Vintage Auto Parts on eBay
