350/3-Speed: 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS

This 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS proves that there are promising project candidates hidden in barns and sheds across the country. It features its original drivetrain and is a rock-solid survivor with an unusual interior feature. Its needs are essentially cosmetic, making it ideal for anyone contemplating a first restoration. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting the Camaro listed here on Craigslist in Desert Lake, California. The seller set their price at $45,000 and states that they are firm on that figure.

The seller states that this Camaro has been in the dry garage since 2009 and is currently not roadworthy. Its Granada Gold paint is original, exhibiting the baked appearance often found on unrestored classics from dry climates. The sun that cooked its paint has also laid waste to the Black vinyl top, with dry surface corrosion taking its place. However, there is no exterior penetrating rust, and the seller indicates that the underside is equally solid. The car retains its original stripes and the distinctive headlamp doors that were integral to the RS package. Assessing the glass is difficult due to the dust, but some bright trim pieces will benefit from a trip to the platers. Overall, with no rust issues to complicate matters, returning this Camaro to its former glory should be relatively straightforward.

One aspect of this Camaro requiring very little is its interior. The dashpad is badly cracked, but with replacements retailing for under $350, addressing the issue won’t be a huge investment. The armrests also look tired, but the Black vinyl on the seats and door trims should look nice if the buyer spends a few hours on them with a high-quality cleaner. What makes this interior interesting is its front bench seat. Only 6,583 buyers across all ’67 Camaro derivatives selected that option, and it would be fascinating to discover how many examples of the SS are so equipped. That feature would certainly help this classic to stand out at any show or Cars & Coffee. The original owner also equipped the Camaro with air conditioning and an AM radio.

Powering this Camaro is its numbers-matching 350ci V8. The first owner teamed the small-block with a three-speed manual transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. That year’s Camaro Sales Brochure quotes an output of 295hp for this V8, providing excellent performance. It appears this SS hasn’t seen open road action since 2009, and it will require work to be considered genuinely roadworthy. The seller states that the motor runs well, the clutch operates correctly, and that the transmission works as it should. It will undoubtedly require a thorough inspection and a few replacement parts, but returning the car to its rightful place on our roads might be a realistic short-term goal.

This lightly toasted 1967 Camaro RS/SS doesn’t make a particularly positive first impression. However, the longer you scrutinize the listing images, the more promise it shows. The lack of rust could allow the buyer to preserve the car in its current form, because it would command respect as a genuine survivor. Alternatively, those same traits make it an ideal candidate for a faithful restoration. I’m unsure which path I would choose, but you may have a clear vision for this classic. The question is whether you are prepared to spend $45,000 to make that dream a reality. It will be fascinating to gauge your feedback on the subject.