402-Equipped: 1973 Chevrolet Camaro RS

The Second Generation Camaro felt the pinch in 1973, with the big-block V8 disappearing from the options list. Even in Z28 form, the iconic pony car was a shadow of its former self. This 1973 Camaro RS breaks the mold, with the seller bolting a 402ci V8 under its hood. It features fresh paint and a retrimmed interior, leaving the buyer with only one minor task to complete the build. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Camaro listed here on Craigslist in Jacksonville, Oregon, for $30,000.

The 1973 model year introduced the dreaded 5mph front bumpers, dramatically changing the appearance of many vehicles. Some manufacturers successfully integrated the change into the vehicle’s styling, but other cars looked like they had a length of railway iron stuck to the front. Chevrolet changed the front of the 1973 Camaro RS, allowing cars to keep their distinctive split bumpers while complying with legislative requirements. It was a short-term fix, and the RS adopted a more conventional appearance in 1974. The listing suggests this RS is a recently completed project build, and it is immediately obvious the seller didn’t take a faithful approach. Only an inspection of the Cowl Tag will reveal the original paint shade, but the Viper Red it now wears looks pretty dazzling. Paired with Black hood and trunk lid stripes, it makes a strong first impression. Some of the listing images are “washed-out,” but I can’t spot any significant paint or panel issues. The lower extremities look rock-solid, and the underside shots show small spots of dry surface corrosion, but no penetrating rust. The only feature I’m not sold on is the wheels. They are genuine Z28 items, but I think that their Charcoal finish doesn’t do the car any favors. I might be a lone voice in the wilderness, but I think that Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps would be a better bet. Of course, that is a personal preference, and I respect it if you feel differently. Otherwise, the trim looks nice, and the glass is new.

The 1973 Camaro may have looked little different from the previous year’s offerings, but changes beneath the surface were profound. Chevrolet discontinued the SS variant, and the big-block option went the way of the dodo. Buyers ordering a Z28 got a 350ci V8 producing 245hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque, but lesser versions offered, at best, 175hp and 260 ft/lbs. This Camaro’s owner felt even the best-case scenario didn’t meet their performance needs, so they took the bull by the horns and slotted a freshly rebuilt 402ci big-block under the hood. Its specifications are unclear, but it is easy to spot the aluminum intake, Edelbrock 750cfm carburetor, headers, and 2½” dual exhaust. The driver rows the cogs of a rebuilt four-speed manual transmission, feeding power to a 12-bolt rear end. With power steering, power front disc brakes, and a large aluminum radiator keeping the big-block cool, it is a complete mechanical package. The seller replaced the tires, many brake components, and the wiring harness during the build, suggesting the new owner can slip behind the wheel and immediately point this RS towards the horizon.

The seller indicates that this Camaro’s interior received as much TLC as the rest of the vehicle. They retrimmed it in Black vinyl, and the lack of wear on the upholstered surfaces and carpet suggests it hasn’t seen much action. The dash and pad are in good condition, and the tilt wheel is as well. The seller added an underdash gauge cluster, which is worthwhile insurance for monitoring the big-block, and it just needs a stereo to fill the hole the factory radio usually occupies to look complete.

The Chevrolet Camaro “dodged a bullet” in 1972 when some General Motors executives considered dropping the badge because of low sales, driven by industrial action. However, supporters had a stronger voice, rightly arguing that Chevrolet’s pony car had a following strong enough to keep production going. Thankfully, common sense prevailed, and the Camaro rewarded the faithful when sales climbed to 96,751, easily eclipsing the 1972 tally of 68,656 units. Our featured ’73 Camaro RS isn’t original, but it will undoubtedly provide an exhilarating driving experience. Nothing beats the effortless torque of Chevrolet’s legendary big-block V8, delivering smooth acceleration without needing to row the shifter. This gem is turnkey, and with a radio installed, it’s close to a complete package. It has been on the market for a week, but how quickly do you think it will find a new home?