When a seller describes any classic as “investment grade,” there’s a good chance that you are dealing with something special. Such would appear to be the case with this 1968 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 350. From its spotless presentation to its numbers-matching drivetrain and the long list of factory options, it seems to have something for everyone. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Zappenduster for spotting an iconic pony car that seems to need nothing but a new home. The seller has listed this Camaro here on Craigslist in Decatur, Illinois. The price of $68,000 means it isn’t cheap, but why not take a close look to decide whether you feel the figure is justified?

I have always had a passion for First Generation pony cars because they represent the genre in its purest form. These early cars were lean and purposeful, only becoming bigger and heavier as the 1960s made way for the 1970s. The seller confirms that this ’68 Camaro has undergone a repaint in its factory Ermine White, with the work occurring in the 1990s. Over three decades have passed since, and the lack of deterioration suggests two things. The first is that the shop completed their work to a high standard, while the second is that this classic must have been treated respectfully to avoid the chips and marks that might be typically expected. The Black vinyl top offers a welcome contrast, matching the factory stripes. The seller states that every square inch of sheetmetal is original, confirming that this SS is rust-free. The RS package brought the distinctive grille with the hidden headlamps, and like the rest of the trim, the grille looks excellent. The Rally wheels are wrapped in Redline tires, and the tinted glass looks flawless.

The original owner pushed out the boat when ordering this Camaro, selecting many interior options that collectors view as extremely desirable. These include the console-mounted sports gauge cluster, a Tick-Tock-Tach, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo radio, a tape player mounted between the front seats, the light monitor system, and Deluxe Black and White “houndstooth” trim. As with the exterior, there is nothing deserving of genuine criticism. The upholstered surfaces are spotlessly clean and free from wear, the faux woodgrain hasn’t lifted or faded, and the dash and pad are excellent. There are no visible aftermarket additions or issues that might cause the new owner shame if they rocked up to a show or a Cars & Coffee behind the wheel of this SS.

If you’re reading this and waiting for the first sign of bad news, I suspect you might be waiting for a while. The Camaro’s engine bay houses a 350ci small-block that sends 295hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque to a 3.55 Posi rear end via a four-speed M20 manual transmission. That doesn’t make this the most potent Camaro to wear the SS badge in 1968, but with the ability to cover the ¼-mile in 14.5 seconds, it offered enough performance to satisfy most buyers. The first owner enhanced this Camaro’s effortless driving experience by ticking the boxes on their Order Form beside power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. Everything is confirmed by the original Build Sheet and Dealer Invoice, while the buyer also receives the Owner’s Manual, Warranty Book, and Protect-O-Plate. Just when you thought that things couldn’t get any better, they do. The seller confirms that this SS is a numbers-matching vehicle that runs and drives as well as it did in 1968. Therefore, the new owner will slip behind the wheel of a classic pony car which is a turnkey proposition.

The classic world abounds with stories of people who have splashed their cash on a car, convinced that it was an iron-clad investment promising an excellent future return. Some tasted success, while others found themselves years later with a car that wasn’t worth the original sticker price. The harsh fact is that every investment carries an element of risk, and apart from not spending the money, the best way to minimize the chance of financial disaster is to take plenty of time to examine every aspect of the classic in question and the market’s history. Recent trends have seen values drop markedly for the 1969 Camaro SS 350, but the fact that this is an RS with a four-speed helps its cause. Throw its selection of factory options into the mix, and the seller’s price appears justified. That just leaves one question; Will values take a turn for the better, or continue their slide? You need a crystal ball to get a definitive answer, but I believe that they will climb. Do you?