Many enthusiasts view a long-term ownership history favorably when seeking a classic to park in their garage. Cars that the same person has owned for decades are typically well-maintained and haven’t been abused or neglected. This 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible ticks those boxes. The seller has been its custodian for over thirty years, with the car only emerging from its warm and dry garage on nice days. All good things must end, and the time has come for this Camaro to find a new home. Therefore, the seller has listed it here on eBay in Middleburgh, New York. They haven’t received any bids on an auction that opened at $27,900, although they also provide a BIN option of $30,000.
Ford dominated the pony car market when it unveiled the Mustang in 1964. It caught the competition unaware, and it would take General Motors until 1967 to release the Pontiac Firebird and Chevrolet Camaro cousins. Neither sold in the same stratospheric numbers as those enjoyed by Ford, but comparing the total figures during the first three years of Camaro production reveals that Chevrolet managed to steal customers from the Blue Oval. This 1968 Camaro Convertible was ordered by its first owner in Matador Red. It doesn’t appear to be restored, and has occupied the same garage for years when not prowling the streets. Its appearance is tidy, but there are the typical minor paint imperfections that accumulate with age. It appears that rust isn’t a significant consideration, with the seller only identifying this spot on the passenger side as an area requiring attention. They state that the rust was present when they purchased the vehicle, and has shown no signs of deteriorating. Otherwise, if the new owner invests in a replacement soft-top and a new radio antenna, this Convertible will present acceptably as a driver-grade vehicle.
The secret to the success of First Generation pony cars was surprisingly simple. Manufacturers offered vehicles with stunning styling that lit a flame within potential buyers. However, by providing the option of relatively conservative drivetrain combinations, cars like this 1968 Camaro were extremely affordable. It features a 250ci six, bolted to a two-speed Powerglide transmission. The factory quoted power and torque figures of 155hp and 235 ft/lbs for this engine. While the Powerglide will sap performance, the inclusion of power steering, as chosen by the first owner, should provide a relaxed cruising experience. The seller states that the engine recently received minor work, and although the Camaro appears to be “cold-blooded,” it runs and drives well.
One aspect of this classic requiring no attention is the interior. The seller indicates that it is new, and the lack of wear on the Black vinyl and matching carpet supports that. The new owner won’t feel embarrassed driving the Camaro with the top down, because the presentation is extremely nice. I would probably splash some cash on new gauge lenses if I were the new owner, but that is the only genuine criticism. It isn’t lavishly equipped, featuring a console and a factory pushbutton radio.
The 1968 model year was one of consolidation for the Chevrolet Camaro. It gained a foothold in the market following its 1967 launch, with sales reaching 235,147 vehicles in 1968. This Convertible isn’t perfect, but it is what I would term as “honest.” The seller doesn’t hide its flaws or imperfections, although it appears that there are no significant issues. However, I do feel that their price is optimistic, which may explain the relatively low listing statistics. What do you think a fair price would be?
I love the originality of this Camaro. Definitely looks like over spray in the engine compartment, that the owner does not mention. The video, although a nice attempt, is zoomed in so much and Darth Vader with the sniffles in the audio does not help!!
More delusional people that think anything in the garage is worth a lot of money. I think the bidding shows them that it’s not worth what they think it is. The economy will hopefully put a lot of these unintelligent folks back to reality.
Salt belt car, checked the ad, this bozo would like some underside pictures posted on the listing at that price.
Corrosion on the steering wheel is a red flag, and what’s up with the condition of the rear section of the center console? That said it’s impressive that he was able to preserve the rust on the drivers door 30 yrs on. Like they say “If it ain’t broke in half don’t fix it”.
After working on these cars for over 40 years, I can tell you with certainty, the rust you can see, is not the only rust on the car. Once you start the rust repair, it’ll be like opening Pandora’s box. $30k is a stretch, maybe $20k, if you really love the car. Unless you know body work and have a proper shop to do the work, you’re talking about $20k or more, just to get the body sorted out and painted. A decent full resto on this car can cost over $30k and that’s on the cheap side.
I like drop-top pony cars, but first gen Camaros and Firebirds not so much as the great lines of the coupes don’t hold up with the top down, imo. Similar year Mustangs and 70-71 (Barra)cudas look great with the tops down. I’m also quite partial to third gen Camaro ASC convertibles, though, which look great with the tops up OR down.
I agree that rust will probably slow down any effort to improve this Camaro. Heck, my 69 coupe sat in indoor storage, in a fairly dry region, for about 10 years while I was out of the country and I couldn’t believe how much it rusted during that time. It’s all better now, but the additional money and hours required to get it right were sizable.