Numbers Matching: 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible

Although it isn’t an SS, there’s much to like about this 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible. It features the touches you would expect from the RS variant, and it retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. It underwent restoration approximately twenty-five years ago, but its spotless condition confirms that it has been carefully protected since the work ended. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Camaro listed here on eBay in Byron, Illinois. The bidding sits at $45,000, which is below the reserve.

Introduced for the 1967 model year, Chevrolet’s First Generation Camaro was a belated reply to Ford’s iconic Mustang. However, the wait proved worthwhile, because the Camaro provided worthy competition for those seeking a Bow-Tie alternative. This first-year Convertible is the RS variant, featuring the distinctive grille and concealed headlamps, plus the stripes, appropriate badges, and a set of Rally wheels with center caps and sparkling trim rings. I am always wary of restored classics because you sometimes don’t know what nasty surprises may be hiding beneath the surface. However, a quarter-century has passed since this car’s refresh, which suggests the restorer didn’t cut corners. The Ermine White paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and the stripes are crisp. Rust doesn’t appear to be a problem, and with the Black soft-top fitting nicely and the trim and glass in good condition, this Convertible makes a positive first impression.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I wish that modern manufacturers were as daring with interior trim colors today as Chevrolet was in 1967 when this Camaro rolled off the line. The Red vinyl is dazzling, with the Black inserts of the Deluxe trim option enhancing its visual appeal. The first owner also selected a console, Rally gauges, a factory tachometer, the relatively rare fold-down back seat, and an AM radio. Functionally, everything works as it should. Cosmetically, there seems to be nothing deserving of criticism. There is literally no wear on the upholstery or carpet, and no issues with the dash, pad, console, or the plastic. Describing it as “factory-fresh” might be extreme, but this interior is bound to earn praise on the street or at a Cars & Coffee.

The further we delve into this Camaro, the better the news gets. It retains its numbers-matching 327ci V8, four-speed M20 manual transmission, and 10-bolt rear end. The first owner ordered the car with power steering, and the seller upgraded the power brakes to front discs during the restoration. As the L30 version of the 327, this V8 should produce a factory-claimed 275hp and 355 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures surpass those of Ford’s iconic K-Code 289, although, with the equivalent Mustang GT Convertible weighing 200 lbs less than this Camaro, its performance is slightly better. Potential buyers can consider the RS a turnkey proposition, with the seller calling it “great” to describe how it runs and drives.

Barn Finder Curvette has a knack for spotting desirable classics, and this 1967 Camaro RS Convertible confirms that. Pony cars are typically attractive, desirable vehicles, but the First Generation variants possess a styling purity that disappeared as the breed evolved. This Camaro is a gem and would suit someone seeking a high-end driver. It has received only one bid, but my instincts tell me the situation will change as the auction heads into its final hours. What do you feel would be a fair price, and are you tempted to try to become that winning bidder?