Original 327: 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

One person’s definition of a word or phrase can differ from another’s, and a lot of that is determined by attitude and skill. Take this 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible as a prime example. The seller admits there are rust issues requiring attention. A person without welding and panel repair experience might struggle to believe the seller when they state that repairs shouldn’t be hard. However, an experienced enthusiast will take such challenges in their stride. I feel it looks promising, and the fact it retains its original V8 adds to its appeal. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting this promising project.

General Motors was seemingly late joining the pony car party, with the Firebird and Camaro cousins hitting the market for the 1967 model year. The Ford Mustang created a sensation when unveiled in 1964, and with the company struggling to meet buyer demand, the sales tally of 607,568 cars in 1966 marked the badge’s high point. It is fascinating to compare that with the following year when the tally plunged by 135,447 vehicles. The Camaro and Firebird achieved 121,051 and 82,560 cars respectively, suggesting that the Mustang’s drop was largely driven by market competition. The original owner ordered this first-year Camaro Convertible in Granada Gold with a Black power top. It shows its age, with paint deterioration and a top that is beginning to fail. The panels are straight, with no significant dings or dents. The seller confirms there are rust issues impacting the floors, trunk, and left rocker. They view the problems as inexpensive and easy to fix, but only an in-person inspection will confirm the accuracy of that assessment. The trim and glass appear respectable for a survivor, and although the Cragar wheels aren’t original, they are period-appropriate for this classic.

Lifting the Camaro’s hood reveals a 327ci V8 that the first owner teamed with a two-speed Powerglide transmission and power steering. The V8 should produce 210hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque, suggesting there should be slightly more performance potential under the driver’s right foot than if they ordered a Mustang Convertible with a base V8/automatic drivetrain combination. However, that isn’t the case, and there are two factors at play. The first is the Powerglide because, with one less ratio available, it hampers acceleration. However, weight is also a consideration. The Camaro’s curb weight of 3,322 lbs is 290 lbs higher than an equivalent Mustang, which has an inevitable impact. It isn’t the end of the world, because all but the most hardened enthusiast would be happy with the acceleration and open-road cruising potential of this classic. The seller confirms it retains its original drivetrain, but supplies no information regarding how the Convertible runs or drives. If the physical presentation is an accurate guide, the news should be positive.

The solitary interior photo supplied by the seller makes a positive first impression, but a closer examination seems to reveal a few issues that will cost money to address. The driver’s seatcover appears to have a large hole in the upper outer edge that is beyond repair. Therefore, the buyer faces the cost of at least a partial retrim. Some painted surfaces require a refresh, but those appear to be the worst of its problems. The dash and pad look extremely good, with the same true of the console. There is a dirty mark on the carpet below the driver’s feet that should respond to deep cleaning. Otherwise, the remaining components are acceptable if the buyer aims to slip behind the wheel of a driver-grade classic.

The seller listed this 1967 Camaro Convertible here on Facebook Marketplace in Columbus, Ohio. It shows promise as a project candidate, and with an asking price of $23,500, it isn’t outrageously expensive if a further investigation confirms that it is a roadworthy, turnkey vehicle. As a first-generation pony car, its value will almost inevitably climb in the coming years. Of course, the classic ownership experience should be about more than mere dollars and cents, because enjoyment is the key motivator behind enthusiasts parking cars of this type in their garages. This Camaro seemingly offers that opportunity, but is that enough for you to pursue it further?