If you’ve been dreaming of a first-gen Camaro project that won’t require extensive rust repair, this 1969 Chevy Camaro out of Riverside, California might be your car. Equipped with a 350 V8, an automatic transmission, and a factory center console, this car has been off the road since 2004, but it’s a dry California survivor that reportedly starts with fuel in the carb. Find it here on craigslist and thanks to Tony Primo for the tip!
The seller notes that the Camaro has been sitting since 2004 but will fire up with gas directly into the Holley four-barrel carburetor. It’ll need a fuel pump before running under its own power, but it’s encouraging that the engine cranks and has some life in it. Also mentioned is a power steering system, which adds to the daily usability once it’s revived.
This example sports 15-inch Rally wheels and wears the classic combination of bucket seats and a center console with floor shifter, features that enthusiasts often seek out. What’s especially appealing is that the car is described as a true California native with original black license plates still affixed. Even better, the seller claims it’s “super solid” and “NO RUST,” which is a major bonus when shopping for a classic Camaro project.
Visually, the car looks complete and reasonably straight from the few photos shared in the listing. There’s no mention of body damage, and since it hasn’t run in two decades, there’s hope that the drivetrain hasn’t been abused. The long storage stint may actually work in the car’s favor here—minimizing miles and road wear.
Of course, there are plenty of unknowns. Fuel system, brakes, tires, and electrical components will all need to be checked and likely replaced or refreshed before the car hits the road. But for those seeking a ‘69 Camaro project that isn’t rotted or overly hacked, this could be a strong starting point.
Would you restore this one to stock specs, or build a period-style street machine with the Holley carb as a head start?
Looks like posting has been deleted by seller?
It might have sold, if the asking price was shown in the write up you’d have a better idea of what happened with the car.
Steve R
Thanks! I was looking for a friend as Camaro’s are not my thing.
Yeah was looking for the price too. :-(
sold!
Looked damn straight. Last similar condition 69 Camaro I sold was 15500 in 2015 with a 307.
I would guess he got an easy 20K for that.
It has a gm replacement engine in it you can tell by the center bolt valve covers
My correction with a second comment the engine has center bolt valve covers which started in 1987 on gm v8 engines and those valve covers are 1987 and newer either 350 or 305 small block
Did those center bolt valve cover engines have problems w oil leakage around the valve cover gaskets or are there other bolts around the flange? I am amazed at the wealth of knowledge many people have….very inspiring!
No problems with oil leaks with the use of GM gasket. I used to own a 1986 Chevy Caprice with the older style 305 and I owned a 1990 Caprice police interceptor with the new style 350 engine with no major problems. The were good solid cars for the time. No bolts around the flanges just 4 bolts in the center.
No oil leak problems as long as you use GM gaskets. I had a 1986 Caprice with the older style 305 valve covers and a 1990 Caprice interceptor with the 350 center bolt valve covers and never any major problems. No there are not any flange bolts on the valve covers just the 4 center bolts.