The biggest problem confronting buyers wishing to park a genuine First Generation Camaro SS Convertible in their garage is that these cars aren’t typically cheap. Some enthusiasts assess their options and are forced to abandon their search due to this fact alone. However, those who aren’t focused on total originality can look to well-executed tributes as a more cost-effective alternative. That is the opportunity offered by this 1968 Camaro Convertible. From its fresh paint to the small-block hiding under the hood, there’s a lot for potential buyers to like. The seller has listed this iconic pony car here on eBay in La Porte, Texas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $19,500, although the intense interest it has generated could see the price climb during the auction’s final days.

The 1968 model year marked the second in the production life of the First Generation Camaro range. Buyers faced an enormous choice of options, allowing them to tailor the car to their specific needs or desires. The Convertible variant remained a popular choice at a time when the Camaro had undergone only relatively minor updates from the previous year. The history of this car is unclear, although the seller confirms that it is rust-free. Its cause was undoubtedly helped by its location, featuring a climate that is ideal for classic steel preservation. The seller states that it recently underwent a refurbishment that included the installation of at least one new rear quarter panel. The exterior steel was massaged, the panels carefully aligned, and a fresh coat of Island Teal paint was applied. Black SS stripes and badges were applied, and the functioning power top is also new. The seller’s limited photos make it hard to fully assess the overall condition, but what we can see looks mighty impressive. The trim is excellent, the glass is clear, and the Rally wheels and rear spoiler add the perfect finishing touch.

Decoding the supplied VIN for this Camaro confirms that the 350ci V8 occupying its engine bay definitely isn’t numbers-matching. This Convertible rolled off the line with a six under the hood, and I suspect that the upgrade was performed during the car’s refurbishment. The small-block’s specifications are unclear, but it sends its power to the ground via an automatic transmission. The seller added power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes during the build, both of which I believe are worthwhile additions. The good news continues when we reach the point of discussing the Camaro’s mechanical health, with the seller stating that there are no issues or problems. Therefore, flying in and driving home would seem to be a viable option for the winning bidder to consider.

The Camaro’s exterior and drivetrain might be complete, but it appears there is one task awaiting the buyer when they assess its interior. The dash and pad look excellent, with the Camaro featuring a factory Tick-Tock-Tach and the console-mounted sports gauge cluster. The faux woodgrain is in good order, the carpet appears clean, and the front seats sport Black Houndstooth covers. However, the back seat still wears its original Black vinyl that has developed a sizeable split. That need not be the end of the world, with a replacement Houndstooth cover retailing for around $350. With that item installed, this interior would certainly turn heads.

If this 1968 Camaro Convertible was a genuine SS, then a car in this condition would typically command a price of at least $40,000 in the current market. A higher figure is possible, particularly if the vehicle in question was the subject of the same bidding intensity that this Convertible has already generated. What makes this interesting is that while there is no indication of the seller’s reserve, there might be a clue that could answer the question. It appears that they fell victim to a non-paying buyer only a few days ago when a previous auction closed with what was supposed to be a successful sale at $27,750. Would you be willing to hand over that amount of cash for this tribute, or would you prefer to spend the extra on the real deal?