Strong 396: 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS

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This 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS ticks most of the boxes that enthusiasts consider mandatory when seeking a driver-grade classic. It presents nicely, features a striking paint-and-trim combination, and the engine bay houses a mighty big-block. The seller doesn’t misrepresent the Camaro, providing a detailed image gallery that reveals any shortcomings. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the RS/SS listed here on eBay in Walled Lake, Michigan. The seller set their BIN at $51,900 with the option to make an offer.

The Camaro was Chevrolet’s entry into the pony car market, released in 1967. It proved a worthy adversary to the all-conquering Ford Mustang. Although the first-year production tally of 220,906 vehicles fell below the blue-oval opposition’s 472,121, it certainly stole sales from the mighty Mustang. This Camaro is the RS/SS variant, with the seller stating that a previous owner completed a nut-and-bolt restoration. It looks extremely impressive from a few feet away, with its Tuxedo Black finish holding a mirror-like shine and the Red stripes providing a striking contrast. The seller doesn’t portray this classic as something it isn’t, because scrolling through their image gallery reveals a few minor cosmetic imperfections. None are significant, and the buyer could ignore them if they are seeking a high-end driver. The gallery also confirms the car’s rust-free status, with the Camaro’s floors clean enough to eat off. The grille features the distinctive concealed headlights that are an iconic part of the RS package, and like the remaining trim, it is in good condition. The glass is crystal clear, and the Rally wheels look flawless.

Lifting the hood reveals this Camaro’s mighty 396ci V8. Interestingly, I have copies of the 1967 Camaro Sales Brochure, and the big-block doesn’t rate a mention. However, the company’s RPO list confirms its availability. As the L35 variant, it delivered 325hp from the factory, and since the SS was a relatively lightweight, the Camaro’s performance was pretty staggering. This SS also features a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The seller confirms that this classic has only clocked 4,600 miles since the restoration ended, and that it runs and drives well. They describe the big-block as strong, meaning that this SS is a turnkey proposition.

The seller’s listing text and images are contradictory when we focus on this Camaro’s interior. They describe the trim as “Black,” but it is obviously the Code K combination of Parchment and Black. Ignoring that blinding mistake, the inside of this SS is hard to criticize. The Parchment vinyl has virtually no imperfections beyond a rub mark beneath the front seat backrest releases. The remaining trim looks exceptional, and there is no carpet wear. The car features a factory tachometer and the console-mounted sports gauge package. It is admirable that the builder resisted the lure of aftermarket additions, with this car retaining its factory AM radio.

This 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS isn’t perfect, but that could be good news for potential buyers. While I acknowledge that the seller’s BIN isn’t loose change, it is far lower than enthusiasts are typically prepared to pay for pristine examples. It also offers a more relaxed ownership experience, because paint chips accumulated during weekend touring won’t mar perfection. The listing statistics look quite modest, but do you think this Camaro will find a new home? If so, could it be yours?

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Comments

  1. A.G.

    Both the 396 SS option ($500) and the TH-Matic ($228) were mid-year introductions. The RS option was $105. All that’s a pretty good lick considering the base model’s $2809. All prices are MSRP.

    Like 1
  2. Steve R

    Too bad the dealer didn’t include a picture of the trim tag. In 1967 it basically verified which drivetrain and many other options came in the car from the factory. Dealers should know this, it’s their job including it only helps them make more money.

    Steve R

    Like 0

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