The first generation of the Chevy Camaro wrapped production in 1969. A record number were built to date as the run was 15 months long due to a delay in getting the all-new 1970 models ready. Fewer than 5,000 copies of the L78 SS 396 were produced, with a rated output of 375 hp. This appears to be one of those cars, but – as a project – it has taken a wide departure from the original over the years. Located in Hooper, Nebraska, this running but rough Chevy is available here on eBay where the reserve is north of the current bid of $13,700.
We’re told this auto is a real-deal SS 396 which can be verified by the cowl tag. The code X22 was used to denote the style trim that came with the SS 396 when new. But many things have changed over the years, starting with the engine. Instead of a 396, a 454 V8 is present now and we’re told it runs but the car overall is not noteworthy. Also, the paint was changed from the original Daytona Yellow to medium blue and then to primer grey/black/red. Also, the car once had a vinyl top which is now gone. The Ivory interior may be original but is in bad shape and will need significant work.
As the story goes, the car was taken apart for a rebuild/restoration and then was sold. The next owner bought some new parts and began to put the Camaro back together when it was sold again, this time to the seller. As a result, the history of the vehicle is sketchy at best. A bunch of new parts come with the sale, some installed and some not. That includes the grille, cowl hood, gas tank, exhaust, front suspension components, and more.
The Chevy came with a factory 4-speed and what’s there may or may not be original with a Hurst shifter and 12-bolt rear-end. The car has been in storage for some time and the odometer reading of 22,447 miles could very well have turned over at least once. There is some rust, so more bodywork will be needed before this vehicle will be anywhere near ready for new paint. If you like puzzles, this one could be fun to finish assembling all the pieces.
Looks like a a swap meet no thanks.
ANYONE even notice the rear tail lights and panel are 1969 Firebird?
No concern here at all?
Sure look like Camaro RS tails to me –
Well, atleast you can get this one loaded without a dust pan and broom. I guess the reserve is a gazillion bucks for this diamond in the ruff. These never were my cup of tea but always parted nicely back in the day.
Shame nothing is original on this one. Cool car but may as well LS swap this one. Always liked the 69 but not sure if this one is worth what they’re trying to get.
Blank canvas. It’ll never be original again, so it’s a good one to build like you want it. Gotta have deep pockets though. Way above my pay grade. Could probably buy a nice one for what it will cost to build this one, but if you enjoy being able to say “I built it” rather than “I bought it this way”, it could be a nice start.
Looks like a good project for a hands on guy if you could get it for around 20k
You can buy a new body for 17K.
It’s a rare car and 69 to boot! What more do you expect, regardless of what is original or not! In the end, All that matters is the birth numbers on the car! I work in this market, you have different aporoaches and market within a market, per buyers taste! Many want original, others would up date the entire car and remove all original hardware including engine. Do not have blindfolds on, this market is very strong and flexible to time and change. Oh and the idea that gas engines are history and EVs are the norm and these old muscle cars are relics thrown on the scrap heap, please check out what current automobile companies are doing aka..canceling future production plants, and see Toyota moving outside of EVs. Gasoline and hybrids will be going strong for the next 50 years, per industry reports. Muscle cars of this era will continue to be popular, and increase in price! Just ask the market place!
Added to my “watch” list just for kicks. Without the original drivetrain, it’s a No Sale for me.
Oh a puzzle in a box! NOPE!
too bad whoever did this just butchered everything and now will be a nightmare