Chevrolet Camaro (1966)

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Camaro is a pony car (a sports car) from the US automobile brand Chevrolet , which belongs to the automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM).

The sporty car emerged as a competitor to the Ford Mustang , which was successful in the mid-1960s, and became a popular sports car as a typical representative of the pony cars .

Here is the overview of all generations .

Chevrolet
Chevrolet Camaro SS (1967)
Chevrolet Camaro SS (1967)
Camaro
Production period: 1966-1969
Class : Sports car
Body versions : Coupé , convertible
Engines:
Petrol engines : 3.8–6.5 liters
(104–280 kW)
Length: 4690-4725 mm
Width: 1840-1880 mm
Height: 1300 mm
Wheelbase : 2745 mm
Empty weight : 1315-1645 kg
successor Chevrolet Camaro (1970)

History of origin

The Camaro's roots can be traced back to 1958, when a four-person sports coupé was designed at GM. After the rumor arose in 1963 that the Ford Mustang had gone into production, General Motors management commissioned the designer Henry Haga in the Chevrolet styling studio to design a sports car, with George Angersbach responsible for the interior styling.

In addition to the four-seater, a two-seater roadster , a station wagon and a hatchback , similar to the Chevrolet Novas , were also considered in 1964 . Early designs from 1964 include the XP-196X Super Shark, which was only developed down to the clay model, and the advanced prototype XP-386. Ultimately, General Motors decided to build a coupe and a convertible with a larger interior space and to do so on an existing platform that was to be shared with the similar Pontiac Firebird . During development, the car bears various names such as “Panther”, “Wildcat” and “Chaparral” while GM is preparing the advertising campaign. Eventually it was named Camaro and debuted in September 1966 as a two-door model with a 2 + 2 seat configuration that left little space for adults in the rear.

Finally, the project was fully developed under the code name "Panther" and presented to the specialist audience and journalists on June 28, 1966. However, this name was discarded because at this point in time new Chevrolet models with a “ C ” in their name (such as C orvette , C hevelle , C hevy II , C hevette and C orvair ) were to start. According to Chevrolet, the name " Camaro " is derived from the French word camarade , which translates as "comrade" or "friend". During the press conference, Chevrolet General Manager Elliot M. "Pete" Estes was asked by a journalist: "What is a Camaro?" His short and concise answer was: " A small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs". In German: "A small, vicious animal that eats mustangs!"

General

Sales started on September 29, 1966 with the '67 model year. In the 1966 calendar year, around 90,000 Camaros were still produced. This made the car a complete sales success.

The engine of the Camaro was always large-volume V8 engines beyond 200  gross SAE-HP (approx. 150 kW). Also offered in -line six-cylinder were the basis. The powerful SS models and the Z / 28 are among the muscle cars .

All first-generation Camaros from 1966 to 1969 were built in the US plants of Fisher Body Co. , which was a GM division , in Norwood , Ohio and Van Nuys / Los Angeles , California , or outside the US in plants like GM Continental in Antwerp in Belgium , Switzerland at General Motors Suisse in Biel , GM de Venezolana in Caracas in Venezuela and GM del Peru in Lima in Peru as well as in the Yutivo factory in Manila in the Philippines . The vehicle parts were delivered to the assembly works in a wooden box and assembled there. The boxes were stocked in Bloomfield , NJ and managed by GM Overseas Operations. Complete bodies, engines and transmissions as well as the interior were packed. The battery , tires, parts of the interior and the like were procured in the assembly countries. The vehicles were given their own chassis numbers .

Around 700,000 vehicles rolled off the assembly line in the three years of production.

Swiss Camaros

The cars assembled in Switzerland in 1967 were all coupés with the 283 cui (4.6 l) V8, the 198 gross SAE-HP (146 kW; 195 HP) at 4800 revolutions per minute and 285 lb-ft (386 Nm) at 2400 revolutions per minute. This engine was not available on the US-built Camaros. In the 1968s, the 327 cui (5.3 L) engine with 210 gross SAE-HP (157 kW) was used, and the SS350 with the L48 engine was also available. Either a Powerglide automatic or a manual 4-speed gearbox was selected as the transmission. Most cars had multiple options like power windows, heated rear windows, center console, booster disc brakes, power steering and deluxe interiors. The Swiss-built Camaros were not available with the three-speed manual transmission and had a differential lock as standard. Some otherwise additional safety equipment was also standard. In 1967, 211 vehicles were produced, the number cannot be determined for the following years, but in 1968 there were at least 80 vehicles.

Belgian Camaros

The cars built in Antwerp had either the L26 inline six-cylinder engine with 140 gross SAE-HP or a 327 cui (5.3 l) engine - apparently the 1967 cars used the LF7 327 cui (5.3 l) with 210 gross SAE-HP ( 157 kW) strong engine and the 68 cars the L30 with 327 cui (5.2 l) but now with 275 gross SAE-HP (205 kW). The transmissions were either the Powerglide automatic or a 4-speed manual. They were well equipped and often had disc brakes, power steering, a center console, rear window de-icing, a folding rear seat and the deluxe interior.

The plant has also homologated the US-made 67-69 Camaros for the European market by adding marker lights, seat belts to European specification and other European requirements. Vehicles homologated in 1967 also received an Antwerp VIN. On the 1968 or 1969 vehicles that were homologated, Antwerp type plates were mounted in addition to the US VIN. In Antwerp, a German homologation plate was also placed on the bulkhead if the car was intended for sale in Germany. At the end of the 1968 model year, Chevrolet ceased production in Antwerp, and the 69 vehicles were only imported.

One of the unique features installed by the Antwerp factory was sliding roofs . The sunroofs were manufactured by a German supplier and optionally installed in vehicles assembled in Antwerp as well as in imported vehicles. When sunroofs were installed, a vinyl roof covering was also installed (to hide distortions in the roof surface).

Engines

6-cylinder in-line engines

  • 3.8-l-R6 (230 cui): 104 kW (140 gross SAE-HP), order code: L26
  • 4.0-l-R6 (250 cui): 116 kW (155 gross SAE-HP), order code: L22

8-cylinder V-engines

Small block engines

  • 4.9-l-V8 (302 cui): 216 kW (290 gross SAE-HP) (Z / 28), order code: Z28
  • 5.0-l-V8 (307 cui): 149 kW (200 gross SAE-HP) (from January 1969), order code: L14
  • 5.4-l-V8 (327 cui): 157 kW (210 gross SAE-HP) (until January 1969), order code: LF7
  • 5.4 l V8 (327 cui): 205 kW (275 gross SAE-HP), order code: L30
  • 5.7-l-V8 (350 cui): 190 kW (255 gross SAE-HP) (until January 1969), order code: LM1
  • 5.7-l-V8 (350 cui): 184 kW (250 gross SAE-HP) (from January 1969), order code: L65
  • 5.7-l-V8 (350 cui): 220 kW (295 gross SAE-HP) (SS350), order code: L48

Big block engines

  • 6.5 l V8 (396 cui): 242 kW (325 gross SAE-HP) (SS396), order code: L35
  • 6.5 l V8 (396 cui): 257 kW (350 gross SAE-HP) (SS396), order code: L34
  • 6.5 l V8 (396 cui): 280 kW (375 gross SAE-HP) (SS396), order code: L78
  • 6.5 l V8 (396 cui): 280 kW (375 gross SAE-HP) (SS396, aluminum cylinder head, 1968), order code: L78 / L89
  • 7.0-l-V8 (427 cui): 313 kW (425 gross SAE-HP) (COPO 9561, 1969), order code: L72
  • 7.0-liter V8 (427 cui): 316 kW (430 gross SAE-HP) (COPO 9560, aluminum engine block, 1969), order code: ZL1

transmission

The Camaro could be ordered with various manual and automatic transmissions . Also with steering column gearshift or selector lever or gear lever on the center tunnel or center console depending on the options selected.

Gear type designation Specialty Available in
1967 1968 1969
Manual transmission 3-course Saginaw RPO M15 standard gearbox with steering wheel gearshift also for SS models, RPO M11 with gear lever on the center tunnel X X
Manual transmission 3-speed Borg-Warner RPO M13 reinforced version with gear lever on the center tunnel X X
Manual transmission 3-course Muncie RPO MC1 reinforced version, 1967–68 only selectable for SS, from 1969 standard for SS X X X
Manual transmission 4-speed saginaw with cast housing for the smaller engines such as R6, V8 with 307, 327 and the small L65 350 X X X
Manual transmission 4-speed Muncie RPO M20, M21, M22 aluminum housing for the larger engines including Z / 28 X X X
Automatic 2-speed PowerGlide RPO M35, not for SS396, often used in drag races X X
Automatic 2-speed torque drive Manual shift WITHOUT clutch X X
Automatic 3-speed TH350 only for small block X
Automatic 4-speed TH400 only for Big Block, 1967–68 only for engines> 325 HP X X X

The Muncie M20 and M21 gearboxes produced from 1963 to 1974 could be selected as manual gearboxes, with the M20 being further graduated and the M21 having a narrower gear ratio. The M22, which was produced from 1967 onwards, is also a gearbox with a narrow ratio, but much more powerful than the M21 and with a higher torque capacity . The further graduated Muncie M20 was available with each of the high-performance engines, with the exception of the L78 and the Z / 28 in 67, which could only be ordered with the M21. The M20 was the only 4-speed gearbox that was available with the SS350 and SS396 (L35) engines.

The M21 with closer gradation was only available with the Z28, SS396 and COPO. The Z / 28 could basically only be ordered with the 4-speed manual transmission on the center tunnel.

The Powerglide is a two-speed automatic transmission from General Motors. You could combine it with all engines except the SS396 and the Z / 28. It was primarily available for Chevrolet from January 1950 to 1973. With the introduction of the Turbo Hydra-Matic it was taken out of the range.

For the 1968 model year, Chevrolet introduced a simplified version of the Powerglide under the name " Torque Drive ". This unit was basically a power glide with no vacuum modulator so the rider could manually change gears between low and high. The torque drive was only offered on low-performance engines for the Camaro and Nova.

Turbo-Hydra or Turbo Hydra-Matic is a registered trademark for a family of automatic transmissions designed and manufactured by General Motors. These transmissions pair a three-piece turbine torque converter with a Simpson planetary gear train . The transmissions have three forward gears, with the selector lever in positions 1, 2, Drive, Neutral, Park and Reverse. The types TH350 and TH400 were used in the Camaro. The model number of the gearbox is derived from the nominal torque of 350 lb-ft or 400 lb-ft.

Model history

1967

The first Camaro based on the then newly developed X-Body - platform for the Chevrolet Nova in 1968. Building on the F-body platform was developed that he with his sister model Pontiac Firebird shares. This was a universal platform and comprised the floor assembly from the windshield / bulkhead to the rear. The chassis is also comparable to the front wheel suspension. The front was realized with an additional steel subframe, which is similar to that of the Nova. Among other things, this should ensure that the passenger cell is decoupled from the drive, since the engine / transmission mount is screwed to the body using rubber blocks ( silent blocks ) and eliminates oscillations or vibrations. Right from the start, the Camaro could be ordered as a coupe or convertible . The coupé version is referred to by GM as a sport coupé; this form is generally called a hardtop coupé , as it lacks the B-pillar . The list of accessories included almost 80 options, three main packages and various engines.

The buyer was able to choose from four interior fittings, which were available in eight colors, resulting in 17 variants. In addition, there were 15 exterior colors which, combined with the interior colors, allowed 62 different color combinations. Supplemented by a vinyl- covered roof and different strip shapes and colors, there were a lot of individual variants. For the color, accentuating or combined colors could be chosen. Due to the position of the ignition lock in the dashboard, the Camaro does not have a steering wheel lock .

Drum brakes on all wheels were standard. Brake boosters or disc brakes on the front axle could be ordered optionally. Disc brakes did not automatically result in a brake booster, this had to be ordered separately, this also applied to the SS option.

All Camaros of the first generation already have a windshield made of laminated safety glass ( VSG), the side windows and the rear window are made of single-pane safety glass (ESG), the front and rear windows are glued in.

In addition to the RS model (for rally sport ), the strong super sport model, or SS for short , met with greater interest.

SS option

The decision in favor of the SS option was made by ordering the option with the associated engine. It includes a different suspension. The vehicles received multi-layer leaf springs , a twin-pipe exhaust system and, with manual transmission, a stronger clutch . Another bonnet with attached, but non-functional air intakes was also installed. Visually, different stripes were possible and the additional "SS" emblems on the fenders, in the grill and on the fuel cap in the rear panel. Of course, the vehicles got the most powerful engines. The 5.7 l engine (350 cui) then had 220 kW (295 gross SAE HP). This engine was not available in other options.

RS option

1967 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe SS RS front
1967 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe SS RS, front

The RS package could be ordered for all model variants (Basis, SS, Z / 28). Vehicles with the RS option received a different grille in which the headlights are hidden behind cover flaps that stretch the front grille across the entire width of the vehicle. These flaps are operated by electric motors and are swiveled aside when the headlights are switched on. The flashing lights are then under the bumper at the outer ends of the front. Other tail lights are installed in the rear. The reversing lights are built separately in the rear apron, so the taillights are completely red-colored.

Z / 28

In December 1966, Chevrolet created one of the most popular options codes, the RPO Z28 (RPO means Regular Production Option). It was not advertised and was therefore initially unknown to the buyers; in 1967 only 609 units of the later Z / 28 model were produced. The package included a special 4.9 liter V8 engine, front disc brakes, sport suspension and a 4-speed manual gearbox from Muncie. In addition, it received a two-pipe 2–1 / 4 “exhaust system. It could hardly be combined with other options, but the RS option, for example, could be ordered, but no air conditioning. The Z / 28 was only available as a coupé. With this car a successful participation in the "Club of America Trans Am" racing series should be achieved, however only freely available road vehicles with engines below 305 cui, ie smaller than 5 liters displacement, were allowed. The engine output was given as 290 gross SAE-HP (216 kW). The engine was created by inserting the short-stroke crankshaft of a 283 cui engine into a 327 cui engine block. An 800 cfm 4-fold carburetor from Holley served as the carburetor. The 302 cui was only used in the first generation. The Z / 28 is considered difficult in handling, high-revving engine is optimal at 7500 min -1 switched. Once in motion, it was difficult to beat and won numerous races. The 67 Z / 28 model year is not immediately recognizable from the outside because emblems or other symbols have been omitted.

Replica of the 1969 pace car

The engine of the Z / 28 was used in only slightly modified form in the US motorsport series Formula A and its European counterpart, the European Formula 5000 championship . Starting with the 1969 season , all subsequent European championship titles went to drivers who used these engines.

The popularity of the Camaro rose rapidly after its use as a pace car in the Indianapolis 500 race.

Camaro 427

Camaros with 427-cid (7.0 liter) Chevrolet V-8 with big block were evaluated by Chevrolet's engineering department in early 1967, just a few months after the new model first appeared in the showrooms. It was around this time that one of these creations was shown to the press by Chevrolet Technical Project Manager Walter R. Mackenzie. This experimental 427-engine Camaro outperformed even the most powerful production version of the car. Mackenzie's machine was able to complete the quarter mile in 13.5 to 13.9 seconds. The car was actually a pilot model for the drag racing vehicles that auto tuners would soon be building in different parts of the country. These cars were assembled as "semi-factory-built" racing cars by a small number of Chevrolet dealers who had close ties to the drag racing and promotion network of the Chevrolet Motor Division. The managers and salespeople of such dealerships became key players in the development, sale and promotion of the 427 Camaro, which would later become the COPO-Camaro and others.

Prices

The starting price of the Camaro was just above that of the Ford Mustang, which started at $ 2,368. The list price refers to the smallest motorization without any further options. In the third column, prices rounded according to current purchasing power (as of 2020).

Type or option Prize 1967 Price 2020
Coupé R6 USD 2,466 USD 18,800
Cabriolet R6 USD 2,704 USD 20,700
Coupé V8 USD 2,572 USD 19,700
Cabriolet V8 USD 2,809 USD 21,500
Main options:
Z22 = Rally Sport Package USD 100 USD 764
Z27 = Super Sport Package with L48 5.7 L. USD 200 USD 1,528
Z28 = Special Performance package with Z28 5.0 L USD 340 USD 2,598

1968

Logo on the Chevrolet Camaro 1967
Logo on the Chevrolet Camaro 1967
Logo on the Chevrolet Camaro from 1968
Logo on the Chevrolet Camaro from 1968

In addition to slight visual changes, the suspension of the rear axle has been revised. Instead of a simple leaf spring , a multi-layer leaf spring was installed depending on the engine or option selected. The shock absorbers were graded differently. In addition, the driver's side shock absorber was placed on the other side of the axle, ie on the passenger side the shock absorber was mounted on the front side in the direction of travel and on the rear side of the axle on the driver's side in the direction of travel. The upper pivot point of the damper also changed here. Which is no longer behind, but in front of the axle in the direction of travel. Models with the 12-screw differential received the multilayer leaf spring (the standard differential has 10 screws for the cover.) This includes all SS versions and the Z / 28, as well as the 5.4-l (327-cui) -Motor with 275 gross SAE-HP and manual 4-speed gearbox. All the others ran off the assembly line with the single leaf spring. Nothing changed with the brakes. However, the disc brakes option now also includes the brake booster.

There were new colors. At the beginning of the 1968 model year, there were 7 interior colors and 15 exterior colors to choose from. In addition, it was possible to order fabric-covered seats with a sample entitled "Houndstooth", in German "Hundezahn", in Germany called "Houndstooth". 64 inside-outside color combinations were now possible. During the model year there were new exterior colors. The number remained the same, but z. B. Tuxedo Black and others, so that other colors were added.

The front indicator / parking light combination was changed from round to rectangular / oval. And the grill got a clearer V-shape. In the rear, the taillights have been given a modified design. They are larger and have a chrome dividing strip between the chambers. In addition, the 1968 Camaro has orange side lights at the front and red side lights at the rear, which were a legal requirement of the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). The emblem for the engine size has now been placed directly behind the headlights. Instead of round exterior mirrors, rectangular mirrors have now been installed. An outside mirror for the passenger side was not available from the factory in either 1967 or 1968. The small triangular window in the doors was eliminated in favor of a fully opening side window. For this purpose, vehicles without the optional air conditioning system have now been equipped with an "astro ventilation" supply for outside air. This leads fresh air into two adjustable ventilation nozzles built into the side of the dashboard. The air volume is regulated by means of a slider in the outer footwell trim. The dashboard, the A-pillars and the armrests were provided with additional padding. A wood grain (walnut) for the middle part of the dashboard was now available.

The center console was given a completely redesigned look, if it was ordered.

The standard, short rear bumper horns used in both 1967 and 1969 were not installed in 1968. They were canceled just before production began in 1968. (Although they can be installed on the bumper of the 68 model.) From the 1968 model year, front and rear spoilers could optionally be ordered ex works.

While the large lettering on the bonnet and tailgate of the 67 model is still Chevrolet and the word Camaro in a smaller "box" , it is the other way around on the 1968 model. Here is now a big Camaro and a small one by Chevrolet. Due to legal requirements, from 1968 the chassis number had to be legible from the outside. Therefore, a narrow metal strip with the number was attached under a cutout on the driver's side of the dashboard and could now be read through the windshield. The same is still practiced with modern vehicles. Previously, the chassis numbers were attached to the A-pillar of the driver's door.

SS option

Little changed for the new model year. The basic engine of the SS was still the 5.7-l engine (350 cui) with 220 kW (295 gross SAE-HP). In addition, the " Big Blocks " with 6.5 liters (396 cui) and up to 280 kW (375 gross SAE-HP) could now be ordered. The versions with aluminum cylinder heads were also available.

RS option

The RS option could also be ordered in 1968. The biggest change concerned the drive of the headlight flaps. These are now driven by vacuum cylinders, which are taken from the carburetor vacuum. The reversing lights are also built into the rear apron here.

Z / 28

Awareness of the Z / 28 option increased and 7,199 units were sold. At the beginning of the 1968 model year, the Z / 28 still had the displacement specification "302" on the front fenders. This was changed in March 1968, the Z / 28 logo was now attached instead of the cubic capacity. Instead of the rear single-layer leaf springs, a four-layer spring was used from 1968 onwards. The 302-cui of the Z / 28 got a cross-ram intake manifold with two 4-way 500-cfm carburetors from Holley with unchanged performance.

Prices

The list price refers to the smallest motorization without any further options. In the third column, prices rounded according to current purchasing power (as of 2020).

Type Prize 1968 Price 2020
Coupé R6 USD 2,588 USD 19,000
Cabriolet R6 USD 2,802 USD 20,500
Coupé V8 USD 2,694 USD 19,800
Cabriolet V8 USD 2,908 USD 21,300
Main options:
Z22 = Rally Sport Package USD 100 USD 733
Z27 = Super Sport Package with L48 5.7 L. USD 200 USD 1,467
Z28 = Special Performance package with Z28 5.0 L USD 380 USD 2,787

1969

There have been major, obvious visual makeovers, with the hood, trunk lid and roof remaining unchanged. In addition to the normal flat bonnet, there was a bonnet variant for the SS models. Two ventilation slots (without function) were simulated on the hood. From 1969 onwards, the “Cowl Induction” hood for the SS variants and the Z / 28, which was part of the “COPOs” (Central Office Purchase Order) series, could be ordered as an option. With this, a flap is opened via a vacuum connection to the carburetor due to the negative pressure during acceleration in order to direct cold air in front of the windshield into the air filter. At high speed, this air is literally pressed into the air filter. The aim is to achieve an increase in performance. The "Cowl Induction" hood was also offered as a fiberglass version at Chevrolet dealers. The willing customer could purchase this and assemble it himself. The 1969 models are slightly longer and wider due to the body modifications. It can be clearly distinguished from the two previous years of construction.

The body received pronounced edges on the side of the fenders. A “lamella” imprint was pressed into the sheet metal of the side wall in front of the rear wheels, similar to shark gills. With the options RPO Z21 and Z22 this is additionally overlaid with a chrome cover. The radiator grille was styled in a V-shape that receded to the rear and the edge area of ​​the grille was painted in the body color, the headlights stand out clearly. Only on the SS models and the Z / 28 is the grill grille black. The basic models have a silver grille in the same color as the headlight rings. The front appears more aggressive. The combination of indicators and parking lights moved into the front apron.

Optionally, the front bumper could be ordered painted in body color. This option included a slightly different shaped bumper with different mounts that bring it closer to the body. As well as a hard (hard rubber-like) coating called "Endura" by Chevrolet, which was painted in body color. This gave the front a more modern look.

The taillights have also been redesigned and are now equipped with three instead of two chambers. With the Z21 and Z22 options, the vertical struts are provided with a chrome strip. Here, too, a distinction can be made between basic and RS models in which the chrome strut runs horizontally.

The tank filler neck, which was placed as an emblem between the taillights in previous model years, has been moved behind the license plate under the bumper. This was also done with a view to accident prevention. In 1967 and 1968, the filler neck is still led through the trunk and could be damaged in a rear impact. There was then a risk of gasoline leaking and igniting. In 1969, the risk was significantly reduced because the tank no longer had any connection to the interior.

The badge called Cowl Tag or Trim Tag with the essential information about the vehicle, such as assembly time and basic version as well as its equipment, such as colors and seats, was coded differently.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe interior
1969 Chevrolet Camaro Coupé individualized interior

In 1969 there was a wider choice of colors. 20 paint colors were available, and there was also the option of setting off the sill area and the roof with an accent color. Six additional options were available here. In the interior there were only six colors to choose from, including the "houndstooth" there were 67 color combinations for the inside and outside. In 1969, the option of choosing a front seat was completely eliminated. Although the Camaro is shown as a 2 + 2 seat coupé or convertible, it was possible that an additional middle lap belt could be ordered from the dealer.

In the interior there was a redesigned dashboard and more comfortable seats with headrests as standard. The dashboard now had square instead of round speed indicators and tachometers and fuel gauges. The grain of the imitation wood changed to rosewood. The ignition lock, which was previously in the dashboard, was relocated to the steering column. This was the first time the Camaro was given a steering wheel lock, as was now the case with GM. The "Astro-Ventilation" was supplemented by adjustable air outlets in the side paneling in the driver and passenger footwell. The air volume is regulated separately for the top and bottom using a slide control in the outer footwell paneling.

At the beginning of 1969, the 210 gross SAE-HP (157 kW) strong 5.4 l engine (327 cui) was replaced by a new 5.0 l engine (307 cui) with 200 gross SAE HP (149 kW) exchanged. The 2-stage Powerglide automatic, popular with drag racers, replaced the 3-stage TH 350 automatic transmission. There is an electrical warning tone that sounds when the ignition key is inserted and the door is open. Still found at Mercedes today, the Camaro also offers a foot-operated parking brake and a T-handle to release. The high beam is operated using a foot switch.

From 1969, all versions with the 12-screw differentials and all vehicles with a 5.7-liter engine (350 cui) got a multiple leaf spring. Whether a 4-layer or 5-layer spring was used was ultimately a decision based on the vehicle weight, which varies depending on the options selected (e.g. air conditioning or power steering). Vehicles with 5.0 l (307 cui) and 5.4 l engines (327 cui) also retained the single spring on the rear axle.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS, front individualized

SS option

The option for ordering the SS has now been given the order code RPO Z27. The 5.7-l engine (350 cui) now had 224 kW (300 gross SAE-HP). The big blocks were also still available. However, an increase was still possible with the COPO variants.

RS option

1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS rear

The RS front has also been completely revised and redesigned. The headlight flaps have got three transparent stripes and, like the edge of the grille, are now painted in the vehicle color. The actual grill was given an oval shape and is kept in black. With this design, however, the grill loses its extreme V-shape and is basically flatter. The rear lights of the RS models received a horizontal chrome strut, the above-mentioned base two vertical struts. On the RS, the reversing lights are in the rear apron.

Z / 28

There were no major changes for the Z / 28 of the 1969 model year. A new gear lever was donated by Hurst in 1969. The engine was kept unchanged, the equipment was not changed. As described above, the Cowl-Induction hood could now be ordered. 20,302 vehicles were delivered. However, there are significantly more Z / 28s to be counted on the streets. The basic models were and are very popular with the emblems of the Z / 28 as well as the SS variants and moved as so-called “clones” or “tribute cars”. Today the Z / 28 is one of the most sought-after and sought-after vehicles; good models are traded for around EUR 80,000 on relevant portals and at auctions.

Prices

The list price refers to the smallest motorization without any further options. In the third column, prices rounded according to current purchasing power (as of 2020).

Type Prize 1969 Price 2020
Coupé R6 USD 2,638 USD 18,400
Cabriolet R6 USD 2,852 USD 19,800
Coupé V8 USD 2,727 USD 19,000
Cabriolet V8 USD 2,941 USD 20,500
Main options:
Z22 = Rally Sport Package USD 125 USD 842
Z27 = Super Sport Package with L48 5.7 L. USD 281 USD 1,956
Z28 = Special Performance package with Z28 5.0 L USD 435 USD 3,027

COPO Camaro and ZL-1

The big news for 1969 was the availability of a 7-liter V8 engine with 425 gross SAE-HP (317 kW). The COPO Camaro was produced in limited numbers using the special Central Office Production Orders 9561 and 9560.

The COPO 9561 was a simple Camaro sports coupe that was converted by the dealer using a 427 cubic inch cast block. Chevrolet delivered the cars with the engine in a wooden box, they were only completed by the dealers. 1015 COPO 9561 were manufactured by GM and shipped to dealers, including 201 to Yenko Chevrolet. The first cars were converted by dealerships, one of the best known was the Yenko Camaro 427 that was created in this way .

These modified Camaro were dwarfed by the ZL-1 from Chevrolet, specially designed for participation in " NHRA Super Stock" races. The basis was an SS with a 6.5-liter V8 engine and 375 gross SAE-HP (280 kW), which was equipped with a sports chassis , front disc brakes and a reinforced 4-speed gearbox. The COPO 9560s ordered by Gibb Chevrolet were procured through the special ordering system required to build the high-performance models. This COPO Camaro was also built with an exotic aluminum block as a 427 engine with 425 horsepower and is known as the ZL-1. The power was specified in the approval certificate as 430 gross SAE-HP (321 kW). Some engines - specially designed for racing - even achieved up to 580 gross SAE-HP (433 kW). It should be the most powerful engine that was offered by Chevrolet in stores. The first pair in Dusk Blue left the Norwood factory on December 30, 1968 and were delivered to dealer Fred Gibb in La Harpe, Illinois.

Such high values ​​were achieved through measures such as increasing compression (from 8.5: 1–10.5: 1, which was usual at the time) to 12.5: 1. This achievement had its price: the ZL-1 cost a high 7200 US dollars at the time and thus about twice as much as the underlying SS Camaro, the engine alone cost 4160 dollars. Due to the high price, the cars were difficult to sell and sales lasted until the early 1970s. A minimum production of 50 cars was stipulated for the races, Chevrolet produced 69 units, 47 with a manual 4-speed gearbox, the remaining 22 with a turbo hydromatic 400 automatic (in drag racing you could only compete with an automatic machine) . Due to its special features and the small number of pieces, the ZL-1 has a high collector's value today. Vehicles fetched between $ 300,000 and $ 500,000 at auctions. On January 11, 2018, two original and restored ZL-1s, consisting of No. 30 in Hugger Orange and No. 18 in Dusk Blue, were sold at the Mecum auction in Kissimmee / Florida. The auction (LOT T150) closed with an all-inclusive price of US $ 1,210,000.

Apart from the 201 Yenko orders and 69 ZL-1s that were released, Chevrolet did not produce any other COPO Camaros until 2011.

successor

The grown Camaro of the second generation appeared in February 1970, as the so-called model year 1970½, since the usual introduction took place in autumn. Due to the late introduction of the successor model, the 1969 model year had the highest sales of the first generation.

The Camaro in the film

2fast2furious-logo.svg

For “ 2 Fast 2 Furious ” from 2003, several Camaro Coupés from 1969 were used, which were redesigned for the film as “Yenko / SC” (so-called “Clones”). A vehicle was destroyed in a stunt with a yacht.

In the part “ Fast and Furios 6 ”, which appeared in 2013, an orange 1967 Camaro SS is part of the vehicle fleet of the team led by Dominic Toretto and Brian O'Conner.

A 1967 Camaro convertible with RS option was used in the movie " Petulia " from the same year.

A 1969 Chevrolet Camaro was used in the music video for the song Stylo by the British band Gorillaz .

In the American fantasy series " The Vampire Diaries " Damon Salvatore ( Ian Somerhalder ) drives a blue 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet.

A 1967 Camaro is destroyed at a gas station by " Christine ", a 1958 Plymouth Fury . The 1983 film was directed by John Carpenter .

"Erin" is the name of a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z / 28, which is on a list of vehicles to be stolen in the film " Gone in 60 Seconds ", in German: "Only 60 seconds".

In the 2017 movie “ CHiPs ”, the character Frank “Ponch” Poncherello drives a red 1969 Z / 28 with an RS package.

In 2020, the Ray-Ban eyewear brand used a 1968 Camaro for a commercial.

Technical specifications

Technical data Chevrolet Camaro 1st generation (production models)
Chevrolet Camaro 230 250 302-4bbl

(only Z / 28)

307-2bbl

(from 01/1969)

327-2bbl

(until 12/1968)

327-4bbl

(until 12/1968)

350 350-4bbl

(1969)

350-4bbl

(1969)

396
Motor type Gasoline engine
Motor working method Four stroke
Engine type 6-cylinder in-line engine 8-cylinder V-engine
Fork angle - 90 °
Displacement 3769 cc 4093 cc 4942 cc 5031 cc 5354 cm³ 5733 cc 6489 cm³
Bore × stroke 98.4 mm x 82.6 mm 98.4 mm x 89.7 mm 101.6 mm x 76.2 mm 98.4 mm x 82.6 mm 101.6 mm × 82.6 mm 101.6 mm x 88.4 mm 104 mm × 95.5 mm
Max. Power at 1 / min 104 kW (142 gross SAE-HP)
at 4400
114 kW (157 gross SAE-HP)
at 4200
216 kW (290 gross SAE-HP)
at 5300
149 kW (200 gross SAE-HP)
at 4600
157 kW (213 gross SAE-HP)
at 4600
205 kW (279 gross SAE-HP)
at 4800
220 kW (299 gross SAE-HP)
at 4800
190 kW (259 gross SAE-HP)
at 4800
224 kW (305 gross SAE-HP)
at 4800
243 kW (330 gross SAE-HP)
at 4800
Max. Torque at 1 / min 310 SAE-Nm at 1600 332 SAE-Nm at 1600 393 SAE-Nm at 4800 407 SAE-Nm at 2400 451 SAE-Nm at 2400 501 SAE-Nm at 3200 536 SAE-Nm at 3200 516 SAE-Nm at 3200 536 SAE-Nm at 3200 578 SAE-Nm at 3200
compression 8.5: 1 11.0: 1 9.0: 1 10.25: 1 10.5: 1 9.0: 1 10.25: 1
Mixture preparation a downdraft single carburetor a downdraft quadruple carburetor a downdraft twin carburetor a downdraft quadruple carburetor
Valve control side camshaft central camshaft
Camshaft drive Gears Chain
cooling Water cooling
Gearbox, as standard 3- or 4-speed gearbox (Z / 28 only manual 4-speed gearbox)
circuit Steering wheel or center shift (Z / 28 only center shift)
Gearbox, optional Powerglide two-stage automatic (1967/68), Turbo-Hydramatic as four-stage automatic and three-stage automatic (from 1969) as a replacement for Powerglide
Drive type Rear wheel drive
Front suspension unequal length wishbones, coil springs
Rear suspension Rigid axle, semi-elliptical single, 4 or 5-fold leaf springs
Brake system, as standard Four wheel drum brakes
Brake system, optional Brake booster, front disc brakes with a diameter of 27.9 cm
steering Recirculating ball steering
Power assistance, steering optional
body Sheet steel, partially self-supporting, front realized with subframe
Front track 1515 mm
Rear track 1510 mm
wheelbase 2745 mm
Dimensions (model year 1969) 4690 mm × 1840 mm × 1300 mm (4725 mm × 1880 mm × 1300 mm)
Empty weight 1315-1492 kg 1322-1499 kg 1475 kg 1530 kg 1380-1557 kg 1401-1578 kg 1417-1594 kg 1460-1570 kg 1535-1645 kg
Top speed 150-160 km / h 150-165 km / h 210 km / h 180-190 km / h 170-180 km / h 175-190 km / h 180-195 km / h 160–205 km / h 165–215 km / h 200–225 km / h
Acceleration, 0-100 km / h 11-14 s 10-13 s 7.5 s 9-11 p 8-10 s 7–9 s 6-7 s
Consumption per 100 km 14-17 l N approx. 18 l S 12-19 l p 15-19 l p 16-20 l p 17-21 l p 15-20 l p 16-21 l p 17-22 l p

Note: The values ​​for empty weight vary depending on the equipment. The specified values ​​for maximum speed, acceleration and consumption are guidelines. A range is given due to the almost free combination of engine-gearbox-axle ratios.

Source:

Web links

Commons : Chevrolet Camaro (1966)  - Collection of pictures, videos and audio files

Individual evidence

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