These Three Classic Chevrolet Camaros Deserve a Full Restoration

The Auto Archeology YouTube channel and presenter Ryan Brutt continue exploring a classic car collection we’ve recently covered. This time, we see a trio of 1960s-era Chevrolet Camaros that, despite sitting for decades, have the potential for a return to the road. The video is another chance for General Motors lover Todd to show off more of the vehicles he’s accumulated over the years. As in the past, Brutt doesn’t reveal the location of this find, but a hint tells us this group of GM classics is in southern Wisconsin or northern Illinois.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS

First up in the video is a dilapidated hulk that used to be a gleaming red 1969 Camaro SS. According to Todd, at some point in its history, the car was a birthday present for a 16-year-old. However, the coupe is now a shadow of its former self. Layers of Bondo and rust garner the most attention. Viewers even learn of a bolt inside the car that keeps everything together.

But Todd extols this Chevy’s remaining virtue. Under the hood sits a 5.0-liter V8, a new engine at the time for the automaker making 200 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque.

1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

A 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 awaiting restoration

While Camaro Z28s became a dime a dozen in later years, the 1968 Z28 was a rarity. According to Todd, Chevy only built a few thousand. He also clues us about this car’s authenticity by mentioning the factory-painted stripe applied around the decklid badge (a sign that this is a real Z28).

This Chevy’s features include an LT1 5.7-liter V8, disc brakes all around (a mandatory option for the Z28 packager), and a 12-bolt Positraction rear differential.

First-Generation “Base” Camaro

A base model of the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro

Completing the tale of this Camaro trio is a base model that got upgraded with exterior SS badging. Todd offers a few details about this past-its-prime Camaro. Other than that, he bought it assuming it had a 5.7-liter V8 in the engine bay.

However, on the drive back after the purchase, the once smooth-running engine did nothing but shake at higher speeds. It turns out the two-speed Powerglide transmission was a mismatch for the Chevy small block 6.5-liter engine that was actually under the hood

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