The 4 All-Time Best Old Camaros
Since the first Camaro debuted, there’s been extensive debate about the best old Camaros of all time. Here are our picks for the top four.
Written by Ben Guess
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Table of Contents
- #1 and 2: The SS369 and the SS369s
- #3: The Z-28
- #4: The 1970 1/2 Camaro Z2
- Old Camaros versus Mustang
- Save money on your Camaro insurance
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Over the last five decades, the
Chevrolet
Camaro has definitely evolved from its first debut in 1966. Case in point: the Transformers Edition Camaro
, styled after Bumblebee from the popular Transformers series. But despite all the accessories and amenities of modern cars, old Camaros are still popular for their build, their power, and their design, proving that some cars are classics for a good reason.Here are our picks for the best classic Camaros. Did your favorite model make the list?
#1 and 2: The SS369 and the SS369s
If you could get in a time machine and go back to 1967 to see the debut of the first Camaro, you'd be in for a real trip. According to
Motor Authority
, for a base price of $2,466, you could choose between an inline six-cylinder or V-8 engine. The SS396 featured 325 horsepower, while an upgrade to the SS396s model would get you 375 horsepower. #3: The Z-28
The SS396 and SS396s models weren't the only ones that Chevy produced that first year. The automaker created the Z-28 to qualify for the Sports Car Club of America's Trans-Am class. The Z-28 delivered on its promise and won three out of the 12 Trans Am events. Today, a 1967 Z-28s is a hot ticket item, as only 602 were produced.
#4: The 1970 1/2 Camaro Z2
With its split bumper and less angular body style, the 1970 1/2 Camaro Z28 did not look like it came off a Detroit assembly line. The rounder, softer aesthetic was comparable to a European sports car, but it was still built for comfort, as it was only available as a coupe with a roomy interior. The model received its "1/2" designation as production started later than planned. It wasn't until February of 1970 that these Z28s arrived at dealerships.
The 1970 1/2 Z28 is also set apart from the rest by its speed. According to Motor Authority, this car could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. It also housed a Corvette's engine — an LT1 350-cubic inch V-8 engine with 360 horsepower.
By the early
1970s
, the oil crisis caused gas prices to soar, resulting in fuel rations and a market that was suddenly interested in fuel conservation. Automakers were forced to adapt to the public's changing tastes and new government regulations. The 1970 1/2 Z28 came at the tail end of the best old Camaros.Old Camaros versus Mustang
If you want to start a lengthy debate, just ask a group of car lovers which is "better": an old Camaro, or an old Mustang?
Car and Driver
has compared Camaros and Mustangs since 1968 and has some valuable insight on this topic. While context is everything — the 1983 Mustang and Camaro only had 175 and 190 horsepower, respectively — each model year brought something different to the table. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference, so drive what you love.Save money on your Camaro insurance
If you're lucky enough to own an old Camaro, you know how important insurance can be. However,
classic car insurance
can be expensive, and can have strict rules on how you’re allowed to use your car.If you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal on the coverage you need, check out the
Jerry
app. We’ll get you personalized quotes from top-of-the-line providers, so all that you need to do is pick the plan that works best for you and your Camaro — and we’ll even help with every step of switching to your new provider.
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