1972 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 396

Description

While some of you might remember when second-generation Camaros were second-class citizens, the days of bargain-priced early F-bodies are gone. Cars like this real-deal 1972 Camaro RS/SS 396 are hot collectables, and with a few tasteful mods, this awesome Camaro is the one to own.

For those of you keeping score at home, this is a real RS, which means it comes by the split front bumper and large grille opening honestly. And secondly, it's a real 396 car, and with big blocks a vanishing breed in 1972, it's a rather rare piece. The bright sliver paint certainly helps with the slick attitude, and while none of the body panels were modified during the build, it definitely has a custom look. Part of that is the super straight bodywork that emphasizes all the wonderful details of these second-generation cars, particularly the crease running from nose to tail. Some of the cool factory is also undoubtedly due to the blacked-out hood, which is a trick carbon-fiber decal with a red outline to really make it pop. A matching ducktail spoiler out back gives it a road-race attitude and ties the whole look together quite nicely. Bright chrome bumperettes are freshly refinished and work well with the rear bumper that looks almost new. This car isn't subtle, but it is most certainly very tastefully done.

The black and white interior looks almost new, including fantastic houndstooth cloth upholstery on the high-back bucket seats. Like the exterior, the modifications are only cosmetic and quite minor, amounting to more carbon-fiber-looking appliques on the center console and an upgraded stereo system in the dash. The upholstery, carpets, door panels, and dash pad look very recent and show almost no signs of use. Factory A/C is a welcome option, and the Camaro's array of round gauges offers a racy look that's highly functional. GM's famous horseshoe shifter manages a heavy-duty TH400 3-speed automatic transmission and the original steering wheel is in fantastic shape. In back, the trunk has been fully restored with spatter-finish paint, offering a brand new spare tire and jack assembly and lacking only a new mat to be complete.

As a real U-code SS396, this car packs one of the last big blocks to live in a factory F-body. It's actually a 1969 date-coded block, so it's a genuine 396 not a later 402, but that's only for the numbers guys anyway. Finished like the factory might have done it save for a few chrome dress-up pieces, it moves like you'd expect a torque factory to move. Chevy Orange on the block looks vivid and bright and they added reproduction 396 decals to the chrome air cleaner just for effect. Lots of new components means everything's ready to enjoy without a second thought. The underside is very clean and offers upgrades like urethane bushings, an oversized front sway bar, and a new exhaust system with proper transverse rear bumper. There's also a new gas tank out back, power front disc brakes, and a 10-bolt rear end. Gorgeous 17-inch Torque Thrust wheels fit beautifully under the vintage Camaro bodywork and carry 245/45/17 performance radials all around.

Documented with restoration receipts, this is a very nicely finished car that doesn't go over the top, but instead enhances what is already great about these cars. Don't expect them to get any more affordable, so buy a great one now, while they're affordable. Call today!