One of the most spectacular, attractive and really high-quality old American cars is the Chevrolet Camaro. The first generation was very special. So it is necessary to tell about it in more detail.
Briefly about the model
So, the Chevrolet Camaro (first generation) is an iconic American sports car. It was produced for four incomplete years - from 1966 to 1969. For all the time, manufacturers have made approximately 700 thousand copies.
The first such car went on sale on September 26, 1966. There were two options to choose from - a two-door coupe of a closed type and a convertible (also for two doors). Inside was a place for four, and the front seats were separated. Still potential buyers were offered a diverse selection of 6 and 8-cylinder power units, which could be set in motion both automatically and mechanically. And in December of that year, a car with an original engine, as well as a more powerful reinforced chassis, was released.
But the best car in the history of the Chevrolet company is the 1969 model. And no wonder, because it is a truly luxurious sports car in all plans. No wonder the majority voted for him.
Aerodynamics test
Cars Chevrolet Camaro (first generation) have a special body. In general, during its development, both aesthetic considerations and aerodynamics were taken into account. No wonder, after all, special experiments were conducted on him. The finished body (albeit in the amount of ¼) was examined in a special wind tunnel. Thanks to this, it was possible to find out what is the stability of the rectilinear movement of this machine, how much power is expended to resist air, and, in general, how streamlined the body is. Based on the clarified result, the manufacturers improved the car.
Design specifics
What is a Chevrolet Camaro body? The first generation is distinguished by a single supporting structure (consists of a central and rear part), to which a subframe was attached. The model also has a very powerful bottom. And in order to make the hood, roof and doors stronger, the manufacturers developed an external panel and the frame itself for them. Another model was endowed with special channels that guided the air coming from the windshield to the thresholds. Thanks to this, they were not only blown, but also drained. Due to such an interesting feature, it was possible to minimize the likelihood of rusting.
And the last nuance. Specialists covered all body parts with a special composition, which is an excellent corrosion protection. In some places, even galvanized parts were installed. And the body was painted in three layers with special enamel, covering everything on top with acrylic varnish. So it is not surprising why today models, which are more than 45 years old, look so fresh and new.
1967 year
Chevrolet Camaro (first generation), the photo of which is presented below, is very interesting and bright in appearance. The 1967 model attracts attention with its slightly recessed chrome radiator grille in black plastic. Signature emblem flaunts in the middle. Optics also look beautiful - the headlights are round, not large, but not small, with shiny rims. Inside there are sidelights.
At the back, everything also looks elegant - rectangular, sparkling edging lights, and solid bumpers with optional fangs. Glass, by the way, also had a brilliant edging. By the way, most motorists of that time ordered a modification with tinting.
At the top of the threshold there was an aluminum molding, and the front wings sparkled with the inscriptions Camaro and L6 (or V8 - depending on which engine thundered under the hood). And the original highlight are bent side windows.
Interior
Chevrolet Camaro, photo of which is provided above, has a rather interesting interior. The design is really original. Firstly, the interior was trimmed with vinyl in four different shades. It could be gold, red, blue or black. Each seat was equipped with lap belts. A diagonal shoulder mounted by order. If the buyer wanted and could pay extra for this, head restraints were installed in the car. They were not in the front seats.
The driver's seat, by the way, is very ergonomic. This is one of the most striking features of the Chevrolet Camaro. Photos, by the way, clearly demonstrate this. The steering wheel is three-spoke, and on the dashboard there are two large indicators with perfectly readable indicators. On the left side - a speedometer, on the right - a fuel gauge. For an additional fee they set a tachometer. Below is a radio or cassette player. They even put an ashtray under it. The panel was coated with soft material. This was done for safety - to prevent injuries in the event of an accident.
Naturally, the salon is equipped with everything that could only be equipped in the late 60s. Wipers (2 speeds), washers, head light, electric power windows and folding triangular windows - in general, there were a lot of different devices in the cabin.
1968 year
In fact, the Chevrolet Camaro, released in 1968, was not much different from its predecessors. Its main highlight is the lack of window leaves. They were removed, and the side windows became one.
They also used a new ventilation system called Astro Ventilation. Thanks to her, additional air flows into the cabin were supplied through round ventilation holes (located on the front panel, on both sides of it). Experts also transformed the optional console, which was placed between the seats. It was executed under a tree, and additional pointers designed in a different way. Now there were four devices that were arranged in two rows. Now it was possible to read the data regarding current strength, fuel level, coolant temperature and oil. The tachometer was still considered an option.
By the way, side lights still appeared . And the 1968 Chevrolet Camaro model became the one on which the front and rear spoilers were first installed. After that, they gained such popularity.
1969 year
And finally, about cars produced in 1969. After all, they are considered the best. Well, the cars of the late 60s became longer and wider, gained an improved appearance, in which a sporty-aggressive character and a bright radiator grille with a clear break were clearly visible. In general, the car began to look even more original. Sharp vyshtampovki, unusual gills located on the rear wings, lights, consisting of three small panels, trunk lights - in general, the model was well transformed visually. They also increased the volume of the luggage compartment (241 liters). And the car was now painted in 18 colors (1 tone), but it was possible to order in six different 2-color variations. The upholstery was still made from vinyl. And the salon, by the way, has now been executed under a tree.
Engine range
This is a very interesting and important topic regarding the legendary Chevrolet Camaro. Technical characteristics should be noted with special attention, since a lot of everything interesting can be told about them.
So, the line of power units is represented by V-shaped eights and sixes. Their volume varies from 3.6 to 7 liters. True, V6 exist only in two varieties - on 3.6 and 3.9 liters. Power is 140 and 155 horsepower, respectively.
But there are more eights. It’s worth starting with the 5.1-liter versions. There are only two of them - the usual, 210 liters. with., and with the 4-chamber carburetor on 275 "horses". Next is a 5.5-liter unit at 295 liters. from. and a powerful 6.2 liter engine. He could produce 325 and 375 “horses”. These engines were equipped with cars of a special series, which became known as Super Sport —396. And the last engine that closes the range of 8-cylinder units is a 7-liter that produces 425 horsepower. Naturally, they put it only on the top model. She was a Camaro Z-28.
All the configurations listed above could be equipped with both three and four-band mechanics, and a 2-speed automatic. These were the characteristics of the Chevrolet Camaro.
Owner Comments
Naturally, a Chevrolet Camaro car of the late 60s is a rarity nowadays. Especially in Russia. However, in our country there are happy owners of such a unique car. True, those that are are already restored and improved. But this can be understood. The owners themselves claim that they did not get the cars in the best possible way, and in most cases they were bought and brought directly from America. Therefore, I had to invest money in the legendary car and fix the breakdowns.
As a result, all these cars now look fresh, new, expensive and rich. Salon, suspension, engine, music, body - all this is a true admiration and eye-catching. People who own these cars say that it does not cost cheap - because if there is any breakdown, then the part will be difficult to find. And it will cost a lot. However, the Chevrolet Camaro car is of high quality, solidly assembled, so there will be no need for repairs if you operate the machine properly. And people who have invested money, energy, soul and time in such a model will obviously not ride it in a different way.
Now and in Russia you can find ads on the sale of the legendary car. The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro model will cost about five million rubles at least (in good condition). The price is rather big, and many will prefer to buy a new German sports car. However, true connoisseurs (and there are such) will not spare this money.