Auction Car of the Week: 1971 Chevrolet Camaro

In January 2024, the final Chevrolet Camaro will roll off the production line. While the end of the Camaro is suspected to be merely a hiatus, it does mean that Chevrolet’s legendary muscle car will no longer be available to buy new.

Sold for 11 years between 1970 and 1981, the second-generation Camaro had the longest production run of any of the six models so far. Made in 1971 in Motor City, Detroit, this car crossed the pond to Britain in 1976, where it has resided ever since.

The 1970s Camaro looks distinctly different to the angular car that followed it. Its small, round headlights frame a large front grille, behind which lies a long, aggressively profiled bonnet. From the side and the rear, the car’s bulbous wheelarches and jutting spoiler are accentuated by its flame red colour. Deep-dished Weld Racing steel wheels add more retro charm, while chrome accents gleam against the striking paint.

Ain’t no substitute

The Camaro has previously been subject to a restoration, so is offered for sale in good and mostly original condition. There is no bodywork damage, and the interior features only minor wear, with four excellent black leather seats.

Power comes from a 350 cubic-inch (5.7-litre) V8 that sits within a beautifully presented engine bay. Custom features include side-exit exhausts with remote control cutouts, Air Lift rear suspension and a racing chrome engine sump kit.

The car has covered less than 100,000 miles in its 52 years and has been used sparingly since 2010, with only 5,000 miles added to the total since then.

An American dream

Due to its limited use, the classic Chevrolet may require some recommissioning before it can take to the streets again.

A concours-ready second-generation Camaro Z28 previously sold for £44,000 on Car & Classic, although third- and fourth-generation cars can be found for less than £10,000.

Car & Classic’s auction for this 1971 Chevrolet Camaro, in association with Retro Motor, is now live and runs until 21 November 2023. When the bidding comes to a stop, this wedge of American muscle is expected to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000.

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