In 1969, the first-generation Camaro, which had made its debut in 1967, saw its final year. Extensive changes were made to the 1969 model, as it prepared to make way for a redesigned Camaro in 1970. Perhaps the most striking of these changes was in its styling. Nearly all of the sheet metal underwent a redesign, with only the hood and trunk lid remaining unchanged from the previous year. The front grille received a more pronounced V-angle, and the headlamps were set further back into their slots. Additionally, a new crease just behind the front wheel well added a sportier look to the car.
Under the hood, several new options were introduced, including 4-wheel disc brakes. These enhancements were primarily aimed at boosting the Camaro’s competitiveness in the Trans-Am series. Interestingly, the introduction of the 1970 model was delayed until late February 1970, allowing the 1969 Camaro to enjoy a showroom life of seventeen months. Not surprisingly, this extended availability resulted in record-breaking sales, with over 243,000 Camaros rolling off GM’s production lines.
For those seeking top performance, the highly sought-after Z/28 option could be added for an additional cost of $458.15. This package included the 302ci high-performance V-8 engine, which met the Trans Am’s 5-liter displacement limit. It was officially rated at 290hp, but in real-world testing, it routinely delivered over 350hp, making it a powerhouse choice for enthusiasts.
Source: Bonhams
