Introduced as Chevrolet’s answer to the Ford Mustang, the first-year Z28 Camaros are the rarest of the breed with only 602 ever produced. The father of the Z28 is arguably Vincent Piggins, formerly an engineer in Packard’s engine department before going to work for Hudson. He was notable as a holdout from that earlier breed of automotive engineers who had no formal training. Piggins is credited with engaging with the SCCA officials in a number of conversations regarding the details of the impending Trans-Am sedan racing class, which led to the creation of the model. The Camaro was also seized upon and made famous by Penske Racing and driver Mark Donohue, who campaigned the Camaro through 1969.

The Z28 Special Performance Package included the 302-cubic inch V-8 engine, closed positive ventilation, dual exhaust with deep tone mufflers, special front and rear suspension, heavy-duty radiator and temperature-controlled fan, quick ratio steering, 15x6 wheels, red stripe tires, 3.73:1 rear axle and special paint stripes on the hood and rear deck.

This car was auctioned off by RM Auctions in January of 2012 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Phoenix, Arizona.

290 bhp, 302 cu. in. V-8, Muncie M21 four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension and rear Mono Plate single-leaf springs, front disc, rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 108"

Source: RM Auctions
Photo Credit: Copyright Darin Schnabel