Camaro buyers became more interested in high-performance models in the last years of the first generation, with sales of RS, SS, and Z28 versions increasing significantly.
Chevrolet produced only 150,000 base Camaros, with the RS output getting close to 37,800 units. The SS was next with 34,932 units, while the Z28 production went through the roof, increasing from 7,200 units to 20,302 units.
Chevrolet tried to equip the Camaro with engine options targeting a varied audience, but 1969 brought a massive debut. The 427 on the COPO Camaro was fantastic, producing 425 horsepower in the L72 version and 430 horsepower on the ZL1.
The Camaro RS in these photos rolled off the assembly lines with a 350 V8 under the hood. The 350 was available on the 1969 Camaro in two versions called L65 and L48, developing 250 and 300 horsepower, respectively.
However, the 350 V8 on this Camaro is just a long memory, as the V8 is no longer under the hood. It’s the bad news that could make many people walk away, especially if they plan to restore the vehicle to factory specifications. eBay seller mikeb6265 says the car has been sitting for “way too long,” so the engine likely left the Camaro to put the wheel in motion on another Chevy.
It’s unclear if other parts are missing, but the interior is complete, though it also requires a complete overhaul. Everything on this Camaro RS requires a refresh, but the project still seems to check most boxes for a restoration candidate. Despite the obvious issues, the metal looks good, though you’ll spend most of the restoration work fixing the body.
The Hugger Orange paint is the original finish sprayed by Chevrolet, but a complete restoration will require a new coat of paint.
The project won’t be easy, and while many people would be tempted to walk away without an original engine, the original 350 missing allows the next buyer to install a hefty upgrade and turn the RS into a, well, more powerful RS. The 427 would undoubtedly be a great pick, but finding a correct mission isn’t only difficult but also a costly process.
The bidding for this Camaro RS is underway, and unsurprisingly, the vehicle has already received a lot of attention on eBay. The owner listed the car without a reserve, meaning whoever sends the highest bid will take it home. The top offer at the time of writing is $8,000, but considering the auction will end in five days, I expect more bids to be submitted in the meantime.
You still have enough time to inspect the car in person, and you can find it in Marseilles, Illinois. You’ll need a trailer to take it home, considering the missing engine.