Red 1969 Camaro Z28 with white stripes

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Are Classic Camaros a Wise Investment?

September 06, 2023

The Chevrolet Camaro has enthralled drivers since its launch in 1966. Combining a sleek appearance with optimal engine performance, the Camaro is an ideal ride for many. Classic Camaros also remain popular for many factors — they provide a glimpse into the car’s history, iconic aesthetics and high-powered speeds.

Many car enthusiasts want to purchase a classic Camaro but debate whether it’s worthwhile. The initial cost and maintenance requirements might cause buyers to question a classic car purchase. But most classic Camaros increase in value over time, making them a strong investment decision for Camaro lovers.

How Much Is a Classic Camaro Worth?

It’s challenging to give an exact worth amount for classic Camaros because of the variety of different models available. Classic Camaro values differ by qualities like:

Condition

Because of their older age, classic cars are often available in a broad range of conditions. Restoration projects can also alter cars to a variety of states. To make it easier to identify value, appraisers use a categorization scale to classify classic and antique cars. 

The scale follows these general guidelines, ranked from best to worst condition:

  • Excellent: These cars contain no physical or internal flaws. They’re in original condition, either because of attentive maintenance throughout the years or a comprehensive restoration project. Cars in excellent condition usually cost the most.
  • Fine: Fine cars have been fully restored. They might have high-functioning pieces from their original manufacturer. These vehicles have no issues while running and display a high-quality appearance.
  • Very good: A very good car works and is likely fully restored.
  • Good: This rating indicates the classic vehicle needs more restoration work to reach its best value. It might have a few interior or exterior flaws that prevent it from driving at its best.
  • Restorable: These cars are in poor condition but still retain value. They can still turn on and show potential for restoration.
  • Parts cars: Parts cars can’t function properly. Only their parts hold worth because manufacturers can use them to restore other vehicles.

The better condition a vehicle is in, the more worth they have. Thorough restoration projects can shift cars from one ranking to another. For instance, a car with a “good” ranking could reach a “fine” or “excellent” status after restoring the brake system and redesigning the interior.

Mileage

Like any used car, a classic car’s mileage also affects its value. In general, higher mileage indicates decreased worth. The more time cars spend on the road, the more opportunities there are for wear or damage. 

Sometimes, large mileage numbers might not impact extremely rare classic models. Collectors might be fine with higher numbers if only a few units were ever produced. The overall cost depends on the buyer’s priorities and other factors, like the car’s condition.

Year

Your classic Camaro’s production year impacts worth. Older vehicles are often more expensive, especially in original production years. For instance, the initial 1966 model typically sells for more than an early 2000’s model.

Rarity

Market demands and the number of production units also affect a classic Camaro’s value. Some models only had dozens or hundreds of models ever produced, making them harder to find. Rare items are usually higher in demand, causing prices to jump. Many buyers sell classic cars through private sales or auctions, and these events can also create even more competitive pricing. 

Do Classic Camaros Increase in Value?

Do Classic Camaros Increase in Value?

Many studies have shown that classic cars maintain or increase in value over time, and the classic Camaro is no exception. While the classic car market fluctuates, most vehicles display steady growth in value as the years pass. 

Camaros offer optimal performance and a beautiful appearance that appeal to drivers decades after their debut. As the number of original models dwindles, buyers seek these historical pieces to diversify their collections or to drive daily.

Car enthusiasts also get to enjoy the value of possessing and driving a classic vehicle. Classic Camaro prices can fit into many different budgets, making ownership an achievable dream for many buyers.

What Camaros Are Most Collectible?

Many car enthusiasts purchase classic cars to expand their collections. Collectible cars represent a landmark in the vehicle’s history, altering consumer expectations when they debuted. The Chevy Camaro has a wide range of collectible models from its long history.

Here are a few examples of collectible and rare Camaro models:

  • 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Convertible: One of the most collectible Camaros of all time is the 1968 Z28 convertible. Manufacturers only created one version of the 1968 Z28 with a convertible top, making it extremely rare. The model was custom-built for the Chevrolet manager, Pete Estes. It also featured a V8 engine that could generate 400 horsepower, a light-up stereo system and a high-quality performance suspension package.
  • 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: Another highly collectible Camaro is the 1969 ZL1. Only 69 units of this limited-edition model ever left production lines, rendering it one of the rarest and most expensive Camaros. It holds the record as the most expensive Camaro ever sold at an auction after selling for over $1 million at a Barrett-Jackson auction.
  • 1969 Chevrolet Yenko Camaro: 1969 also produced the Yenko Camaro model, another rare and collectible find. These models had V8 engines that could reach 425 horsepower, power disc brakes and other high-performance features. With just 200 units ever created, it remains a one-of-a-kind option. Its current estimated worth is over $275,000.
  • 1970 Chevrolet Camaro SS: The 1970 Camaro SS had a rare engine system — a 396 cubic-inch V8 that could hit 375 horsepower. It also contained luxurious interior features and a new, sculpted exterior shape. This design was discontinued after 600 units were produced, making it another limited Camaro example.

What Year Camaro Is the Most Valuable?

As mentioned, a Camaro’s value ultimately depends on condition and market demand. But some years often sell for higher prices than others. Earlier production years and limited-edition models can cost thousands more than other options. 

For instance, a base model of a 1967 Camaro is worth about $31,000. In contrast, a 1988 base model sells for around $18,000, nearly half of the 1967 version.

Selecting one year as the most valuable is challenging because prices can range drastically within a single year. Minimally produced models sell for much more than standard editions. The 1969 rare ZL1 is worth over $600,000, but a base 1969 version could cost about $25,000.

Are Classic Camaros a Good Investment?

Overall, classic models are an excellent investment option for Camaro enthusiasts. While the vehicle might need more maintenance than a newer version, many buyers consider these additional fees worthwhile. Car lovers get to own a piece of significant automotive history, all while enjoying the optimal Camaro performance and aesthetics.

Restoration projects are also great options for buyers. You can purchase a classic model in a lower-ranked condition for a lower price. Then, you can restore the car to a better condition on your own time. Improving its quality brings the vehicle to a higher overall value.

Maintain Your Investment With Top Flight Automotive

A classic Camaro could be the best investment for your collection. If you need parts to enhance or restore your classic car, shop online with Top Flight Automotive today. We offer a wide selection of Camaro parts that can suit any restoration project. From performance mods to exterior refreshes, we carry the parts you need to maintain your Camaro. 

To get started with Top Flight Automotive, shop online today.

Maintain Your Investment With Top Flight Automotive

16 comments on “Are Classic Camaros a Wise Investment?”

  1. Ron Johnson says:

    November 8th, 2023 at 6:54 pm (#)

    There for the Pontiac firebird or transam should be as equal value, but it’s not and I often wondered why? They take the same body panels and sheet metal.

  2. Mark Powley says:

    December 24th, 2023 at 12:21 pm (#)

    1st generation Camaro cars have value in terms of fun, and investments dependent upon one’s capabilities to be well aware of the various Camaro problem areas and deceptive practices used. The Camaro is my favorite car, my best advice is to buy the car done and not any major project. Get the Camaro and enjoy it for several years then try a different Camaro and options.that you desire.
    It is a nice hobby and the Camaro is fun to drive.

  3. Bruce Weise says:

    December 25th, 2023 at 11:45 am (#)

    I’ve owned about 10 Camaro’s in my time,My current one is a1992 RS in very fine condition.Hopefully the value will continue to rise.

  4. Nina Amaya says:

    January 12th, 2024 at 11:18 pm (#)

    Camaro was the first car I fell in love with in the 4th grade!! I’ve since owned 6. My 1st was a black 1981 Z I bought in 1989 to a blue 2012 RS. Never had any real problems, except minor things such as clutch replacements, starters etc.. I would still love to have my dream 1969 with hidden headlights that I originally fell in love with!!

  5. Heather Thompson says:

    February 1st, 2024 at 8:41 am (#)

    I have a 88 iroc convertible. nobody ever mentioned these cars.

  6. Carl Ball says:

    February 1st, 2024 at 9:25 pm (#)

    I still have my 1969 Camaro. So far for 37 years. As far as value these car,s keep going up . To bad you can’t post pictures on here.

  7. Reenie says:

    February 5th, 2024 at 8:15 am (#)

    Carl, Go to our Facebook page and you can post all of the pictures that you want!! We’d be thrilled to have ’em!

  8. Randy jones says:

    February 13th, 2024 at 10:02 pm (#)

    I own a base car 1969 camaro which I will finish a restoration in 2024 of the car…it’s a expensive hobby owning and restoring a 69 camaro. owners of these cars take it very serious but it is a lot of variables bout the car values..not every 69 is a z28 top value car..there’s only 20k 69 z28 cars ever made in 2 plants..so buyer beware..just not stripes and badges….I enjoy my car and plant to keep it..my line is…I gotta have a 69 camaro..marina blue with a 4speed…rj

  9. Bruno Gagne says:

    April 16th, 2024 at 2:16 pm (#)

    I own a 1974 camaro z28 typeLT. My engine was a 350 but I spown a bearing and replaced the original engine with a 327 v8 from a 1963 corvette engine.
    that move killed my value of my classic?

  10. Troylthompson says:

    April 21st, 2024 at 5:36 pm (#)

    I. have a. 67 ss camaro igot. it. 1980. for. 1500. Hundred dollars. I. still have it and. fix. it. up. I. don’t. know if. I. Will sell. it. it’s. nice

  11. Cam Wilson says:

    April 29th, 2024 at 5:59 pm (#)

    I had a 68 convertable in 1981 when I was 16. 327 2 barrel. Had it 8 years, through college, untill I wrecked it. Told myself I will have another one before I die. Started making real money at age 55, and I bought a 68 RS/SS convertable clone. Love it. Interior completley redone, aftermarket crate 350, very reliable. Has a very nice Tripoli Turquoise paint job. Now, since this is the last year of the Camaro, I bought a real deal 67 RS , with a rare fold down rear seat, Nantucket Blue, deluxe interior, Black convertable top, new interior, and a 350 from a 69 Corvette. I love these cars, and I drive them. Not a car show guy, but I love reliving my youth at age 60. Doing what I can to preserve these cars. I buy cars at around 35K, put another 10K in them, and have a quality, drivable car. Sure, there are 100K Camaros out there, but there is also a lot of stupid drivers to run in to you. My cars are insured at 52K each. A working mans Camaro.

  12. Ron says:

    June 11th, 2024 at 9:49 pm (#)

    i have a 1986 IROC hard top. like Heather mentioned above no one mentioned these. They aren’t the ugly ducklings they were before thanks to RADWOOD.

  13. Eddie McCowan 1st says:

    July 31st, 2024 at 12:42 am (#)

    I had a 1968 Camaro Resto mod it had a VERY well built small block ( ROLLER EVERYTHING) 4speed with a 411 posi trac rear lots of fun to drive would jump all over the place in 1st, 2nd & 3rd gear and then it is time to catch your breath and for the passengers to change there underwear!!!! LOVE THE MEMORIES IN MY GEN 1 CAMARO!!!!!

  14. Mike Marshall says:

    August 27th, 2024 at 7:27 pm (#)

    I fell in love at 12yrs old at a car show at the DC Convention Center, ’68 RS/SS Black on Black on Black. It was sitting with with the passenger side about 3ft off the floor with a mirror under it. I like the McLaren F1 and the Pagani Zonda but nothing compare’s to a ’68 RS/SS!!!

  15. Scott E Lambeth says:

    September 24th, 2024 at 6:50 pm (#)

    I had a 1968 Camaro I bought in 1983 for 2500 dollars I think. It had a 327 engine and a 2 speed powerglide transmission. The engine broke and I had it rebuilt. I also had the interior redone at one point. It was a fun car to drive and I got lots of compliments on it. A lady ran a red light and totaled my car. Interestingly, if I had just left my home five minutes later I would still have my favorite car!

  16. Steve says:

    October 24th, 2024 at 3:36 pm (#)

    I have a 1967 rs camaro 427 big block in butternut yellow that’s. the colour it left the factory in 1967 love the car every body that sees the car always want to chat about it you only here once so just live ya dream

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