The 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28 holds a legendary status in the world of American muscle cars. Designed to compete in the SCCA Trans Am road racing series, this powerful and agile vehicle was Chevrolet’s response to the dominance of the Ford Mustang. With its unique features, performance enhancements, and captivating design, the 1967 Camaro RS Z28 has become an icon of automotive excellence. In this article, we will explore the birth of Trans Am racing, Chevrolet’s entry into the series, and the remarkable qualities that make the 1967 Camaro RS Z28 a true muscle car legend.
The Birth of Trans Am Racing
Before we dive into the details of the Camaro RS Z28, let’s understand the significance of Trans Am racing. The SCCA Trans Am series was a hotly contested competition that showcased the performance capabilities of American manufacturers. To participate in the series, manufacturers were required to sell consumer-level versions of the cars they wanted to race.
Chevrolet was technically out of racing at the time, but the company’s promotions manager, Vince Piggins, worked closely with the SCCA to ensure the Camaro had a place in Trans Am racing. The rulebook stated that 1,000 street-legal versions of a car needed to be sold to remain eligible for racing. Chevrolet cleverly utilized a loophole to qualify the 1967 SS 350 Camaros in Group 1 and the Z28 in Group 2.
The Unique 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28
The 1967 Camaro RS Z28 was a blend of power, performance, and style. Let’s explore the unique features that set this muscle car apart from the rest.
RPO Code Z28
The RPO Code Z28 added performance goodies throughout the car to improve handling, braking, and speed. However, what makes the Z28 truly unique is its dual personality. It combined performance enhancements with a reduction in luxury features to save weight.
Performance Enhancements
Under the hood of the Z28 was the renowned SolidCAM 302, one of Chevrolet’s most famous V8 engines. To adhere to the Trans Am limit of 305 cubic inches, Chevrolet ingeniously combined a 327-cubic-inch block with the 283’s 3-inch stroke. With the addition of 11:1 compression Pistons and a high-lift cam, the Z28’s engine boasted a rated 290 horsepower. Yet, automotive enthusiasts widely agree that this power-packed engine was capable of delivering even more impressive performance.
The SolidCAM 302’s unique design and engineering made it a standout feature of the 1967 Camaro RS Z28. Its high-revving nature and impressive power-to-weight ratio made it the ideal choice for Trans Am racing. This V8 powerhouse allowed the Z28 to reach exhilarating speeds and demonstrate exceptional acceleration, solidifying its position as a formidable competitor on the racetrack.
Chevrolet’s innovative approach to engine design, combining components from different models, showcases their commitment to creating a truly exceptional performance vehicle. By utilizing the 327-cubic-inch block and combining it with the 283’s 3-inch stroke, they not only met the strict regulations of the Trans Am series but also achieved a harmonious balance between power and efficiency. The result was an engine that perfectly complemented the Z28’s lightweight body and performance enhancements.
While the Z28’s engine was officially rated at 290 horsepower, its true capabilities were far greater. The high-flow intake and heads, combined with the eight hundred CFM Holley carburetor, contributed to its extraordinary power output. With its ability to spin up to 7,000 RPM, the SolidCAM 302 provided an exhilarating driving experience, propelling the Camaro RS Z28 to new heights of performance and cementing its status as a true muscle car icon.
Muncie 4-Speed Transmission and 12-Volt Rear Axle
The performance prowess of the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28 extended beyond its powerful engine. All Z28 models were outfitted with a Muncie 4-speed transmission, known for its robustness and precise gear shifts. This transmission, combined with the 12-volt rear axle, ensured that power was efficiently transferred to the wheels, delivering optimal strength and traction in every gear.
To maximize the Z28’s performance capabilities, this particular model boasts 3.73:1 gears in the rear axle. This gear ratio perfectly complements the engine’s power band, allowing the Z28 to unleash its full potential on the road. With the ability to rev up to an impressive 7,000 RPM, the Z28 delivered exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience that left a lasting impression on its fortunate drivers.
Suspension and Brake Upgrades
To handle the demands of high-performance driving, the Z28 received stiffer springs, shocks, and a traction bar system to reduce rear wheel hop. Additionally, it was the only Camaro model to roll on 15-inch wheels, contributing to its exceptional handling capabilities.
Enhancing the aesthetics of the Z28 is the Rally Sport (RS) package. This package included hideaway headlights, distinctive taillights with reverse lenses below the rear bumper, and bright-trimmed wheel openings and rocker moldings. This particular Z28 also features front and rear bumper guards, a black pinstripe, and a vinyl top.
The Design and Features of the 1967 Camaro Z28
The design and features of the 1967 Camaro Z28 further add to its appeal and desirability.
The Camaro Z28’s sleek lines and aggressive stance exude a sense of power and speed. Although there were no exterior badges indicating its Z28 status, the dual hood and deck stripes were a dead giveaway that you were dealing with something special.
The Rally Sport (RS) package gave the Z28 an extra touch of style. With its hideaway headlights and distinctive taillights, the RS option added a unique visual appeal to an already stunning muscle car.
Step inside the 1967 Camaro Z28, and you’ll be greeted by a deluxe blue interior. The center console houses additional gauges, and the car is equipped with a tilt steering wheel, providing the driver with a firm grip during spirited drives.
A Stylish and Functional Interior
Step inside the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28, and you’ll be greeted by a stylish and functional interior that reflects the car’s performance-oriented nature. The interior design seamlessly blends comfort and practicality, creating an environment that enhances the driving experience. From the driver-focused cockpit to the well-appointed seating, every detail has been carefully crafted to provide both comfort and convenience.
The cockpit of the 1967 Camaro RS Z28 puts the driver at the center of the action. The strategically placed controls and gauges ensure that all essential information is easily accessible, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road ahead. The ergonomic layout of the cockpit puts everything within arm’s reach, providing a sense of control and confidence to the driver. With its sporty steering wheel, precise shifter, and well-positioned pedals, the Z28 offers a true driver-centric experience.
Despite its focus on performance, the 1967 Camaro RS Z28 doesn’t compromise on comfort. The seats are designed to provide ample support during spirited driving while maintaining a high level of comfort for long journeys. The plush upholstery and thoughtful cushioning ensure that occupants can enjoy the ride without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re tackling twisty roads or cruising down the highway, the well-contoured seats of the Z28 offer a comfortable and supportive seating position.
In addition to its stylish design, the interior of the 1967 Camaro RS Z28 showcases a meticulous attention to detail. From the high-quality materials to the precisely crafted finishes, every aspect of the interior exudes quality and refinement. The use of premium accents, such as brushed aluminum or wood trim, adds a touch of elegance to the cabin. Even the smallest details, like the stitching on the seats or the placement of the controls, demonstrate the dedication to craftsmanship that went into creating this iconic muscle car.
Conclusion
The 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28 represents a pivotal moment in Chevrolet’s racing legacy and its battle against the Ford Mustang in the SCCA Trans Am series. With its blend of power, performance enhancements, and distinctive design, the Z28 remains an enduring symbol of American muscle cars.
