It flashes along the Hollywood straights and bends and eats them up. It devours them as if they were just tiny bread crumbs, leaving a trace of smoke in the air and rubber on the asphalt. Meet the restomodded 1968 Chevy Camaro SS. But stand back! It needs some space to show off in front of all the EVs and V6 models coming along to replace the V8-powered muscle cars.
This Chevy comes from an era when America had good music, good cars, and people who appreciated both. A poster car for generations since it first hit the market in 1966, the Camaro, as we know it, has come to an abrupt end. General Motors ended the model's production in December 2023, with no successor in sight.
However, GM's president, Mark Reuss, hopes to see the Camaro nameplate making a comeback. Rumors that have never been confirmed by the auto giant hint at either an SUV or an EV. An electric SUV and a crossover to rival Ford's Mustang Mach-E are also on the list that upsets enthusiasts.
No matter what the future holds, the Mustang remains the only muscle car powered by a V8 engine. The Dodge Challenger was also sent off through the back door, while the Charger now comes as the electric Daytona, with its fake Fratzonic Chamber exhaust sound that infuriated fans, and the V6 Hurricane-powered ICE, offered to sweeten the vexation and frustration of those who long for a V8.
Bone-stock GM LT4 engine and 650 horsepower keep the 1968 Chevy Camaro reliable
But here is one Camaro they can find consolation in. A restomod expert out of Washington is to blame for all this. He built this as his dream car, without compromising comfort and reliability. He is the one who threw the 1968 Chevy Camaro SS into a whole new dimension, planting 650 horsepower under the hood. So, sit back and enjoy the ride, but fasten that seat belt first.
Photo: Autotopia LA | YouTube
The horsepower is pumped out by a GM bone-stock, supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 crate engine, the same that powers the 2017 Chevy Camaro ZL1 and the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. The V8 sold by GM Performance used to cost $17,918. GM is not building anymore because… it is out with the V8 and in with the EVs and V6s.
A Magnum six-speed manual transmission puts the power down through the rear wheels. So, if you see this car going sideways, power-sliding like no tomorrow, and leaving black traces on the asphalt, try not to look surprised. So much power steered to the rear axle and the 12-bolt posi rear end have that effect.
The car is built around a custom chassis with an Art Morisson subframe and C7 Corvette cast aluminum suspension arms. It's got CPP power brakes with big six-piston Wilwood brakes at the front and four-piston units at the rear, with the latter credited for the comfort onboard the car and great handling. Because when you've got 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels, you are going to need both.
The paintwork defies all the bad reputation of the Camaros of the era. It is black with white stripes and looks impeccable. It is equipped with Detroit Speed electronic hideaway headlights and LED taillights.
Photo: Autotopia LA | YouTube
The 1968 Camaro rides on two-piece forged chrome wheels, measuring 18 inches at the front and 19 inches at the back, wrapped in Continental tires.
The retro vibes keep their ground on board the 1968 Chevy Camaro SS
The dual Flowmaster exhaust stretches all the way to the back over the four-link rear axle. Except for that, the taillights, and the custom gas gasket, everything else is stock back there. Altering its classic look was never part of the plan.
A TMI interior with fabric backrests and seating area, as well as the leather bolsters with contrasting red stitching, bring strong retro vibes. The dashboard with retro-styled Dakota digital gauges and the three-spoke steering wheel sport the exact same classic theme. The backseats were narrowed to fit the new custom chassis.
Photo: Autotopia LA | YouTube
Out on the road, the 1968 Camaro SS is loud but still allows a conversation without the occupants having to yell at each other. The LT4 delivers just the right power at the right time and seems ready for more, but can play it smooth at cruising speeds.
When Chris of Restomods and Shawn Davis of Autotopia LA switch places, Shawn is pushed back into the passenger seat, cheering and grinning. That is the effect this car has on people. It is specifically for those who had their hearts broken when the muscle car segment fell apart. The 1968 Chevy Camaro restomod is the shape of revenge.
The Restomods team is giving this car away, along with $20,000 in cash. Whoever takes the Camaro home might need the money for gas.
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