June 1, 2018
Posted By : Barrett-Jackson
Written By : independent automotive journalist Roger C

BACK-TO-BACK LEGENDS: Ponies of a Different Color

BACK-TO-BACK LEGENDS: Ponies of a Different Color

June 1, 2018
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

These two fine examples of 1969 Camaro Z/28s (Lot #679 and Lot #679.1) will be among the stars on the stage at the 2018 Barrett-Jackson Northeast Auction.

These two fine examples of 1969 Camaro Z/28s (Lot #679 and Lot #679.1) will be among the stars on the stage at the 2018 Barrett-Jackson Northeast Auction.

It can be easily argued that 1969 was the pinnacle year of the classic muscle car era. Flaunting the ultimate pony-car design and powered by any hot-rodder’s dream engine of the era – Chevy’s high-winding solid-lifter 302 – the Z/28 Camaro turned the big-block wars upside-down. This near radical small block could not only run with the big boys, but often times eat their lunch like the Tasmanian Devil at high noon. These two 1969 Camaro Z/28s offered at No Reserve at the upcoming Northeast Auction are great examples of what it takes to be a true legend in one of the most competitive markets in the world.

1969 Chevy Chevelle SS Spotlight Red -P59Big Blue

This LeMans Blue model (Lot #679) with white stripes cuts a serious street image from any angle, although a Z/28 with 3.73 rear-end gears, posi-traction and a Muncie 4-speed means the view most people will get is a rear three-quarter shot as it motors by them. Speaking of motoring, this one does it with a completely rebuilt engine still utilizing its original matching-numbers DZ302 block and heads. This powerhouse toots its own horn through a factory-correct chambered exhaust system offered in the earlier model Z/28s.

Lot 679 - 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28_engineThis machine is also equipped with power steering, tinted glass, center console, Z/28-specific instrumentation, AM radio and the Z21 trim package. Power disc brakes up front with drums out back rein this machine in when required. Front and rear spoilers put the finishing touches on this battle-ready street warrior.

A significant paper trail, including that elusive Broadcast Sheet, on this Camaro indicates it was built on April 24, 1969, and shipped to Dave Varner Chevrolet in San Francisco, where it spent most of its life. This highly collectible machine was treated to a professional restoration that has taken it to better than new condition, which means it’s ready to live its life all over again just for you. This beautiful blue example retains all of its original sheet metal, which is glass-smooth and displays perfect gaps all around. The car’s paint stays true to the original hue from the factory; same for the black deluxe interior. As you would expect from a professionally restored car, the undercarriage is as pristine as the top side. But this pony car is perfect everywhere you look.

1969 Chevy Chevelle SS Spotlight Red -P59Not So Mellow Yellow

This Rally Sport-optioned Z/28 (Lot #679.1) has been bestowed with more badges of honor than a world-class Eagle Scout. And close inspection by the most discriminating buyer will confirm each of them is richly deserved. A fully documented history of this matching-numbers car accounts for all six previous owners and every minute of this Z/28’s exceptional life. This machine was initially shipped to Shelton Harris Chevrolet in Ashland, Tennessee, and originally purchased by local customer and Z/28 enthusiast Henry Pardue.

Lot 679.1 - 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS_interiorPardue ordered this car with soft-ray tinted windows, a black vinyl roof, center console and the Rally Sport appearance package, which included hidden headlights, revised taillights with the backup lights mounted under the rear bumper, along with the RS badging and exterior brightwork. The classic and original solid-lifter 302 is coupled to a Muncie 4-speed and a 12-bolt rear end sporting a 4.10 gear set. The combination brings this car to life the very instant you lean of the gas pedal. Don’t forget, the 290-horsepower factory rating on this engine was an understatement designed to fool insurance companies and other federal overseers. It would seem “350” is more realistic. That means the Z/28s have even more fun to offer.

Lot 679.1 - 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS_engineThis Camaro Z/28 RS car has been treated to an extensive restoration, and the result is a magnificent example of American muscle car heritage. This bold and striking Daytona Yellow Camaro can be seen from miles away. It’s no wonder Chevrolet used essentially the same paint scheme on their sneak preview introduction of their new retro-styled Camaro in the movie “Transformers.”

Both of these Z/28s reside in the upper stratosphere of collectibility, as each has received the coveted Legend Award, one of the highest honors in the world of classic Camaros. These prized pony-cars are from the MS Classic Car Collection and have been certified by Camaro guru Jerry MacNeish. So, to exceed your own expectations, drive one or both of these 1969 Z/28s home. Each will take you back in time faster than any DeLorean ever made.

For up-to-date information on these and other vehicles on the docket for the 2018 Northeast Auction, click HERE.

Heritage Partners