The 1968 Camaro was very similar in its entirety to the ’67. Only a few changes took place between the year models. The differences were:
· The side vent windows of the 1967 were replaced with one-piece side windows with ‘Astro’ Ventilation system.
· Side marker lamps were added due to new laws by the United States government.
· The headlights and rear lights were changed.
· Could request a front and/or rear spoiler from manufacturer.
· Parking lights were changed to a rectangular shape.
The next year the vehicle would be quite different. With several exterior changes and engine modifications, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro left a lasting impression on the nation. One can see this lasting impression by looking at the new 2010 Camaro’s design as it is inspired by the ’69 Camaro.
The 1969 Camaro modified to create intimidation in its competitors. The vehicle had an aggressive look because of:
· Recessed grille
· New cowl induction hood which would allow cool air from the outside to enter the engine.
· Horizontal crease in the fenders and quarter panels which allowed an illusion that the car was moving when it was actually in place.
· The headlight covers were colored with the same paint as the body rather than a different color like the ’68 model.
CAMARO Magazine said, “For the most part, 1969 was considered the peak of styling and performance for the Camaro, and 243,845 cars went to new owners during the 1969 model year.”
1969 was the first year that anyone could purchase the 427-cubic-inch V8 engine in the Camaro with the L72 cast iron engine or the ZL1 aluminum engine.
The first generation of the Chevrolet Camaro had better results than Chevy could have ever imagined. It hit the tops of the charts in style, comfort and performance. The Camaro small-block and big-block engines produced more power than both Ford and Chrysler in its time period.
As Chevrolet looked back at the first three years of Camaro production, it was very happy with its results. Although the vehicle didn’t sell as well as the Ford Mustang it held its spot in the pony-car market. There were 243,845 ’69 model Camaros sold during that year. Camaro fans wondered what could possibly come out of the vehicle in the future and to their surprise the Camaro went through a total change in exterior and interior design.