From Forgotten to Phenomenal: The Story of a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 in Rallye Green, Restored to Perfection

Despite its delayed entry to the pony car market, the Chevrolet Camaro became a true muscle car icon after its introduction in 1966, following the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda.

Chevrolet's launch of the Camaro in 1966 was worth the wait as it hit the market with a bang, offering three performance and appearance packages alongside a range of V8 engines. The SS package with its handling upgrades and 375-horsepower 396-cubic-inch V8 was a standout, but it was the Z/28 that stole the show.

Developed by Vince Piggins, the Z/28 was designed to not only compete in the SCCA Trans-Am series but also take on the Shelby GT350 in showrooms, making it an iconic track-ready muscle car.

In '67, Chevrolet unveiled the Z/28 - a track-ready hot rod designed for Trans-Am racing. Boasting a high-performance, 290-horsepower V8 engine and nimble suspension, it quickly became a coveted addition to the Camaro lineup.

With only 602 produced in its debut year, it's no wonder this rare gem is highly sought-after. Fast forward to 1968, and the Z/28 was a more common sight on the road, with 7,199 models rolling off the production line.

Today, the first-gen Z/28 is still revered by car enthusiasts, especially the ultra-rare '67 version. Although the Z/28 is no longer in production, this '68 model showcases what a skillful restoration can do to revive a classic muscle car.

This stunning 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 in Rallye Green is a true masterpiece from every angle. The color is somewhat rare for the year, making it an even more unique find. And it's not just the paint that looks like it just rolled out of the factory.

The white stripes and the matching vinyl top are in immaculate condition as well. I'm convinced that green Camaros with white tops are the perfect combination, no matter what package they come with. It's the kind of color combination that instantly catches your eye and makes you want to take a closer look.

The interior of this Z/28 is also a bit special compared to most first-gen Camaros. While the majority of these cars were fitted with mundane-looking black upholstery, this particular Z/28 was ordered with Houndstooth seat inserts.

Unfortunately, there are no records as to how many were equipped like this from the factory, but I'm guessing not a lot of customers went with this option. Perhaps fewer than 500 of the almost 7,200 cars made in 1969?

Regardless of the exact number, the Houndstooth inserts add a touch of sophistication to the already classic interior. But it's not just the exterior and interior that make this Camaro special. Under the hood lies a powerful 302 V8 engine with an aluminum intake manifold and a four-barrel Holley carburetor.

Although rated at 290 horsepower, it's not as powerful as the range-topping SS, but the track-bred suspension and the close-ratio four-speed manual make it a nimble, hot-looking production model that's perfect for racing.

The 302 V8 also sounds absolutely fantastic, but unfortunately, our host doesn't fire it up in the video. All in all, this Camaro Z/28 is a perfect restoration and truly represents what all barn finds hope to become when they get saved.

With its stunning Rallye Green color, pristine white stripes and matching vinyl top, and unique Houndstooth interior, it's no wonder why this car is such a valuable classic. If you're a true muscle car enthusiast, this Z/28 should be at the top of your list of must-see cars.