1968 Camaro For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you looking to buy a 1968 Camaro? The '68 Camaro is an iconic American muscle car, celebrated for its sleek design, powerful engines, and rich history. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know, from where to find a 1968 Camaro for sale to what to look for when inspecting a potential purchase. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time classic car buyer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and drive away happy.
Why the 1968 Camaro Remains a Coveted Classic
The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro holds a special place in automotive history. It's the second year of the first-generation Camaro, and it introduced several key design and performance enhancements. The '68 model year brought a new front-end design, including a revised grille, headlights, and front bumper. More importantly, it established the Camaro's reputation for performance with a range of powerful engine options, including the legendary 396 cubic-inch big-block. — Brunswick, GA Weather Radar: Track Storms Live
The Allure of the '68 Camaro
- Classic Design: The '68 Camaro’s design is timeless, embodying the muscle car era’s bold styling. Its long hood, short deck, and aggressive stance continue to turn heads.
- Performance Heritage: The '68 Camaro offered various high-performance engine options, making it a favorite among drag racers and street enthusiasts alike.
- Investment Potential: Well-maintained '68 Camaros have appreciated over time, making them a solid investment for collectors.
Where to Find a 1968 Camaro for Sale
Finding a 1968 Camaro for sale requires a multi-faceted approach. Several avenues can lead you to your dream car, from online marketplaces to classic car dealerships and local auctions. — Delisted Xbox 360 Games: What You Need To Know
Online Marketplaces
- eBay Motors: A vast platform with a wide selection of Camaros, often including detailed descriptions and multiple photos. Ensure you review seller ratings and vehicle history reports.
- Classic Cars.com: A dedicated platform for classic cars, featuring listings from dealerships and private sellers. It provides advanced search filters to narrow your choices.
- Hemmings: Offers a curated selection of classic cars, including many '68 Camaros. Hemmings often provides detailed listings with historical information.
Classic Car Dealerships
- Specialized Dealerships: Dealerships specializing in classic muscle cars often have a selection of '68 Camaros. These dealers typically inspect and restore vehicles, offering added assurance.
- Local Dealerships: Visiting local classic car dealerships can reveal hidden gems and provide an opportunity to inspect vehicles in person.
Auctions and Events
- Barrett-Jackson: A famous auction where high-quality classic cars are sold, often including highly desirable '68 Camaros.
- RM Sotheby's: A premier auction house known for selling rare and valuable classic cars.
- Local Auctions: Attending local auctions can reveal potential buys, often with competitive bidding.
What to Look for When Inspecting a 1968 Camaro
Inspecting a potential '68 Camaro purchase is crucial. Look for rust, mechanical issues, and ensure the vehicle's authenticity and documentation.
Exterior Inspection
- Body Condition: Inspect for rust, especially in the quarter panels, rocker panels, and around the windows. Check for any signs of previous bodywork or repairs.
- Paint Quality: Assess the paint for its condition, checking for fading, scratches, or imperfections. Original paint is highly valued by collectors.
- Trim and Chrome: Ensure all trim and chrome pieces are present and in good condition. Replacements can be costly.
Interior Inspection
- Upholstery and Trim: Inspect the seats, door panels, and headliner for their condition. Tears, cracks, and wear can indicate the level of care the car received.
- Dashboard and Gauges: Ensure all gauges work correctly and the dashboard is in good condition. Replacement parts can be difficult to find.
- Originality: Look for original components, such as the steering wheel, radio, and shifter. These add value and authenticity.
Mechanical Inspection
- Engine: Check for oil leaks, unusual noises, and smoke from the exhaust. Verify the engine’s numbers match the vehicle's documentation.
- Transmission: Test the transmission by driving the car. Pay attention to shifting smoothness and any slipping.
- Suspension and Brakes: Inspect the suspension components for wear and tear. Test the brakes for effectiveness and any unusual noises.
Engine Options and Performance of the 1968 Camaro
The 1968 Camaro offered a range of engine options. The most desirable engines are the big-block 396 cubic-inch V8, which provides incredible power, and small-block V8s. Engine options significantly affect the car's value and performance characteristics. — Vinyl Record Sleeve Dimensions: A Complete Guide
Popular Engine Choices
- 396 V8: Known for its high horsepower and torque, the 396 V8 is a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.
- 327 V8: A smaller displacement V8 known for its reliability and good performance.
- 250 Inline-Six: The base engine, suitable for those looking for a more economical option.
Performance Figures
- 0-60 mph: Times can vary depending on the engine, with the 396 V8 capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 6 seconds.
- Quarter-Mile Time: The 396 V8 typically runs the quarter-mile in the mid-14-second range.
- Horsepower: The 396 V8 could produce up to 375 horsepower, making it a very powerful car for its time.
Understanding the Value of a 1968 Camaro
Determining the value of a '68 Camaro involves several factors, including the car's condition, engine, originality, and documentation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of factors that impact value.
Factors Affecting Value
- Condition: The overall condition is the most significant factor. Cars in excellent, original condition command the highest prices.
- Engine: Big-block engines, especially the 396, are highly valued. The smaller V8s and inline-sixes generally have lower values.
- Originality: Original, unrestored cars are often more valuable to collectors. Original components and matching numbers add value.
- Documentation: Complete documentation, including the original build sheet, service records, and ownership history, can significantly increase a car's value.
Market Trends
- Market Fluctuations: Classic car values can fluctuate with market trends. Research current market prices before making a purchase.
- Online Resources: Use online valuation tools from sources like Hagerty and NADA to estimate the value of a specific Camaro.
- Professional Appraisals: Consider obtaining a professional appraisal to get an accurate assessment of the car's value.
Maintaining Your 1968 Camaro
Owning a classic car like a '68 Camaro involves ongoing maintenance and care. Proper maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and retains its value.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
- Oil Changes: Perform oil changes regularly, using the correct type of oil for your engine.
- Cooling System: Maintain the cooling system by flushing it periodically and checking coolant levels.
- Brakes: Inspect and maintain the brakes, replacing pads and rotors as needed.
- Tires: Ensure your tires are in good condition and have the correct pressure.
Restoration and Parts
- Restoration: Consider a professional restoration if your Camaro needs significant work. Research reputable restoration shops.
- Parts Sourcing: Source parts from reputable suppliers specializing in classic car parts.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of all maintenance and repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a 1968 Camaro
- Q: What is the average price of a 1968 Camaro? A: The price varies widely depending on condition, engine, and originality. Expect to pay anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000+.
- Q: What is the most desirable engine for a '68 Camaro? A: The 396 cubic-inch big-block V8 is the most desirable engine due to its power and prestige.
- Q: Where can I find a reliable 1968 Camaro for sale? A: Online marketplaces like eBay Motors, ClassicCars.com, and Hemmings are good starting points, as well as classic car dealerships and auctions.
- Q: How important is documentation when buying a classic car? A: Documentation, such as the original build sheet and service records, is very important as it can significantly increase the car's value and verify its authenticity.
- Q: How can I tell if a '68 Camaro has been restored or is original? A: Inspect the car's components, look for original parts, and consult with a classic car expert to help determine its originality.
- Q: What are the common rust areas on a '68 Camaro? A: Common rust areas include the quarter panels, rocker panels, and around the windows.
- Q: Is it a good investment to buy a 1968 Camaro? A: Yes, well-maintained '68 Camaros have historically appreciated in value, making them a solid investment.
Conclusion
Buying a 1968 Camaro is an exciting endeavor. By following the tips in this guide, you can confidently navigate the buying process and find a classic car you'll cherish for years. Remember to inspect potential purchases carefully, research market values, and consider your budget. Enjoy the ride and the thrill of owning a piece of automotive history. Start your search today and get ready to experience the legendary power and design of the '68 Camaro.