The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Pro Touring Project: A High-End Dream in Progress

The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is a cultural and automotive icon, representing a golden era in American muscle car history. With its aggressive styling and performance-driven engineering, the Camaro has been cherished by enthusiasts and collectors alike. This particular 1968 Camaro takes the concept of a classic muscle car to new heights, blending timeless design with modern performance and pro-touring enhancements.

Historical Overview of the 1968 Chevrolet Camaro

The second year of the Camaro's production, 1968, introduced subtle refinements to Chevrolet's pony car. With its updated Astro Ventilation system, side marker lights, and sleeker front grille, the Camaro gained both form and function. Available in various trims, including the base model, RS, SS, and the formidable Z/28, the 1968 Camaro cemented its place in muscle car lore. Enthusiasts cherished its wide array of powertrain options, which ranged from economical straight-six engines to monstrous big blocks capable of decimating quarter-mile tracks.

The Pro Touring Build

This particular Camaro has undergone an ambitious pro-touring transformation, positioning it as a high-performance machine with the modern features enthusiasts crave.

• Engine and Drivetrain: At the heart of this beast lies a GM Performance ZZ430 crate engine, a rare and powerful V8 known for its 430 horsepower output and high-revving capabilities. The engine breathes through ceramic-coated Hooker headers, though a complete exhaust system remains an opportunity for the next owner to personalize. A Tremec 5-speed manual transmission with a hydraulic clutch enhances drivability and delivers precise shifts.

• Chassis and Suspension: The Camaro rides on a thoughtfully upgraded suspension system, including QA1 adjustable coilovers at the front and rear, CPP tubular control arms, and subframe connectors for added rigidity. Steering duties are handled by a Flaming River manual rack and pinion system, ensuring tight handling.

• Braking and Wheels: Stopping power comes from Wilwood 4-wheel power disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors. The car is fitted with stylish 18-inch Foose wheels, wrapped in performance Hankook tires, measuring 235/40 up front and 285/35 at the rear.

Exterior and Body

This Camaro’s Black Metallic paint boasts a show-quality finish, with meticulous attention to body alignment and detail. Complementing its bold exterior are painted bumpers, newer trim, and a cowl induction hood. While the bodywork is largely complete, glass components and associated hardware await installation, leaving room for customization.

Interior

The interior is a blank canvas, featuring Sparco bucket seats for a racing-inspired look. It lacks carpeting, door panels, gauges, and other standard components, offering the next builder the chance to design a cabin that matches their vision, whether it be a modern minimalist interior or a retro homage to the late '60s.

Additional Features

• Cooling System: A Be Cool aluminum radiator with an electric fan ensures the ZZ430 engine runs at optimal temperatures.

• Rear Differential: A Moser Engineering 12-bolt rear end with 3.73 gears guarantees robust power delivery to the rear wheels.

• Electrical: The car comes equipped with a Painless wiring harness and LED taillight conversion, though additional wiring work is necessary.

• Extras: A selection of miscellaneous parts accompanies the vehicle, allowing the next owner to complete this pro-touring build.

Conclusion

This 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is a remarkable project car for enthusiasts seeking a high-end pro-touring masterpiece. With its stunning paintwork, powerful drivetrain, and upgraded suspension, it represents a fusion of vintage muscle and contemporary performance. While it requires finishing touches, the groundwork has been expertly laid for a show-stopping build.

At PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, vehicles like this 1968 Camaro exemplify their commitment to preserving and enhancing classic cars. Their passion ensures that every vehicle, from turn-key classics to ambitious projects, finds the right enthusiast to continue its legacy.