Legendary Power: The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

Are you looking for a classic muscle car to add to your collection? The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is an exceptional model sure to make any collector drool. With its power, style, and performance, it’s easy to see why the legendary Chevy sports coupe was such a sought-after vehicle in its heyday. This impressive ride offers amazing features like an L78 396cid engine with two Carter four-barrel carburetors and heads designed by high-performance expert Ed Cole of GM fame. To top it off, this 1968 beetle has undergone a recent restoration that brings its rustic charm back into full force; no expense spared here! Keep reading to learn more about what makes this vintage treasure so special.

An Introduction To The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS was a powerful performance car produced by the Chevrolet-authorized dealer Don Yenko. It featured an impressive list of elite components, including a 427 cubic inch engine with 425 horsepower, a special aluminum intake manifold, and oil cooler. Power was sent to the rear wheels via either a Muncie 4-speed manual transmission or an optional close-ratio Borg Warner T10 four-speed transmission. Disc brakes and heavy duty suspension were also part of this package. This made it one of the most popular muscle cars ever created.

The limited production run — only 201 examples were produced — has added to its collectible status over the years. Today, these models are highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their power and style. With such a small production run, a 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is an incredibly rare muscle car that is sure to be the envy of any collector or enthusiast. For anyone looking for a classic American performance car, the Yenko Camaro 396 SS should certainly be on their list.

History Of The Yenko Camaro’s Development And Production

The Yenko Camaro was a special edition of the Chevy Camaro produced by Don Yenko Chevrolet. It began with the 1967 model year and continued through 1969. The cars featured performance upgrades, such as larger engines, revised suspension, different wheels and more.

The first Yenko production car was based on the 1967 Camaro SS 396. It featured a L72 427 CI engine that generated 425 horsepower. Other options included power brakes, heavy-duty suspension, Hurst shifter and F41 suspension package. 

In 1968, Yenko created the COPO 9560 option to install an all-aluminum ZL1 engine into his Camaros. This option was available in both coupe and convertible models and produced an impressive 435 horsepower.

The 1969 Yenko Camaro received even more modifications, including a 454 CI engine with solid-lifter camshaft and rectangular-port heads. This model also featured 11 x 2.75 four-wheel disc brakes, an intake manifold with a large Holley carburetor and more. 

Yenko’s final Camaros were the 1970 SYC models, which featured a special trim package that was only available on Corvettes from Chevrolet at the time. It included a black vinyl roof cover, alloy wheels and flat-black hood stripes. The car also had power steering and brakes as standard features, along with sports suspension and slightly wider rear tires than other Camaros of the time.

Though Yenko’s Camaros were short-lived, they remain some of the most sought after collectible cars today. A rare 1969 Yenko Camaro was recently sold at auction for $1.2 million dollars – proof of their lasting popularity with car enthusiasts everywhere.

Overview Of The Engine Specs And Performance Capabilities Of The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS featured a L78 solid-lifter engine with cast iron heads, an aluminum intake manifold, and a Holley four-barrel carburetor. This high-performance package provided the car with peak power output of 375 horsepower at 5800rpm and 415 lb. ft of torque at 4200rpm. The engine also had an 11:1 compression ratio that helped boost performance in higher revs and offered better fuel economy than the standard options available for the Camaro. Other features included high-flow exhaust headers, a heavy duty flywheel, and special steel wheels that were designed to enhance grip on the track. All this provided excellent acceleration and top speed capabilities for both street use and track events. The overall performance of the Yenko Camaro 396 SS made it a true classic for muscle car enthusiasts everywhere.  It is sure to remain a favorite among car collectors and drivers looking for an iconic muscle car experience.

The Rarity And Value Of This Car Today Of The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

Today, the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is a highly sought-after collector’s item. It has become incredibly rare and valuable due to the limited number that were produced. The engines in these cars are also of a very high quality and produce considerable power for a street machine. This signature muscle car has become an icon in the automotive world, with many enthusiasts striving to own one. Therefore, it is not surprising that there is such strong demand for this vehicle despite its relatively small production numbers. Those lucky enough to possess one should consider themselves fortunate as they now own a piece of classic automobile history.  As such, owners can expect their investment to increase in value with time. This makes the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS an excellent choice for collectors and investors alike.  With its rarity, quality construction, and distinctive styling, it is easy to see why the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS has become such a sought-after collector’s item.  Even after more than five decades since its initial release, this car continues to be one of the most desirable vehicles on the market.  As time goes on, it is sure to remain a classic that will continue generating interest from car enthusiasts around the world.  The rarity and value of this car today makes it an investment worth considering.

Popular Modifications That Owners Have Made To Their Yenko Camaros Over The Years

Owners of Yenko Camaros have made many modifications over the years in order to customize their model. Some of the most popular modifications include: 

– Adding a custom hood with air scoop for enhanced engine cooling 

– Upgrading to larger tires and wheels for improved traction and stance 

– Enhancing exhaust flow through headers, high-flow catalytic converters, and aftermarket mufflers 

– Installing upgraded suspension components such as shocks, struts, sway bars, control arms, etc. for increased handling performance 

– Replacing the stock four-barrel carburetor with a more powerful eight-barrel or two four-barrels for additional power output 

– Adding a performance air intake and cold-air induction system to improve engine power and response 

– Installing a high-performance chip or programmer for improved fuel economy, power, and torque 

– Installing gauges and other monitoring equipment to keep an eye on the vehicle’s performance 

– Replacing the stock transmission with one that can handle increased horsepower 

– Tinting the windows for extra privacy and style. 

Owners have also modified their Yenko Camaros in many other ways over the years, including adding custom paint jobs, decals, stripes, interior upgrades such as seats and steering wheels, audio systems, security systems, etc., depending on the owner’s preferences and budget. Whatever modifications owners make, the Yenko Camaro is sure to remain one of the most iconic muscle cars of all time.

Tips for Maintaining and Restoring a 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

In addition to following the tips above, it’s also important to keep a list of maintenance and restoration tasks that need to be done on your 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS. This will ensure that the car is kept in optimal condition for as long as possible. Consider adding items such as: 

– Regular oil changes

– Check tire pressure regularly

– Inspect all components for signs of wear or damage 

– Add fuel stabilizer in winter months 

– Regularly clean interior and exterior surfaces 

– Replace worn or broken parts 

– Clean air filter periodically  

By keeping track of these items, you can help ensure that your 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS continues running like new for years to come. With the right maintenance and restoration efforts, you can keep your classic Yenko Camaro in mint condition. 

How to Spot a Real 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS?

The Yenko Camaros are among the most sought-after muscle cars from the late 1960s. Here is a list of features to look for when spotting a genuine 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS: 

– The iconic “Yenko” badge on the hood and trunk lid. 

– A seven-liter L78 engine with 375 horsepower and 415 lb-ft torque under the bonnet (hood). 

– Four-speed manual transmission with floor shifter. 

– Four wheel disc brakes, which were highly advanced for their time. 

– Special heavy duty suspension system including rear sway bar and front suspension stabilizer bars from Hotchkis Performance Products Incorporated. 

– 15″x7″ aluminum wheels paired with F60-15 Goodyear Polyglas tires and unique Yenko center caps. 

– Shaker hood scoop, providing an aggressive look.

– Special stripes along the sides of the vehicle from front fenders to rear quarters, also known as “Yenko stripes” or “Rally Stripes” in some circles. 

– Original paperwork like window sticker, build sheet, GM Protect-O-Plate (POP), owner’s manual etc., which can be used to authenticate the car’s originality should it pass all visual inspections mentioned above. 

By looking out for these nine features on a 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS, true enthusiasts can make sure they are not purchasing a fake or replica. With this knowledge in hand, you will be able to spot the real 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS from a mile away.

The Current Market Value of a 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is considered to be one of the most iconic muscle cars of its era. It was produced by a racing enthusiast, Don Yenko in limited numbers and as such, the car has seen its value skyrocket over the years. To this day it remains highly sought-after among classic car collectors due to its rarity and relatively low production number. The current market value for these cars can range anywhere from $100,000 to upwards of $200,000 depending on condition and numerous other factors. Some rarer models have even sold for higher prices at auctions or online marketplaces. 

In order to determine what your own 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is worth, you’ll need to consider several things. First, the condition of the car is incredibly important. Those with original parts and limited rust or wear are worth far more than those with extensive damage to the body or interior. Additionally, any documentation or paperwork such as service records can also add value to a classic car like this one. Furthermore, its rarity is a factor that will ultimately determine its current market value. 

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FAQs About 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS

The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS was a special edition vehicle produced in limited numbers by the Yenko Chevrolet dealership. It is highly sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts alike, and there are many questions surrounding its production, features, and rarity. Here’s a list of commonly asked questions about this model: 

What engine did the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS have? 

The 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS included a powerful 427 cubic-inch V8 engine that could generate up to 425 horsepower. 

How many 1968 Yenko Camaros were made?

In total, only 201 units were produced. This makes them extremely rare and collectible. 

Were any special features included in the 1968 Yenko Camaro? 

Yes, several special features were included to differentiate it from other Camaros. These features include a Hurst close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission, revised suspension components, limited slip differential, and a special hood with functional cold air intake. 

Are there any replicas or clones of the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS? 

Yes, some replicas have been made over the years that attempt to replicate the look and feel of this classic car. However, none have captured the exact same features and performance of an authentic 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS. 

>>> See more: 1968 Yenko 427 Camaro Muscle Car Of The Week Video #12

Conclusion

This 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS is truly a timeless classic that belongs in the hands of any auto enthusiast or collector. This vehicle is the perfect example of American muscle and its impact on automotive culture. From its powerful 396 V8 engine to its aggressive and iconic styling, this car will never go out of style. The possibilities are endless with this gorgeous package. Ready to take control? You won’t regret investing in this classic! Make the dream come true and explore what your inner driver can do behind the wheel of the 1968 Yenko Camaro 396 SS today!

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