1967 Chevrolet Camaro Rally Sport Convertible: A Restomod That Outperforms Original SS Models

Chevrolet entered the pony car segment later than rivals like the Plymouth Barracuda and Ford Mustang, which debuted in 1964. Despite initial delays, GM’s response—the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro—became a landmark model, offering unprecedented customization. Built on the Chevy Nova’s platform, the Camaro featured inline-six, small-block V-8, and big-block V-8 engines, paired with coupe and convertible body styles. Packages like the Super Sport (SS) and Rally Sport (RS) introduced unique stripes, badging, and performance options, resulting in over 220,000 units sold in its first year.

Among the most desirable configurations is the 1967 Camaro Rally Sport convertible, a restomod currently listed on Hagerty Marketplace. While the original 327 small-block V-8 produced 295 hp, this example has been upgraded to deliver even greater performance. The engine bay houses a rebuilt 327 with refreshed factory heads, an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold, and a 650-CFM Edelbrock AVS2 carburetor. The low-profile intake mimics a factory Chevrolet four-barrel manifold, ensuring a stealthy appearance under the hood.

Further enhancements include a hydraulic roller camshaft (replacing the factory flat-tappet design) with 214 degrees of duration at .050”. This upgrade delivers increased valve lift while maintaining a mild cam profile. The powertrain also features a Turbo 350 three-speed automatic, replacing the original two-speed Powerglide for improved performance.

The car’s exterior retains its iconic Butternut Yellow finish, a color synonymous with 1960s Chevys. While the original Marina Blue was repainted, the choice of Butternut Yellow aligns with classic Chevy aesthetics. Cosmetic upgrades include a Super Sport-style hood with finned inserts, though the fender emblems proudly display the 327 V-8 under the hood. The Rally Sport package is evident in the hidden-headlight grille, which uses vacuum canisters to open the doors and reveal the headlights. Additional RS features include a revised tail panel, rear valence, and taillights.

Notably, the 1967 Camaro SS was the first Chevrolet model to offer the 350 small-block V-8, with two 396 big-block variants also available. The Corvette did not receive the 350 engine until 1969, making this Camaro’s engine lineup particularly significant in Chevrolet’s history.