In the upcoming Mecum auction in Dallas this month, an exceptional 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, hailing from the golden era of muscle cars, is poised to take the stage. However, this is no ordinary Camaro; it is a rare specimen, and here’s why.
According to the auction listing, this particular Camaro is one of the estimated 58 COPO (Central Office Production Order) Camaros that were adorned with the coveted RS Package. COPO, which stands for Central Office Production Order, was a discreet means employed by astute dealers to custom-order high-performance vehicles. In this instance, the dealer of choice was Berger Chevrolet, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Under the COPO program’s auspices, Berger Chevrolet succeeded in commissioning this Camaro, boasting the mighty L72 V-8 engine with a displacement of 427 cubic inches and a formidable power rating of 425 horsepower. This impressive power is channeled to the rear wheels through a Turbo 400 automatic transmission and a 12-bolt Positraction rear end equipped with 4.10 gearing. Further distinguishing features include power front disc brakes and the inclusion of a ZL2 cowl induction hood.
Any COPO Camaro is inherently rare, but the uniqueness of this specimen is further accentuated by its inclusion of the RS Package. Recognizable by its concealed headlights and a distinctive grille featuring a centered “RS” emblem in place of the Chevrolet Bowtie, the RS Package was a sought-after option in 1969. However, it was indeed unusual for a COPO Camaro to be adorned with this package.
Although Mecum has refrained from disclosing a pre-auction estimate for this remarkable vehicle, early COPO Camaros are esteemed as some of the most valuable classic muscle cars. Taking into account the added rarity of this particular model, it is anticipated that it will command a substantial sum when it crosses the auction block.
The original COPO Camaro, like many classic muscle cars, saw its demise as the automotive industry pivoted its focus toward compliance with newly imposed emissions and safety standards. Chevrolet eventually resurrected the COPO moniker, initially introducing it as a concept car unveiled at the 2011 SEMA show, designed as a turnkey drag racer. Subsequently, limited quantities of these vehicles have been produced, including a one-off electric variant known as the eCOPO Camaro, capable of achieving a quarter-mile time of 9.51 seconds.
Mark your calendars for the auction on September 22nd, where this extraordinary 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Berger COPO RS will undoubtedly capture the attention of discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Muscle Car Auction
What makes the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO RS special?
This 1969 Chevrolet Camaro stands out due to its rarity and unique features. It’s one of just 58 COPO Camaros with the RS Package. COPO, or Central Office Production Order, allowed dealers to custom-order high-performance cars. In this case, Berger Chevrolet commissioned the car, equipping it with the potent L72 V-8 engine producing 425 horsepower. It also features a Turbo 400 automatic transmission, 12-bolt Positraction rear end, power front disc brakes, and a ZL2 cowl induction hood.
What is the significance of the RS Package?
The RS Package is easily recognizable by its hidden headlights and distinctive grille featuring a centered “RS” badge instead of the Chevrolet Bowtie. In 1969, it was a popular option, but it was quite unusual to find it on a COPO Camaro, making this car even more exceptional.
How valuable is this 1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO RS?
While a specific pre-auction estimate hasn’t been disclosed by Mecum, early COPO Camaros are highly sought-after and among the most valuable classic muscle cars. Given this car’s rarity, it’s expected to command a significant price when it goes under the hammer.
What happened to the original COPO Camaro line?
The original COPO Camaro, like many classic muscle cars, ceased production as the automotive industry shifted its focus towards meeting emissions and safety standards. However, Chevrolet later revived the COPO name, initially as a concept car at the 2011 SEMA show, and has since produced limited numbers of these vehicles, including unique variants like the eCOPO Camaro, an electric drag racer capable of a 9.51-second quarter mile.
When is the auction for this 1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO RS taking place?
The auction is scheduled for September 22nd, providing a prime opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to bid on this exceptional piece of automotive history.
More about Muscle Car Auction
- Mecum Auctions
- Chevrolet Camaro
- COPO Camaro History
- RS Package Details
- Muscle Car Values
- eCOPO Camaro
4 comments
wow, this camaro sounds amazing, i didnt kno bout COPO b4!
Marked my calendar, can’t wait 4 the auction!
Need dis Camaro, bet it costs big $
COPO history is cool, want more deets tho!