1971 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 396 [numbers-matching big block] for sale

This 1971 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 396 hits all the right high notes with its numbers-matching big block power, a well-done color combo, and a comfy interior

So it makes for the kind of classic where you’ll plan your weekend around how many car shows you can visit.

The factory-correct Placer Gold paint was a shade only offered for two years, and so it adds even more distinction to this real-deal Super Sport. It was even resprayed later in life so that it can continue to have a golden glow when you take this out for a Sunday drive. This is the kind of coupe you cherish, and in fact, it has been with the same owner for the last fourteen years. And good care comes with good ownership. The fundamentals look good with good gaps, clean glass, newer lights, and nice chrome. The split bumper front end is part of the aggressive iconic RS face. While it’s hard to verify a factory Rally Sport, this looks correct everywhere from the parking lights to the color-matched door handle inserts. But we absolutely know this is a Super Sport thanks to the big block under the hood. And this announces it correctly with the chin spoiler, SS badges, full-width rear spoiler, and gunmetal wheels. And of course, the blackout rear panel was a particular way to recognize there’s something special under the hood.

The black interior complements the gold exterior quite nicely, and the trim tag says this was born this way. This is very vintage and stock, which is great when you love a true classic. So it feels like a time machine, right down to the wood trim package and dome light that greets you when the door opens. Plus, this was born a factory air conditioning car (the major equipment is there, but it will need servicing to blow cold again.) And the upgrades are well-integrated. For example, the bucket seats have the classic high-back button-top style but the comfy cloth upholstery feels far fresher than from the 1970s. And while the radio looks like the classic Delco unit, it’s an updated AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth. It’s these additions that also remind you a Camaro like this makes a great driver’s coupe. This coupe is also a true driver’s machine. That’s why you have a classic SS steering wheel, a desirable center console with a horseshoe shifter, and a clear gauge panel with large speedo and tach.

The engine bay is filled with big block power, and it’s the numbers-matching 396/402 cubic-inch V8. This LS3 powerhouse made the smaller/lighter Camaro a true legend alongside legendary muscle machines like the Chevelle SS… so it’s surprising it was only offered for a few short years. That’s why it’s so nice to have this original big block looking so stock and well-presented. It inhales deeply with a proper Quadrajet four-barrel carburetor, and it exhales with a nice V8 tune out of the dual exhaust tips. And the solid power package makes for a terrific total cruiser. After all, power steering, power brakes, front discs, and the TH400 three-speed automatic transmission are good for an anytime power driver.