Chevy Camaro History (1968)
Article by Mark Trotta
With the new third-generation Corvette stealing the spotlight at Chevy dealers, 1968 saw only minor changes to the second-year Camaro. These included a mild grille redesign, divided rear tail-lamps, and side-marker lights added to the front fenders and rear quarters. Front running lights on non-RS models were changed from circular to oval.
Interior console and gauges were new for 1968, and a passenger-side grab-handle was available with either one of two custom interior groups.
Side vent windows seen on 1967 models were gone, replaced with Chevrolet's new fresh-air-inlet system called Astro Ventilation.
Camaros were originally equipped with single-leaf rear springs, which contributed to unwanted wheel hop under hard acceleration. For 1968, multi-leaf rear springs were fitted to high-performance V-8 models. Rear shock absorber mounting was also redesigned; the passenger-side shock passed behind the axle, and the driver's side shock mounted in front of the axle. This staggered arrangement improved handling and helped eliminate wheel hop.
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
As offered in 1967, three optional platforms were available; RS, SS, and Z-28.
1968 Camaro SS
The SS350 continued to use the same hood as last years, while the SS396 got its own, adorned with twin non-functional intake ports. A new 350-horsepower 396-cid option was added, and aluminum cylinder-heads were now available with the L-78 big-block.
1968 Camaro Z-28
Initially nothing more than an option code designation, the Z-28 moniker stuck, and models so equipped sported either Z-28 or 302 badges. Dual low-restriction mufflers, heavy-duty radiator with temperature-controlled fan, and 15x6-inch wheels were included with the Z-28 package.
The rear decklid spoiler, first seen on Z-28 models, was soon available on all Camaros, and buyers could now combine the Z-28 package with the RS package. 7,199 examples of the second-year Z-28 were sold.
The potent 302 small-block engine remained the same. A dual-four-barrel cross-ram intake manifold was available, using twin 600-cfm carburetors.
Racing legend Mark Donahue, driving the blue #6 Camaro, won 10 of the 13 Trans Am races this year, easily winning the 1968 series. A Penske/Sunoco prepped 302 engine produced an estimated 480-horsepower. With SCCA rules stating parts used on race cars must be available to the public, the Penske/Donohue race team should be credited for helping bring many heavy-duty race items to dealer parts-counters.
Consistently finishing ahead of Mustangs on the track, the resulting publicity helped overall Camaro sales. A total 235,417 models were sold for the 1968 model year.
****************************
Articles of Interest: