The pony car segment, which the Ford Mustang launched in the mid-1960s, saw fierce competition. Chevrolet’s rival to the Mustang was the Camaro, and for about the first decade that the two were battling head-to-head, the Mustang maintained the sales lead. That changed in 1977, which was the first year the Camaro overtook the Mustang in sales (by about 65,000 units).
Featured on AutoHunter is this 1977 Chevrolet Camaro Z28. It is being offered by a dealer in Watford, Ontario, and the auction will end on Monday.
One of the contributing factors for the turning point in pony car sales was the fact that the Camaro’s available Z28 package gave it an improved suspension, enhanced steering equipment and a strong balance of power and efficiency. According to its trim tag, this Camaro is a true Z28, and it brings to the table some desirable equipment like power steering, power front disc brakes, a dual exhaust system and air conditioning.
The second-generation Camaro was produced from 1970 through 1981 on the General Motors F-body platform. Three assembly plants – one in California, one in Ohio and one in Venezuela – cranked out roughly 1.5 million Camaros across the entire generation. During the third week of July 1977, this one was born. Its Brown (code 69) paint finish is carried through to the bumpers and the centers of the 15-inch wheels. Noteworthy exterior features include accent graphics, dual sport mirrors, a chin spoiler and a decklid spoiler. While the five-digit odometer shows 81,764 miles, the title reads mileage-exempt.
A magazine advertisement for the 1977 Camaro was headlined, “We’re looking for people who love to drive.” It went on to say, “We realize that, for some of you, driving an automobile is about as exhilarating as riding an escalator. That’s sad. Because with the right kind of car in your hands, the act of driving can be one of the truly pleasant things you do each day.”
One of the things that contributed to the Camaro’s driving enjoyment was its powertrain. Motivation for this Z28 comes from a 185-horsepower 350ci V8 with a four-barrel carburetor. A close-ratio four-speed manual transmission and a rear end with a 3.73 gear ratio deliver power to the rear wheels.
“If you love to drive, or would like to, take a turn in a ’77 Camaro one day real soon,” an advertisement said. “Your Chevy dealer has one all gassed up and ready to go. Driving gloves are optional.”
Want to experience the car that pushed Chevy into the sales lead? Here you go! The auction for this 1977 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 ends Monday, March 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT)
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
