The Chevrolet Camaro in the 1960s was an icon, but by the early 1970s, market shifts threatened its dominance. Despite challenges, Chevrolet revitalized the Camaro, and our Pick of the Day, a stunning 1974 Camaro Z28 available from a dealership in Wilson, Oklahoma via ClassicCars.com, perfectly exemplifies this resurgence.
Alt text: Lime Yellow 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Sport Coupe side view, showcasing its sleek second-generation body lines and sporty stance.
When the second-generation Camaro debuted in 1970, it was hailed by enthusiasts for its refined, European-inspired design and superior handling, setting it apart in the pony car segment. While the Super Sport models offered potent 350 and 396 (actually 402ci) engines, it was the Z/28’s enhanced sophistication and versatility that truly captured the attention of both the automotive press and the public. The high-performance 360-horsepower LT1 350 engine was particularly noteworthy, a powerhouse small-block that rivaled many big-block engines of the era, even if it exceeded the Trans-Am racing 5.0-liter limit.
Alt text: Interior of a 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28, featuring black bucket seats, four-spoke steering wheel, and classic Camaro dashboard design.
In 1971, the LT1 engine’s compression was reduced, continuing through 1972 before the L82 replaced it in 1973. Although the Camaro’s overall appearance remained consistent, new federal mandates began to impact car design. The 1973 models saw the introduction of a 5-mph front bumper, and the transformation became even more pronounced in 1974. The 1974 Chevrolet Camaro underwent a significant restyling to accommodate the federally mandated rear bumper, lengthening the car by seven inches. The iconic Corvette-inspired round taillights were replaced with wraparound taillights, and the front end received a redesigned, gently sloping grille with recessed round parking lights. Chevrolet offered two primary models for 1974: the standard Sport Coupe and the more luxurious Type LT, short for “Luxury Touring”.
Alt text: Close-up of the engine bay of a 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28, showcasing the L82 350 V8 engine and performance components.
Crucially, the Z28 performance package (note the updated “Z28” spelling) was available for both the Sport Coupe and Type LT. As before, the Z28 boasted an exclusive 245-horsepower L82 350 V8 engine. The comprehensive package also included performance enhancements such as aluminized dual exhausts, a dual-snorkel air cleaner, specialized suspension, 15 x 7 wheels, F60-15 bias-belted white-letter tires, enhanced cooling, power brakes, Positraction, dual sport mirrors, and front and rear spoilers. Transmission options included a wide-ratio four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic, and for purists, a close-ratio four-speed manual was available, provided you forwent air conditioning. For added visual distinction, a special stripe package for the hood and trunk lid was offered, signaling the car’s high-performance nature. Despite these changes and market pressures, Chevrolet produced an impressive 13,802 Z28s for 1974 before taking a hiatus with the Z28 designation until 1977.
Alt text: Rear view of a Lime Yellow 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28, highlighting the wraparound taillights and Z28 rear spoiler.
This particular Lime Yellow 1974 Chevrolet Camaro for sale is a Sport Coupe equipped with the coveted Z28 package. Its Z28 authenticity is confirmed by the “T” in the VIN, a feature not present in pre-1972 luxury Camaros. The car is equipped with desirable features including a four-spoke steering wheel, air conditioning (though the compressor is currently missing), power steering, power disc brakes, and a remote driver-side mirror. The seller highlights the “extremely nice black bucket seat interior, black headliner, dash pad, rear package tray, door panels, and carpet in great condition.”
Alt text: Close-up of the data plate of a 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28, showing vehicle identification number and factory codes.
In 1974, the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 remained a top-tier performance car. This example, with its striking color and stripes, possesses a timeless appeal. If you weren’t considering a 1974 Camaro Z28 before, perhaps now is the time to experience its magic. Priced at $25,500, is this the classic muscle car you’ve been searching for?
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com.
