Thank you for the kind words and wonderful stories everyone. If you want to see the shop that did the work on my Camaro, we have a video out now with Joey Gray. Happy Holidays! ua-cam.com/video/QAtdPDxONl8/v-deo.html
Thank you for showing off your stunning Camaro. It's my favorite body style out of all the Camaros ever made.The color and stipes, along with the rare Z-28 wheels,the black interior, what more could i guy ask for, she is just a great looking car.I hope she drives as good as she looks.Kevin
Great story about your Z28 Mike.Too bad your 1971 wasn't kept the way you sold it but the 72 you bought is a real beauty. I can relate to your passion for these early second generation Camaros because I've had my 1970 Z28 with the standard front end for 43 years that I still drive and enjoy and will keep it forever.
I was blown away when I saw this channel. Mike. I've always loved your TV presence. And your knowledge of anything with four wheels is impeccable. Now to have all of this on your own channel is incredible. Keep posting and I love the concept. Keep it up!
That's a beautiful Z28 Mike- I always loved that color! I hope it's pleasing you as much as the one you had earlier in your life. I have a 70 1/2 Z28 which I bought new when I was in high school. I get flooded with memories every time I get it out to play. It's got the front bumper like yours, the original short rear spoiler, and is Hugger Orange with white stripes. The original engine is parked in an engine crate and I run a naughty small block 396 stroker engine. There's much more to tell but this is your story. Congrats on finding such a beauty- enjoy it! Les
My first Camaro, my second car, was a ‘69 Pace Car purchased for $2400 in 1980. I was 16 at the time in a small town in Oklahoma; a friend of mine’s father had bought the car for his son, but his son wanted a truck. It was as stripped as they come…..equipped with no options and the only pace car I have ever seen with the Muncie HD 3 speed. I loved having the top down….even during Oklahoma winters. It’s been 43 years, but luckily I was smart enough to take pictures to keep the memories fresh.
What a beauty! I can so relate to the story, being 66 years old and remember seeing and partying in Camaro's in my youthful days. Well, as time went by I acquired four Camaro's in my life. Now back down to just one 1970 and in the midst of a restoration, going for the RS Hugger Orange and Black stripes look. Thanks for sharing your stories.
Mike, I was on the waiting list for a SS350 Camaro back during the strike in 1972, never came in, so I traded in my 68 Lemans Blue Z-28 in on a 1973 Dodge Charger 340 automatic,hated the Charger! Saw a used 2nd Gen Z-28 at the local Ford dealer in 1973, they had taken the Z28 in on trade for a Shelby Mustang. Cash difference was a about a grand between the Charger and the Z28. My 2nd Gen Z28 was 1973 Medium Bronze with white stripes, black interior, 4 speed close ration Muncie, with a 4.10 posi rear, had about 2000 miles on it when I got it. Owned the car while I was in the US Navy. When driving frrom Illinois to Charlston SC had two tires shot out in the Smokey Mountains by some locals in a SS 396 Chevelle that wanted to race on I-40, my car was not suited for pulls on the interstate. Had a either North Carolina or Tennessee highway department employee take my two tires with the bullet holes along with my girlfriend to get the tires patched. I stayed with my disabled pride and joy to make sure that it was not stolen or stripped. The highway department employee was kind enough to loan me a little .32 automatic just in case. I stayed in the car for a while, but it occured to me that was not the place to be if they returned, so I went over the guardrail and positioned myself in a cover of pine trees. As luck would have it, they did return about a half hour , the same SS 396 rolled up behind my Camaro, two young men exited the Chevelle. My heart was pounding in my chest, I yelled out some profanities, and fired two rounds over their heads. They piled back into their car and left very quickly, thank god! A short time later the highway department truck stopped on the west bound side, the highway truck had to go further west on 40 to turn around. My girlfriend came over the center rail, and ran to our car, I came down from my hiding spot. We excitedly exchanged the details of our recent experiences, my shootout, and my girlfriend fighting off the advances of the highway department. My girlfriend asked what we were going to do, I said that I was not going to give the highway department a loaded gun back. When the truck got there we unloaded my two patched tires, gave the empty gun back, and said that he could leave. Threw the repaired tires on and proceeded to go no slower than 100 mph for the next 45 minutes until we were out of the Smokies. When we rolled into Charleston SC the next morning, the Camaro was running a little rough and making bad noises. I pulled the valve covers off and found a exhaust rocker sideways on the driver's side. Apparently, due to our haste in getting out of the mountains a valve spring failed. Took the car to the local Chevy dealer and they pulled both heads, replaced a bent exhaust valve, along with the bronze guide, and installed a entire set of new double spring valve springs. A year and a half later, my now pregnant wife loaded up everything we owned into the Z-28 and drove from Charleston, SC to New London, CT. Lost a clutch outside of Richmond, VA, had to put the car in gear, start it and then match revs to shift. Managed to get all the way to New London, but the smell was burning clutch all the way. Upon our arrival the Camaro again went to the local Chevy dealer for a new clutch. Got the car back and it could barely run, it was shaking itself to death, they had put in the wrong flywheel. Gave car back, and they replace everything again, told me that they put in a L88 clutch now so there would be no problems. This car was our only car for four years, new baby, car seats and all, Chevrolet warrenty covered all of the major repairs with not a wimper at all. Loved that car, along with all of the good and bad memories that came with it. It could run mid 13s in the quarter, with only a set of headers, replaced the cast iron intake and Quadrjet, with a Edlebrock and 660 cfm. My wife and I are celebrating our 50th this year, and if we could have only one of our cars back it would be that Z-28. Still have those .32 bullets
I bought a 1972 4 speed Z28 from Sir Walter Chev. in Raleigh NC, same color blue except w. black stripes. It had the center console, black interior but w. wood grain interior trim. I so wish I had never sold that car.. Beautiful car, thanks for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing Mike! Love your work on Barrett-Jackson! I had a ‘79 Z/28, first car I bought and paid for myself. 2years in the oil pump went down, taking the engine with it. That allowed me to put my own version of small block in. I instantly doubled the horsepower and unleashed the beast always known as the Z/28. What a difference! Sold that car to have 3 great kids! Hope to one day replace it.
Thanks for the history on your car Mike. I agree that these are the best looking cars GM produced. 1970-1972 are probably the best years for any GM vehicle made. I cannot name a bad looking car from that period. I would say the early Vega is a close second for me as far as appearance, I always thought it looked like a miniature Camaro from the front. Cheers!
That is the most beautiful '72 Z28 I've seen in a long time. And I agree with you in the fact that the 2nd Gens were the best looking Camaros designed by GM. And that blue is gorgeous. Have fun with her Mike
2nd gen F-bodys have always been my favorite too. Mainly because I worked with my dad in a Chevy store, and they raced in IROC and the Trans Am series. I still remember that solid lifter and cam combo thumping. I had a friend who traded his 70 LT1, with Konis, lowered suspension among other mods for a 73 Z28. We both gravitated to Pontiac, he a TransAm, I a CanAm. Love your story.
Thanks Mike, I had a 73 RS/Z28 in that color. Rebuilt the LT1 and put in a set of Recaro seats. It had the turbo 400 and I absolutely loved that car. Thanks again Mike. 👍👍
I have a 1970 that I dearly love. G-comp subframe from Speedway motors 13 inch Wilwood brakes, and Hotchkis frame ties. It’s like driving a race car. I’m swapping the 383 stroker for a 6.2 LS now. I’ll never sell it. Beautiful car Mike!
Great car and great story Mike. The early 70s were the prettiest I think. I always liked the look of the split bumper and really like your explanation.
Great story. Happy for you that you found a car that brings back great memories and that you truly enjoy. It makes you smile when you drive it and isn’t that what it’s all about. I had a blue 79 Z28 4spd one of my favorite cars. Enjoy your new car .
I got a chance to talk to you at this years Rolex Reunion at Laguna, and asked “why a 2nd Gen for Vintage T\A racing…” and you told me the exact same story! Awesome thing about that conversation is… I now own a steel cowl induction hood that was ran in IMSA when your son’s car was an IMSA racer… thank you!
That's cool. Scott's car came to us with its 3" steel cowl induction hood and a stock flat one. I mentioned the IMSA hood to a Camaro owner at Monterey, and he bought it for his street Camaro. Happy ending!
Great video and I love the early 2nd gens. But my favorite is my 1980 bill Mitchell hugger z28 (number 76 of 90 produced). I bought the car shortly before my 16th birthday. I’m 50 now and still enjoy it when ever I get the chance. Keep the awesome videos coming!
Beautiful car, I am glad you purchased a similar one to the one that you used to have years ago, sucks that you could not get your 1971 back, but hey the next best thing to a car that you had before is to get a similar car, once again beautiful car, you deserve it.
I 100% agree with you on these being the premier Camaro. My father has his 1972 Camaro from high school, bought it in 1985. He traded the 307 from it for a used high compression 350 and shop time. The shop owners wanted the original 307 for the cylinder heads on another car they had at the time. It's truly astounding how much more premium these cars feel compared to Corvettes of the era. My grandfather's 64 Corvette felt flimsy and didnt inspire much comfort or handling confidence as a result. But these Camaros are the perfect sweet spot between sports car and luxury barge. Thanks for these videos, Mike!
Nice Z, Mike. I had a 71 SS, with the same colors. It had a big block, and a turbo 400. so didn't handle like a Z...but it was quick, and fun. Ahh....the good old days, huh.
I agree. Love the 70-73. I spent my childhood riding around in my aunt's rs split bumper. Gold with a vinyl top. Absolutely the bomb back in the day. When they came out, there was nothing like them. I myself had an 80 z28 4spd for years in the 90's and after putting a real engine in it, it was a fantastic car and I drove it until there was nothing left of it. Great cars. I moved on to a mustang and eventually now to mopars but I still love my old Camaro and 70-73 is the dream version. I was a child in the early 70's but man 66-73 must have been great years to be a young man buying cars. Seems the best version of any muscle car happened in that short time with 69 being a stand out year for most cars. (my current project is a 69 barracuda 340) Cheers.
Mike, I talked to you very briefly when you helped sponsor my friends flat track bike in CT. I had a 70 1/2 Z, RS package. Had no motor, so we put a built 350 in it. Absolutely not stock. A sleeper Z! I gobbled up a Trans Am 455 from a stop light. Good times. Red with black stripes.
My favorite was my 1970 that was an RS. Wish I still had it. I had a 70, 71, & 73 prostreet all 3 were Z28s. The last one (73) was tubbed and a prostreet with huge tires. I loved that car, but 12 years later my younger brother owns it. He loves it and glad it is still in the family. However, I look for another every day. Like you, I'll get another one some day. Thanks for your video, enjoy your Z28. Sooner-Bo
Proud owner of an dark gray Camaro SS 2015 here in Sweden. The last of the 5th gen. i bought it almost stock 1 year ago and it now has Cold Air Intake/Headers with high flow cats and a Borla S-Type catback. it also has a custom Tune which really woke up the engine. HP is now close to 500. The sound and driving experience is amazing. why i wanted a 5th Gen it was the Serie Hawaii 5-0s fault. that black SS in the serie was so damn cool and now i have it.
Great video Mike! My wife and me ordered a Z28 Camaro in 1973 just before body by fisher went on strike didn’t get it until early 1974. Anyway it had the small bumper etts on the front full bumper. It was a 350 with quadrajet carb four barrel and 373 pos attraction. I love that car and regretted selling 2 years later when I was laid off and had a child on the way. Four years ago at the age of 70 I was able to buy another one at auction that had been restored. There is a picture on my UA-cam page. Thanks so much for the video and very interesting. I watch all the actions and have seen you on the Barrett Jackson.
Thanks Mike for giving the 2nd gen Camaro' it's long overlooked recognition. Since 2010, I've owned(3rd owner)an 1971 SS/RS split bumper that was built in Van Nuys, Ca. because Norwood, Ohio was on strike. In my nearly 14 yrs of ownership, I've seen a 'HUGE' increase in car lover interest. The sacred 1967-1969 Camaro is common place at all the shows. My 2nd gen split bumper's rarity garners it more compliments & thumbs-up every car show season. I'm proud to say, after 14 yrs of ownership, I'm finally installing a Vintage Air kit to an original factory A/C 1971 Camaro. I feel my 2024 A/C($'s)return venture is my toast to the Camaro's 2024 departure. I, like you, will take my 1971 2nd gen Camaro to my grave! "I wish all the best to to you & yours" this & every 'Holiday Season'!
Mike, 'your' love & appreciation of the early Gen2 Camaro means the world to your fellow Camaro enthusiasts. A car guy of your caliber openly celebrating the 2nd Gen Camaro over 50 years later is a true compliment. Thank YOU!
❤ Hi Mike... your story sounds much like mine. First car was a 71 RS Z28... traded on a new 79 Z28... hated the performance so I went a week later to buy it back at the dealership. It was pulling out as I was a block away...SOLD. later that summer I found a 72 RS Z28 ... cream yellow, black stripes and deluxe black interior. M22 with a 4.11 posi. Its been 45 years and I still own the car today. Love your NASCAR announcing...never knew you were a second gen Camaro fan.
2nd gen used to be my favorite body style until the 4th gen was introduced. My 96 Z28 is my all time favorite that will be back on the road in the spring.
Great Video! I can remember when my older brother was going to Chevrolet Dealerships looking for his dream car. His dream car was the famous 1970 LS6 SS Chevelle. Well, there were none to be had anywhere in June of 1970. He settled for a beautiful cranberry red 454 360 HP LS5 with a four speed, consol, bucket seats and boy was it a beautiful car. Oh yes, it had black vinyl interior. It was a stirp delete car and didn't have cowl induction. Why I am sharing this story, is because I was 16 when my brother was looking for his dream car in 1970. As we visited the dealerships, my dream car was the 1970 Z28 that was front and center in most of the dealership show rooms we visited. I was in love with the new design of the Camaro. My brother on the other hand didn't like the new design at all. When I turned 18, in 1972 I started working for GM building city buses in Pontiac MI. If I could have got a loan to buy my dream car, 1972 Z28, I would have. In 1973 the 5 mile per hour bumpers were introduced to all the auto manufactures. That design change took away my desire to own a Z28, along with gas prices going through the roof. Muscle cars were pretty much forgotten about during those mundane times. I am 69 now and would love to own a pristine 1970 LT1 Z28, but the cost to do so is beyond my means. Watching this video put a big grin on my face and brought back many wonderful memories. After my brothers LS5 454 Chevelle was stollen one after he bought it in the GM parking lot, he ended up with a 1970 SS Chevelle with a 472 ci open chambered heads, long tube headers, roller bearing solid lifter cam, dual point ignition and 13 to 1 compression. Oh yes, it had 4:88 gears set up for the quarter mile. You could actually watch the gas gauge go down after opening up the single 950 Holley carb. The guy who sold the car to my brother raced it at the Lapeer Dragway and said with the single carb it turned 11:40's consistently. With the staggered duel quad setup, according to him, it ran in the mid 10's. That was with slicks of course. One warm Saturday night on Woodward Avenue, while riding shotgun with my brother's buddy who owned a 1970 LT1 Yenko Deuce Nova, we ran across the guy who owned the Chevelle my brother ended up buying. That night he was running the dual quad set up. Well, it wasn't much of a race. The Yenko Deuce was rarely beaten off the line because with the three-speed automatic trans and the his and hers hurst shifter you could just matt it and the car would launch hard with very little wheel spin. It had 4:10 gears and was set up for the quarter mile. After second gear that Chevelle was beside us and stayed beside us for a bit before Mel, that's the guy's name who owned the Chevelle drove away like we were standing still. Out of all the cars I had seen on Woodward, that was by far the quickest one. The closest one to the 472 ci. black with white stripes Chevelle was a red with black stripes 1970 SS Chevelle with a 427 all aluminum ZL1. The reason we knew it was a real ZL1, was because after the race the guy pulled over and let us look at the engine. It was a rich kid who told us he took out the LS6 454 and replaced it with a ZL1 Chevrolet performance crate engine. One thing I will never forget about that race. After the Chevelle got traction and whizzed past us, the front tires were off the pavement just a bit. It was really pulling hard in second gear as it went past us. From what I have read, the 427 ZL1 was 30 pounds heavier than a cast iron chevy small block. Such great memories. Those warm summer nights on Woodward Ave and the sound of two powerful V8's going through the gears next to one another is something you would have had to experience, to understand its awesomeness. Yes, those are some found memories for sure. The time period for those awesome memories was 1970 -1973. Thanks again for sharing your dream car. It was a ride down memory lane for me. I agree, the second-generation Camaro, especially 70-72 was one of Chevrolet greatest designs. A retro version of that design would have been awesome to see. Oh well, the Camaro will always be remembered by many as one of Chevrolet best ever designs.
Nice car Mike , I’m starting to appreciate the second gen Camaro Wes does a great job finding old cars , the Gold Monte Carlo SS454 is mine , my brother sent him a few pics and build sheet , found it in two days , great to know it’s still around and in great shape
I had a 1972 Camero Split Bumer round turn signal lights between the headlights SS/RS, 402ci, 350 turbo AT, 3.73 posi rear with air shocks, replaced engine with a built 13 to 1 pistons inside a 1965 Corvette 396ci rat engine, rap around front & rear spoilers, bright yellow exterior paint with black taillight panel, soft rubber 15 x 30 24 inch wide rear tires requiring the air shocks completely extended on the streets with lowering some when drag racing. This was the mid 1970's with the Sheriffs helping us block traffic on the county roads used for special occasion community racing. One sheriff would park at the quarter mile strip with parking 90 degrees to the road. We estimated ETs with stop watches and had an accurate mph from the sheriff's radar gun, with being accurate on staggered cars and only the leader of side by side cars. My Camero hit 135 at the strip and looked just like a Pro Streeter before Pro Streeters became a Pro Street. Was decent for the time, but I have been thinking about replicating it with a modern drive train supporting a tweeked 2023 Corvette Z06 DOCH Engine with around 1,500 hp. One thing it would not be is a "trailer queen sit around camp chairs car". I believe if you are going through the effort of building it the karma demands you drive and use it when ever possible.
Awesome car Mike! Love the blue with the white stripes. I have a ‘79 Z28. I love it. Such a good car. Originally it was my mom’s. If I could have any year Camaro, it would be a 70 1/2-73 followed by a ‘68. My cousin had a ‘73 Camaro with the full length bumper. He absolutely beat the crap out of it. If I had to choose, I would prefer the split bumper RS. I always enjoyed you on TV and now even more since we both love those early second generation Camaro’s. All the best!
The 72 is not just my favorite Z28, but my favorite car. I aswell love the single bumper. Camaros are my favorite cars, and I'm lucky enough to have a 81 Z28. Love your car
I never knew they changed the ride height on the Camaro. That explains a lot. I had a 72 and it seemed too high to me. But that changed when I dropped a BB in it. Never changed the springs from the small block. Was perfect to me then. So thanks for that tidbit of information.
I have always loved the blue color on Chevys. A life time ago when I was a kid my family would go to the sand dunes along lake Michigan and this guy had a early 70s Chevy blazer with that color blue and white rag top over back seats beautiful truck. Fell in love with that color.
I love your story, and I, too, had a 1970 Z28 Camaro that I did quite a few things to it. I removed the smog controls, put headers on them, and tweaked the engine. I loved the car. My only complaint was the cost of running and maintaining it since I was still in High School. I was forced to sell mine as time passed, and responsibilities came first. I still have great memories.
It’s a cherish-able car. I was always inspired by that design. I had no idea the split bumper made for a heavier car, but I love that RS front end as well
So glad I found your channel. The stories you tell are absolutely captivating. And, for what it's worth, I agree....I prefer the second gen Camaros as well. Thank as always ~ Chuck
Great looking car, my buddy in high school 1983-84 had one like that but the split bumper front while I had a gold Ttop 1978 Z28! We were the only 2 kids in our small country school in Georgia that had Z28s ✌💖☮
Congrats MJ, this is your pal from bringatrailer, Im glad you found another z28. You have been looking for a while. Merry xmas to you and the family. Hope Scott gets to wheel it too.. cheers 🍻 sir..Dan
Beautiful 2nd Gen Camaro Mike.Been watching your videos and great to see you love old Chevys too.I myself have a 69 Camaro owned for 22yrs.What a great feeling it is to drive around in 1st and 2nd gen Camaro 😁👍
Glad to hear you replaced the 71 with a real nice and rare 72 Z. Someday I hope my friend Mike will dig out a couple of pictures of your old 71 when he owned it in the 80's. Interesting enough he autocrossed the 71 back in the day too!
Love the car , my dad ordered a 72 ss 350 m21 373 posi. Manual windows no air nice and light same blue no console loved that car . My favorite is a 1970 1/2 z28 rs. Tall spoiler, adjustable headrests. My dad went from a 1966 tr4 irs to the camaro , I know you like the British sports cars and my dads 1971 p1800.
Hey Mike nice Z, my first and favorite Camaro was my 67 SS that had a Bill Jenkins engine, I bought it in 1978, used it and street raced it had a lot of fun, over the years I’ve had other Camaros, and now I have a 71 Z with original drivetrain in mulsane blue with white stripes, thanks for sharing your story
I currently own a Hugger Orange 1970 RS. I agree that the ‘70-‘73 Camaros are some of the best looking cars GM ever produced. I love your ‘72 Z/28- beautiful car. Lost Muscle Cars is a GREAT site! I understand about not being able to “go home” with your original car. I used to own a Daytona Yellow 1969 RS Z/28 that I would love to have back. I actually tracked the car down on Lost Muscle Cars earlier this year and have had several conversations with the current owner, who offered the car back to me, but it was out of my price range. On a side note, something that you may want to look into is that I don’t believe the Muncie transmission was used after 1974- I believe GM went to the Borg-Warner Super T-10. Great story- thanks for sharing.
My friend had a 1970 with a 307 and Powerglide, red, he called it the Red Hog and it was quick. He won a lot of money. The competition were blown away (and embarrassed when they found out the drive train!)
I had a '69 Z/28 . I loved that car. A friend tweeled the tuning for me and it was a very fast !!! I really like your car !!! In fact I have been looking for a"70-73 Z/28 ,they are hard to find with original drivetrain .
Thank you for the kind words and wonderful stories everyone. If you want to see the shop that did the work on my Camaro, we have a video out now with Joey Gray. Happy Holidays!
ua-cam.com/video/QAtdPDxONl8/v-deo.html
Thank you for showing off your stunning Camaro. It's my favorite body style out of all the Camaros ever made.The color and stipes, along with the rare Z-28 wheels,the black interior, what more could i guy ask for, she is just a great looking car.I hope she drives as good as she looks.Kevin
Mike’s voice will forever be iconic for me as “the voice” I heard as a kid and teenager in all of the car and hot rod shows I watched 👍
Great story about your Z28 Mike.Too bad your 1971 wasn't kept the way you sold it but the 72 you bought is a real beauty. I can relate to your passion for these early second generation Camaros because I've had my 1970 Z28 with the standard front end for 43 years that I still drive and enjoy and will keep it forever.
Absolutely Love your Enthusiasm! Nice Camaro Mike!!!!!
I was blown away when I saw this channel. Mike. I've always loved your TV presence. And your knowledge of anything with four wheels is impeccable. Now to have all of this on your own channel is incredible. Keep posting and I love the concept. Keep it up!
That's a beautiful Z28 Mike- I always loved that color! I hope it's pleasing you as much as the one you had earlier in your life. I have a 70 1/2 Z28 which I bought new when I was in high school. I get flooded with memories every time I get it out to play. It's got the front bumper like yours, the original short rear spoiler, and is Hugger Orange with white stripes. The original engine is parked in an engine crate and I run a naughty small block 396 stroker engine. There's much more to tell but this is your story. Congrats on finding such a beauty- enjoy it!
Les
I spoke briefly to you at PRI. You were very cordial and friendly. It was nice to meet a celebrity as nice in person as their public image.
Thanks!
im with you all the way. this is imo the best year of the camaro..hands down imo
My first Camaro, my second car, was a ‘69 Pace Car purchased for $2400 in 1980. I was 16 at the time in a small town in Oklahoma; a friend of mine’s father had bought the car for his son, but his son wanted a truck. It was as stripped as they come…..equipped with no options and the only pace car I have ever seen with the Muncie HD 3 speed. I loved having the top down….even during Oklahoma winters. It’s been 43 years, but luckily I was smart enough to take pictures to keep the memories fresh.
This body style made the best looking short track race cars ever! Both dirt and asphalt were beautiful race cars
She’s a beaut! That’s for the story, can’t wait to see ya on the big screen next month in Scottsdale
What a beauty! I can so relate to the story, being 66 years old and remember seeing and partying in Camaro's in my youthful days. Well, as time went by I acquired four Camaro's in my life. Now back down to just one 1970 and in the midst of a restoration, going for the RS Hugger Orange and Black stripes look. Thanks for sharing your stories.
Mike, I was on the waiting list for a SS350 Camaro back during the strike in 1972, never came in, so I traded in my 68 Lemans Blue Z-28 in on a 1973 Dodge Charger 340 automatic,hated the Charger! Saw a used 2nd Gen Z-28 at the local Ford dealer in 1973, they had taken the Z28 in on trade for a Shelby Mustang. Cash difference was a about a grand between the Charger and the Z28. My 2nd Gen Z28 was 1973 Medium Bronze with white stripes, black interior, 4 speed close ration Muncie, with a 4.10 posi rear, had about 2000 miles on it when I got it. Owned the car while I was in the US Navy. When driving frrom Illinois to Charlston SC had two tires shot out in the Smokey Mountains by some locals in a SS 396 Chevelle that wanted to race on I-40, my car was not suited for pulls on the interstate. Had a either North Carolina or Tennessee highway department employee take my two tires with the bullet holes along with my girlfriend to get the tires patched. I stayed with my disabled pride and joy to make sure that it was not stolen or stripped. The highway department employee was kind enough to loan me a little .32 automatic just in case. I stayed in the car for a while, but it occured to me that was not the place to be if they returned, so I went over the guardrail and positioned myself in a cover of pine trees. As luck would have it, they did return about a half hour , the same SS 396 rolled up behind my Camaro, two young men exited the Chevelle. My heart was pounding in my chest, I yelled out some profanities, and fired two rounds over their heads. They piled back into their car and left very quickly, thank god! A short time later the highway department truck stopped on the west bound side, the highway truck had to go further west on 40 to turn around. My girlfriend came over the center rail, and ran to our car, I came down from my hiding spot. We excitedly exchanged the details of our recent experiences, my shootout, and my girlfriend fighting off the advances of the highway department. My girlfriend asked what we were going to do, I said that I was not going to give the highway department a loaded gun back. When the truck got there we unloaded my two patched tires, gave the empty gun back, and said that he could leave. Threw the repaired tires on and proceeded to go no slower than 100 mph for the next 45 minutes until we were out of the Smokies. When we rolled into Charleston SC the next morning, the Camaro was running a little rough and making bad noises. I pulled the valve covers off and found a exhaust rocker sideways on the driver's side. Apparently, due to our haste in getting out of the mountains a valve spring failed. Took the car to the local Chevy dealer and they pulled both heads, replaced a bent exhaust valve, along with the bronze guide, and installed a entire set of new double spring valve springs. A year and a half later, my now pregnant wife loaded up everything we owned into the Z-28 and drove from Charleston, SC to New London, CT. Lost a clutch outside of Richmond, VA, had to put the car in gear, start it and then match revs to shift. Managed to get all the way to New London, but the smell was burning clutch all the way. Upon our arrival the Camaro again went to the local Chevy dealer for a new clutch. Got the car back and it could barely run, it was shaking itself to death, they had put in the wrong flywheel. Gave car back, and they replace everything again, told me that they put in a L88 clutch now so there would be no problems. This car was our only car for four years, new baby, car seats and all, Chevrolet warrenty covered all of the major repairs with not a wimper at all. Loved that car, along with all of the good and bad memories that came with it. It could run mid 13s in the quarter, with only a set of headers, replaced the cast iron intake and Quadrjet, with a Edlebrock and 660 cfm. My wife and I are celebrating our 50th this year, and if we could have only one of our cars back it would be that Z-28. Still have those .32 bullets
Nice car Mike! I liked the 1st, 2nd and the 3rd gen. Beautiful color! Can't wait to watch Barrett Jackson with you, Steve, Rick and crew.
I bought a 1972 4 speed Z28 from Sir Walter Chev. in Raleigh NC, same color blue except w. black stripes. It had the center console, black interior but w. wood grain interior trim. I so wish I had never sold that car.. Beautiful car, thanks for sharing your story.
Great video, Mike! It was awesome finding the Camaro. I'm glad you were able to get closure on it.
Thanks for sharing Mike! Love your work on Barrett-Jackson! I had a ‘79 Z/28, first car I bought and paid for myself. 2years in the oil pump went down, taking the engine with it. That allowed me to put my own version of small block in. I instantly doubled the horsepower and unleashed the beast always known as the Z/28. What a difference! Sold that car to have 3 great kids! Hope to one day replace it.
Outstanding Mr. Joy. I really enjoy seeing these cars being taken care of.
Love your Camaro story. I bought a 71 rally sport Z/28 new from the dealer. Loved driving it until the day I sold it, shortly after getting married.
Love ya Mike, keep up your awesomeness...!
MIKE, I had a 70 Z/28 same color combo when I was in high school 1972. Wish I had never sold it.
You and me both!
Congrats Mike, So happy for you. Always enjoy your commentary in all that you do. Look forward to seeing and hearing you in your future stories.
Thanks 👍
Thanks for the history on your car Mike. I agree that these are the best looking cars GM produced. 1970-1972 are probably the best years for any GM vehicle made. I cannot name a bad looking car from that period. I would say the early Vega is a close second for me as far as appearance, I always thought it looked like a miniature Camaro from the front. Cheers!
That is the most beautiful '72 Z28 I've seen in a long time. And I agree with you in the fact that the 2nd Gens were the best looking Camaros designed by GM. And that blue is gorgeous. Have fun with her Mike
Love to find out when my on TV car people are "real" car people! Thanks Mr. Joy.
2nd gen F-bodys have always been my favorite too. Mainly because I worked with my dad in a Chevy store, and they raced in IROC and the Trans Am series. I still remember that solid lifter and cam combo thumping. I had a friend who traded his 70 LT1, with Konis, lowered suspension among other mods for a 73 Z28. We both gravitated to Pontiac, he a TransAm, I a CanAm. Love your story.
Fantastic!
Thanks Mike, I had a 73 RS/Z28 in that color. Rebuilt the LT1 and put in a set of Recaro seats. It had the turbo 400 and I absolutely loved that car. Thanks again Mike. 👍👍
Nice ride Mike! Agree on the Rally Sport version--leave the option off. She's a beauty! Thanks for sharing!
I love my 72 Camaro. I've had it for over 30 years now. The 2nd Gen cars are my favorite.
Loved your story, Mike, about your '72 Z-28. The 1970 to 1973 Camaro, especially the Z-28, has always been my favorite. Thanks for the story.
Glad I found this, it’s like listening to an old friend.
I have a 1970 that I dearly love. G-comp subframe from Speedway motors 13 inch Wilwood brakes, and Hotchkis frame ties. It’s like driving a race car. I’m swapping the 383 stroker for a 6.2 LS now. I’ll never sell it. Beautiful car Mike!
Had a 1970 Rally Sport in high school Mike. Great memories!
Mike this is a great looking Z/28 hope to see it in person! John from the Lewisville PO.
Beautiful z28 mr.joy enjoy.
That's an awesome story love it I was 5 years old
I love your stories Mike. I can’t wait for Daytona to hear you cover NASCAR for another year.
Mike thanks for sharing your story, always love to hear about old hotrods and muscle cars ! ❤❤❤
Great car and great story Mike. The early 70s were the prettiest I think. I always liked the look of the split bumper and really like your explanation.
Great story mike, I currently own a 1971 Z28 Blue /w white stripes. My favorite car ever.
Great video, Mike. Beautiful car, love your passion for these cars. I always wanted a 1973 Z.
Beautiful camaro, your preference is exactly mine. Love that nose. Thanks for sharing 👍
Beautiful car Mike! My first car was a 78 Type LT that I bought from the original owner. Loved that car!
Great story. Happy for you that you found a car that brings back great memories and that you truly enjoy. It makes you smile when you drive it and isn’t that what it’s all about. I had a blue 79 Z28 4spd one of my favorite cars. Enjoy your new car .
I got a chance to talk to you at this years Rolex Reunion at Laguna, and asked “why a 2nd Gen for Vintage T\A racing…” and you told me the exact same story! Awesome thing about that conversation is… I now own a steel cowl induction hood that was ran in IMSA when your son’s car was an IMSA racer… thank you!
That's cool. Scott's car came to us with its 3" steel cowl induction hood and a stock flat one. I mentioned the IMSA hood to a Camaro owner at Monterey, and he bought it for his street Camaro. Happy ending!
@@Joy-Riding yea, I’m the one who bought it. 🎉
She’s a beauty! Mike. Love that year Z28
Great video and I love the early 2nd gens. But my favorite is my 1980 bill Mitchell hugger z28 (number 76 of 90 produced). I bought the car shortly before my 16th birthday. I’m 50 now and still enjoy it when ever I get the chance. Keep the awesome videos coming!
Amazing story Mike . Sweet Camaro . I’m a Camaro Fanatic myself. The Camaro’s I sold I want back . I still have my first one . I purchased it in 1985.
Beautiful car, I am glad you purchased a similar one to the one that you used to have years ago, sucks that you could not get your 1971 back, but hey the next best thing to a car that you had before is to get a similar car, once again beautiful car, you deserve it.
My favorite gen of Camaro and my favorite color combo. Nice ride!
I 100% agree with you on these being the premier Camaro. My father has his 1972 Camaro from high school, bought it in 1985. He traded the 307 from it for a used high compression 350 and shop time. The shop owners wanted the original 307 for the cylinder heads on another car they had at the time. It's truly astounding how much more premium these cars feel compared to Corvettes of the era. My grandfather's 64 Corvette felt flimsy and didnt inspire much comfort or handling confidence as a result. But these Camaros are the perfect sweet spot between sports car and luxury barge. Thanks for these videos, Mike!
My dream car. And the exact color with black interior. Nice car sir
Nice Z, Mike.
I had a 71 SS, with the same colors.
It had a big block, and a turbo 400. so didn't handle like a Z...but it was quick, and fun.
Ahh....the good old days, huh.
Good for you Mike. Very nice car.
I agree. Love the 70-73. I spent my childhood riding around in my aunt's rs split bumper. Gold with a vinyl top. Absolutely the bomb back in the day. When they came out, there was nothing like them. I myself had an 80 z28 4spd for years in the 90's and after putting a real engine in it, it was a fantastic car and I drove it until there was nothing left of it. Great cars. I moved on to a mustang and eventually now to mopars but I still love my old Camaro and 70-73 is the dream version.
I was a child in the early 70's but man 66-73 must have been great years to be a young man buying cars. Seems the best version of any muscle car happened in that short time with 69 being a stand out year for most cars. (my current project is a 69 barracuda 340)
Cheers.
Mike, I talked to you very briefly when you helped sponsor my friends flat track bike in CT.
I had a 70 1/2 Z, RS package. Had no motor, so we put a built 350 in it. Absolutely not stock.
A sleeper Z! I gobbled up a Trans Am 455 from a stop light. Good times.
Red with black stripes.
My favorite was my 1970 that was an RS. Wish I still had it. I had a 70, 71, & 73 prostreet all 3 were Z28s. The last one (73) was tubbed and a prostreet with huge tires. I loved that car, but 12 years later my younger brother owns it. He loves it and glad it is still in the family. However, I look for another every day. Like you, I'll get another one some day. Thanks for your video, enjoy your Z28. Sooner-Bo
Proud owner of an dark gray Camaro SS 2015 here in Sweden.
The last of the 5th gen.
i bought it almost stock 1 year ago and it now has Cold Air Intake/Headers with high flow cats and a Borla S-Type catback.
it also has a custom Tune which really woke up the engine.
HP is now close to 500.
The sound and driving experience is amazing.
why i wanted a 5th Gen
it was the Serie Hawaii 5-0s fault.
that black SS in the serie was so damn cool and now i have it.
Great video Mike! My wife and me ordered a Z28 Camaro in 1973 just before body by fisher went on strike didn’t get it until early 1974. Anyway it had the small bumper etts on the front full bumper. It was a 350 with quadrajet carb four barrel and 373 pos attraction. I love that car and regretted selling 2 years later when I was laid off and had a child on the way. Four years ago at the age of 70 I was able to buy another one at auction that had been restored. There is a picture on my UA-cam page. Thanks so much for the video and very interesting. I watch all the actions and have seen you on the Barrett Jackson.
Thanks Mike for giving the 2nd gen Camaro' it's long overlooked recognition. Since 2010, I've owned(3rd owner)an 1971 SS/RS split bumper that was built in Van Nuys, Ca. because Norwood, Ohio was on strike. In my nearly 14 yrs of ownership, I've seen a 'HUGE' increase in car lover interest. The sacred 1967-1969 Camaro is common place at all the shows. My 2nd gen split bumper's rarity garners it more compliments & thumbs-up every car show season. I'm proud to say, after 14 yrs of ownership, I'm finally installing a Vintage Air kit to an original factory A/C 1971 Camaro. I feel my 2024 A/C($'s)return venture is my toast to the Camaro's 2024 departure. I, like you, will take my 1971 2nd gen Camaro to my grave! "I wish all the best to to you & yours" this & every 'Holiday Season'!
Mike, 'your' love & appreciation of the early Gen2 Camaro means the world to your fellow Camaro enthusiasts. A car guy of your caliber openly celebrating the 2nd Gen Camaro over 50 years later is a true compliment. Thank YOU!
❤ Hi Mike... your story sounds much like mine. First car was a 71 RS Z28... traded on a new 79 Z28... hated the performance so I went a week later to buy it back at the dealership. It was pulling out as I was a block away...SOLD. later that summer I found a 72 RS Z28 ... cream yellow, black stripes and deluxe black interior. M22 with a 4.11 posi. Its been 45 years and I still own the car today. Love your NASCAR announcing...never knew you were a second gen Camaro fan.
2nd gen used to be my favorite body style until the 4th gen was introduced. My 96 Z28 is my all time favorite that will be back on the road in the spring.
Great Video! I can remember when my older brother was going to Chevrolet Dealerships looking for his dream car. His dream car was the famous 1970 LS6 SS Chevelle.
Well, there were none to be had anywhere in June of 1970. He settled for a beautiful cranberry red 454 360 HP LS5 with a four speed, consol, bucket seats and boy was it a beautiful car.
Oh yes, it had black vinyl interior. It was a stirp delete car and didn't have cowl induction. Why I am sharing this story, is because I was 16 when my brother was looking for his dream car in 1970.
As we visited the dealerships, my dream car was the 1970 Z28 that was front and center in most of the dealership show rooms we visited.
I was in love with the new design of the Camaro.
My brother on the other hand didn't like the new design at all. When I turned 18, in 1972 I started working for GM building city buses in Pontiac MI. If I could have got a loan to buy my dream car, 1972 Z28, I would have.
In 1973 the 5 mile per hour bumpers were introduced to all the auto manufactures. That design change took away my desire to own a Z28, along with gas prices going through the roof.
Muscle cars were pretty much forgotten about during those mundane times. I am 69 now and would love to own a pristine 1970 LT1 Z28, but the cost to do so is beyond my means.
Watching this video put a big grin on my face and brought back many wonderful memories. After my brothers LS5 454 Chevelle was stollen one after he bought it in the GM parking lot, he ended up with a 1970 SS Chevelle with a 472 ci open chambered heads, long tube headers, roller bearing solid lifter cam, dual point ignition and 13 to 1 compression. Oh yes, it had 4:88 gears set up for the quarter mile.
You could actually watch the gas gauge go down after opening up the single 950 Holley carb. The guy who sold the car to my brother raced it at the Lapeer Dragway and said with the single carb it turned 11:40's consistently.
With the staggered duel quad setup, according to him, it ran in the mid 10's. That was with slicks of course. One warm Saturday night on Woodward Avenue, while riding shotgun with my brother's buddy who owned a 1970 LT1 Yenko Deuce Nova, we ran across the guy who owned the Chevelle my brother ended up buying.
That night he was running the dual quad set up. Well, it wasn't much of a race. The Yenko Deuce was rarely beaten off the line because with the three-speed automatic trans and the his and hers hurst shifter you could just matt it and the car would launch hard with very little wheel spin. It had 4:10 gears and was set up for the quarter mile.
After second gear that Chevelle was beside us and stayed beside us for a bit before Mel, that's the guy's name who owned the Chevelle drove away like we were standing still. Out of all the cars I had seen on Woodward, that was by far the quickest one.
The closest one to the 472 ci. black with white stripes Chevelle was a red with black stripes 1970 SS Chevelle with a 427 all aluminum ZL1. The reason we knew it was a real ZL1, was because after the race the guy pulled over and let us look at the engine.
It was a rich kid who told us he took out the LS6 454 and replaced it with a ZL1 Chevrolet performance crate engine. One thing I will never forget about that race. After the Chevelle got traction and whizzed past us, the front tires were off the pavement just a bit. It was really pulling hard in second gear as it went past us.
From what I have read, the 427 ZL1 was 30 pounds heavier than a cast iron chevy small block. Such great memories. Those warm summer nights on Woodward Ave and the sound of two powerful V8's going through the gears next to one another is something you would have had to experience, to understand its awesomeness.
Yes, those are some found memories for sure. The time period for those awesome memories was 1970 -1973. Thanks again for sharing your dream car. It was a ride down memory lane for me. I agree, the second-generation Camaro, especially 70-72 was one of Chevrolet greatest designs. A retro version of that design would have been awesome to see. Oh well, the Camaro will always be remembered by many as one of Chevrolet best ever designs.
Nice car Mike , I’m starting to appreciate the second gen Camaro
Wes does a great job finding old cars , the Gold Monte Carlo SS454 is mine , my brother sent him a few pics and build sheet , found it in two days , great to know it’s still around and in great shape
I had a 1972 Camero Split Bumer round turn signal lights between the headlights SS/RS, 402ci, 350 turbo AT, 3.73 posi rear with air shocks, replaced engine with a built 13 to 1 pistons inside a 1965 Corvette 396ci rat engine, rap around front & rear spoilers, bright yellow exterior paint with black taillight panel, soft rubber 15 x 30 24 inch wide rear tires requiring the air shocks completely extended on the streets with lowering some when drag racing. This was the mid 1970's with the Sheriffs helping us block traffic on the county roads used for special occasion community racing. One sheriff would park at the quarter mile strip with parking 90 degrees to the road. We estimated ETs with stop watches and had an accurate mph from the sheriff's radar gun, with being accurate on staggered cars and only the leader of side by side cars. My Camero hit 135 at the strip and looked just like a Pro Streeter before Pro Streeters became a Pro Street. Was decent for the time, but I have been thinking about replicating it with a modern drive train supporting a tweeked 2023 Corvette Z06 DOCH Engine with around 1,500 hp. One thing it would not be is a "trailer queen sit around camp chairs car". I believe if you are going through the effort of building it the karma demands you drive and use it when ever possible.
Awesome car Mike! Love the blue with the white stripes. I have a ‘79 Z28. I love it. Such a good car. Originally it was my mom’s. If I could have any year Camaro, it would be a 70 1/2-73 followed by a ‘68. My cousin had a ‘73 Camaro with the full length bumper. He absolutely beat the crap out of it. If I had to choose, I would prefer the split bumper RS. I always enjoyed you on TV and now even more since we both love those early second generation Camaro’s. All the best!
Big 2nd gen..lover too..very nice peice....you must enjoy it!
The 72 is not just my favorite Z28, but my favorite car. I aswell love the single bumper. Camaros are my favorite cars, and I'm lucky enough to have a 81 Z28. Love your car
Cool story about your Camaro. I had a 70 Camaro back in 1999, regret selling that car to this day.
I never knew they changed the ride height on the Camaro. That explains a lot. I had a 72 and it seemed too high to me. But that changed when I dropped a BB in it. Never changed the springs from the small block. Was perfect to me then.
So thanks for that tidbit of information.
Super nice Z28, I have a 73 Z28 RS, red with black strips. Like you, I love the 70-73 Camaro !!
Beautiful car
I have always loved the blue color on Chevys. A life time ago when I was a kid my family would go to the sand dunes along lake Michigan and this guy had a early 70s Chevy blazer with that color blue and white rag top over back seats beautiful truck. Fell in love with that color.
I love your story, and I, too, had a 1970 Z28 Camaro that I did quite a few things to it. I removed the smog controls, put headers on them, and tweaked the engine. I loved the car. My only complaint was the cost of running and maintaining it since I was still in High School. I was forced to sell mine as time passed, and responsibilities came first. I still have great memories.
👍👍. I have 2 77-79 Camaros i use for dirt track racing. Glad i found your channel. You have always been a favorites
What a great story.....😊 🤗 😊
One of my favorite body styles.
It’s a cherish-able car. I was always inspired by that design. I had no idea the split bumper made for a heavier car, but I love that RS front end as well
Nice.
Nice car, my favorite color
So glad I found your channel. The stories you tell are absolutely captivating. And, for what it's worth, I agree....I prefer the second gen Camaros as well. Thank as always ~ Chuck
Thank you for this. Like you my first car in high school 1970 Z28 with the full bumper and no console with 4 on the floor, your absolutely right
Holy cow, a Mike Joy YT channel! Awesome.
Great looking car, my buddy in high school 1983-84 had one like that but the split bumper front while I had a gold Ttop 1978 Z28! We were the only 2 kids in our small country school in Georgia that had Z28s ✌💖☮
Congrats MJ, this is your pal from bringatrailer, Im glad you found another z28. You have been looking for a while. Merry xmas to you and the family. Hope Scott gets to wheel it too.. cheers 🍻 sir..Dan
Beautiful Camaro Z/28! I love the 2nd generation Camaros, having owned a '77 Z/28. I'm currently looking for a 78-81 Z/28 now. Good luck. Enjoy!
Beautiful 2nd Gen Camaro Mike.Been watching your videos and great to see you love old Chevys too.I myself have a 69 Camaro owned for 22yrs.What a great feeling it is to drive around in 1st and 2nd gen Camaro 😁👍
Glad to hear you replaced the 71 with a real nice and rare 72 Z. Someday I hope my friend Mike will dig out a couple of pictures of your old 71 when he owned it in the 80's.
Interesting enough he autocrossed the 71 back in the day too!
Wow! Would love to see the photos when you find them !
Beautiful car i have a 99 Z28 had her 13 years. Luv it will never sell
Fantastic voice! 👍🏻
Nice car Mike..
I also prefer 2nd generation camaro 70-81s.
And I really enjoy listening to you telling the stories.
You are awesome..
This styling is very similar to the Vega in my opinion. Both designs are aesthetically appealing.
Love the car , my dad ordered a 72 ss 350 m21 373 posi. Manual windows no air nice and light same blue no console loved that car . My favorite is a 1970 1/2 z28 rs. Tall spoiler, adjustable headrests. My dad went from a 1966 tr4 irs to the camaro , I know you like the British sports cars and my dads 1971 p1800.
👍I am missing the 72 split bumper rs 350 4 bolt/automatic
GM of this era rattled like crazy
Hey Mike nice Z, my first and favorite Camaro was my 67 SS that had a Bill Jenkins engine, I bought it in 1978, used it and street raced it had a lot of fun, over the years I’ve had other Camaros, and now I have a 71 Z with original drivetrain in mulsane blue with white stripes, thanks for sharing your story
I currently own a Hugger Orange 1970 RS. I agree that the ‘70-‘73 Camaros are some of the best looking cars GM ever produced. I love your ‘72 Z/28- beautiful car.
Lost Muscle Cars is a GREAT site!
I understand about not being able to “go home” with your original car.
I used to own a Daytona Yellow 1969 RS Z/28 that I would love to have back. I actually tracked the car down on Lost Muscle Cars earlier this year and have had several conversations with the current owner, who offered the car back to me, but it was out of my price range.
On a side note, something that you may want to look into is that I don’t believe the Muncie transmission was used after 1974- I believe GM went to the Borg-Warner Super T-10.
Great story- thanks for sharing.
My friend had a 1970 with a 307 and Powerglide, red, he called it the Red Hog and it was quick. He won a lot of money. The competition were blown away (and embarrassed when they found out the drive train!)
I had a '69 Z/28 . I loved that car. A friend tweeled the tuning for me and it was a very fast !!! I really like your car !!! In fact I have been looking for a"70-73 Z/28 ,they are hard to find with original drivetrain .