Who built and sold the first 427 Camaros?

[1967Z28]

Thanks, Stefano. That is some neat information. I hadn't heard about that vault in the basement. It does seem to make sense that some of the high-profile dealers were thinking of swapping big blocks into Camaros right from the start but I don't recall ever hearing of one built prior to approximately December '66. Has anybody seen an earlier 427 (or 396) dealer-conversion prior to 12/66? Who currently has the earliest known 427 dealer-converted (or Motion, or Bill Thomas) Camaro?

-Jon

[Stefano]

Still don't know for certain. But based on the research and info we have, we know that the 427 Conversions were ready to roll prior to Dec '66. Nickey was advertising 3 "ready to drive away" 427 Conversions in at least one magazine dated November 1966.

The objective was to get 50 completed and sold as soon as possible. If you look at the initial advertised price of the conversion Camaros you will see that they were not holding out for big profits.

The factory did not hesitate to roll out the SS 350 Camaro, as it was more profitable than a std base Camaro and there was a pent up demand for GMs new "Pony" car.

[copo-2]

In a dated document of 10-09-66,written and signed by Jim Tice, who was President of the American Hot Rod Association.

This document was written to Nickey Chevrolet (Dick Harrell) advising them of their Technical Committee certifying the legality of 396-427 engines into the 67 Camaro, as a dealer option. Quote: Until further notice, all work must be performed by Nickey Chevrolet or its agent. These cars will be eligible for regular formula class participation during the 67 AHRA drag racing season.

It further states, We need information from you as soon as possible as to how many of these units you plan to build? We hope that this ruling will benefit our stock type racing shows and we trust this will be of service to you. Ray

[kwhizz]

Seems to me that Nickey was converting Camaros soon after the first trailer arrived.....I had my L-79 Nova at the time and would go there on Saturdays to see what was being converted during the week.....That was in the Fall of 66 for sure.....

Ken

[1967Z28]

Great information. Thanks, guys.

I found a road test comparison from the summer of '67 between a Dana and a Nickey Camaro. I will try and scan it and get it posted.

-Jon

[copo-2]

Any One know when the Camaro officially was introduced and became available to the general public?

[PeteLeathersac]

I think Sept. 26'th, 1966 is the most quoted date but there's references to Sept. 21'st also the 29'th?? .

~ Pete