Camaro RS Information

Introduced for the original Chevrolet Camaro in 1967, the Rally Sport (RS) package has been available to buyers of the iconic pony car wishing to add to the appearance of their vehicle. It was offered on Camaros from 1967-1973, 1975-1980, 1989-1992, 1996-2002, and the model beginning in 2010. Coupled with the Super Sport (SS) performance package, it has added to the variety and collectability of the popular Camaro.

Origins

The RS package appeared in 1967 with the introduction of the first Camaros. From the beginning, drivers could order a Camaro from the Chevrolet factory with the SS and/or RS package (when combined, the car was known as a Camaro RS/SS).

Making these optional packages available to buyers was a direct response to similar packages offered for the Ford Mustang. Most notably, the Mustang GT was offered starting in 1965. When the Camaro was introduced as a competing vehicle for Chevy, the RS and SS packages were a natural part of its initial marketing.

While the SS was intended to be a performance-oriented package with an emphasis on improved mechanics, the RS was intended as an appearance package. The 1967 version offered unique headlights and premium interior trim.

History

Introduced in 1970, the second-generation Camaro also features an optional RS package. This time the RS gave buyers a unique front bumper and grill. With the addition of the Z/28 and LT-1 packages, the RS remained the primary appearance package.

In 1974 no RS option was offered, but it returned in 1975 to include a two-tone paint job and pin striping. The RS package was offered in various combinations with the LT-1, SS, and Z/28 over the years.

In 1981 the RS was again absent from the Camaro lineup. The Camaro was redesigned for 1982, but the RS did not reappear until 1989. At this time it was no longer referred to by its original full "Rally Sport" name and included several exterior appearance modifications that essentially made the base Camaro resemble the more powerful Z28 version.

Again the Camaro was redesigned for 1993, with the new RS coming in 1996. This time the RS included ground effects and a spoiler on the V6-powered coupe.

Camaro production ceased in 2002 for the first time in 35 years.

Reintroduced for 2010, the fifth generation Camaro features an RS package that includes custom taillights, a spoiler, large 20" wheels, and HID headlights.

Identification

Most Camaros equipped with the RS package feature an "RS" emblem somewhere on the vehicle's body. Failing this, it can be tricky to identify a Camaro with the RS package without being aware of the specific features of the RS package for that particular option year. Complicating matters, many of the RS options were also included (sometimes with slight differences) as part of another package such as the SS of Z/28. Aftermarket modifications can make the identification of an RS nearly impossible.

Popularity

Just as the popularity of the Camaro has waxed and waned over the years, so too has the RS as an option. Generally marketed to buyers of the lower-priced V6-powered models, it gave younger buyers an added incentive. By offering the RS package only on certain model years, Chevrolet was able to create the appearance of always having a new car on the market even when the actual differences from what was already available were sometimes very slight.

Influence

Just as the RS package was inspired by the Mustang's GT option, Chevy's bevy of options helped establish the culture of option packages and uniquely appointed cars that persists today. It can be seen as one chapter in the evolution of automobile tuning and evidence of American drivers' desire for individuality in their automobiles.

References

• Wikipedia: Camaro
• Edmunds: History of the Camaro

Resources

• Wikipedia: Camaro