How to Identify a 1969 Camaro

The Chevrolet Camaro has been a favorite of car enthusiasts ever since it was first released in 1966. These first-generation, early model Camaros still tend to be preferred by Camaro lovers because of their sporty design. Although there are many distinguishing characteristics that are used to identify a Camaro manufactured between the years of 1966 to 1969, in order to narrow it down the specific year you have to do a little research.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for the following model number on the cowl tag: 12437. The cowl tag is a silver metal plate that is located on the firewall, which is the section that separates the engine compartment from the cab of the vehicle. You also want to look for an ID code of X33 or X77.

2. Look on the VIN tag or on the cowl tag and verify that the car was manufactured at one of the following locations: Norwood, Ohio or Los Angeles, California.

3. Look for an engine code of DZ. The engine code is stamped just under the engine head on the passenger side of the car . It has a series of numbers followed by the DZ designation.

4. Look for one of the following four ID codes: 3932386, 3932388, 3956618 and 3970010. The ID code is stamped directly beside the engine code, on the driver's side of the vehicle.

5. Verify that there is no air conditioning installed in the vehicle.

6. Verify that it is a four-speed transmission as that was the original factory installed transmission.

Tips & Warnings

• The addition of options such as air conditioning that have been installed later does not mean that it is not authentic. However these aftermarket parts do lower the value of the car. Not all '69 Camaros had body stripes down the length of the car. Although Camaros with body stripes are far more popular and more valuable, the absence of stripes does not mean it is not authentic.

References

• AutoMedia.com

[meotch]

on 10/5/2009 good article - how about how to tell a '67, '68, and '69 pontiac firebird 400 apart?? :)