Cheap Speed: 1999 Chevrolet Camaro SS – Sold?

February 17, 2023, Update – We confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found, we’re assuming this ride is “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The fourth-generation Chevrolet Camaro is an overlooked and unloved muscle car from the middle 90s. The third-generation models have appreciated nicely over the last few years to the point that a time-warp survivor will pay you back $20,000 or more. The fourth-generation model is still available for relative peanuts, including the more desirable trims and options, such as a Z28 with a six-speed manual. This 1999 Chevrolet Camaro is the even more sought-after SS trim with the preferred manual gearbox and a T-top roof panel for the “off-season” price of $9,995.  We spotted this Camaro in January 2023 on Craigslist on Boston’s North Shore for $9,995. Comparing that price against the Classic.com model guide shows that the seller is indeed asking fair money, given that the average selling price is pegged at $15,221:

There’s a push-pull for some enthusiasts regarding American muscle cars. If you’re accustomed to European cars, part of you knows you’re likely paying more to maintain the car than your buddy with the 5.0 Mustang, yet his project is quicker out of the gate than yours. Sure, the argument always dissolves into a discussion about “Well, what happens when the road turns curvy” and then unkind words are said, and feelings are hurt. At some point, however, you might want to stop prioritizing backroad carving and enjoy the noise and fury of a good straight-line speed car like a Camaro. Upgrades are plentiful, and the handling issues can be addressed with firmer shocks, bigger sway bars, and a set of high-performance tires. As far as the image of one car versus another, well – that’s a subjective matter.

The MotorWeek Retro Review YouTube Channel features this vintage comparison test of the 1998 Ford Mustang Cobra versus the Camaro Z28 SS:

The fairly steep drop in interior quality is the greatest drawback when comparing a car like this Camaro to a Boxster or a 3-Series. Sure, a performance car should be singularly focused on being the fastest around a road course and a terror in the twisties, but how often do you really tap into those capabilities daily? That’s where you might reconsider your priorities, as a car like a Boxster is still a pleasant place to spend time even when you’re just commuting around town. But here’s what gets me: when this Camaro is hitting 130,000 miles on the odometer, your parts bill will still be laughably cheap, whereas a car like the Boxster may start to tick up a bit. Plus, the seller of this Camaro has already replaced the battery, alternator, and front calipers, so it should be good to go for some time. Personally, I’d ditch the billet alloys in favor of stock SS wheels, which will change the perception of this muscle car dramatically.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1999 Camaro SS, LS one V-8, six-speed standard, T roofs, leather interior, billet specialty alloys, Magna flow exhaust, recent service includes a new battery, alternator, front calipers, nice overall condition, off-season priced at $9995
*can be seen Monday 1/9 and not before.“

Straightline speed or backroads bombing: would owning a Camaro like this sway your decision?