The 1968 Camaro RS SS represents the pinnacle of second-generation Camaro engineering, a model year that solidified the car's reputation as a legitimate performance machine. This specific configuration moved beyond the stylish RS appearance package to deliver serious power under the hood, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors today. Understanding the nuances of the 1968 model year helps distinguish it from the base and RS-only variants that preceded it.
Defining the RS and SS Monikers
To appreciate the 1968 Camaro RS SS, one must first understand the hierarchy of the model year. The RS package was an appearance and handling enhancement, featuring hidden headlights and a distinctive rear panel. The SS designation, however, was reserved for the top-tier performance models equipped with the potent 396 cubic-inch V8 engine. Therefore, an RS model could be standard, but an RS SS model was always a high-performance variant.
The Heart of the Machine: Engine Options
The primary allure of the 1968 Camaro RS SS lies in its powerful powertrain options. While the base RS might have carried a 327 V8, the RS SS came exclusively with the 396ci V8, producing 375 horsepower. This was a massive leap in power, designed to compete directly with the Ford Mustang 428 Cobra Jet. For 1969, the option list expanded to include the legendary 427 L72 engine, capable of 425 horsepower, making the RS SS an absolute brute on the street or strip.
Performance Specifications and Engineering
The engineering behind the 396 and 427 engines was robust, designed to handle the immense torque they produced. These big-block engines were mated to either a sturdy 3-speed manual or the optional Muncie 4-speed for enthusiasts seeking ultimate control. The suspension was bolstered over the standard RS, featuring heavy-duty shocks and sway bars to manage the power and keep the car planted through corners, a critical factor for its performance image.
Distinctive Styling and Interior
Visually, the 1968 Camaro RS SS is easily identified by its aggressive front end, defined by the hidden headlamps and the iconic RS nose piece. The rear featured a distinctive louvered rear window and a blacked-out rear panel, giving the car a menacing stance. While the interior retained the basic driver-focused layout, RS SS models often came with upgraded bucket seats and a console, along with specific gauge clusters that highlighted their performance nature.
Collector Value and Modern Relevance
Original 1968 Camaro RS SS models have become highly sought-after collectibles, with values appreciating significantly over the decades. Cars in original, unrestored condition command a premium, while restored examples can fetch six figures depending on engine option and originality. This enduring popularity has also made the RS SS a prime candidate for modern restorations and replica builds, ensuring its legacy lives on in both classic and modified forms.
Legacy in Popular Culture
The 1968 Camaro RS SS cemented its place in automotive history not just through specifications, but through its presence. It became the icon of the muscle car era, symbolizing American performance and design. Its influence can be seen in countless films, television shows, and video games, where it remains the definitive representation of the Camaro's aggressive heritage and the spirit of the late 1960s.
