Zac Quinn 
The second generation of the Chevrolet Camaro has some iconic styling that was inspired by Italian grand touring cars of the era. However, some would say it was a bit too long. Luckily, if that is a complaint you have, you could be quite happy with this specific 1976 Camaro Z/28 build as it’s pretty stubby, and no, that’s not a distortion in the photo.
This one-of-a-kind car has recently been listed on TheSamba.com, and though it may look like a Camaro, it’s actually a classic Volkswagen Beetle. The entire body was built using a single-piece fiberglass body, imitating the design of the second-generation Camaro Z/28. However, to ensure the body fits the Beetle frame, it has been shrunk by a full 14 inches, which gives the car the stubby look we see in the photos.
Just from looking at it, it’s a proper 1970s dream build. The body is airbrushed and pinstriped over a rich Maserati Mediterranean Blue. If one didn’t know any better, they might perceive this as a regular Restomod for the 1976 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28. The car runs a heavily-tuned 2.3-liter VW engine that produces 230 horsepower, which is plenty to send this compact Camaro down the pavement. All that power is sent to the rear wheels, with the transmission gaining solid mounts and a performance clutch and flywheel to handle the power. Other niceties include a set of coilovers and disc brakes at all four corners.
Performance-wise, this thing could be competitive with an authentic 1976 Chevy Camaro Z/28. The 1970s was the beginning of what’s known as the Malaise Era, and the Camaro’s engines were getting choked down by early emissions technology. The Z/28 boasted a 350 cubic inch V8, producing only 185 horsepower, and even less in California. By comparison, a Z/28 from the 1970 model year made 360 ponies with the LT-1 engine it had.
Located in Ballston Spa, New York, the owner wants to sell this VW Beetle Camaro for $22,500. Although, if you are interested in purchasing this car, be sure to have a garage or cover for it, as there’s no roof, meaning the interior will constantly be exposed to the elements. But if you get it, you’ll be an instant standout during the annual Woodward Dream Cruise.
