Lucas Bell 
The muscle car era of the 1960s and early 1970s was arguably the high-point of the American automotive industry. From their beautiful styling to their raucous powertrains, these machines still help to define expectations for the segment today. But if humanity was forced to choose only one of these icons to represent the era, chances are the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 would be at the top of the list. In the decades since it left production, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro has become a dominant force in the world of aftermarket builds, and has been the leading mainstay of SEMA’s Battle of the Builders competition. This L88 V8-powered Camaro Z/28 wasn’t built for SEMA, but it may as well have been based on its presence. Thanks to the team at RK Motors, someone just got to take this big-block muscle car home.
RK Motors is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and they focus exclusively on high-grade classic cars and collectible automobiles. This 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 falls into both of those categories, thanks to the L88 V8 engine that sits under its hood. This engine was the baddest big-block Chevrolet had on offer from 1967-1969, before the all-aluminum ZL1 V8 made its debut. Measuring in at 427 cubic-inches, this particular L88 V8 has been modified to make 700 horsepower with a 12.5:1 compression ratio. This was accomplished with help from Junior Johnson & Associates, who blueprinted and balanced the short block. From there, Brodix heads, Crane rockers, Isky lifters, an Isky solid roller cam, and Hedman Husler headers come into play. If you need more power, you can tap into the NOS Pro Shot Fogger system for 400 more horsepower on a whim.
The built motor is mated to a three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic 400, which features a 5,000 RPM stall convertor. Surrounding the powertrain is a fully-built chassis, which has been professionally back-halved for drag racing. RK Motors notes the Camaro Z/28’s factory suspension has been replaced with QA-1 coil-over-shocks and tubular control arms up front, with a coil-over four-link out back. The rear end is a narrowed and reinforced 9-inch unit from the team at Mark Williams Enterprises. Putting the power to the ground is a set of 5-inch Weld Pro Star wheels wrapped in Mickey Thompson slicks. The rears measure in at 33×19.50-inches, which certainly brings a menacing ascetic to the build.
The bodywork of this RK Motors Camaro Z/28 is slightly customized, but features new-old-stock parts from General Motors. The only piece that isn’t factory correct is the cowl-hood, which is made of fiberglass. The same can’t be said for the interior, which is prepped for some runs down the strip. AutoMeter gauges, five-point Simpson camlock safety harnesses, and a body-matched roll bar accent the vintage equipment inside.
RK Motors didn’t list the sales price for this built 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, which likely means was rather high. That said, it is hard to beat an L88 V8-powered muscle car, especially when it makes 700 all-motor horsepower. There are plenty of well-heeled buyers out there who love and respect the style of these first-gen Camaros, and we’re sure that the dealer had no trouble finding this thing a home. Here’s to hoping the new owner drives the thing, however.
