The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro 427 COPO, an iconic muscle car that has captivated the automotive world for decades, stands out not just for its roaring engine and sleek design but for its ability to bridge the past and the present. When Tim Allen, renowned actor and car enthusiast, added this classic to his extensive collection, he did more than just acquire a piece of automotive history—he brought to life a car that embodies the spirit of unfiltered American performance. From its original COPO heritage to its modern restoration, Allen’s Camaro is a perfect marriage of old-school muscle and contemporary performance. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the story of this car and explore why it continues to be a standout piece in the world of classic cars.

The Birth of the Iconic Camaro COPO

The Chevrolet Camaro was first introduced in 1967 as a response to Ford’s immensely popular Mustang. By 1968, the Camaro had quickly solidified its position as a fierce competitor in the muscle car market. Among the many versions of the Camaro, the COPO (Central Office Production Order) edition holds a special place. Designed for high-performance buyers who wanted more power than the factory-issue versions, the COPO Camaro was equipped with the legendary 427 cubic-inch V8 engine. This engine produced a staggering 425 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, making the COPO a true powerhouse.

The 1968 COPO Camaro wasn’t just about raw power; it was also about stealth. It was what many would consider a “sleeper” car—a machine capable of blowing the competition away, all while retaining the subtle, factory-approved look. For enthusiasts who wanted the muscle of a big-block V8 but didn’t want to announce it to the world, the COPO Camaro was the perfect choice.

Video

Check out this video on Jay Leno’s Garage featuring Tim Allen’s 1968 Camaro 427 COPO. Watch to see why this muscle car is a true classic!

Tim Allen’s Passion for Classic American Muscle Cars

For Tim Allen, his love for classic American cars isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifelong passion. Over the years, he’s accumulated an impressive collection of vehicles, including a number of muscle cars that have earned him the respect of automotive aficionados worldwide. When it came to the 1968 Camaro, Allen’s vision was clear: he wanted to honor the car’s roots while ensuring it was equipped for the modern road. The design and performance were just as important as the history it represented.

What makes Allen’s Camaro stand out even more is his connection to the Detroit car scene, particularly Woodward Avenue—famous for its street racing culture. Allen’s Camaro was built with the nostalgia of those days in mind, ensuring that the car was as authentic to its era as possible. With the help of OER restoration parts and Classic Industries, Allen was able to re-create the period-correct bumpers, window glass, and rear lamp lenses, enhancing the car’s nostalgic appeal while maintaining a modern edge.

Interior Details: Classic Design with Modern Comfort

The interior of Tim Allen’s 1968 Chevrolet Camaro 427 COPO perfectly blends the car’s vintage charm with modern upgrades. Classic bucket seats, upholstered in leather, provide comfort and support for high-performance driving. The dashboard retains its original muscle car layout, featuring simple yet functional gauges, offering all the essential information for the driver.

The steering wheel is a classic three-spoke design with wood accents, giving the driver a tactile connection to the road. The iconic Hurst shifter on the center console ties into the car’s performance-focused history. While staying true to the 1968 design, Allen’s Camaro has been updated with modern touches that improve the driving experience without compromising its classic look.

With an emphasis on functionality and style, the interior ensures both a nostalgic and comfortable ride, balancing the muscle car’s raw power with the modern demands of driving performance.

Restoration and Modern Enhancements

While the Camaro’s vintage roots are important, Allen’s restoration process wasn’t about simply bringing it back to factory standards. He made sure to add modern touches that would make the car not only a collector’s dream but also a car that could hold its own on the road today.

One of the most significant upgrades was the addition of the Detroit Speed Inc. suspension. This modern suspension system offers improved handling and stability, ensuring that Allen’s Camaro could handle tight corners and high-speed straights with ease. Additionally, the car was outfitted with a set of Brembo brakes—14-inch discs on all four corners with six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear. These brakes ensure that the Camaro, despite its enormous power, can be safely stopped at any given moment.

Perhaps the most exciting modification is the installation of a GM Performance LS7 crate engine. This 7.0-liter V8 engine generates 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, adding a modern layer of muscle to the classic design. With this engine under the hood, the 1968 Camaro is as much of a beast today as it was when it first rolled off the assembly line.

Test Drive with Jay Leno: A True Test of Power

The real magic of Tim Allen’s 1968 Camaro came to life when he took it out for a spin with the legendary Jay Leno in an episode of Jay Leno’s Garage. With the sun shining down and the roads of Southern California as their backdrop, the two car enthusiasts took to the winding roads to test out the Camaro’s performance. The car’s roar was unmistakable, and its agile handling showcased the success of the modern suspension system and brakes.

As they roared through the California countryside, Leno couldn’t help but remark on the incredible combination of power, handling, and comfort that Allen’s Camaro provided. It was a blend of classic muscle and modern technology, and it was evident that this Camaro was not just a museum piece but a car meant to be driven and enjoyed.

The episode gave viewers a firsthand look at just how well the Camaro performed in modern conditions. From the powerful acceleration to the impressive braking power, Allen’s Camaro proved that the best of both worlds could come together seamlessly. Leno and Allen’s drive further solidified the car’s place as a true modern classic.

The Value and Legacy of the 1968 COPO Camaro

Back in 1968, the COPO 427 Camaro was a factory special edition that could be purchased for around $4,000. However, fast forward to today, and the value of these cars has skyrocketed. A well-maintained COPO Camaro can fetch anywhere from $250,000 to $500,000, depending on its condition and originality. Given Tim Allen’s ownership and his status as a car collector, his personal 1968 Camaro would likely command an even higher price if ever sold.

For many, the 1968 Chevrolet Camaro 427 COPO represents a piece of automotive history—an era when muscle cars were designed for raw power and unrelenting performance. Tim Allen’s Camaro not only honors that legacy but also brings it into the modern era, making it a car that will continue to inspire car enthusiasts for generations to come.

Video

Don’t miss this video on the untold story of the 427 Super Camaros. Watch to uncover the fascinating history behind these iconic muscle cars!

Conclusion: The 1968 Camaro COPO in Tim Allen’s Collection

Tim Allen’s 1968 Chevrolet Camaro 427 COPO isn’t just a car—it’s a tribute to an era of unfiltered American performance. With its powerful engine, aggressive stance, and modern upgrades, it’s a perfect representation of the passion that fuels the classic car world. Whether it’s tearing up the streets of Southern California or sitting proudly in Allen’s collection, the 1968 COPO Camaro stands as a timeless symbol of automotive excellence.

For car lovers, this Camaro is more than just a muscle car; it’s a testament to the lasting impact of American automotive design and engineering. Tim Allen’s vision of blending the old with the new ensures that his 1968 Camaro COPO will remain a standout in the world of vintage cars for many years to come.