The L89 engine option was the highest
performance motor available as an RPO (Regular Production Order)
in a 69 Camaro convertible. The COPO (Central Office Production
Order) 9560 and 9561 427’s were produced in the hardtop Camaros
only. The L89 was a 375 HP 396 big block with aluminum heads. It
was a substantially more costly option than the L78 375 HP 396
which had cast iron heads. The L89 option was $710.95, which was a
significant chunk of change to the average customer in 1969. This
was approximately $400 more than the L78 engine option, which had
the same 375 HP rating. The main advantage of the aluminum heads
on L89 Camaro’s was the weight savings in the nose of the car
where it was needed the most.
There were approximately eleven 1969 L89 Camaro
convertibles produced. This is the only known example of a 69 L89
Camaro convertible to be surviving today. It was found in a poor
state of condition when it was discovered. The original engine
block and parts were in the trunk and you could see daylight
through the floor pans in a couple of spots. A major restoration
transpired over a two year period by Roger Gibson of Kelso,
Missouri. The floor pans, as well as a couple places that had a
rust spot, were meticulously replaced with new factory sheet
metal. Extreme measures were taken to ensure that every weld or
spot weld was replicated as done at the factory. The result was a
stunning and impeccable restoration.
This RS/SS L89 Camaro convertible was delivered
new at the Chevrolet/GMC/Pontiac/Oldsmobile dealership Grover Auto
Co. in Zumbrota Minn. Its invoice lists it as RS/SS Camaro
convertible L89 aluminum head 375 HP 396 cu. in, Muncie M22
close-ratio 4-speed, 3.31 posi 12-bolt rear axle, power front disc
brakes, F70x15 white letter tires, dual exhaust with bright tips,
style trim, custom interior, bucket seats, center console, AM/FM
radio, stereo tape system, power convertible top, tinted glass,
dual head restraints, and heavy duty battery.
