1969 Camaro RS-SS L89 396-375HP Convertible

The L89 engine option was the highest performance motor available as an RPO (Regular Production Order) in a 1969 Camaro convertible. The COPO (Central Office Production Order) 9560 and 9561 427s 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.