Dick Harrell was known as “Mr. Chevrolet,” the drag racer and performance tuner then opening up Dick Harrell’s Performance Center in Kansas City, Missouri, in the late 1960s. Collaborating with Bill Allen Chevrolet, early 1969 saw Harrell work his magic on a small series of COPO Camaros, that had been ordered through the Allen dealership. Only five are known to exist, and this one is set to head to auction via Mecums and it is estimated that the Camaro might well fetch $200,000 to $250,000.
Glacier Blue Livery Looks Absolutely Stunning
Everyone loves a Camaro, and this is such a special example. Finished in a stunning Glacier Blue, this Camaro was built on June 30, 1969, and is the only example to feature three Harrell modifications. These include an American Racing Products rear spoiler, contrasting wide stripe on the cowl-induction hood, and matching stripes on the doors and quarter panels. It was built to COPO 9561 spec, which sees it powered by a MO-suffix L72 427 CI V8 engine. That is mated with a CX-code 400Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed transmission.
Original L72 Engine Replaced With An LS1
The COPO spec also included a ZL2 cowl-induction steel hood, heavy-duty four-core radiator, F41 high-performance suspension, and finally, power front disc brakes. In 1983, the original L72 engine in the car was replaced with a LE-suffix 1969 LS1 427 CI V-8 with 512 castings, and it now has a CO-code Turbo 400 transmission.
The car has undergone considerable work in recent years, with a preservation restoration completed back in 2019. That thankfully retained the original sheet metal, and other original components wherever it was possible. Originally, the car was one of two shop demonstrators from 1969-1970; the car was sold to its first owner as a used car in February 1971.
Restored To Its 1971 Day 2 Appearance
The car has been recreated to the car's 1971 Day 2 appearance, with an estimated 500 hours being invested into the body prep and paint in order to do so. Of the four original Dick Harrell emblems, four of them are original to this one-of-a-kind Camaro. Mecum is offering full documentation with the car, which includes a huge digital photo portfolio of all the work performed on the car plus the original invoice. This is an ultra-rare classic, that will make a fine addition to any muscle car lovers collection.
Source: Mecum Auctions