The Best Classic Chevy's and GM's From Carlisle 2024

The 2024 Carlisle GM Nationals was a spectacular gathering for car enthusiasts, particularly those with a love for classic American muscle cars. Among the wide array of vehicles on display, a few iconic models stood out, blending rich history, rare designs, and the kind of engineering that defined a golden era of automobiles. Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the show’s most intriguing cars, along with their fascinating backstories.

The 1967 Camaro Pace Car: An Icon of Quiet Power

One of the most talked-about vehicles at the show was the 1967 Camaro Pace Car, a car that exudes quiet luxury while maintaining its sporty appeal. Owner Phil shared the intriguing history of this particular model, originally built with a 396 engine and 375 horsepower. However, due to noise concerns on the racetrack, GM detuned the engine for quieter operation, reverting the powerful L78 engine to a 396 with 325 horsepower.

Phil’s Camaro was a festival car, designated for dignitary use during the 500 Festival Parade. The car even boasts a modified wiring harness, a unique relic from when it was prepared to tow trailers — though it never did. Notably, this car carried some famous faces, including the stars of the TV show Bonanza, making it not just an automotive legend but a cultural one as well.

The Rare 1968 Yenko Camaro: Power with a Purpose

Another standout was the 1968 Yenko Camaro, a true piece of muscle car history. This model was the first year the iconic Yenko badge appeared on the car, and it packs a serious punch. Originally starting as a 396 model, it was transformed by the Yenko team into a 427 beast. What makes the 1968 Yenko Camaro even more special is the Pontiac wheels it wears due to their extra width for improved traction.

One of the most fascinating details about this car is that it remains a one-owner vehicle. George Edwards, the man who bought this car brand new in 1968, is still its proud owner today. This adds a rare, personal touch to an already remarkable vehicle.

Dick Harrell’s 1969 Camaro: A Unique Muscle Car Legend

For fans of racing history, the 1969 Dick Harrell Camaro on display was a thrilling sight. Known as "Mr. Chevrolet," Dick Harrell made a name for himself by dropping 427 big-block engines into Camaros, Chevelles, and Novas, leaving a legacy that helped define the muscle car era. This particular Camaro is one of only a few built with a special two four-barrel carburetor setup, making it an ultra-rare sight.

The story of this car's restoration is equally compelling. After being damaged in a fire, the original owner requested another setup from Harrell himself, and today, the car is restored to its former glory with its distinctive engine configuration intact.

The Elusive 1969 COPO Chevelle: A True Supercar

Another showstopper was the 1969 COPO Chevelle. These cars were part of GM’s Central Office Production Order (COPO) program, which allowed dealerships to request non-standard features on cars. The COPO Chevelle featured a 427 big-block engine and was built for speed and performance. The “double COPO” version on display was even more special, featuring both the 427 engine and a sports car conversion package for enhanced handling.

With only 323 of these cars made, and an even smaller number converted into Yenko Super Chevelles, this COPO car is a testament to GM’s ability to combine power, style, and exclusivity.

A Tribute to Yenko Deuce Novas

Lastly, the 1970 Yenko Deuce Novas were a rare and exciting addition to the show. Owner Joe’s beautiful green Deuce was one of the highlights. Built with insurance loopholes in mind, these cars featured the powerful LT1 engine but were marketed as small-block Novas, making them cheaper to insure.

Joe’s Nova is an all-original, meticulously restored car, featuring the correct F41 suspension and COPO rear-end that distinguished these cars from standard Novas. Seeing four of these rare Novas side-by-side was an experience that few car enthusiasts ever get to enjoy.

The Ultimate Celebration of Classic American Muscle Cars

The 2024 Carlisle GM Nationals was a journey through the rich history of American muscle, offering rare glimpses into cars that helped shape the automotive world. Whether you’re drawn to the quiet power of the 1967 Pace Car, the street performance of the Yenko Camaros, or the pure muscle of the COPO Chevelles, this event was a celebration of everything that makes classic American cars so special.

If you ever get the chance, visiting an event like this is an absolute must for any automotive enthusiast. Each car comes with its own story, its own legacy, and its own contribution to the rich tapestry of American car culture.

Thanks to our friends over at Backyard Barn Finds for providing us with the basis of the information in this article!