No secret that I have been involved with ZL1 #4 since Camaro Parts Exchange acquired it in 1987. It became our in-house restoration project, completed 1989. The current owner purchased it from Doug Martz in 1995. Since it stayed here in SE WI, I remained involved. Over the last 31 years, the car has been in climate-controlled storage. During that time, the car was continually improved as more was learned about ZL1s. Also, with the help of Dan Palchanes, we were able to learn the history of the car back to its original owner. Dan provided [at NO charge] vintage newspaper ads, NOS Hauser dealer emblem and contact information for the original owner. We have vintage photos of it when Hauser raced it and as acquired by the original owner.
The complete history of #4 is known back to March 4, 1969 when it rolled off the assembly line. Ownership history is an important factor for those considering adding one to their collection as some ‘restored’ ZL1 Camaros had lengthy drag racing histories and were extensively modified. Several of these are “rebody” restorations. Some disclosed at auction, some not. Others do not have their original body tags. While #4 was raced, initially for the 1970 NHRA season, it was never cut. There is no need to question its provenance.
The ZL1 market is strong. This year several have sold; a pair for $1.2m at Mecum Kissimmee and another at Barrett-Jackson AZ for $770k. Another was sold privately by Legendary in Canada; they have another in their collection. I think Peter knows what he is doing.
There was no expectation that #4 would establish a ZL1 auction record-at either end. The owner is a reasonable man. See you at Mecum Indy 2019.
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