How much is a 1976 Camaro worth today?
In today’s classic-car market, a 1976 Camaro can range from roughly $8,000 for a rough, non-running project to more than $40,000 for a superb, original or highly restored example. Most cars, depending on trim, condition, and provenance, typically sit in the mid-teens to low- to mid-twenties. Market dynamics, regional demand, and recent sale results heavily influence the exact price at any given time.
Market snapshot and what drives value
The value of a 1976 Camaro is driven by a mix of condition, originality, trim level, and documented history. As of 2025, buyers and sellers rely on established price guides and recent auction results to anchor negotiations, while enthusiasts weigh the car’s performance options and cosmetic condition. Below is a concise look at the main factors shaping price.
What affects value
Before exploring price bands, consider the core elements that buyers and appraisers weigh when pricing a 1976 Camaro:
- Model and trim level (Base/Masters, Sport Coupe, RS, LT, Z28, SS) and how rare the configuration is.
- Overall condition and originality, including whether the car has matching-numbers drivetrain and cowl/VIN documentation.
- Documentation and provenance (window sticker, build sheets, service records, prior restoration receipts).
- Mileage, wear, rust integrity, and the quality of any restoration or modifications.
- Engine and transmission combinations (typical small-block choices, big-block options, manual vs. automatic).
- Color, interior materials, and period-correct detailing that appeal to collectors.
- Market dynamics and regional demand, plus visibility from auctions and online listings.
Understanding these factors helps explain why two seemingly similar Camaros can have markedly different price tags.
Typical price ranges by condition and configuration
Below are broad ranges that reflect current North American market activity, considering condition and notable trim differences. Values vary by region, history, and negotiation outcomes.
- Non-running or rough body with missing parts: approximately $6,000 to $12,000.
- Driver-quality car with cosmetic wear but solid mechanics and complete features: roughly $12,000 to $20,000.
- Good to very good driver with solid cosmetics and either a restored or well-maintained engine: about $20,000 to $30,000.
- Excellent, well-documented car with potential matching-numbers status or high-quality restoration: around $30,000 to $40,000.
- Rare or desirable configurations (Z28, SS, RS) with low mileage or meticulous restoration: typically $40,000 to $60,000, sometimes higher at premium auctions.
In exceptional cases, concours-quality or highly original, numbers-matching examples can exceed $60,000, particularly if provenance and documentation are thorough and the car is presented at a high-profile sale.
Model-specific notes
The 1976 Camaro included several popular variants—such as the Z28, RS, LT, and SS—that affect value. The Z28 and SS models, especially when paired with original documentation and desirable options, tend to command the higher end of the spectrum. Base and mid-level coupes or convertibles without rare options generally fetch lower prices unless they present exceptionally well or are particularly complete.
Tips for buyers and sellers in 2025
To navigate value effectively, lean on verifiable data and professional appraisals. The following guidance helps buyers and sellers align expectations with market reality.
- Consult current market guides (Hagerty Price Guide, NADA Classics, and Bring a Trailer sale results) for up-to-date comps and trends.
- Obtain a pre-purchase inspection focusing on structural rust, frame and subframe integrity, and the condition of the drivetrain and emissions-era components.
- Verify matching-numbers engine and drivetrain codes via the VIN and cowl tags; collect build sheets or factory documentation when available.
- Gather documentation (window sticker, factory invoices, maintenance logs, restoration receipts) to bolster value.
- Consider total ownership costs, including insurance for classic cars, maintenance, storage, and potential restoration expenses.
Realistic pricing often hinges on data-driven comps and a clear understanding of what a given example would cost to restore or maintain over time.
Summary
The value of a 1976 Camaro today depends on a blend of condition, model trim, documentation, and provenance. Across the market, expect a wide range from roughly $8,000 for rough projects to $40,000 or more for high-quality, well-documented examples, with rare variants like Z28 or SS often pushing higher. For the most accurate assessment, compare current listings and recent sale results from reputable guides and auction houses, and engage a professional appraisal when evaluating a specific car.
Bottom line: in 2025, a well-cared-for 1976 Camaro with desirable options and solid documentation can command a strong price, while widely available, non-original, or poorly maintained examples will sit at the lower end of the spectrum. The classic Camaro’s enduring appeal means market interest remains robust for the right car with a compelling story.
