Unless you’re the proud owner of an anniversary edition or limited production Camaro, you can largely assume your car will depreciate in value over time.
Although depreciation is a given for most pre-owned vehicles, there are steps you can take to ensure your Chevrolet Camaro holds its value for as much and as long as possible. In this article, we’ll look at trends and practical tips for maintaining your Bow Tie muscle car. We’ll answer questions like:
- Will Camaros go up in value?
- Are Camaros a good investment?
- Do Camaros depreciate quickly?
- What year Camaro is most valuable?
As a quick reminder, the term depreciation refers to the resell or market value falling below the price you paid. The percentage of how much a car’s value declines is usually presented in terms of the first year and the first five years of its in-service date.
Depreciation is an unavoidable reality for most vehicles, including the beloved Camaro. As soon as a new car drives off the lot, it begins to lose value. However, we’ll explain a few simple ownership steps you can take, like using OEM Camaro parts, to preserve your car’s value.
Do Camaros Depreciate Quickly?
While a performance vehicle is a labor of love and not a financial planning tool for many owners, a Camaro’s depreciation is something to take into consideration if you plan to swap your ride or hope to recoup any costs you pour in through upgrades and customization.
Here’s a broad look at some data on depreciation:
- The average new car will lose around 39% of its starting value in the first 5 years.
- Current trends show most vehicles hold their value longer, with depreciation softening by nearly 11 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2019.
- Chevrolet Camaros boast a better-than-average depreciation of just 24%.
- Porsche 911s (and many other Porsche models) and the Subaru BRZ both held value better than the Camaro in a recent analysis.
Each of these figures comes from iSeeCars.com, a car-buying website that regularly publishes studies and research about vehicle trends and market conditions.
Generally, sports cars experience a steeper depreciation curve during the first few years of ownership. Factors such as high initial prices, specialized market demand, and the introduction of newer models contribute to this trend.
Are Camaros a Good Investment?
When considering which year Camaro is most valuable, it’s essential to look at specific model years and the unique features of special edition or limited production models.
Generally, limited-edition Camaro models, those with special performance packages, and well-maintained classic cars tend to retain value better. For example, the first-generation Camaros (1967-1969) are highly sought after by collectors and can command high prices in the market. On the other hand, more recent models with less distinctive features may not hold their value as well.
Not all Camaros are created equal, and some hold their value better than others. So, what Camaros should you stay away from if you’re concerned about depreciation?
- Models with base trim produced in high-volume years (like 2016 and 2017)
- High-mileage modern Camaros
- Low-horsepower Camaros manufactured in 1974 and 1975
Depreciation Rates for Base Model Camaros
Base models tend to depreciate faster compared to higher-end trims. For instance, the Camaro LT and LS trims, while offering the essential Camaro experience, lack the performance enhancements and luxury features that make other trims more desirable. These base models are often more affordable upfront but tend to lose value more quickly as they lack the high-performance attributes sought by enthusiasts.
High-Performance Camaro Models and Depreciation in Value
By contrast, trims like the Camaro SS and ZL1 are equipped with powerful V8 engines, advanced suspension systems, and upgraded interior features, which contribute to better value retention. These models appeal to buyers looking for a high-performance vehicle and are willing to pay a premium for the enhanced driving experience and additional features.
But keep in mind that depreciation and market value aren’t static numbers. Just because a collector or muscle car commands positive buying attention around the time you purchase it, doesn’t mean the trend will hold. A good example of this is the Camaro ZL1 special Garage 56 edition, which wrangled an eye-popping $260,000 at auction in early 2024. But, by mid-year, interest waned and the selling price slid to around $170,000.
Will Camaros Go Up in Value?
As you can see, Camaro value is a fickle thing. Base trims and widely available Camaros won’t appreciate over time. But if you’re investing in a collector’s edition, your Camaro could end up being worth more than you paid for it. A variety of factors will impact whether your Camaro goes up in value or at least holds its value for many years. Chief among these factors are market demand and the rarity of the vehicle.
While collector trends will ebb and flow, so will general consumer behaviors. For example, during times of economic downturn or shifts in consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient and lower-cost vehicles, the demand — and thus the value — of Camaros can decrease.
Looking at historical trends can provide insights into whether certain Camaros will go up in value. Classic models from the late 1960s and early 1970s have shown significant appreciation, especially those in original condition or with rare factory options. The growing interest in classic cars and the nostalgia factor associated with these early models contribute to their increasing value.
For modern Camaros, the future potential for value appreciation lies in the limited production runs and special editions. As automotive technology advances and emissions regulations become stricter, high-performance, gas-powered vehicles like the Camaro ZL1 may become more scarce, potentially driving up their value.
Tips to Boost Chevy Camaro Value
Beyond standard market forces, there are ways to boost the potential value of your car through regular maintenance, upkeep, and decisions around modifications and upgrades. Here are a few expert tips to keep your Camaro in top shape and preserve its value:
- Keep up with maintenance: You may spend every weekend with your Camaro at the track, but don’t neglect your car during the week. Follow Chevy’s manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for services like oil changes and fluid exchange. Replace wear-and-tear components or any failing equipment to avoid mechanical damage.
- Use OEM parts: When performing repairs or upgrades, it pays to pay more for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts as opposed to aftermarket items. OEM Camaro parts are designed to be a perfect fit and replacement for your vehicle and ensure better performance overall. In turn, this adds value to your vehicle. If you do swap parts, keep the original in case a secondary owner is interested in restoring the car to stock conditions.
- Plan modifications: If resale value is a concern, you may want to skip some aesthetic or performance mods. Some changes – like a suspension, exhaust, or engine upgrade – won’t hurt your Camaro’s worth. Others, though – like interior trim changes – can detract from your car’s value. The value of any modification you make will largely be up to the buyer and determined by demand or interest in the market.
- Storage and records: If possible, protect your Camaro’s exterior appearance by keeping it in a locked garage. As with any vehicle, the look of the car will matter to future buyers, even if the parts under the hood are in fine shape. Having a paper trail of vehicle maintenance services and detailed documents about any custom work or repairs can also increase your Camaro’s resale value.
Lastly, we’d be remiss to not point out that long-term value may not be as important to some as driveability, performance, and overall enjoyment of your car. When it comes to caring for your Camaro, investing in high-quality OEM parts is one choice that will both preserve the vehicle’s value and improve your experience driving it. At Wade’s Motorsports, we specialize in Camaro engines and parts to help you restore any classic or modern build. Have a look at our online inventory or call us today to get started!
