One of the most iconic American race cars, the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Trans-Am known as “The Lightweight,” is heading to Mecum’s Kissimmee auction on Saturday, January 18, 2025. This historic vehicle has a rich legacy in motorsports, marking significant achievements for both Chevrolet and racing legend Mark Donohue.
A Racing Pedigree Like No Other –
This Camaro wasn’t just any race car—it was the second Z28 to ever roll off Chevrolet’s assembly line, built on December 29, 1966, and one of just 602 Camaro Z28s produced for the 1967 model year. Known as “The Lightweight” due to its innovative acid-dipped body, it became a cornerstone of Roger Penske’s dominance in the Trans-Am series.
- Raced by Mark Donohue, the car clinched victories at the 1968 Sebring Trans-Am and 1967 Las Vegas and Seattle Trans-Am races.
- At Sebring in 1968, it achieved an incredible third overall finish in the 12 Hours of Sebring, besting prototype race cars.
- This Z28 helped Donohue secure eight wins in ten races, earning Chevrolet and Penske Racing their first Trans-Am championship in 1968.
Innovative Engineering and Subterfuge –
Nicknamed “The Lightweight,” this was the first Penske Camaro Z28 to undergo acid-dipping, shaving weight for a competitive edge. After being banned for its underweight condition at the 1967 season’s final race, the car was disguised with a 1968 Camaro grille and taillights for Sebring. To avoid detection, the full-weight team car was sent to technical inspection twice, allowing “The Lightweight” to race without being weighed.
Beyond Its Trans-Am Glory –
This Sunoco-liveried Z28 has an extensive history in vintage racing, restored in 1988 for events like the SVRA Trans-Am Reunion at Watkins Glen, where it won in 1995 and 2013. It also claimed accolades at prestigious shows, including:
- Best Race Car award at Road America’s Brian Redman International Challenge
- Class winner at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
- Featured at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours, celebrating Roger Penske
It has graced the covers of Road and Track (2016), Sports Car (1996), and Speed Tour Quarterly (2021), cementing its reputation as a celebrated classic.
Power and Performance –
Equipped with a Traco-built 302/550 HP V8 engine, a 4-speed manual transmission, and advanced features like 4-wheel disc brakes and side exhaust, this Z28 was designed to dominate the track. The car’s iconic blue and yellow Sunoco No. 15 livery adds to its unmistakable presence.
Ready for Its Next Chapter –
“The Lightweight” is fully prepped for vintage racing or concours displays and comes with a standing invitation to Goodwood. Eligible for events like the Monterey Historics and SVRA races, this Z28 represents a rare chance to own a piece of motorsport history.
With its rich legacy and unmatched performance pedigree, this Camaro Z28 promises to be a highlight of Mecum’s 2025 Kissimmee auction.
