Las Vegas--At the 2007 SEMA Show, Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc. (CARS Inc.), of Belews Creek, N.C., unveiled its latest creation and best-kept secret, a Yenko-licensed and -branded 1969 Camaro, the first in a continuation series that the highly regarded company will produce with this pedigree.
While other Chevy dealers followed with similar models of their own, Pennsylvania car dealer Don Yenko had his own dealer network in 19 states, which gave him credibility with the factory. This enabled Yenko to get Chevy to build 201 special 427ci Camaros. Expanding on what Yenko started, CARS Inc. has painstakingly followed his lead in recreating the legendary 1969 Yenko Camaro.
The iron L72 427 with solid-lifter heads was rated at 425 HP, but resulted in more like 450 horses. A Hurst four-speed manual or dual-gate auto, 4.10:1 HD Posi rear, cowl-induction hood, and a heavy-duty Z28 suspension with F70x14 tires were part of the package. CARS' GM Performance Parts 427 is also an iron block, but 38 years of advances yields 530 HP at 6,200 RPM, and 
510 lb.-ft. of torque. CARS adds a Pertronix ignition and wires, ACDelco plugs, and headers by Doug Thorley, who made them for the original Yenko. Ceramic coated headers are a deviation, noted CARS' Jim Barber, but they came painted, and over time they would rust.
The CARS continuation series Yenko Camaros are true to the highest trim levels available, with a bigger front roll bar and a 140-MPH speedo, "sYc" (Yenko Super Car) insignias and striping, and Yenko badges. Also available are mag wheels, gauges, and other options, which are included in this licensed series.
