Drive a piece of history
It all began with the race in 1911 where a Stoddard-Dayton paced the cars at the Indy 500. Yup, I wouldn’t have guessed that name either since it’s one of the long-gone automotive names. It actually paced two more 500s, 1913 and 1914. Being out in front of the 33 cars is a big deal for a manufacturer since they get great exposure on a national stage. This week’s spot, a 2011 Camaro convertible is a perfect example.
Chevy’s involvement dates back to 1948 when Wilbur Shaw drove a Chevy Fleetmaster Six. They came back with the Camero in 1967, ’69, ’82, ’93, 2009, ’10, and this week’s example in 2011, which was driven by A.J. Foyt and Johnny Rutherford. So even though they will all be logoed up as you see in this example, there are actually two flavors. The ones built for work on the track and 500 Festival Committee cars that are toned down more for everyday driving.
RELATED Spot: See the car that paced the 89 race, a Firebird Trans Am.
Only 500 of these come off the assembly line which is a pretty low number. 500 Festival Committee cars start life with the 2SS equipment package which includes a 426-hp V8 mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, or a six-speed manual transmission, Brembo brakes, 20-inch wheels, and the center-console auxiliary gauge package. Unique features of the special-edition cars include the Summit White paint with orange stripes, “Pace Car” graphics on the doors, Indy 500 embroidered headrests for the orange leather seats, and a different grille treatment. Additionally, the interior trim is done in white and features a cool touch with the exterior orange stripes extending onto the dash.
Despite the low numbers, these cars do not cost a lot to own. According to Hagerty, one in Fair condition runs $17,200 going all the way to $45,200 for one in Concours condition. When you think about it, that’s not a lot of cash for a piece of automotive history and a fun drive. What makes it even more special is that Chevy pulled the plug on Camaro last year so they are no more. So sad.
Thanks for stopping by and checking out this week’s spot. I have lots of others on our site so don’t be bashful. Come back next Friday for another one of my spots I’ve found along the way on my travels along with some of its history. Have a great weekend.
Savage On Wheels 
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