The 4th-gen Camaro is the last of the American muscle car bargains—a V8-powered, pop-up-headlight icon that’s finally getting collector attention. In Europe, these are rare (especially in LHD), with values now rising as enthusiasts hunt for unmolested SS and Z28 models.

1. Price Ranges (EUR, Mid-2024)

Standard Models

• High-Mileage/Modified (150k+ km): €8k – €15k(Warning: Many have been poorly tuned or neglected—check for rust and drivetrain wear.)

• Clean, Stock Examples (80k–120k km): €18k – €25k(Matching-numbers LT1/LS1 cars with service history.)

• Collector-Grade (<50k km): €30k – €45k+(1998–2002 SS models in rare colors command the highest prices.)

Special Editions

• 1996–1997 Z28 SS (LT4 Engine): €25k – €40k(Only 100 officially imported to Europe—very rare.)

• 2001–2002 SS (LS1, 325hp): €35k – €50k(Last of the 4th-gen—most desirable for modern drivability.)

• 1995–1999 Firehawk (SLP Upgrades): €40k – €60k(Ultra-rare in EU—check for SLP authenticity.)

2. Key Factors Affecting Value

✅ Provenance Wins

• Original EU delivery docs: +20% (few were officially imported)

• Unmodified exhaust & engine: Non-negotiable for collectors

✅ Options That Matter

• T-tops (if leak-free!): +€3k

• 6-speed manual (vs. auto): +€5k

• SS or SLP packages: +€10k over base Z28

⚠️ Critical Watch-Outs

• Rust in rear subframe & floor pans (EU moisture kills these cars)

• Blown automatic transmissions (4L60E weakness—budget €4k for rebuild)

• Fake SS badges (verify RPO codes under the trunk mat)

3. Where to Buy in the EU?

Official Channels

• Classic American Car Dealers (Germany/Netherlands)(Best for inspected cars)

• Catawiki Auctions(Occasionally has low-mileage examples)

Private Sales

• Camaro/Firebird Owner Groups (Facebook)(Deals pop up occasionally)

• Mobile.de Autoscout24(Search for "Camaro SS" + "LHD")

Pro Tip: Avoid UK RHD conversions—they’re cheaper but nearly impossible to resell in the EU.

4. Market Trends

📈 Late LS1 Models Rising Fast

• 2002 SS values up 30% since 2020

• Firehawks now trading near €60k

⚠️ Trap Warning

• "Barn find" cars usually need €15k+ in deferred maintenance

• Aftermarket body kits destroy originality (and value)

5. Must-Do Checks

🔧 Mechanical:

• Optispark inspection (LT1 models)(Fails every 80k km—€1k repair)

• LS1 oil consumption(Normal: 1L/5k km; excessive = ring wear)

• T-top leaks(Check headliner stains—seal replacement is €2k+)

📄 Paperwork:

• GM RPO code list(Verify factory options under the trunk carpet)

• Import VAT papers(Ensure no hidden €5k+ tax liabilities)

Fun Fact: The Camaro’s pop-up headlights were almost replaced with fixed units in 1998—but fans revolted, so they stayed until the end!

4th-Gen Camaro Buying Cheat Sheet

✅ Best Buy: 2001–2002 SS 6-speed (LS1 reliability + modern power) ❌ Walk Away: 1993–1995 base V6 models (no collector interest) 🔧 First Fix: Replace optispark (LT1) or window regulators (all models) 🎨 Most Desirable Color:Bright Purple Metallic (1996 only)