I'm a little late to this thread, but being the original owner of a 1967 Chevelle L78, and having a friend who bought a new 1967 Camaro Z28 in 1967 I feel somewhat obliged from first hand knowledge which would be best.
First, it's really an apples to oranges comparison. The Z gets overall driveability and balance, plus a 1967 Z28 is VERY rare (in original form)...likely $100,000 plus easily. Not so sure on a replacement engine, but if done right still good value.
For brute out of the hole speed and torque, the L78 wins hands down...easily actually, especially with a 4-speed and 4.10 posi rear end (like what I had in the Chevelle).
Both engines are really good, but I admit to really REALLY Loving the L78! I am building one right now, actually (1967).
The other thing that would matter to me is I just prefer the suspension on the Chevelle over the Camaro, as I'm not a fan of leaf springs. But, that's just a personal preference. The leaf springs obviously work just fine on the Camaro, and they can be beefed up.
But, overall BOTH cars would be awesome...just do it in the right colors. I like the dark silver (grey) with black stripes for the Camaro with black interior. My Chevelle was Deepwater Blue Metallic with black interior (bench seat) & Hurst shifter on the floor with T-Handle. It doesn't get any better than that!
Thinking back when my friend & I both worked for General Motors and parked next to each other brings back good memories of the cars in the parking lot back then!
Good luck!
|