A cherished vehicle, the 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 owned by Bill Finley since he was seventeen, has emerged as an extraordinary relic of automotive history. After more than five decades in his possession, this muscle car made its first public appearance at the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals in Rosemont, Illinois. Finley's decision to keep the car intact for so long highlights its rarity and historical significance. With a limited production run due to a labor strike, this model remains one of the few surviving examples that have retained their original features.

Bill Finley's lifelong passion for his 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 is evident in his dedication to preserving its authenticity. Purchased over fifty years ago, Finley chose this particular model anticipating its scarcity. His intuition proved correct, as only 970 SS396 Camaros were manufactured before production ceased due to a United Auto Workers strike at GM’s Norwood assembly plant. This rare gem, painted in Mulsanne Blue, still boasts its original powerhouse—a 300 hp 402-cubic-inch V8 engine branded as '396' for marketing purposes—and a Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 automatic transmission.

The car’s pristine condition is further highlighted by its low mileage—just 71,000 miles accumulated over five decades. It retains all factory-installed features, including soft-ray tinted glass, rally wheels, air conditioning, and a Positraction rear axle. Even the optional extras, which added significantly to the base price when purchased, reflect Finley's desire for both comfort and performance. In 2019, the vehicle underwent a meticulous rotisserie restoration, yet it preserves its original drivetrain and factory options, with Finley actively participating in sourcing period-correct parts.

This historic moment came to life during the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals where the car was filmed by YouTuber Lou Costabile. Only a small fraction of the total 6,562 Camaro SS models produced in 1972 featured the SS396 variant, making Finley's example a true testament to American muscle car heritage. After half a century, the crowd finally had the opportunity to admire this near-untouched piece of automotive history.

Finley's enduring commitment to maintaining the integrity of his 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 showcases the allure of classic American muscle cars. His decision to share this treasure with enthusiasts underscores the car's unique place in automotive lore, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence.