CAMARO RETRO LIVERY CONCEPT REVEALED BY PENRITE

Camaro retro inspired concept – Photo: Supplied

Penrite Oil and Erebus Motorsport have revealed a retro livery concept inspired by Kevin Barlett’s famous Z28 Camaro in the lead up to retro Supercars round at the Sandown 500.

Even though the livery is not expected to be seen on track, the concept pays tribute to the Nine Network Z28 Camaro that took two pole positions at Bathurst during the early 80’s. A car that shares the same number as raced by David Reynolds in his Penrite backed Erebus Motorsport Commodore.

“Penrite Oil have a long history in Australian Motorsport dating back to the 1920’s, so the Supercars retro round really gives us an opportunity to remember the legends of the sport such as ‘KB’ and relive some of their stories from the past.” said Jarrod Harding, Penrite Oil’s Director of Motorsport, on their website.

Kevin Barlett, a two-time Australian Drivers’ Championship winner, remembers how the Channel Nine Camaro came about.

“It all started with my association with Kerry Packer, whom at the time, I was responsible for the maintenance of his personal car collection.”

“I had been racing open-wheel race cars from the early 60’s, with some success. Money to run these cars was always dependant on sponsorship. Traditionally oil & cigarette companies footed the bills. It was tight making a living as a professional driver back then.

“Kerry Packer & I were talking one day about where my career was going. My reply was that I would soon stop. He then suggested a touring car that he would fund via Channel Nine, and a car of my choice! Then, how much do you need? Not what would it cost?

“The rest is history, with the birth of the Channel Nine Camaro.”

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