Our Cars: Independent Agent Morgan Duffy’s ’68 Camaro SS Convertible
Not everyone has the opportunity to own his dream car, and certainly not since he was 15 years old. Independent Agent Morgan Duffy put his paper route money to good use as a teen, and he’s still reaping the rewards.
Agency: HWI Motorsports (Hayden Wood Insurance Agency’s Collector Auto & Motorsports Division)
Years working with Hagerty: 4
Car: 1968 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible
Background: I bought this car when I was 15 with my paper route money. Throughout high school and college it was stored anywhere I could convince someone to stick it, and I finally started its restoration back in 2000 when my wife and I bought our first house.
Why this car? I’m a sucker for ʼ68 Camaros. There’s just something about the body lines, the simplicity of the dash, the lack of vent windows and the fact that it isn’t a ’69.
Repairs and modifications (planned or completed): This is a tough one. While the body of this car looks fairly stock aside from my attempt to replicate the Trans Am series Camaros of the ’60s, the guts are completely custom. It has a custom-built full frame where the engine has been set back 4” and the front wheels stretched 2” for a 50/50 weight distribution. The front clip has tubular control arms with adjustable coil-over shocks and a manual rack. The engine is a 500hp Chevy 383 Stroker spinning through a Tremec 6sp. to a Currie HD 9” rear with 389s and a Detroit Locker. That rear is held steady by Global West springs while the power is put to the pavement via 315/35/17” Nitto drag radials with custom Redlines vulcanized on for that “right” retro look. I didn’t overlook the interior, either, adding custom houndstooth bucket seats, a custom console, Auto Meter gauges, Vintage Air and, of course, a chrome Hurst shifter with a white knob.
Hobby activities (clubs, events, etc.): I hit many cruise nights here in the Northeast with my kids, but I prefer driving to shows. I have done Hot Rod Magazine’s Power Tour every year since 2004, and whenever I have a free moment I’m pounding the pavement at Monticello Motor Club in New York.
Favorite drive: Coastal Route 1 from Maryland to Georgia crossing over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. I did that for the first time this past September with Year One’s “Drive’n it Home,” and it was an absolutely beautiful ride.
Best and worst moments: My absolute best moments have been with my kids and them wanting to help work on the car or begging to go for a ride. I’m driving my dream car, which I’ve owned since I was 15; though it may not always work the way I want, I’m hoping there are no “worst” moments.
