By Adam Smith

The North Jefferson News



The American muscle car is making a comeback and Dewey Barber Chevrolet is more than happy to help the resurgence.

On May 6, the Warrior dealership will unveil the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, the first model to be produced since General Motors halted production of the cars in 2002.

Internet Sales Manager Marcie Wiley said he’s excited about the comeback of the muscle car, particularly the Camaro. He said the model could be just what GM needs to pull itself out of its economic tailspin.

“We need to get people excited about American cars again,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of response about this car. They’ve [GM] put a lot of hype into it.”

Most Americans received their first look at the new model through the 2007 action movie “Transformers.” The character of “Bumblebee” was a yellow and black Camaro concept car that doesn’t look much different from the 2010 model that will be on display at the dealership.

Wiley said the display model, a red SS (SuperSport) with racing stripes and a V-8 engine, will be for sale with a price tag of around $38,000. However, there will be several different models of the car available, including a V-6 model for the slightly more gas conscious.

Despite fluctuating gas prices, Wiley said those who want to buy a Camaro probably aren’t concerned about fuel prices. However, he said the new V-8s are much more gas efficient than older models.

“It’s going to sell regardless,” he said. “We still had people who wanted to purchase diesel trucks when diesel fuel was so expensive.”

The new Camaros have a futuristic look, but have a great deal in common with the late 1960s models. A restored 1968 model will also be on display at the dealership for those who want to compare.

Another feature includes a sunroof, which replaces the T-top concept of older models.

Wiley said he’s driven the new Camaro, though it was only around the dealership lot. He said just sitting in the driver’s seat brought back memories of the two Z-28 models he owned in the late 1970s.

“It’s a lot smoother and more streamlined,” he said. “We get to drive new cars all the time, so it’s rare for us to have the excitement that other people have when they sit down in one.”

The Camaro unveiling party will last from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and will feature snacks, beverages and door prizes.

Dewey Barber Chevrolet is located at 9694 U.S. 31 North in Warrior. For more information, call 647-0538.