Is there any numbers on the frame? I always thought my 1969 camaro was an RS until I posted my car online and people were confused about the non hideaway head light. My Pop purchased my car 20 years ago and swears it’s an RS. Is there anyway to determine weather it’s a base model or RS? The cowl tag isn’t giving me my answer. Any help I would appreciate it!

 

There are no codes on the body, VIN or cowl tag to indicate an RS model. You can look for telltale signs if yours was one originally. The tail lights don't have reverse lights, the lights would be rectangular housings below the bumper. The headlight switch would be equipped with in/out vacuum ports to operate the vacuum headlight mechanism. The RS inner fenders have extra mounting holes for the headlight door assemblies. The RS outer fenders have a mounting tab between where the fender meets your current grille. If your car doesn't have any of these features, then someone either went waaaaay out of their way to un-RS the car (not very likely), or it wasn't really an RS.

 

Did all 1st gen RS models have the hidden headlights? Or was it an additional option? Thanks.

 

RS is a comedic option, the main part of that was the head lights and the RS rims. So no there was no way to order a RS without hideaway headlights.

 

RS was a cosmetic option (headlights/wheels)
SS was a performance option (more HP than base 2 brl v8, 12 bolt vs 10 bolt rear end, badging)

You could order both RS/SS together

 

Thanks for your information!