There are optional components to every car that are well known, because they were either inexpensive or worth the money to buy. Something like air conditioning, power windows, or bumper guards would be examples of popular options that are well known. Of course every car also has other options that are more obscure and not as well known, the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro is no exception.

Option U15: Speed Warning Indicator – $10.55

This unusual option allowed you set a predetermined speed on the speedometer that once passed, would cause a buzzer to sound. This was a useful option if you wanted a warning when you are going “five over” on the highway, but didn’t do much else. It didn’t restrict your speed and was easily changed, so it wouldn’t keep your teenager from going over 55. It could save you from a costly ticket, but that could also be done by  watching the speedometer.

Option U28: Ashtray Light – $1.65

Another unusual option that most might not know about (and was actually available until 1981), is a light option that was available in the ashtray. Although this would be beneficial for someone smoking at night, we’re certain that most simply flicked the ashes out their window instead of using the ashtray. Although smoking was more prevalent at the time these cars were new, now, most people we know with a first-gen Camaro would have a nightmare is someone tried to “light up” in their car, making this an option that becomes even less useful as time passes.

Option VE3: Special Bumper – $42.15

Only available in 1969, the Endura bumper was a non-metal bumper that was painted the same color as the car. According to the Camaro White Book, just over 12,000 of these we sold. Made from a rubber-blended material instead of  steel, these are now incredibly rare, as they would do what rubber often does as it ages: shrink and crack. Although it is now considered a cool idea to have a bumper the same color as the car, for the added cost of $42.15 in 1969, few thought it worth the added expense. So, not many were purchased, and even less are still around today (unless you count reproduction pieces). Because of their susceptibility to deterioration from age, the survivors are one of our unusual and obscure first-gen Camaro options.

We’re sure there are others that you feel should be included, so tell us about them. Add them to our list by mentioning them in the comments section below.