Helge Solberg's 1967 Chevrolet Camaro - Low'n Blown

The first version of Low'n Blown was featured on the cover of Crom & Flamme Nr. 12 1985, a Danish magazine. The featured story inside contained photos of the first and the second version.

A photo of the second iteration of Low'n Blown taken at Økern in Oslo. Knut K Kristiansen belives he took the photo in 1985. Photo courtesy of Knut K Kristiansen.

Photo courtesy of Knut K Kristiansen.

The second iteration of Helge's Camaro was featured on the cover of Bilsport 1985/13.

The first and second iteration of Low'n Blown appeared in an ad for BFGoodrich tires. This ad was printed in Crom & Flamme N2. 12 1985.

In 1995, the car was sold to Lasses Bil in Oslo, and it changed hands multiple times. Eventually, it was acquired by Martin Bråtho, an enthusiast who had admired the car since its debut. Under Bråtho's ownership, the car underwent restoration, solidifying its status as a piece of Norwegian automotive history. Photo courtesy of Martin Bråtho.

A photo showing the flip-front on the Camaro. Photo from Pinterest.

A photo of Helge's old Camaro as it appeared when Ronnie Krabberød photographed it for a story in Right On 2023/05. Photo courtesy of Ronnie Krabberød - Right On Magazine.

Low'n Blown is a customized 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, renowned in the Norwegian automotive scene for its unique design and modifications. The car was the brainchild of Helge Solberg, a native of Bø i Telemark, Norway, who undertook the ambitious project in the 1980s.

Initial Modifications

In just over five months, Solberg transformed the Camaro, introducing significant changes that set it apart from any other car of its kind. Before this, Solberg had gained attention for chopping the roof of another Camaro. However, with "Low'n Blown," he introduced a more audacious modification: sectioning the car. This involved lowering the entire body by removing an eight-centimeter-wide (3.15 inches) section. Helge removed 4 cm from each side of the body profile. The top was chopped 10 centimeters (3.94 inches), and the front and rear ends were redesigned with extended fenders, added scoops, an integrated rear wing, and a centralized fuel filler on the trunk. The front featured flip-out double rectangular lights, while the rear had six round lights. Inspired by cars like the 1966 Lamborghini Miura and the 1969 Ford Mustang Boss, Solberg added steel louvers over the rear window, which he crafted himself. A Chevrolet 350 engine powered the car, enhanced with a B&M supercharger, ensuring impressive power to match its aesthetic appeal. The engine was built in the US, and it was delivered by Steinar Stolen.

Debut and Reception

By May 1984, the Camaro, painted in a striking yellow with multi-colored stripes, was unveiled at the ACSN Vårmønstring at Økern, Oslo. Dubbed "Low'n Blown," the car quickly became a sensation in the automotive community. Its lowered body, extensive welding work, and Solberg's relentless dedication to the project were evident and widely appreciated.

Later Developments

Post its debut, Solberg continued refining "Low'n Blown." It sported a Pontiac-inspired front and a fresh paint job by the subsequent year. In 1987, another paint overhaul introduced purple and pink scallops by Helge and his buddy Arild Bergskås.

Sold to Lasses Bil

In 1995, the car was sold to Lasses Bil in Oslo, and it changed hands multiple times. Eventually, it was acquired by Martin Bråtho, an enthusiast who had admired the car since its debut. Under Bråtho's ownership, the car underwent restoration, solidifying its status as a piece of Norwegian automotive history.

Legacy

Today, "Low'n Blown" stands as a testament to Helge Solberg's vision, craftsmanship, and contribution to the automotive world. It remains a significant piece of Norwegian car culture and continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts.

Magazine Features and Appearances

Bilsport 1985/13
Crom & Flamme Nr. 12 1985
Right On 2023/05