Image Credit: Poughkeepsiejournal.com

We often write about classic cars that, after being stolen, end up being returned to the rightful owner after missing for years. However, sometimes just the opposite happens where the original owners can’t be found, and the state is forced to auction off the vehicle to a new owner. This exact scenario is playing out at a New York state auction where a stolen 1971 Camaro will be auctioned off. The Camaro was determined to have been stolen almost 40 years ago. While it no longer has its original motor it will be interesting to see what this classic goes for.

The Department of Motor Vehicles conducted an investigation when the most recent buyer noticed that it had two VIN numbers. They determined that the car was stolen in 1976 and the motor was determined to be from a 1976 pickup stolen back in 1988 making this one hot vehicle. Unable to find the Camaro’s original owner, the car will be up for grabs.

Normally the state auctions don’t have a lot of classic cars up for bid so this one will be unique. Office of General Services mentioned that it’s not common, but they did see a Mustang come through earlier in the year. “Most of the cars that we’re auctioning are state surplus vehicles,” Brill said. “The state has had it for a certain amount of time… so they auction it off.”

The auction will have everything from vehicles, miscellaneous property, and highway equipment and is also open to the public. The money raised will go to the state general fund. While there will be quite the variation of vehicles, it will be interesting to see what this Camaro brings at auction. Would you end up putting a bid on it?