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If you're an auto-enthusiast, chances are you’ve heard of the legendary name Don Yenko — and his famous high-performance builds like the Yenko Camaro and the Yenko Stinger Corvair. What you may not know as well is how his legacy continues today through his daughter, Lynn Yenko, who carries forward the spirit, style, and horsepower of the Yenko name.
Here’s a deep dive into Lynn’s story — her roots, her role, her vision for the next generation of muscle-and-performance, and why every gearhead should keep an eye on what she’s doing.
Above: Great photo of Don Yenko and his daughter Lynn - taken in 1984
Lynn was born into a household that breathed cars, speed, and innovation. Her father, Don Yenko, was already making waves in the car world: dealer, racer, and modifier of high-performance Chevrolets. Lynn herself remembers helping out at the dealership from a young age: stuffing envelopes for her father’s latest promotional efforts, applying decals on performance cars, learning the ins & outs of the business while surrounded by V8s and chrome.
Growing up in that environment gifted her not only with an appreciation for horsepower and style, but also a real-world education in how to run a performance business. From cashiering and stripe application to attending race events with her dad, Lynn got a first-hand view of the unique blend of engineering, marketing, and culture that defined Yenko’s operations.
With Don’s untimely passing in 1987, the mantle passed in large part to Lynn and the rest of the Yenko family. Lynn embraces both heritage and forward thinking: honoring the original era of Yenko-built muscle cars, while also looking at how that spirit can be applied in modern performance vehicles.
She remains active on the car show / event circuit, meeting fans, signing cars, supporting gatherings of Yenko vehicles, and keeping the brand authentic.
Above: 1969 Yenko Camaro
Lynn’s approach to moving the Yenko legacy forward is grounded in a few clear principles, especially resonant for the enthusiast crowd:
In short: Lynn is all about preserving a legend, while steering it into the future in a way that resonates with real car lovers.
Above: 1969 Yenko Camaro at speed
If you’re into muscle cars, classics, or high-performance Chevy history, here’s why Lynn’s work should be on your radar:
Above: At a 2022 event at the Saratoga Auto Museum, Lynn appeared on a live panel to discuss her father’s history and the modern Yenko impact (Classic Industries).
If you’re passionate about muscle cars, you can’t separate the name Yenko from the story of American performance. And Lynn Yenko is the bridge between the golden era of 1960s-70s high-performance Chevrolets and whatever the next chapter becomes. She’s kept the torch burning — more than just as a curator of history, but as an active participant in the car-enthusiast world.
So, the next time you see a Yenko-badged car or hear someone mention a Yenko conversion, remember that it’s more than just a badge: it’s a legacy that Lynn is helping keep alive, with authenticity, vision, and a whole lot of horsepower.
Above: 2022 Yenko/SC Camaro
Given Classic Industries' 50+ year involvement with the mighty Chevrolet Camaro, in particular, and General Motors in general, it makes perfect sense that Lynn Yenko, the Yenko brand, and Classic Industries would have strong business ties and a solid friendship among auto enthusiasts. Meet Ms. Yenko in person at the Classic Industries / OER SEMA booth on November 4th and 5th, 2025, where she'll make an appearance on both days at 1:00 PM, signing autographs. If you're attending, we hope you'll stop by and say hello!
Above: 1970 Yenko Nova tribute in Germany
Yenko's will be on the road for years to come, thanks to companies like SVE (Specialty Vehicle Engineering), where modern, new Yenko Camaros, Corvettes, and Silverados are available through specially selected Chevrolet dealers. If you own an original Yenko, Classic Industries is here to help you with all the parts and accessories you'll need to keep it running and looking great! Click on the button below and fill out the form to have the Camaro Parts & Accessories catalog mailed to you. Classic Industries also offers a wide range of parts for all GM, Mopar, and Ford muscle machines.