Page 189 - Wayne Carini's Guide to Affordable Classics

“One comment in the logbook summed up the relative merits of the Chevrolet siblings precisely: ‘It makes me think that the Corvette ought to be sent to Camaro school.’” Not that there weren’t some demerits, however. Foremost among them were the Camaro’s uncomfortable seats: “The padding appears to be in all the right places, but Chevy apparently forgot to take out the rocks and put in the foam rubber.”
In 1985, the Camaro received a minor face-lift and added the legendary IROC-Z, named for the International Race of Champions, where F-cars competed in 23 of its 30 seasons. Offered initially as a performance and appearance package on the Z28 before becoming available on its own in ‘88, the IROC-Z would become one of the most indelible automotive images of the era. Boldly announced with “IROC-Z” decals, it featured a lowered suspension with unique front struts, Delco-Bilstein rear shocks and additional chassis reinforcements. Goodyear Gatorback tires on 15-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels finished off the package.
It would be another two years before the Camaro received any major changes. In 1987, a convertible returned to the lineup for the first time since 1969, in time for the marque’s 20th birthday.
TOP: Z28 returned for the third generation Camaro, but engine options were initially limited to two 5.0-liter V8s, with a choice of 145 or 165 horsepower.
MIDDLE: “Berlinetta” trim was one step above the Sport Coupe and below the Z28. It was positioned as more of a touring car, with increased sound insulation and carpeting on the rear wheelhouses. RIGHT: IROC-Z option commemorated International Race of Champions racing series and featured a number of chassis and appearance upgrades.
Chevrolet Camaro 3rd Generation
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