28k Original Miles: 1986 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

When I saw this 1986 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z, my first thought was that I wish I’d been so nicely preserved when I was forty years old. This classic presents beautifully, which is unsurprising. It has been part of the same family since the day it left the lot, and has only clocked 28,500 miles in four decades. It is set to find a new home with an enthusiast who will have the chance to write a new chapter in its story. The seller has listed the Camaro here on eBay in Florida, New York. Bidding sits at $10,100, though it remains below the reserve.

Chevrolet broke new ground when it released the Third Generation Camaro in 1982. It had struggled to compensate for engine power losses due to tighter emission regulations, so it focused on weight reduction and aerodynamic efficiency in its latest offering. People were stunned upon its unveiling, because it looked like nothing else that had ever emerged from a Chevrolet factory. However, they quickly warmed to the design, resulting in very respectable sales. The seller ordered this Camaro in 1986, selecting the IROC-Z variant in Bright Red with a glass T-Top. The presentation is stunning and is everything you could hope for when searching for a cherished, unrestored classic. The paint shines like a mirror, cloaking panels free from bumps and bruises. The front bumper is remarkably free from stone chips, and the graphics are crisp. There is no apparent rust to spoil the ownership experience, and the wheels are clean. The initial impression is that this Camaro is a winner.

Chevrolet introduced the LB9 version of the 305ci V8 to its model range in 1985. With Tuned-Port Injection, it was quite a civilized powerplant. However, power dropped from the 1985 high of 215hp to 190hp in 1986. Still, an increase in torque from 275 ft/lbs to 285 ft/lbs provided some compensation. The sticking point for those seeking maximum performance was the lack of a manual transmission. This Camaro’s new owner will receive the four-speed automatic, along with a Posi rear end, power steering and power brakes. The seller’s mileage claim doesn’t appear to be supported by documentary evidence, although the ownership history may indicate they have service records that reduce some potential doubt. They say the Camaro runs and drives perfectly, and in this YouTube video, with the engine running, I hear nothing that would cause concern.

This Camaro’s interior is stunning in Red cloth and vinyl mimicking the exterior paint shade. The near-complete lack of wear makes the odometer reading appear plausible, as the overall appearance seems beyond criticism. Adding to its appeal is the lack of aftermarket additions. It doesn’t just look good, because with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, a rear defogger, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player, life aboard this IROC-Z would be extremely comfortable.

Chevrolet’s Third Generation Camaro has found a solid spot in the classic market, and the 1986 IROC-Z has been a recent star performer. Values for above-average examples have climbed significantly in the past year, and recent successful sales suggest the bidding should at least double before the hammer falls. However, if two or more people are determined enough, the car’s history and mileage could push it beyond $30,000. If you’ve longed to own a Camaro of this type, could this ’86 IROC-Z be a contender?