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Convertible Conversion: 1983 Chevy Camaro

This 1983 Chevrolet Camaro is a nicely preserved example of an aftermarket convertible conversion. The manufacturer of this particular version isn’t divulged, but it looks nicely integrated with a hardshell tonneau that replicates two headrests. The Camaro wears old-school Arizona plates on the front, and it presents as a survivor in every respect. Find the Camaro here on craigslist in Phoenix with a $6,850 asking price.

The Camaro looks particularly sharp out back, with no clunky arrangement hiding the soft top. I dig the integrated rear spoiler, too, which gives the Camaro a tidy appearance – not always possible with extra aero. Even the mudflaps fit snugly against the body and are painted to match. The paint looks largely consistent, suggesting it may be original.

The interior looks quite nice as well, not always a guarantee in a car with the top that goes down. The Camaro is equipped with an automatic transmission paired to a 5.0L V8 with under 65,000 original miles. The saddle cloth interior isn’t the most exotic of interior finishes, but it works well with the bronze and white exterior. A dash pad has hopefully helped stave off any cracks from the Arizona sun.

The engine bay is surprisingly filthy compared to the rest of the car. Sellers would be well-advised to perform the more expensive and time-consuming underhood detailing if they want to move a car quickly – it makes such a difference in presentation. While these aftermarket conversions have never been particularly valuable, buying a nicely preserved example is a good place to start if you need a droptop Camaro.

Comments

  1. Avatar Homiedomie

    This level of dirty engine bay makes it easy to spot leakage

    Like 7
  2. Avatar poseur Member

    put some miles on a red one of these during summer of ’84.
    it had the carb’d LG4 instead of the “injected” LU5 but still snapped some decent torque away from a stop or upon kickdown in a time when almost no engines made close to 200hp.
    will always remember my gf sitting in the passenger seat, short shorts, cleavage and suntan with windblown hair, smiling and laughing.
    simpler time

    Like 14
  3. Avatar Skorzeny

    Oh boy, an automatic, and it has the ‘Cease Fire’ injection, what could go wrong? (poseur, tremendous mental image there, thank you!!)

    Like 2
  4. Avatar Sanityfactor@outlook.com

    sellers would be advised?…no, you need to learn how to write automotive reviews given your limited knowledge of such…

    Like 1
    • Avatar Stangalang

      ” cease fire injection ” omg…I love it!! And actually very accurate

      Like 0
    • Avatar KVR

      Sanityfactor re your “limited knowledge” comment above: This is such a vaguely thin statement I don’t possibly see how it could be interpreted meaningfully or constructively by the writer.

      Like 0
  5. Avatar leiniedude Member

    RIP Easy Rider. Peter Fonda.

    Like 5
  6. Avatar Coventrycat

    The color combo leaves a lot to be desired.

    Like 0
  7. Avatar Superdessucke

    Wait. No mullet jokes yet??

    Like 2
  8. Avatar Andrew Franks

    I’m not a fan of this style but it is a great buy. If the rest of the car is as solid as the exterior pictures, buy it and drive it home. Give it what it needs and enjoy.

    Like 0
  9. Avatar poseur Member

    pretty sure this is an AutoForm conversion out of Elkhart Indiana, which makes sense as the one i “borrowed” was located here in South Central Indiana.

    paint tone looks off to me for a factory Z28 color, maybe it’s just the photos?
    also shouldn’t the cutouts be black on the hood leading to the (functional on the mighty CrossFire motor) hood scoops rather than body color?

    regardless i agree its priced right for what it is and its apparent condition

    Like 1

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