We’re told never to judge a book by its cover, which seems to be true with this 1989 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z. It was a sad sight when it emerged from a hiding place it may have occupied for many years. However, even a simple wash produced a remarkable transformation. It falls to a new owner to return this classic to its former glory and rightful place on our roads. If you feel up for the challenge, you will find the IROC-Z listed here on eBay in Mountain View, Missouri. Bidding has sailed past the reserve but sits at a mere $3,100.
The difference a simple wash can make to a classic car’s appearance is amazing. That is undoubtedly the case with this Camaro, because flushing away the dust and slime revealed its original Code 98 Dark Blue paint. The seller makes assessing the vehicle’s overall condition challenging. They only supply photos of one side of this Camaro and none once the water evaporated. However, there are no signs of peeling paint, dings, dents, or damaged plastic. It would take an in-person inspection to determine whether the paint is okay for a driver-grade vehicle or whether a repaint is required. There is no visible rust, with the seller using the word “minimal” in their description. Once again, I would seek clarification to determine whether there is any cutting or welding in this classic’s future. The glass is in good order, and a few hours with a high-quality polish should have the original wheels sparkling once again.
The Camaro’s interior makes a generally favorable impression in its unmolested state. However, a deep clean would be the starting point for anyone considering returning the car to the road without spending a fortune on a restoration. The carpet is stained, and if it proves beyond help, splashing $280 on a new carpet set would be a worthwhile investment. The driver’s seat is covered, so assessing its condition is impossible. One item requiring attention is the wheel, Its leather has worn and torn, leaving the buyer to source a replacement. New reproductions retail for under $400, but a raid at the local pick-a-part might produce positive results if that is too rich for you. The rest of the interior should be acceptable for a driver-quality classic without costing the buyer anything beyond some high-quality cleaning products. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, but this Camaro rolled off the showroom floor equipped with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a premium AM/FM radio/CD player.
Chevrolet offered several engine options for 1989 IROC-Z buyers, the most desirable being the 5.7-liter TPI V8. It produced a healthy 230hp and 330 ft/lbs of torque but could only be ordered with a four-speed automatic transmission. However, the combination allowed the Camaro to cover the ¼-mile in 15 seconds on its way to 148mph. Therefore, it could never be considered an automotive slug. That is what resides under this IROC’s skin, but it hasn’t seen active duty for years. The seller says the small-block runs off starting fluid with no smoke or knocks, but the winning bidder will undoubtedly face an inspection and mechanical work before this classic takes up its rightful place on our roads. The buyer should budget for a service, a fuel system clean, replacement of perishable items, and some possible brake work before the car is roadworthy. That sounds daunting, but they might be able to tackle most of the tasks in a home workshop.
This 1989 Camaro IROC-Z shows promise as a project car, and its drivetrain combination should provide a rewarding driving experience. The question lingers regarding rust, with the seller not elaborating on its presence beyond stating that it is minimal. Some extra information wouldn’t go astray, and approaching them with the question could be worthwhile. Its engine is the most desirable offered that year, helping to potentially cement its position at the top end of the market once restored. A value of over $20,000 should be within easy reach, and if it requires no significant repairs or restoration, the project should be financially viable. Would those thoughts be enough to tempt you to pursue it further?
Beautiful 3rd gen and i believe the last year before the funky airbag steering wheel. Looks loaded with nearly every option. A CD player in 89 was pretty high shelf. Only option i would have gone without would be those t-tops. Love that laser blue!
The passenger side is tore up lol Lmao people are so dumb
The International Race of Champions (IROC) faced the best stock car drivers against other International winning drivers. They all had identical Camero’s and the races were wildly competitive. Running in tandem with Nascar Cup Series, we got to see our favorite drivers pinned against International drivers like never before. Soon during and after these successful races GM came out with the consumer grade IROC-Z with decent sales. Limited sales and the demise of IROC these baby’s have seemingly disapeared from existence but not forgotten. The reason for their collectable low value is unknown. They are sure to go up in legit auction value but presently if you can find one, its going to be a bargain.
jv – smash palace
To add to your comment, the Dodge Daytona took over IROC duties in 1992 and for the next couple.lf years. My only issue with the IROC Z28 was that it sold so well it eventually caused the discontinuation of the regular Z28 at the end of 1987. IROC Zs were not rare by any means. But their value WILL rise with time. The 1LE versions still bring the biggest $$$
The 4spd Hydramatic autobox is a great tranny, but why couldn’t the General fit the 350ci camaro mill w the 5spd from the vette parts bin ? Always seemed a shame, and what a rocket 🚀 it’ve been too.
Stan the Corvette had the 6 speed which was a fairly high dollar unit then. Not sure if that was the only reason though.
Thanks Matt 👋 6spd even better, these had great aerodynamics and a capable top end.
No they have not I got 12 of them for sale
Dime a dozen cars 30 years ago. Now, more collectible than most C3 Corvettes. Perfect examples are selling for $50,000 and up.
Ahhh….had a neighbor chic that had one of these in the late 80s. White with the red interior. She had a front plate that said “IROC N ROLL” ;)
I always loved the way the IROC’s look but they were so underpowered :(
If you look at the trunk pic, you see what looks like a pretty decent at the driver rear fender area, there may be a reason passenger side pics not shown
Decent dent
Great car used to own one loved it would love to buy this one
I’m crazy about the Iroc-z’s had a 86 model and also 82, 83 85 Z28’s I love the 3rd. Gens planning on buying another one soon.
I’m crazy about the Iroc-z’s had a 86 model and also 82, 83 85 Z28’s I love the 3rd. Gens planning on buying another one soon.
“it could never be considered an automotive slug.”
Sounds like you never drove one.
It’s got the 5.7tpi instead of the 5.0,thats a big plus and the price so far is very reasonable.seems like a much better deal than the red 89 on barnfinds for 40 plus thousand right now.I think someone must of bumped their head.
Great car if you can get it running nicely and have no more than $5,000.00 in it for the starting point. After that , not too much of restoring to do for a great runner. If that engine and tranny are solid , I would definitely take a chance on this 1989 IROC ! I would NOT want to get caught up in the “ insanity bidding “ we have seen the last few years or so. Keep it real I always say, you’ll be glad you did. Nice article.
Yes sir if the motor and tranny are solid I seen the mentioning of starting fluid NO GAS ENGINE SHOULD EVER BE TEST FIRED WITH STARTING FLUID GUYS, beware guys. Rust under buy the cowls and maybe duct tape wires.
A 148 mph in the 1/4???
No, I think they meant what the top speed was.
Had an 87 ta with the 5.0. With the gears in the rear, it was fun to drive with that setup. Sure would like this one. Have to see what happens.
that rug looks like it came up from under the sea.
Why didn’t Chevy just use & modify(for coil springs) the more durable FIRST gen 10 bolt rear axle for THIS gen?