The second generation of the Chevrolet Camaro was finally retired at the end of 1981. An all-new Camaro debuted for 1982, and it also enjoyed a long run (through 1992). The seller’s ’82 Camaro is the upscale Berlinetta model that – with a V6 engine – represented 21% of revitalized sales that year. This example seems to be in nice shape with just 53,000 miles, though the paint may be showing its age in places. Located in Peoria, Illinois, this survivor is available here on craigslist for $12,000. Thanks, Barn Finder Barney, for the tip!
You could get a 4-cylinder engine in a 1982 Camaro, and 11% of buyers did so, but I can’t imagine the throttle response was great. Next up was a 173 cubic-inch V6 like the one in the seller’s car, and its 102 horsepower wasn’t exactly a barnburner, either. So, it’s not surprising that more than half of 3rd generation/1st year Camaro shoppers went for a V8, even though gasoline was selling at a whopping $1.28 per gallon.
The seller’s car is the upscale Berlinetta model, and it comes with a better level of trim and is also a hatchback. That was a new body style for the Camaro, as the 1967 to 1981 editions had no such feature. An elderly person owns this car, though no mention is made of first or second ownership. It appears to have been well taken care of with no visible rust and decent or better bronze paint. It has an automatic transmission, which may have been the only route you could go with a V6.
We’re told this Chevy runs and drives as it should and has been garage-kept, a plus. The miles appear to be low, and the interior has held up nicely. One of the selling points given is that the radio is the one from the factory (AM, AM/FM? Why is that special?). If you’re looking for a clean third-gen Camaro, this seems like one of the nicer ones left. But don’t expect to burn any rubber.
It’s funny. Back in the early 80’s, there were quite a few Camaros equipped like this Berlinetta with a V6 and an automatic. I remember a neighbor who bought a brand new blue one with the 4 and a stick. It’s the only one I can ever remember seeing equipped like that. The stripes on this one don’t look stock to me, they’re starting to peel off, I’d be tempted to help it along with a careful application of a heat gun. Clean it up, buff it out, and enjoy it.
Pricey for a base Camaro if that year, no matter how nice it might be. It will likely be hard to find someone willing to dig that deeply into their wallet.
Steve R
I was wondering about those graphics also. Never saw them before. Would like to hear from a Chevy enthusiast, whether they are factory or not.