One Owner Survivor: 1980 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

Ah, 1980. Can’t Stop the Music and Xanadu made a splash on the big screen and the record charts, Moscow hosted the Olympic Games, and the world said goodbye to John Lennon and Steve McQueen. It was also the year that this Chevrolet Camaro Z28 rolled off the line. It obviously struck a chord with its first owner, because they decided to part with it after forty-four years in their care. It is an exceptionally tidy survivor that seems to need nothing but a new home. It is worth a close look because you might find this gem irresistible.

Chevrolet adopted an evolutionary approach with the 1980 Camaro Z28, with a few minor cosmetic changes to differentiate it from its predecessor. The changes might have been slight, but they were enough to convince 45,137 buyers to take home a Z28 that year. This car’s first owner elected to team Code 11 White paint with color-matched wheels and tri-tone Blue graphics to create a classy appearance. They must have liked the result because it remained with them for forty-four years. The seller confirms that the exterior features an older repaint, but the lack of visible deterioration suggests the work was performed to a high standard. It retains a healthy shine, with only a few minor imperfections on the paint and stripes. Addressing those shortcomings wouldn’t break the bank, and a reputable shop could perform the work without resorting to another repaint. The trim is in good condition, as is the glass. White wheels are prone to stains and marks from brake dust, but the ones on this classic look remarkably clean.

The first owner didn’t load this Camaro’s interior with factory options. They teamed Blue standard vinyl trim with air conditioning and a tilt wheel to create a pleasant motoring environment. They added a newer Pioneer CD player, which appears to be the only aftermarket item. The seller doesn’t mention any interior restoration work, suggesting it is original. Its condition is noteworthy if that is the case. The vinyl is free from significant wear, and the seat foam hasn’t collapsed. The dash and plastic are in good order, and the carpet is clean.

Those who didn’t live through The Malaise Era sometimes struggle to comprehend the impact of tighter emission regulations, but the Second Generation Camaro Z28 provides a clear insight. This car features a 350ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The small-block generates 190hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque, allowing the Camaro to cover the ¼-mile in 16.5 seconds. Rewind the clock to 1970 and the Z28 placed at least 360hp and 380 ft/lbs at the driver’s disposal. The ¼-mile ET? An impressive 14.1 seconds. The 1980 figures sound uninspiring but were typical of the period. However, it’s not all doom and gloom, because this Z28 is in excellent mechanical health. The listing suggests an odometer reading of 82,000 miles, and considering the car’s known history, this may be verifiable. This classic runs and drives extremely well, making it a turnkey proposition for its next owner.

The classic world is a fascinating lace, and it is always interesting to track the emerging trends. It wasn’t that long ago that buyers avoided Malaise Era vehicles like the plague, but that situation has changed. For many buyers, they represent an affordable entry into the ownership experience. Others view them as a chance to experience cars that were beyond their financial means at the time. Either scenario might be in play with this 1980 Camaro Z28, because it has received thirteen bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Collierville, Tennessee. It remains below the reserve at $6,100, although the Watch list and viewing history suggest it has attracted plenty of attention. Values for these cars have softened during the past year, but I see no reason why the action couldn’t reach $20,000 before the hammer falls. Would you be interested in this classic at that price?