By 1980, Chevrolet had pretty much set the release schedule for its upcoming Third Generation Camaro in stone. Therefore, it only spent enough money on upgrades of its aging Second Generation model to entice buyers into showrooms. The Z28 had lost its performance edge and was more about style than substance. However, that didn’t prevent it from selling in respectable numbers. This 1980 Camaro Z28 is a tidy classic that makes a positive first impression. It would turn heads, and the glass T-Top should make life pleasant on sunny days. It is listed here on eBay in Miami, Florida. The seller set a BIN of $23,000 but leaves the option for interested parties to make an offer.

The seller describes this Camaro as a survivor, suggesting it has never undergone any restoration work. Its overall presentation is positive, but it isn’t perfect. Closely analyzing the supplied photos seems to reveal rust is developing in the lower corners of both doors. It hasn’t advanced too far, suggesting that well-crafted patches might relegate the problem to a distant memory. Its Code 11 White paint remains consistent across the car, with no evidence of patchiness or matte areas. The panels are straight, and the underside shows no rust issues. If the spots in the doors are the extent of the problem, whipping this car into shape should not be complicated or expensive. The graphics look crisp, the trim is excellent, and the color-coded wheels add a touch of class. Perhaps this car’s ace is the glass T-Top. At $695.00, this wasn’t a cheap inclusion on a vehicle with a sticker price of $7,121. However, that didn’t stop 24,816 buyers from ticking the box on the Order Form.

If you’re not a fan of red trim and upholstery, this Z28 won’t be the car for you. Its combination of cloth and vinyl in that shade makes a bold first impression that is also positive. There are no signs of significant wear or other issues and no evidence of UV damage or crumbling plastic. The dash looks excellent, as do the wheel and console. There are some anomalies requiring investigation. The photo seems to show the tachometer needle stuck at 5,000 rpm, which could mean repair or replacement of that item is needed. The factory radio made way for a CD player, and the installer cut the dash and rear parcel tray to accommodate it and the speakers. Otherwise, it is original and unmolested. It isn’t weighed down with luxury appointments, although the air conditioning, power windows, and tilt wheel are welcome inclusions.

Lifting this Camaro’s hood reveals the legendary 350ci V8 that sends 190hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. That combination should deliver a ¼-mile ET of 16.5 seconds and a top speed of 109mph, and it gives us a chance to consider the impact emission regulations had on the iconic small-block V8. The performance figures are all you might expect from a car of this era, but an auto-equipped 1970 Camaro Z28 delivered a ¼-mile ET of 14.1 seconds and a top speed of 131mph. Part of the difference could be attributed to a significant drop in engine power as the decade progressed. However, the weight increase due primarily to tighter safety requirements saw the 1980 Z28 tip the scales at 3,538 lbs versus the 1970 edition’s 3,370 lbs. For enthusiasts seeking a turnkey classic, this Camaro delivers. The seller says it runs and drives perfectly, with no odd noises, smoke, or other issues.

The 1980 Camaro Z28 didn’t offer enthusiasts the performance hit they desired, but that was a common complaint during The Malaise Era. Salvation was waiting in the wings with the Third Generation car courtesy of significant weight reduction and advanced aerodynamics. However, many people hold cars like this in high regard, and the BIN figure on this Z28 would be realistic if it weren’t for the potential rust developing in the doors. If this doesn’t deter you, making a respectful offer could be the best course of action. You never know, but today could be your lucky day.