Some enthusiasts wish to stand out from the crowd, which is why the custom scene continues to flourish. This 1983 Camaro Z28 makes its contribution, courtesy of its unique paint shade. It isn’t perfect, but it could be ideal for someone seeking a tidy driver with a difference. The seller has listed the Z28 here on eBay in Palmetto, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $10,100, although there is also a BIN option of $15,995.

Chevrolet focused heavily on weight reduction and aerodynamic efficiency when it released its Third Generation Camaro range in 1982. It represented a creative way to claw back some of the performance that had been lost to tighter emission regulations. It would eventually score a home run in later years as it combined this approach with the development of fuel injection and electronic engine management technology to recapture the glory days. Our feature car is a second-year example that the first owner ordered in Code 75 Red. It underwent a color change a few months ago, but the paint shade is interesting. It looks black under some lighting conditions, but viewing areas like the door frames confirms that it is an extremely dark shade of Purple. It holds a warm shine, and it appears the custom paint was applied to a relatively high standard. There are no significant imperfections, the panels are straight, and the underside shots confirm that this gem is rust-free. The plastic is in good order, the Camaro retains its original alloy wheels, and it will score additional points with some enthusiasts due to its factory T-Top.

Condition is often a matter of personal interpretation, as proved by this Camaro. The seller describes the interior as being in “great shape.” It is clean and tidy, with the aftermarket radio/cassette player and associated speakers the only visible additions. However, the outer seat edges exhibit some light sagging, and there is significant wheel deterioration. Neither problem is a deal-breaker, and I found it effortless to locate a new OEM wheel for under $300 online. The seat sagging shouldn’t cause discomfort, and the Gray cloth is free from wear. It will also appeal to buyers who crave comfort because the winning bidder receives air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a six-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, and a tilt wheel.

Chevrolet continued to claw back power and torque in the early 1980s which was lost to emission regulations, but it was a slow process. This is best demonstrated by the LG4 version of the 305ci V8 found under this Camaro’s hood. It generates a mere 150hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque, although it is saved (slightly) from complete mediocrity by the original owner’s decision to team that engine with a five-speed manual transmission. The ¼-mile ET of 16.7 seconds is nothing special by modern standards, although the Camaro’s ability to nudge 128mph demonstrates the benefits of the aero advances made by Chevrolet. The seller supplies no specific information regarding the Z28’s mechanical health, but since they state that the V8 has a nice rumble and that the car can be enjoyed immediately, it suggests the news is positive.

This 1983 Camaro Z28 won’t appeal to purists who will decry the color change. However, the custom paint means that the winning bidder is unlikely to park beside an identical example at a Cars & Coffee. Placing a potential value on a classic of this type is challenging, but there is a point to ponder. This Z28 has only received four bids, and only three people have added it to their Watch List. That suggests that it hasn’t generated significant interest, but do you think the situation will change?