If this 1985 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 proves nothing else, it demonstrates that there are enthusiasts out there with better self-control than I will ever possess. If this classic belonged to me, I would slip behind the wheel at every opportunity. However, this Camaro has accumulated a mere 7,200 miles on its odometer, and I can’t help but agree with the seller’s assessment that it is in showroom condition. The only thing it needs is a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this amazing survivor.
The history of this Camaro is unclear, and it is disappointing that the seller only supplies two exterior photos in their listing. However, they reveal what appears to be flawless Code 75 Red paint that holds a mirror shine. The Silver highlights are equally impressive, and the panels are laser-straight. The car’s beauty is more than skin deep, with the underside shots seemingly confirming the seller’s claim that this gem is in showroom condition. The fact that it has been garage-kept since Day One has undoubtedly helped its cause, because not only is there no evidence of surface corrosion, but penetrating rust isn’t a consideration. The plastic and tinted glass appear perfect, and this Camaro hasn’t seen enough action to allow the alloy wheels to become stained or marked.
Opening the doors reveals the interior further supporting the seller’s mileage claim. The first owner chose Gray Custom cloth trim, adding air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power hatch release, a rear defogger, cruise control, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, factory floor mats, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player. Faulting the presentation is seemingly impossible. There is no wear or evidence of abuse, with the lack of marks on the pale carpet and mats particularly noteworthy. The plastic is flawless, and there are no visible aftermarket additions. Showroom condition? If it isn’t, it doesn’t miss by much.
It is fair to say that although this Z28 is numbers-matching, its drivetrain configuration is the least potent offered by Chevrolet in 1985. The first owner selected the LG4 version of the 305ci V8, teaming it with a four-speed automatic transmission, a limited-slip rear end, and power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes. The LG4 brings 155hp and 245 ft/lbs of torque to the party, allowing this Z28 to cover the ¼-mile in 16.8 seconds. Pointed at a long enough stretch of straight road the needle will eventually nudge 128mph. The seller states that apart from the tires and V-belt, this classic is mechanically original and untouched. They claim that it has a genuine 7,200 miles on the clock without mentioning verifying evidence. However, the car’s overall condition makes the claim plausible. They also supply no information regarding how this survivor runs and drives. The seller appears approachable and might be willing to answer questions that may eliminate lingering doubts.
Enthusiasts who value a paper trail will appreciate the documentation included with this 1985 Camaro Z28. The buyer receives the original Title, Window Sticker, Build Sheet, Bill of Sale, Owner’s Manual, and key tag. These add to the car’s appeal, helping it to stand apart from the crowd. However, it needs to. The seller listed the Z28 here on Craigslist in Bolivia, North Carolina. They set their price at $29,000 OBO, which is well above the market average and the value quoted by NADA. It is close to what Hagerty suggests for a Concours example, but that leaves us with a point to ponder. These cars are undeniably popular, but a significant amount of this classic’s inherent value rests with the odometer reading. Every additional mile could adversely impact its potential future worth. This leads to the question: Would you drive this Camaro as its creators intended, or squirrel it away as a future investment?
Asking too much, 10k max.
Probably, and Craigslist doesn’t get much action since Marketplace took over anyway. Maybe the owner isn’t really keen on selling.
Not that it matters much, but I ran top end against a few other third gens back when they were still pretty new and mostly unmodified. My LB9 would hit the speed limiter at 130 (indicated) mph. I never had an LG4 come close to keeping up. Maybe 115…something like that. I heard that speed limiters varied based on the OEM tire speed rating of the car. Mine came with z rated tires.
Having owned one of these back in the early 90’s (an 88 model), they suffer from just terrible build quality. Rattle trap real quick, cloth comes apart, etc. That engine with an auto probably makes it less than fun to drive. I don’t see the value in these.
Those saying $10K max live in an alternate universe. Simply following auction results will tell you that super low-mileage 80s F bodies have come up in collector markets as X’ers grow into disposable income and long for the cars they lusted over in the 80s when they didnt have the money to insure a Z28 or TA. Z28s with 50,60,70 thousand miles in decent shape are bringing 10-12K. A 7200 mile museum piece is in an entirely different class. HP is not the deciding factor
needs to go to an auction to try and get that # not craigslist
He probably has an ad in Hemmings as well
I bought a brand-new Tune Port T/A in ’85 and really liked the car with my only regret being ordering it with T-tops, just too much trouble. Other than that I really liked the car. My problem with something like this one is it’s about double what I paid new for more car and I wouldn’t/couldn’t let it sit, I’d have to drive it.
An LG4 with the G80 option. Won’t ever need it.
This is the car I wanted 1986. I had a 1984 Berlinetta, nice car, loved the digital dash, but the damn car was in the shop every week! Literally.
I wanted to trade it in on an ’86 Z28 but was upside down on it.
It got stolen a few months later.
“It got stolen a few months later.“
😉
@Glen
Well, it did! Maybe with a little help from leaving the keys in it. 😉
I was upside down once when I wanted to trade and same thing happened it was stolen. Blessing in disguise?
Not sure if it bring 29k, maybe given the ultra low miles to the right person. But suprised to see some suggesting 10k for this car, maybe 10 years ago. Very familiar with the market on these and you can’t even buy a nice driver z28 3rd gen for 10k. Sure they have a few sales on ebay for that price, but the cars selling at that price are more like used ‘transportation” than a nice driver. And if you want something nicer than a driver with lower or decent miles you are going to pay a lot more than 10k.