This 1979 Chevrolet Camaro is a genuine survivor that wears that badge proudly. It isn’t perfect, but the seller states that it has accumulated show silverware due to its originality. It seems to be no idle boast, since they include the trophies in the deal. The Camaro is a turnkey proposition, needing nothing but a new home with an enthusiast who appreciates classics in their factory form. The seller has listed this Camaro here on eBay in Phoenix, Arizona. They set their BIN at $24,995 with the option to make an offer.
Chevrolet’s Second Generation Camaro was heading towards the end of its production life by the time this car rolled off the line. The seller describes it as the LT variant, which is incorrect. Chevrolet replaced the LT with the Berlinetta from this model year, but VIN decoding confirms it is the entry-level Sport Coupe. The first owner ordered this Coupe in Code 61 Medium Beige, one of the most subtle shades on that year’s color palette. It is unclear whether the color-matched Rally wheels are original, but they are period-correct if they aren’t. Close inspection reveals a wide selection of minor panel and paint imperfections, consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage that has been enjoyed as its creators intended. There is no visible rust in the supplied images, so a light cosmetic restoration would be pretty straightforward. However, some readers may argue that since classics are only original once, preservation would be more appropriate. The trim and glass are in good condition, and the rear window louver is an excellent period touch.
The first owner delved into the V8 drawer when ordering this Camaro. They selected the 305ci powerplant, teamed with a three-speed Hydramatic transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes. That year’s Camaro Sales Brochure quotes an output of 130hp for the 305, which is pretty modest. However, the trunk contains a set of Californian blue plates, and if that is where this Chevy started its life, the output figure drops to 125hp. The seller confirms that the originality of this Camaro extends to its drivetrain, which is numbers-matching. They include an enormous selection of paperwork in the deal, tracing the car’s history to Day One. There are also the trophies mentioned earlier, which I suspect were awarded for originality. I also believe that the documentation will confirm the odometer reading of 89,000 miles as genuine. Potential buyers can consider the Camaro as a turnkey proposition that runs and drives perfectly.
The interior may be this Camaro’s highlight. Trimmed in Beige vinyl matching the exterior paint shade, its condition is impressive. It carries the hallmarks of a classic that has been someone’s pride and joy. There is no appreciable wear, the dash and pad appear almost perfect, and there is no broken or crumbling plastic. The carpet may be slightly faded, but this might also be a photographic illusion. The equipment levels are relatively impressive for an entry-level Camaro from this era. The buyer receives air conditioning, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio. I acknowledge that it doesn’t seem much by modern standards, but that list looks good from a 1979 perspective.
This 1979 Chevrolet Camaro isn’t perfect, and that is part of its attraction. It features minor bumps and bruises that could be easily eliminated, and I would understand if some readers saw that as the most appropriate course of action. However, it appears to be a genuine survivor, meaning that preservation is an equally valid approach. I appreciate spotless perfection, but there is something about this Camaro that would prompt me to leave it as is. Do you agree, or would the thought of returning this car to its former glory be irresistible?
Clean car here right down to the factory floor mats. A lot of money here for a 305 engine car here I have had several in Caprices and Impalas backin the day and they all ran good.
305s are small bore but use a 350 crankshaft, so they make fair torque for the displacement, which would feel good in a heavier car.
She’s a simple beauty
My friend’s mom in high school had this car’s twin. Same color exterior, same color interior, same engine, same transmission. Hers had white wall tires though , which this very likely had from the factory.
He used to borrow at night and we would drive around town. It was pretty cool at the time as it was relatively new and it seemed somewhat fast having a V-8, even though we know now it was actually pretty slow.
Having subsequently owned two Z28s from this era (a 1978 and a 1979) i cannot see paying Z28 money for this. But it is still pretty neat that it’s around because you don’t see a lot of the Sport Coupes in good stock condition. These were considered disposable and most of them got modified and then destroyed before we even got out of the 1980s. A lot more of the Z28s were preserved.