USA vs USA — 1969 vs 1982
| Camaro Z/28 | Camaro IROC-Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 290 lb-ft | 345 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,949 cc | 5,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 131 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,150 lbs | 3,350 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,724 mm | 4,927 mm |
| Units Produced | 19,014 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,056 | $14,675 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 brings more power, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1982 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Chevrolet Camaro. The 1969 and 1982 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 290 hp compared to 245 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Camaro uses a V8 OHV (DZ 302, high-revving small-block) displacing 4,949 cc, while the Chevrolet Camaro relies on a V8 OHV (L98 TPI small-block) with 5,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 commands a significant premium over the 1982 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.