USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1982
| Camaro Z28 | Camaro IROC-Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 360 lb-ft | 345 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,736 cc | 5,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.8 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,350 lbs | 3,350 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,882 mm | 4,927 mm |
| Units Produced | 124,901 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,263 | $14,675 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 brings more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1982 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z answers with 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 1970 and 1982 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 245 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Camaro uses a V8 OHV (LT-1 small-block) displacing 5,736 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 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 edges ahead at 5.8 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 commands a significant premium over the 1982 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.