Own a 70s Muscle Car Icon
The Z28 is a performance-oriented version of the Chevrolet Camaro. The 1979 model year marked an important transitional period for the second-generation Chevrolet Camaro Z28 as emissions regulations challenged the American muscle car. While performance was hampered, the 1979 Z28 maintained its athletic DNA.
The Z28 underwent a facelift in 1979, adopting a more angular, squared-off aesthetic with a distinct blacked-out grille and functional hood scoop. This restyled exterior gave it an aggressive, muscular stance.
Under the hood, Z28s typically housed a 350 cubic-inch V8, though power output was restricted to around 175 horsepower to meet emissions rules. A four-speed manual transmission came standard, catering to driving enthusiasts who cherished rowing their own gears.
Aerodynamic enhancements like a front air dam, rear spoiler and low front end maximized airflow and stability. For the interior, the Z28 received high-back bucket seats, a center console and sport steering wheel, offering a cockpit tailored to the performance driver.
While the days of massive untamed power were fading, the 1979 Z28 maintained its athletic spirit within the realities of its time. Features like four-wheel disc brakes, rally wheels, and a performance suspension showed Chevy’s commitment to making the Z28 a capable sports coupe despite constraints. The 1979 Z28 signifies American muscle cars’ difficult but important transition into a new automotive era.
Here are some key facts about the 1979 Camaro Z28:
- Little Known Facts:
- First year of the quartz clock dash gauge
- New single-snorkel air intake system
- Front coil springs became thicker
- New front stabilizer bar mounting design
- Standard M21 close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission
- Fun Facts:
- Could accelerate 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds
- Weighed only 3,240 pounds
- Optional cruise control available
- Only around 12,000 Z28s produced in 1979
- Last year before a major redesign for the third generation
A five-year sales history can be seen at Classic.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. For production numbers and values, see Conceptcarz.com. Current values can also be seen at Collectorcarmarket.com. In-depth specifications and performance can be seen at Automobile-catalog.com. Some sites for more specifications: NastyZ28.com and Autoevolution.com.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $16,600
- 1979 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28
- 1961 Pontiac Tempest
- 1964 Chevrolet 2 Nova
- 1964 Cadillac Deville
- 1980 Volvo 240DL
Image credit – Wikipedia.org
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