October 12, 1981 – 3rd generation Camaro production begins

The Chervolet Camaro first hit the market for the 1967 model year as Chevy’s answer to the Ford Mustang. The two have remained steadfast rivals ever since. It was on this day in 1981 that the third generation of the Camaro went into production for the 1982 sales year. The first generation only lasted between its introduction and the 1969 model year. The sec gen Camaros stuck around a little longer, with production beginning for 1970. This third gen, the first to feature a standard four banger, represented the changing tastes of the 1980s as well as any car could. It was during this production run that Chevrolet introduced the iconic IROC-Z, first appearing for 1985 with an available V8.

The third generation also saw the return of the convertible Camaro in 1987, which hadn’t been topless since 1969. These drop tops were special 20th anniversary Camaros that featured a leather map pocket. How… amazing. The last year of the third generation saw the 25th anniversary Camaro come to market in its last year, 1992. A 25th Anniversary Heritage Package

could be had which added stripes and a unique spoiler plaque.