In the Garage: 1985 IROC-Z
This 1985 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z owned by Rachel Boley features Chevrolet’s LG4 305-cubic-inch engine and a five-speed manual transmission. Credit: David Fluhrer
THE CAR AND ITS OWNER: 1985 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z owned by Rachel Boley
WHAT MAKES IT INTERESTING: When the beefed-up Camaro IROC-Z (named after the popular International Race of Champions) was introduced in 1985, this special model quickly earned honors as America’s best-handling car, as well as a spot on Car and Driver magazine’s Top 10 list. Boley’s gleaming black ride, with over 90,000 miles, has Chevrolet’s LG4 305-cubic-inch engine, a five-speed manual transmission, all-wheel disc brakes and removable T-tops. “It is completely stock and in immaculate shape for an unrestored vehicle of that age and mileage,” she says.
HOW LONG SHE’S OWNED IT: Since May 2012
WHERE SHE FOUND IT: Boley purchased it from an owner in upstate Massachusetts.
CONDITION: “It’s unrestored,” she says, “and is ‘bone-stock,’ except for maintenance items. I do not foresee a restoration needed on this vehicle in the near future.”
TIPS FOR OWNERS: “Be sure you're ready for the commitment,” advises Boley, who performs her own maintenance. “Owning a classic, unless every inch of it has been restored, is not at all like owning a five-year-old car. Like it or not, you're buying a used car and someone else's problem, big or small.”
VALUE: Boley says the car is “priceless” to her. Hagerty, the classic car insurer, values a base model 1985 IROC-Z at $15,900 in top condition.
THE BOTTOM LINE: “I had to look long and hard before I found an IROC-Z with the full package,” Boley says. “Within two drives, she had me hooked. There is nothing better than tossing her in fifth (gear) with the T-tops off on a sunny day and turning down the radio to listen to that engine hum. This car has introduced me to the wonderful world of car shows and car show people. I have learned so much more about automobiles since I got her.”
