1985 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z Photos, engines & full specs

Chevrolet introduced the third generation of the Camaro in late 1981 for the 1982 model year, and three years later, it unveiled one of the most desirable versions for it: the IROC-Z.

The American automaker sponsored the International Race Of Champions and reserved the rights to put the IROC name on a special version of the Camaro. But it was more than just some stripes and a nicer set of wheels for this F-Body sports car. It became the “Baby Vette” that managed to lower the zero-to-sixty run in under seven seconds for its family. And the 1985 model year was just the beginning, and it started as an option package for the Z28 Camaro.

Chevrolet bragged about sponsoring the IROC with this version and let everyone know when it placed IROC-Z decals on the doors. Underneath them, an elegant stripe marked the limit between the bodywork panels and the side sills that improved the ground effect. To differentiate the car even more from its mundane siblings, GM added a set of five-spoke alloy wheels with a unique design for this top-spec version.

Inside, the bolstered front seats with integrated headrests provided some side support for their occupants during high-speed cornering. In addition, two more people could sit in the rear, on the bench, albeit not very comfortably. Finally, the center stack hosted the audio system that featured an auto-reverse tape player, which was a special thing in those times.

Under the hood, the 1985 IROC-Z featured an iron block, 5.0-liter V8 paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Later on, the IROC-Z received an improved 5.7-liter unit.