Why I Drive a BARN FIND Camaro Z28

Why I Drive a 1981 third gen Camaro Z28 350 4 speed that sat outside a barn for years! Bob bought the car and had it running within 2 weeks. Not even the plugs were changed! Let’s find out why he drives it.

Common Inquiries from Enthusiasts & Owners

1. What engine and transmission combinations were available?
• In the U.S., the 1981 Z28 could be ordered with either the 305 ci V‑8 (165 hp) and a 4‑speed manual, or the 350 ci V‑8 (175 hp) but only with a Turbo‑350 automatic and CCC emissions control.
• Canadian-market Z28s were unique — they could be ordered with a 350 ci V‑8 and 4‑speed manual, bypassing the U.S.’s CCC restrictions.

2. What is the Computer Command Control (CCC) system?
• Introduced in 1981, CCC was an on-board emissions/economy control unit that governed carburetion, ignition timing, EGR, and more. It reduced tunability and performance, though it improved efficiency.

3. How many Z28s were produced, and how rare are Canadian versions?
• Total 1981 Z28 production hit 43,272 units, marking the highest percentage of Z28s in the Camaro line for that year.
• Only about 3,025 Canadian Z28s were made, making the 350 ci + 4‑speed manual variant especially collectible.

4. What parts are hard to find or have fitment issues?
• Forum users often ask about vacuum hose diagrams for the 350 engine, especially when diagnosing stalling issues.
• Hard-to-source or mismatched parts include dashboard components, fender extensions, taillights, hood‑flap solenoids, and floor/toe panel sections prone to rust.

5. How do I confirm my Z28’s authenticity?
• Owners often look for the build sheet/cowl tag (usually under the back seat or trunk) to confirm factory-installed options like Z28 trim, engine code, transmission type, and differential.
• Typical VIN/tracking detail investigations around the 13th VIN digit and engine/transmission codes help flag clones or incorrect builds.

6. What are the major restoration/corrosion concerns?
• Rust-prone spots include the front subframe mounts, lower cowl, rocker panels, lower fenders, floorboards, especially those beneath T-top seals, and deeper rust in rear quarter panels and trunk seams.
• T‑top seal leakage is a frequent headache, often leading to carpet/water damage and further rust.