2001 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

Description

When this 2001 Camaro Z/28 convertible was built, nobody knew what the future of the F-body would hold. Today we know its legacy is secure, but in the mid-2000s, fantastic, original V8 Camaros like this were like gold. Finding one that is 100% stock, with low mileage and an unusual color combination is one way to assure future collectability, and in the meantime, it's an absolute ball to drive.

GM was fascinated with Pewter on their performance cars around the turn of the century, and the contrast between brute-force performance and the subtle color is insanely attractive. The composite bodywork strikes a nice balance between F-body icon and grown-up performance car and since it's immune to rust and dents, this one shows quite well today. Sure, there are a few very minor signs that it's been driven, but overall there's no doubt that this car was beloved by the two guys who have had the honor of owning it. The well-integrated wing looks even better on the convertible than it does on the coupe and who doesn't love the way the front fenders swoop up to meld into the side mirrors? No stripes, no hood scoops, just an ultra-smooth look that makes this Camaro a fantastic grand touring car rather than a boy-racer. If nobody notices those discreet Z/28 badges, this car could be one heck of a sleeper.

Black leather is the right choice with the Pewter bodywork, again reinforcing the idea that this is an adult's car, not a slot car toy. The leather buckets are as comfortable as they are supportive, equally well-suited to long-distance hauls as to carving through back country roads. Particularly for a convertible the leather is in really nice shape with only minor comfort marks that add character. Z/28s came only one way: loaded, and this one includes all the goodies including A/C, power windows, locks, and top, a tilt wheel, power driver's seat, and cruise control, so it really does cover all the bases. The Bose stereo system sounds absolutely fantastic, top up or top down, and it has obviously never spent any time being stored outdoors, because the carpets and dash pad are excellent. The top stows beneath a matching semi-rigid boot and the trunk, while modest, is nicely finished and includes a space-saver spare.

A lot of guys were worried about the LS1 in the Camaro, but once the performance numbers came out, those fears were laid to rest. While GM put different numbers on the F-body LS1 engine and the Corvette version, the truth is that they're pretty much identical inside. As a result, this was among the most potent Camaros ever built, yet still pulls down decent fuel economy and idles as smoothly as a Cadillac. The LS1 is insanely easy to modify, but this one thankfully remains completely unmolested, right down to the air filter, so it's reliable and you don't have to worry about questionable workmanship. A 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission means that massive acceleration requires only one foot and two hands on the wheel. The suspension is still pretty stiff, but you can drive it every day without sacrifice, and with those shiny chrome SS wheels and 245/50/16 tires, it looks fantastic.

Fully documented with manuals and books, this is an investment-grade fourth-generation Camaro. Enjoy it now, because cars like this are going to be really hard to find in the future. Call today!