CAMAROFACTS Field guide · 1967–2024

Model year · Second Generation

1980 Camaro

The second generation winds down as the fuel-economy era bites.

Brown 1980 Camaro Z28
1980 Camaro Z28 Public domain (Bull-Doser), via Wikimedia Commons

Chevrolet replaced the long-running inline-six base engine with compact V6 power teams and gave Z28 a functional rear-facing air-induction hood treatment.

The model hierarchy is Sport Coupe, Berlinetta, and Z28, showing Chevrolet's continued separation of entry, luxury, and performance roles late in the second generation.

The powertrain and identification notes below preserve configuration and model-year boundaries rather than treating every 1980 Camaro alike. Ratings use the measurement convention of their period, and visual cues are only a starting point: the VIN, factory labels, drivetrain identifiers, and surviving documentation should agree.

Why it matters

The model hierarchy is Sport Coupe, Berlinetta, and Z28, showing Chevrolet's continued separation of entry, luxury, and performance roles late in the second generation.

Engines

  • The factory charts separate the Chevrolet 229 V6 from the California-market 231 V6 and list 267- and 305-cu-in V8s, plus the Z28's 350 in eligible markets. Market and transmission restrictions are material and should be preserved in published tables.

Identification

  • The Z28's induction scoop, graphics, spoilers, wheels, and VIN/engine codes are stronger evidence together than any one bolt-on component. Base and Berlinetta cars require model/trim documentation because many exterior parts interchange.

Open questions

Still unresolved:
  • Locate official model and engine totals and document California/49-state differences in a structured power-team table.

Research basis

Sources are linked at the page level so the model-year claims can be checked against their research foundation.