1985 to 1990 Camaro IROC-Z Spotter’s Guide
techartspottersguide.html
Many thanks go to Jim Irace and Willie (Thirdgen.org History Moderator) for their help and contribution to this article. We’ve been wanting to do this for some time now, just never really got around to it. Well, seeming we’ve been getting approached more and more with questions pertaining to buying a used IROC and whether it’s "authentic" or not, we decided to write this article. Throughout the IROC-Z era, the basic look of the car looks the same. We’ll point out some things that differ with each model year IROC-Z along with what to look for with different options (i.e. 305 Throttle Body Injection versus 350 Tuned Port Injection).
Quick Jump: BY YEAR – BY OPTION(s)
The guide is divided in years and certain options. You may select to simply select YEARS or OPTIONS. The YEARS section will bring up key pointers and options available for that year and that year only. The OPTIONS section will enable you to see, what model year IROC-Z had that specific equipment and with what options (if applicable).
During your venture through our guide using YEARS, you can click on any of the OPTIONS images to jump to that specific option and see what other year IROC-Zs had that equipment and what option it came with. And visa versa, during your venture through the OPTIONS section, you can click on any year that option was available, to see what other equipment, that particular year, had.
Keep in mind. This guide is designed to provide people with a "quick" way of determining what to look for in determining what the seller or owner is claiming.
Please note that this guide is based on the condition that the ‘IROC’ in question, has been kept in it’s original state.
What makes an IROC and IROC? Well, after looking around for one, and seeing enough of them, you should be able to point out what is actually an IROC and what is not. We won’t kid you here. There are several "IROC" wannabe’s out there – ones who make a third generation camaro "look" and even drive like an "authentic" IROC-Z. Some people do a really good job, some people do not. The best way to tell if the car is an "authentic" IROC-Z is to look at the VIN number and, most importantly, the RPO codes (granted the "faker" didn’t swap out the center console with a real IROC-Z, then you would have to decode all of the numbers and figure out if the vehicle is indeed an IROC.) Just like the Z-28′s, all IROC-Zs came with black painted headlight inserts. But not like Z-28′s, the IROC-Z’s ground effects were the same color as the body, versus the two tone paint schemes of the Z-28.
The VIN number is located on the dash, drivers side, in plain view from the outside of the windshield. Decoding the VIN will tell the basics of the car and the engine it is equipped with. Not much to really tell, unless the VIN states the car was a V6 and the seller says it’s an IROC. The IROC-Z always came with a V8.
The RPO codes are located on a sticker, usually located in the center console/passenger side wall. The RPO code to look for in a 1985 to 1987 IROC-Z is B4Z. The RPO code to look for in a 1988 to 1990 IROC-Z is Z28 (since the IROC-Z "replaced" the Z-28 from 1988 to 1990, GM elected to use the Z28 RPO code for that option from 1988 to 1990). As a little tidbit, the Z-28 resumed production AS a Z-28 for the 1991 model year as GM’s licensing for IROC ended December 31st, 1989. The limited number of 1990 IROC-Z’s is accounted for the number of cars produced, under the IROC license, until December 31, 1989 for the 1990 model year.
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For Starters: To narrow down what model year "sub era" of IROC-Z you are looking at, play close attention to the IROC-Z logo on the door. From 1985 to 1987, the logo was towards the front of each door, whereas from 1988 to 1990 (if the car does not have the ‘sticker delete’ option), they were towards the rear of each door. Note the striping layout between each ‘sub era.’ From 1985 to 1987, the stripes were arranged where the black stripe was on the bottom of the two (silver on top as noted in the photo below). From 1988 to 1990, this black stripe was on the top of the two (again, if the car does not have the ‘sticker delete’ option.) Also note the wheel styles. A all 1985 to 1987 IROC-Zs had the 16" aluminum wheels with the single (wider) line through each spoke as standard. From 1988 to 1990, the 16" aluminum wheel was now an option, however, all later style IROC-Z wheels had two (thinner lines) through each spoke whether it was 15" or 16" (except for 1988 15" standard wheel – we’ll cover this later). |
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| Shot of the stripe layout of the 1985 to 1987 model year IROC-Zs as well as the wheel style. Also note that the IROC-Z logo on the door is towards the front. The 16" aluminum wheels (shown) were the only style available for the IROC-Z package for the 1985 to 1987 model years. | Shot of stripe layout of the 1988 to 1990 model year IROC-Zs as well as the wheel style. Also note that, on car shown, the IROC-Z logo on the door is towards the rear. The 15" aluminum wheels (shown) were the base wheel option on the IROC-Z for the 1989 and 1990 model years. |
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| Total Production | 21,177 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | B4Z |
| Base Engine | LG4 "Quadrajet" Carbureted 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | L69 "Quadrajet" Carbureted H.O. 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 LB9 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 |
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305 TPI engine w/ alternator on the passenger side and multi v-belt drive system |
1985 IROC-Z with Yellow Gold paint |
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The IROC (International Race Of Champions) began using the Camaro as the official vehicle. To commemorate this, Chevy made an IROC model for the Camaro. The IROC-Z was option B4Z on the option sheet and could only be ordered with the Z28 option package. The ride height was lower than a standard Z-28, and featured performance-calibrated front struts and springs, Bilstein rear shocks and 16 inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear Eagle 245/50/16 tires.
This new performance icon boasted skidpad numbers within the range of .90 g. The top offering under the hood was the brand new TPI 305 (LB9) which boasted 215 horsepower and 275 ft/lbs of torque. Recipients of this engine wore the 
badge. This was the most powerful 305 automatic ever offered in the IROC. The 190 horsepower HO 4bbl 305 and the standard output 155 horse LG4 were the other available motors.
The IROC also came with a redesigned front fascia with a more rounded appearance and a deeper chin spoiler with lower ground effects. The new fake hood louvers were introduced on the Z28 and IROC. The IROC was available in Yellow, Bright Blue Metallic, Black, Silver Metallic and Red.
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A ‘unique’ feature of the 1985 IROC-Z, is that there is no third brake light. Neither near the top of the hatch window, nor in the rear spoiler. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Yellow Gold, Bright Blue and Silver. 1985 was the only model year you could get a Silver IROC-Z. | |
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All 1985 IROC-Zs have the 85MPH speedometer, regardless of engine or transmission option. | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs have the round gear selector handle for 1985. All LB9 optioned IROC-Zs required automatic transmission. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on LG4/L69 (305 CID "Quadrajet" Carbureted) equipped 1985 IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. | |
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The 5500 RPM redline tachometer was used on LB9 (305 Tuned Port Injection) equipped 1985 IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. | |
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16" aluminum wheels with the single (wider) line through each spoke as standard on all 1985 IROC-Zs. |
| Base Wheel 16" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel None | |
| Total Production | 49,585 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | B4Z |
| Base Engine | LG4 "Quadrajet" Carbureted 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | L69 "Quadrajet" Carbureted H.O. 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 LB9 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 |
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305 TPI engine w/ alternator on the passenger side and multi v-belt drive system |
1986 Black IROC-Z |
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In 1986, the IROC received slightly different engine packages. The 86 IROC is the armpit of the entire run. The 305 block in 1986 now had a one piece rear main seal. The TPI 305 was the lucky recipient of the LG4 camshaft, and the result was a drop of 25 horses and almost a half second longer run to 60mph. Chevrolet did allow 50 IROCs out the door with the 220HP L98 350 TPI, but word has it, it wasn’t for production release. Beware when somebody sells an 86 IROC-Z with a stock 350 TPI engine. CHECK THE VIN for accuracy.
Chevy also let an undisclosed number of these cars out with the T5 (5-speed transmission) as part of the 1LE racing option that also included air conditioning delete, radio delete, as well as the deletion of all power accessories. The 1LE option was not available with T-tops, but did come with specially calibrated springs, shocks and sway bars.
Visually, not too much changed on the 86 IROC. The government mandated 3rd brake light found its way to the top of the rear hatch near the roof line. Curiously, rear window louvers became a factory option this year. Some of the 86 IROCS came with the new 140mph speedometer. 86 was also the first year for the base coat/clear coat paint system as standard equipment.
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A ‘unique’ feature of the 1986 IROC-Z, is that the third brake light was located on top of the hatch window, close to the roof. Later year, base model Camaros had the brake light in the same location as most did not have a rear spoiler. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Yellow Gold, Bright Blue and Dark Red Metallic | |
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Most 1986 IROC-Zs have the 85MPH speedometer, regardless of engine option. Later on in production, the 145MPH speedometer was introduced on TPI equipped IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. | |
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Towards the end of the 1986 model year production line, the 145MPH speedometer was used on TPI equipped IROC-Z, regardless of transmission. | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs had the round gear selector handle for 1986. All LB9 optioned IROC-Zs required automatic transmission. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on all production IROC-Zs for the 1986 model year, regardless of transmission. | |
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16" aluminum wheels with the single (wider) line through each spoke as standard on all 1986 IROC-Zs. |
| Base Wheel 16" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel None | |
| Total Production | 38,889 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | B4Z |
| Base Engine | LG4 "Quadrajet" Carbureted 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | LB9 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 L98 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 350 CID (5.7L) V-8 |
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305 TPI engine w/ alternator on the passenger side and multi v-belt drive system. Both the 305 and 350 TPI are indistiguishable just by looking at them. |
1987 IROC-Z w/ T-Tops in Dark Red Metallic |
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1987 brought about only minor changes to the IROC. The motors now had the new center bolt style heads and the intake manifolds had a revised bolt hole angle to accommodate the different heads. The motors also made the switch to hydraulic roller camshafts. This gave a 3.5% increase in gas mileage, and an extra 5 horsepower. The TPI 350 was now widely available, but only with the 700R4 automatic. Recipents of this engine wore the 
badge and the 305 TPI recipients wore the conventional badge.
Visually, the 87 is identical to the 86 model, except that the third brake light moved from up on the rear hatch, to down in the rear spoiler.
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Interesting Note about Convertibles: Convertibles were introduced for the 1987 model year. There were only two drivetrain combos for the convertible. One was the LG4 (305 Carb) with optional (required) automatic transmission and the other was the LB9 (305 TPI) with standard 5-speed transmission. There were NO LG4/5-speed or LB9/Automatic convertibles for the 1987 model year.
The rear spoiler light was unique in 1987. It held two incandescent bulbs, which aren’t listed in any bulb chart. All other year convertibles used the 5-halogen bulb lamp assembly, exactly the same as 1987 – 1990 coupes. Also, the rear spoiler’s "side extensions" carried over onto pieces bolted to the doors. This fact makes the side extensions and door "filler" plates unique. These parts were used in 1987 and very early 1988 convertibles. |
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On the 1987 IROC-Z, the third brake light was on the spoiler of the rear hatch lid. Base Camaro models still used the upper hatch location (towards to roof) for the location as most did not have a rear spoiler. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Yellow Gold, Bright Blue and Dark Red Metallic | |
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The 85MPH speedometer was the equipment used on the 305 CID (5.0L) "Quadrajet" carbureted engine (LG4) equipped IROC-Z, regardless of transmission. | |
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The 145MPH speedometer was used on the 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) and the newly available 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Z, regardless of transmission and includes convertibles with the LB9 option. | |
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1987 was the first year you could get the T5 5-speed manual transmission behind the LB9, 305 TPI engine. | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs had the square-shaped gear selector handle for 1987. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) "Quadrajet" carbureted engine (LG4) equipped IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. The 5000 RPM tachometer was also used on 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with automatic transimissions | |
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The 5500 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with manual tranmissions, as well as all 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Zs. | |
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16" aluminum wheels with the single (wider) line through each spoke as standard on all 1986 IROC-Zs. |
| Base Wheel 16" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel None | |
| Total Production | 27,811 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | Z28 |
| Base Engine | LO3 305 CID (5.0L) Throttle Body Injection (TBI) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | LB9 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 L98 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 350 CID (5.7L) V-8 |
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Base model IROC-Z came with the LO3 305 TBI engine. No cabureted engines were offered in the IROC-Z starting in 1988. |
Base 1988 IROC-Z w/ 15" aluminum wheels |
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1988 brought about some welcome changes in the horsepower department, as well as a somewhat revised exterior scheme. The Z28 was discontinued, and the IROC was now its own model utilizing the Z28 RPO code (instead of the B4Z code). For the first time in the history of the camaro, no carburated camaros were available. All motors offered fuel injection of some sort. The base IROC motor had the TBI injection that was very similar to what was found on the trucks. A new camshaft finally found its way into the 305 TPI and boosted horsepower to 195 HP in the automatic version, and a stout 220 HP when backed with the T5, 5-speed manual transmission. The 350 TPI also got a small horsepower boost to 230 HP. All of the V8s, starting in 88, had "guided rocker arms" that featured a stamped-in lip on each side of the pad that contacts the valve stem.
The exterior of the IROCs received a mild update for 1988. The most noticable difference is that the wheels have been slightly changed. Instead of one line through the center of each spoke, there were now two lines (on the, now, optionally equipped 16" aluminum wheel), and the center area was a little different. Here’s an interesting tidbit: for the first time, the 16" wheel was an option on the IROC. The car came standard with a 15" version. Along with that, the IROC-Z decal moved to the rear of the door instead of the front. The stripe along the ground effects line now had the black line on top of the other. The silver Z-28 badges on the exterior have been replaced with orange IROC-Z logos.
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On the 1988 IROC-Z, the third brake light was on the spoiler of the rear hatch lid. Base model Camaros were the Sport Coupe model, consisting of either a pedistal mount spoiler (exclusive to 1988 we believe), or the three piece spoiler; either one consisting of the brake light in the spoiler itself as well. The base model Camaros received silver or grey ground effects and can be considered the "preliminary" RS as in 1989, the RS was the base Camaro and wore body colored ground effects versus silver or grey. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Gunmetal Gray, Medium Orange (3,010 made) and Dark Red Metallic. 1988 was the only model year you could get an IROC-Z in Gunmetal Gray and Medium Orange. | |
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The 115MPH speedometer was the equipment now used on base equipped IROC-Zs for 1988. This would be the 305 CID (5.0L) Throttle Body Injection (TBI) LO3 equipped IROC-Z, regardless of transmission. The 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection (TPI) LB9 equipped IROC-Z with the automatic transmission also recieved the 115MPH speedometer. | |
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The 145MPH speedometer was used on the 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) with the 5-speed transmission and the 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Z and includes convertibles with the LB9 option. | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs had the square-shaped gear selector handle for 1988. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) TBI engine (LO3) equipped IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. The 5000 RPM tachometer was also used on 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with automatic transimissions | |
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The 5500 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with manual tranmissions, as well as all 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Zs. | |
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15" aluminum wheels were now the standard on all IROC-Zs starting in 1988. This particular style was only used for the 1988 model year only, replaced in 1989 with a style, similar to the newly designed 16" aluminum upgrade wheel. |
| Base Wheel 15" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel 16" Aluminum | |
| Total Production | 24,007 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | Z28 |
| Base Engine | LO3 305 CID (5.0L) Throttle Body Injection (TBI) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | LB9 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 305 CID (5.0L) V-8 L98 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 350 CID (5.7L) V-8 |
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350 TPI engine w/ alternator on the driver side and serpintine belt drive system. Visually identical to the 305 TPI. |
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1989 brought about some nice horsepower increases. The TPI 305 5-speed jumped to 230 HP if the dual catalytic converters were ordered (part of G92 package), and with the dual cats, the L98 350 TPI jumped to 240 HP, with a staggering 345 ft/lbs of torque! The TPI systems changed slightly. For the first time, the 9th cold start injector was no longer used. Visually, nothing changed from the 1988 model, except for one key item – starting in 1989, the rear seat belts were shoulder harness, whereas the 1988 and prior year Camaros used the rear lap belt.
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On the 1989 IROC-Z, the third brake light was on the spoiler of the rear hatch lid. Base model Camaros were now the RS model, basically the same car as the 1988 Sport Coupe, just bore the RS name, consisting of the three piece spoiler, in which the brake light would be located in the spoiler itself as well. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Bright Blue and Dark Red Metallic | |
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The 115MPH speedometer was the equipment used on base equipped IROC-Zs and convertible models for 1989. This would be the 305 CID (5.0L) Throttle Body Injection (TBI) LO3 equipped IROC-Z, regardless of transmission and the convertibles received the 115MPH speedometer, regardless of engine. | |
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The 145MPH speedometer was used on the 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) and the 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Z, except for the convertible model, which used the 115MPH, regardless of engine (LB9 or L98) | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs had the square-shaped gear selector handle for 1989. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) TBI engine (LO3) equipped IROC-Zs, regardless of transmission. The 5000 RPM tachometer was also used on 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with automatic transimissions | |
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The 5500 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with manual tranmissions, as well as all 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Zs. | |
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15" aluminum wheels were the standard on all IROC-Zs in 1989. The newly designed 15" wheel looks very similar to the 16" aluminum upgrade wheel option, just slightly smaller. To tell the difference, look at the tire size on the tire itself. For example, in 245/50/ZR16, the R16 notes that it is a 16" wheel and an R15 would signify a 15" wheel. |
| Base Wheel 15" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel 16" Aluminum | |
| Total Production | 5,517 |
| IROC-Z Option Code | Z28 |
| Base Engine | LB9 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection (TPI) V-8 |
| Optional Engine(s) | L98 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 350 CID (5.7L) V-8 |
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350 TPI engine w/ alternator on the driver side and serpintine belt drive system. Visually identical to the 305 TPI. No TBI engine was offered. |
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The IROC-Z Camaro ends in a bang. This is the first year the 1LE high performance option became widely known. The 1LE featured 4 wheel disk brakes, a 3.42 posi rear end, an aluminum drive shaft, large 12" front rotors, aluminum calipers, engine oil cooler, larger anti-roll bars and gas tank baffles. There were also numerous spring rates available. The package could only be ordered without air conditioning or fog lamps. 1990 also marked the year the the TPI systems changed from the Mass airflow system to the speed density system. The speed density system allowed an extra 5 horsepower for the 350, upping the ante to 245 HP. The LO3 305 TBI dropped as the base model engine. The only engines you could get in your 1990 IROC was either the 305 TPI (w/ or without the G92 package) or the 350 TPI. Also, for the 1990 model year, the removable roof panels (T-Tops) were not offered in the 1990 IROC-Z equipped with the 350 TPI engine option.
Visually, the exterior of the 1990 IROCs did not change, but looking through the windows will show that they now had a driver side air bag as well as revised instrument cluster. 1990 marked the last production model year for the IROC-Z, ending production as GM’s licensing for IROC ended December 31st, 1989. The limited number of 1990 IROC-Z’s is accounted for the number of cars produced, under the IROC license, until December 31, 1989 for the 1990 model year.
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On the 1990 IROC-Z, the third brake light was on the spoiler of the rear hatch lid. Base model Camaros were the RS model, consisting of the three piece spoiler, in which the brake light would be located in the spoiler itself as well. | |
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Colors available were White, Black, Bright Red, Bright Blue and Dark Red Metallic | |
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The 115MPH speedometer was on convertible models only, regardless of engine. | |
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The 145MPH speedometer was used on the 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) and the 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Z, except for the convertible model, which used the 115MPH speedometer, regardless of engine. | |
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Only in 1990, was the dash "IROC-Z" logo yellow. | |
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Automatic transmission equipped IROC-Zs had the square-shaped gear selector handle for 1990. | |
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The 5000 RPM redline tachometer was used on the 305 CID (5.0L) TPI engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs, without the G92 performance package. | |
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The 5500 RPM redline tachometer was used on all 305 CID (5.0L) Tuned Port Injection engine (LB9) equipped IROC-Zs with the G92 performance package, as well as all 350 CID (5.7L) Tuned Port Injection engine (L98) equipped IROC-Zs. | |
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15" aluminum wheels were the standard on all IROC-Zs in 1990. The 15" wheel looks very similar to the 16" aluminum upgrade wheel option, just slightly smaller. To tell the difference, look at the tire size on the tire itself. For example, in 245/50/ZR16, the R16 notes that it is a 16" wheel and an R15 would signify a 15" wheel. |
| Base Wheel 15" Aluminum | Upgrade Wheel 16" Aluminum | |
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Engine |
Year Available / Standard or Optional Equipment |
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| LG4 4bbl Carbureted 305 | 1985 – Standard 1986 – Standard 1987 – Standard |
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| L69 4bbl Carbureted 305 High Output | 1985 – Optional 1986 – Optional |
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1985 – Optional 1986 – Optional 1987 – Optional 1988 – Optional 1989 – Optional 1990 – Standard engine (G92 performance package is optional) |
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 LO3 Throttle Body Injection 305 |
1988 – Standard 1989 – Standard |
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 L98 Tuned Port Injection 350 |
1987 – Optional (w/ AT only) 1988 – Optional (w/ AT only) 1989 – Optional (w/ AT only) 1990 – Optional (w/ AT only) |
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MT = Manual Transmission (5-Speed T5), AT = Automatic Transmission (700R4)
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Transmission/Knob |
Year Available / Standard or Optional Equipment |
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1985 – Standard (exc. LB9. 305 TPI option) 1986 – Standard (exc. LB9, 305 TPI option) 1987 – Standard (exc. L98, 350 TPI option) 1988 – Standard (exc. L98, 350 TPI option) 1989 – Standard (exc. L98, 350 TPI option) 1990 – Standard (exc. L98, 350 TPI option) |
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1985 – Optional (required with LB9, 305 TPI option) 1986 – Optional (required with LB9, 305 TPI option) |
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1987 – Optional (required with L98, 350 TPI option) 1988 – Optional (required with L98, 350 TPI option) 1989 – Optional (required with L98, 350 TPI option) 1990 – Optional (required with L98, 350 TPI option) |
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| Wheel Style | Year Available / Standard or Optional Equipment |
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| 16" Aluminum |
1985 – Standard 1986 – Standard 1987 – Standard |
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| 15" Aluminum |
1988 – Standard |
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| 15" Aluminum |
1989 – Standard 1990 – Standard |
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| 16" Aluminum |
1988 – Optional 1989 – Optional 1990 – Optional |
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| Exterior Color | Year Available |
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 White |
1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 |
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 Bright Red |
1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 |
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 Black |
1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 |
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 Yellow Gold |
1985 1986 1987 |
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 Bright Blue |
1985 1986 1987 1989 1990 |
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 Dark Red (Flame Red) |
1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 |
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 Silver |
1985 |
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 Medium Orange |
1988 |
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|
 Gunmetal Gray |
1988 |
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| Style/Location | Year / Option (if applicable) |
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|
 IROC-Z logo towards front of each door. Black stripe on bottom of two. |
1985 – Standard (All) 1986 – Standard (All) 1987 – Standard (All) |
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 IROC-Z logo towards rear of each door. Black stripe on top of two. |
1988 – Standard (DX3 Sticker Delete Optional) 1989 – Standard (DX3 Sticker Delete Optional) 1990 – Standard (DX3 Sticker Delete Optional) |
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| Speedometer | Year Available / With What Equipment |
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| 85MPH |
1985 – All 1986 - All (exc. later 86 models with 305 TPI) 1987 – LG4 (305 4bbl Carb) |
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| 115MPH |
1988 - LO3 (305 TBI) 1989 – LO3 (305 TBI) and all convertibles, regardless of engine |
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| 145MPH |
1986 - Later models with 305 TPI 1987 – LB9 (305 TPI) and L98 (350 TPI), including convertibles w/ LB9 1988 – LB9 (305 TPI) and L98 (350 TPI), including convertibles w/ LB9 1989 – LB9 (305 TPI) and L98 (350 TPI), excluding convertibles |
|
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|
| 115MPH (Newer Style) |
1990 – All convertibles, regardless of engine |
|
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|
| 145MPH (Newer Style) |
1990 – LB9 (305 TPI) and L98 (350 TPI), excluding convertibles |
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| Redline | Year Available / With What Equipment |
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|
| 5000 RPM (4500 RPM Yellow) |
1985 - LG4 (305 4bbl Carb), L69 (305 4bbl H.O. Carb) 1986 – All 1987 – LG4 (305 4bbl Carb), LB9 (305 TPI) w/ Auto 1988 – LO3 (305 TBI), LB9 (305 TPI) w/ Auto 1989 – LO3 (305 TBI), LB9 (305 TPI) w/ Auto |
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| 5500 RPM (5000 RPM Yellow) |
1985 – LB9 (305 TPI) 1986 – None 1987 – LB9 (305 TPI) w/ 5-Speed, L98 (350 TPI) 1988 – LB9 (305 TPI) w/ 5-Speed, L98 (350 TPI) 1989 – LB9 (305 TPI) w/ 5-Speed, L98 (350 TPI) |
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| 5000 RPM (Newer Style) (4500 RPM Yellow) |
1990 – LB9 (305 TPI) w/o G92 Perf Pkg |
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| 5500 RPM (Newer Style) (5000 RPM Yellow) |
1990 – LB9 (305 TPI) w/ G92 Perf Pkg, L98 (350 TPI) |
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- Third Brake Light Placement -
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Location |
Year |
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|
 No Third Brake Light |
1985 |
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|
 Top of Hatch Window near roofline |
1986 |
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 Bottom of Hatch Window in Rear Spoiler |
1987 1988 1989 1990 |
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- Allan Reinike with contributions from Jim Irace and Willie
If you would like to contribute your articles to IROCZone.com, e-mail us at info@iroczone.com!
Regarding the yellow dash badge, “IROC-Z”, found only on the 1990 model, that is incorrect. My bone stock 1988 IROC-Z convertible, powered by the LB-9 TPI, which came stock with positraction and the oil cooler, was delivered with a “yellow” dash badge, on the right-hand side. I know, it’s a small, insignificant detail, but I had to make certain it was included for the sake of accuracy. I hope I haven’t desecrated your hard work, or your great site, with my trivial comment. Take Care. Bob
Hello again, There is a problem with the info I supplied, earlier in the day. Regarding the “Yellow” IROC-Z28 badge. The info I supplied was erroneous. My son informed me that he switched it with a friend who had a red 1990, because ours was red and the other fellow wanted red to go with the color of his car. Sorry for the hassle and the inconvenience this may have caused. The switch took place, over fifteen years ago. I never noticed the change, since the car was driven so infrequently.
i have a 1988 convertible or the rear spoiler the same as the hardtops
James, if your convertible has the same spoiler as a hardtop car, then your car is not a
factory authorized conversion by the ASC corporation… it’s one of many “aftermarket”
third party conversions.
I owned a new 1985 IROC and it was Blue. That blue was a lighter shade with a little more silver in it than the ’86 thru ’90 IROCs. Thanks…Great Site!
just wanted to say great site, a lot of good and hard to find info in one place, thanks!
In regards to your 1990 iroz having no t-tops,i have a 1990 iroc z with the 350 tpi in light garnett red and it is a t top car as well as the vin shows it as a 1990 car
86-87 with out spoiler get high mount
i love my 1989 iroc z it is the most special car i have ever had and i admire my 350 v8 5.7L it gives me the power that i want and love
great article, i currently own a 1987 iroc which i bought new it in great shape stored it every winter since i live in central new york, i drive it occasionaly, roger loran
thanks for the great site. i have 2 iroc-z i would love to hear form anyone saleing a yellow gold 86 iroc-z grabill0701@yahoo.com
hi i just want to say good work n yas i have a iroc it was all ways a dream car 2 me happy to read your site thanks!
I am the owner of a 1988 IROC-Z , I have read on other web sites claiming to be IROC experts that GM never offered any other colors than red, blue,white,and black !
your web site states the same paint code as my car has ( 63u ) , which is a medium orange. But, your color chart shows something completely different ! your color chart shows more of a bright, brilliant orange ! my car color is more of a burnt orange ( almost the color of the car on this page you have listed as dark metallic red ) is it the lighting on this picture, or possibly a misprint ? or is the paint chart incorrect ?
i have a 1990 convertable.how many of the 1990 convertables where realy made? There is a big debate on this.
hey what bout this one. im looking at buying this. http://stlouis.craigslist.org/cto/1708659859.html
I just purchased a 1990 IROC CONVERTIBLE. It is black with red leather interior. It still has the 305 in it and it is a LB9 package. So far, all info I ahve found tends to lean toward this being an all original car. I bought from the second owner who purchased it in 1992. I would like to know where to find production numbers regarding color and interior for the convertibles. Can you help?
Thanks
im looking at this red 1986 irocz with red louvers from factory the car is allegedly mint but two concerns the iroc z is near back of doors and third brake light in spoiler in back. Is this possible this is a later model build and they changed light but the stripes dont jive any thought on why stripes might be moved this car is supposed to be orginal.
I have an 89 iroc with a 350. Does any one know how fast 0 to 60 that will be
i have a yellow 85 irocz and it has a rpm gage that redlines at 50 but it has a carburated engine?
Hi, I have a 1988 Camaro IROC-Z (5.7 L 350). The question I have is:
I need to replace the front nose altogheter. Is the front nose of a 1986 IROC-Z28 the same as mine?
Thank you
i have a 1988 all original iroc z28 i ordered a set of long tube headers but they wont fit ipulled the motor and they still refuse to fit in the doghouse does anyone know what is causing the problem or how i can solve it????? thanks -matt
Im thinking of buying an IROC Convertible. This site has helped me. I am going to print it and bring it with me as I shop for cars. I only want a convertible. Im assuming that 1990 is the prime year. Is that correct? Am I making the correct choice? What options are the prime options? If you can see my email them please write me back and please fill me in. Thanks, Jason
Little e … find me an IROC-Z with no spoiler.
In regards to 1986 having a 350 ci engine. When I found mine (5 years and luck). The Vin did not give the sign, but the code on the rear of the motor passenger side. I had the list of motors that went into the cars, I will have to find it. I would like to further this research for authenticity. I purchased the car from the oringinal owner, the second thing is the story goes the manufacture ran out of 305 in 1986 and installed 1987 350 corvette motors. That was suppossed to be an option in 1986, it was not available.
I have a 1990 iroc t top 305 automatic car and it has the 115 speedometer in it. I am the 2nd owner and it was never changed.
I am looking at what the owner says is a 1983 Iroc Z convertable with a 305 Cross Fire Injection The car is a dark brown with a tan convertable top. The wheels do not look like the ones on your site and are 15 inch. It does have the Z28 badge on the passenger side dash. Your site says the convertable does not show up until 1987. Is this guy pulling my leg or what??? He wants $6K for the car which has 84K miles on it. Runs very well but I am not sure I want this car. According to your site, they never made an IROC Z in Brown and the lower rocker pannel is silver not the same color as the car!!
well i have a 1984 chevy camaro it has the H.O. logo on the dash on my passager side. it was equipped with a 305. now im dropping a 350 4 barrel turbo in it. oh, you probably didnt know 1984 camaros exsisted.
Hi. How can I find the starting vin numbers for Van Nuys IROCs made in 1985. Thanks.
Option code LB-9 for 1987 had a "special" TPI 305. 215 hp and 295 lbs torque. Available only with the T-5. Waited two years to get mine. (ordered in 1985 w/ 5L HO). Need to put that car back on the road in 2011 !!
David, there was no IROC Z that I can remember in 1983. As far as I know, these 3rd gens came about in late 84 as 85 models. That car almost has to be a Z/28. If it's what you like, however, just know it's not an IROC and move along. By now, you've either bought it or won't, but I thought I'd chime in.
Donnie, of course we know there was an 84 Camaro. However, this is about the IROC, not just the Camaro or Z/28. IROC's weren't available in 3rd gen fashion as 84's, as I said above. Nobody cares what engine you'll be swapping to, as long as you don't ruin the car with less than adequate changes. That said, I think you're the only one who has any idea what a 350 4 barrel turbo is… I'm not going to ask.
Otherwise… EXCELLENT informative site. Thanks for all the time used to build it.
Hi,
Cool page- LIKE IT, I have had 4 IROC's from my original (and only one that i ever drove on a regular basis) 1985 Black/Gold. My car left me all original still (after we where hit from behind- totalling the vehicle). The only thing on this page that was different on my car than what this page says is the speedometer- My 85 Did have the 145mph speedo in it (from the factory). I am not an IROC expert- just someone who had the car that remembers it (i actually still have photos of the car and interior- including dash).
Take Care and Keep ROC'n,
Chuck
Does anyone know how to be certian if a 1987 Iroc convertible is a factory original? I just looked at one and the 6th digit of the VIN is a 2, shouldn't it be a 3? Any info would be great, thanks.
I have a 1987 irocz i have alot of questions about this car i beleave its a true irocz with a 5.7 in it i need a 700r4 for it if anybody has one let me know i love this car its from floridia and its clean i got it for junk price and i got the deal of a lifetime if any iroc heads out there can help me with my questions i would like that
I thank you for your help – we all owe you a beer! I'm looking at the 1988-1990 years (apparently all V8 engines came with IROC badging – thank you for the tip!), and only want a manual transmission. Anyway, my question: EPA.GOV states that the 5.7 liter engine requires Premium Gas. Is this true? That almost seems crazy to me, but maybe I'm wrong.
Take care my friend.
I would like to buy a 1990 Camaro IROC convertible manual shift.Please help me find one.Prefer down South.
hello, i"ve just bought a 1990 iroc z28 convertable, where would i find the motor for the convertable top? and how many where produced that yr?
i have a 1986 irock z28 5.7 tuned port with out t -tops color red all original 65,000 miles red on red pos a trac 4 speed auto 700 r4 1 of the 50 relised to the public , this car has no vin plate in the window i is in the door. and notin the fire wall eather also it is number 49 and the car came from the vanes factory Cal. after talking to GM it was one of the Gm test cars for 1986 and relised to the public only sold 50 to the public. this car is fully loaded except for the t-tops yes even cal smog car it is a L98 5.7 350 all background work is done it is what it is…cool huh….