While some enthusiasts consider a classic’s total originality essential, others are willing to compromise on the subject. This is particularly true if any changes or modifications are reversible, as with this 1988 Camaro IROC-Z. Its fresh paint and graphics leave it presenting superbly, while the slightly lowered ride height adds a sense of purpose. Its most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Woodland, Washington. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $9,302.

For some enthusiasts, 1969 must have seemed a lifetime ago. That was the last year buyers could order a Camaro Convertible because the variant was axed with the introduction of the Second Generation models. The status quo remained until 1987 when Chevrolet handed 1,007 T-Top models to the American Sunroof Company for a magic transformation into a drop-top. The Camaro’s styling proved ideal for the conversion, and such was the public’s acceptance that the number grew to 3,761 in 1988. Our feature car is one of those vehicles and comes with a known ownership history. Its presentation is virtually flawless, which is understandable considering it recently received a repaint in its original and stunning Medium Gray Metallic. The process included new graphics, which was worth the cost and effort. The paint shines beautifully, looking deep enough to walk into. The decals are crisp, and the panels are laser-straight. The cosmetic refresh didn’t end there because the Camaro received a new Black power top. I would hesitate to use the term “as-new” when describing the Convertible’s appearance, but it is guaranteed to receive favorable comments wherever it goes. The trim and glass are in good order, and the spotless 16″ wheels are wrapped in newer 50-series tires.

It is disappointing the seller doesn’t supply any engine shots because engine bay presentation can reveal a lot about a classic’s history. We know it features the LB9 version of the 5.0-liter Tuned Port Injection V8, producing 195hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque. Shifting duties fall to a four-speed automatic transmission, with power assistance for the steering and brakes standard fare on the 1988 IROC-Z. A ¼-mile ET of 15.7 seconds may not sound impressive, but it was considered respectable in an era when only a handful of American production cars could muster a sub-16-second pass. The seller admits they treated this IROC to a 1½” ride height drop courtesy of Eibach Springs but include the original items for those wishing to reverse the change. Otherwise, this Camaro is original and numbers-matching. The car is a turnkey proposition, and the winning bidder can drive off into the sunset with the top down and the wind blowing through their hair.

Many cars from the 1980s suffered significant interior trim deterioration. UV rays and the passage of time could exact a high toll, but that isn’t the case with this Camaro. Its wear-prone cloth seatcovers show no evidence of significant problems, while the remaining upholstered surfaces and carpet are excellent. The dash looks good, the gauges are crystal clear, and the only aftermarket addition is an upgraded stereo. The interior isn’t perfect because there appear to be small marks and wear on the leather-wrapped tilt wheel. That is one of the luxury touches inside this classic, with the new owner receiving air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, and cruise control.

The production total of 3,761 Camaro IROC-Z Convertibles for 1988 marks a significant increase over the previous year. However, it represents a relatively low percentage of the 96,275 Camaros built that year. There are rarer classics available, but this one seems to offer much to its new owner. It has no pressing needs and is ready to provide immediate motoring enjoyment. It has only attracted eighteen bids and remains below the reserve, but I expect that situation to change. Are you tempted to try to become the winning bidder? I wish you luck if you do.