1981 Camaro Restoration Information

1981 Camaro Parts and Restoration Specifications

This was the final year for the second-generation Camaros. The final 2nd gen Camaro was only slightly altered from the 1980 Camaro, sporting a new grille and newly styled side markers. The 350 small block V8 was now only an option on the Z28 Camaro models and only utilized an automatic transmission. Both horsepower ratings and production numbers were lower in 1981.

While the exterior of the 1981 Camaro was a carryover from the previous year, there were some significant changes under the hood. Most notably the CCC (Computer Command Control) emission system. This meant the 1981 Camaro was the only 2nd gen to have a “computer”, which controlled the carburetor mixture, along with a “check engine” light and ALDL connector. The transmission now had a lock-up torque converter, also controlled by the CCC.

In a bizarre move to appease consumers, the Z28 Camaro, powered by a 350 cubic inch V8 was now only available with an automatic transmission. After a 12 year run, the second-generation Camaro was heading for automotive history. A lot had been written over the years faulting the impracticality of the car in general; the poor headlights, lack of controls on the steering column, poor seats, poor fuel economy, poor trunk space… it was time.

Approximately 126,140 Chevrolet Camaros were produced in the year 1981 making these the last of the second-generation Camaros to roll off the Chevrolet assembly lines.

1981 Camaro saw the following additional changes:

• The Rally Sport model was dropped.
• VIN number significantly different (17 characters vs. 13) than in previous years.
• Power brakes now standard
• Space saver tire now standard
• Halogen headlights debut
• CCC emissions system
• Lockup torque converter
• “Check Engine” light

1981 Camaro OEM Brochure

1981 Camaro Model Options

Engine Options:

• 3.8 L 229 cubic inch V6
• 3.8 L 231 cubic inch V6 (California models)
• 4.4 L 267 cubic inch V8
• 5.0 L 305 cubic inch V8
• 5.7 L 350 cubic inch V8

1981 Camaro Production:

• 52,004 V6
• 74,135 V8
• 126,139 total

Dealer Introduction: 9/25/80

Vehicle Identification Example: 1GlAP87K6BN100001

• First digit is Country of Origin: 1 = USA, 2 = Canada.
• Second digit: G for General Motors.
• The third digit is Division, 1 = Chevrolet.
• Fourth digit is restraint system:
  • A = non-passive
  • B = automatic belts
  • C = inflatable restraint.
• The fifth digit is the series:
  • P = Sport Coupe
  • Z28 Coupe
  • S = Berlinetta
• Sixth and Seventh digits are for body style: 87 = sport coupe.
  Eighth digit is engine code:
  • A = 231ci V6
  • H = 305ci V8
  • J = 267ci V8
  • K = 229ci V6
  • L = 350ci V8
• Ninth digit is a check digit.
• The tenth digit is the model year: B = 1981
• The eleventh digit is N for Norwood assembly and L for Van Nuys
• Last six digits increased one with each car built at each plant

Dimensions:

• Length: 197.6 inches
• Height: 49.2 inches
•  Width: 74.5 inches
•  Wheelbase: 108.0 inches

Curb Weight: (in pounds)

• 1FQ87 (V6) – 3326
• 1FQ87 (Z28) – 3600
• 1FS87 (V6) – 3374

1981 Ending VIN by Month

• Norwood
  • Aug – 100576
  • Sep – 104729
  • Oct – 108603
  • Nov – 110502
  • Dec – 113739
  • Jan – 116764
  • Feb – 121261
  • Mar – 126138
  • Apr – 130560
  • May – 134765
  • Jun – 139491
  • Jul – 140012
• Van Nuys
  • Aug – 102033
  • Sep – 108330
  • Oct – 114261
  • Nov – 119960
  • Dec – 124701
  • Jan – 128995
  • Feb – 136096
  • Mar – 144475
  • Apr – 152181
  • May – 163093
  • Jun – 178116
  • Jul – 186126