Let’s face it, one of the largest problems with owning a late-model classic vehicle from the 1980s or ‘90s (oh how it hurts to call those cars “classics”) is that there isn’t the level of support for ancillary and restoration parts as is enjoyed by older cars. Fortunately for us, Classic Industries is working hard to change that, with its premier release here at the SEMA Show being new taillights for third-generation Chevrolet Camaros.
There’s no doubt that third-generation cars are currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity (have you priced one lately?!) and Classic Industries identified it as a modern classic in need of some love. “We’ve recreated the third-generation Camaro taillights in three styles,” says Product Specialist Craig Maiorana. “First is the Z28 style lights. Then there are the plain versions, which have no black bar across the center. And then we recreated what the community calls the checkerboard taillights.”
Anyone who has rehabbed a set of semi-modern taillights before knows that the OEM pieces are more problematic than just lens degradation. Thankfully, Classic Industries knows that pain as well. “We built them as full assemblies, because if you add a new lens to an old back you still have a weak link,” explains Maiorana. “We did all-new hardware and fasteners to hold them in place as well.” It appears that Classic has thought of everything.
That said, they are certainly not stopping their third-gen F-body taillight recreations here. “While we do have all of 1982 to 1992 covered, we know there are other variations besides these. And, we’re considering third-gen Firebirds next,” says Maiorana. And then, almost as a parting shot to twist the knife on our struggle with “late-model” vehicles becoming “classic” vehicles, Maiorana said, “Fourth-gen is another priority for us, especially the WS6 cars.” Hard as it may be to admit our age, we at least have something to look forward to.