The early 1980s were an interesting time for American muscle cars. Emissions regulations and a national focus on fuel efficiency had taken some of the wind out of the sails of these performance icons. But that didn’t mean they were ready to go quietly into the night. Case in point: the 1982 Chevy Camaro Berlinetta.

As requested by an 11-year-old John Tracey in 1982, Motorweek made sure to review the 1982 Camaro. John added he wanted to be a car salesman when he grew up. If John Tracey is still out there in the world, we hope he made his childhood dreams come true.

The Review

The Berlinetta was Chevrolet’s attempt to redefine the Camaro as a more luxurious, upscale offering. While the Z28 was still available for those seeking raw performance, the Berlinetta aimed to provide a more refined driving experience. It featured softer suspension and a fancier interior than its muscle car brethren.

Under the hood, the Berlinetta came standard with a 2.8L V6 producing 102 horsepower, a far cry from the powerful V8s of the Camaro’s past. However, buyers could opt for a 5.0L V8, which managed a still somewhat underwhelming 145 horsepower. Despite the reduced power output, the Berlinetta was still a Camaro at heart, with aggressive styling and a sporty vibe.

The Berlinetta trim was part of the Camaro’s third generation, which ran from 1982 to 1992. These cars are often overlooked in favor of their more potent predecessors, but they still hold a certain appeal.

Today, the 1982 Camaro Berlinetta is an interesting footnote in the Camaro’s history. It represents a time when the muscle car formula was being redefined, and manufacturers were experimenting with new ways to appeal to buyers. While it may not be as iconic as some other Camaro models, the Berlinetta still has its fans. And with its unique blend of luxury and performance, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a slightly different kind of classic American muscle.

So the next time you see a Berlinetta from the early 80s, don’t be too quick to judge. It may not have been the fastest car on the road, but it was an interesting direction for the Camaro. And who knows – with its comfortable ride and sporty styling, it might just be the perfect classic for someone looking for a more laid-back muscle car experience.