1979 Camaro Z28. Photo: hemmings.com

Amidst a decade fraught with shortages, tragedies, and disappointments, the 1979 Camaro was embraced to a then-unseen extent by the American buyer. Fun and available in a new trim called “Berlinetta,” America could (sort of) have a decent Camaro again that was worth the money. And despite its emissions-control shackles–especially in California–the ’79 model was a resounding success; so popular was this year, that it made the high-water mark of Camaro sales at over 280,000.

Today’s find on Hemmings Classifieds looks to be a real winner itself. At only 45,000 original miles, the seller is asking just $12,000 for what looks to be like one of the more pristine examples of a Z28.

It’s got the right looks in the right places: those sweet Z28 ribbon decals, running from the front flares to the doors’ bottoms; a chill cherry interior, kept in very good shape aside from some fading on the seats; and factory sport wheels.

It may be a V-8, but it shames its namesake 350. Photo: hemmings.com

Elsewhere, there’s the (sigh) non-functional hood scoop, factory stripes, and original documentation like the window sticker. Creature comforts include its A/C and power steering and brakes. The owner was kind enough to put new Michelin tires on it.

Under the hood, you’ll find one of those vanilla 350s that found their way into the ’70s Camaros. Although commanding a pathetic 175 horses, in its day, it was one of the best American motors money could buy. It’s a piece of crap today, and should be removed at once to make way for something better; an LSx perhaps?

At any rate, this car looks terrific for its age. It’s been around for 34 years, waiting for the right owner to free it from its own catalytic-converter-and-smog-pump prison. Here’s to hoping one comes along soon.