1981 Yenko Chevrolet Camaro Stage II Turbo Z

After the Z-28 was dropped from the Chevrolet Camaro lineup in 1975, it looked as if it was “game over” the Z28’s glory days until it was re-introduced in 1977. The Z-28 was improved for 1978 with a new front and rear fascia that carried through with minor additions to the end of 1981, although its power ratings seemed rather lackluster. Don Yenko had seen enough of the car’s decline and decided it was time to build a new Yenko Camaro that would combine the new model’s level of luxury and Yenko horsepower, while remaining within emissions limits. The “Turbo Z” was conceived in late 1979 as the perfect performance car for the 1980’s…it was quick, nimble, comfortable, roomy and surprisingly economical.

Yenko spent all of 1980 working with Turbo International to develop an emissions friendly power package resulting in the new Yenko Turbo Z for the 1981 Camaro with two levels of equipment: Stage I and Stage II. The Stage I’s featured turbo, automatic transmission and Turbo Z Graphics, Stage II in addition included leather adjustable seats, competition steering wheel, Koni shocks, heavy duty sway bars and modular wheels shod with Goodyear Wingfoot Radials. Only a few cars were produced.

Stage I and Stage II Yenko Chevrolet Camaros came equipped with a 350 cu in engine, then a Yenko installed Turbo International Turbocharger with 7 lbs. of boost was added. Luxury features and creature comforts like air conditioning, power locks, power steering, power windows, power brakes, special “Turbo Z” floor mats, were added, plus posi-traction, cruise control, and tilt steering were all included in the mix.

These Camaros were shipped from the factory directly to Yenko Chevrolet where they received their transformation. They were in limited production, and it’s believed that only a total of 19 were produced. Magazines labeled the Yenko Turbo Z  as “The Ultimate Camaro”, and they proved that the old Yenko Camaro’s magic was still alive and well. Each of these cars received both a COPO (Central Office Production Order) and a Yenko Chevrolet letter of authenticity. These Camaro’s still prove to be a valuable addition to any car afficiando’s collection to this day.

And I’ll bet you had no idea they existed….shame on you.