1991 Chevrolet Camaro VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1991 Chevrolet Camaro marked one of the final years of the Camaro’s third generation—a sharp, aggressive design era that began in 1982. With a sporty wedge shape, pop-up headlights, and a loyal performance following, the 1991 Camaro blended classic muscle car DNA with evolving ’90s styling. It was a favorite among younger drivers and performance enthusiasts alike, offering a mix of affordability, power, and street presence.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The third-generation Camaro debuted in 1982 and represented a major shift from the heavier second-generation models. By 1991, the Camaro was benefiting from a decade of refinement. This model year saw some fresh styling tweaks, including a new ground effects package and revised front and rear fascias. The legendary IROC-Z trim was discontinued after 1990, and the Z28 returned to reclaim its spot as the top performance trim.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1991 Camaro offered a range of powertrains catering to different budgets and performance needs:

• 2.5L Iron Duke I4 – 90 hp (Base model; rarely seen)

• 3.1L V6 – 140 hp (RS and mid-level trims)

• 5.0L V8 (TBI) – 170 hp (Available in Z28)

• 5.0L V8 (Tuned Port Injection) – 230 hp (High-output Z28 option)

• 5.7L V8 (Tuned Port Injection) – 245 hp (Optional in Z28 coupe)

Transmissions included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The Z28, especially with the 5.7L TPI, was a true performer, capable of sub-6-second 0–60 mph times and strong quarter-mile pulls.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 1991 Camaro had a bold, aerodynamic look, highlighted by:

• Pop-up headlights

• Integrated body-colored ground effects (new for 1991)

• Updated rear spoiler design (wraparound-style for Z28)

• Optional T-tops and rear hatch glass

Inside, the cockpit featured a driver-oriented dash, bucket seats, and analog gauges. While the interior materials were simple by modern standards, the Camaro offered an unmistakably sporty vibe.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 1991 Camaro was offered in three main trims:

• Base – Minimal features, 4-cylinder or V6 engines

• RS (Rally Sport) – Sporty appearance package, V6 or V8 options

• Z28 – Top performance trim, TPI V8s, performance suspension, fog lights, and dual exhaust

Special options included:

• Heritage Package – Retro stripes and styling nods to early Camaros

• 1LE Performance Package – A rare track-focused version with upgraded brakes, suspension, and deleted A/C (aimed at racing)

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety features in the 1991 Camaro included:

• Driver-side airbag (first introduced in 1990)

• 3-point seat belts

• Anti-lock brakes (optional on some trims)

• Standard side mirrors and basic crash protection

Tech was fairly basic but included features like power windows, cruise control, cassette player or optional CD, and power mirrors depending on trim.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

Fuel economy varied depending on the engine:

• I4 and V6 models: 18–25 mpg (city/highway)

• 5.0L V8: Around 16–24 mpg

• 5.7L V8: Closer to 15–22 mpg

For a muscle coupe, these numbers were fairly respectable, especially compared to earlier generations.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1991, the Camaro went head-to-head with:

• Ford Mustang GT

• Pontiac Firebird (sibling model)

• Dodge Daytona

• Toyota Supra (for performance comparisons)

The Camaro Z28 offered more horsepower than the Mustang GT and was cheaper than the Supra, making it a strong value pick for performance fans.

PRICING

Original MSRP for the 1991 Camaro ranged from:

• Base model: ~$10,000

• RS: ~$12,000

• Z28: ~$15,000–$17,000 depending on options

Today, values vary:

• Clean RS or base models: $6,000 – $12,000

• Z28 models (TPI V8s, low mileage): $15,000 – $25,000

• Rare 1LE versions or show-quality restorations: $25,000+

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Recognized as one of the most iconic third-gen Camaros

• The 1LE variant earned respect in SCCA and amateur racing circles

• A favorite in pop culture and the tuner scene through the 1990s and early 2000s