The Third-Generation Camaro was released for sale in December 1981, beginning production on October 12, 1981. The 1982 model introduced the first Camaros with a hatchback body style, and such options as factory fuel injection, and a four-cylinder engine. The Camaro Z28 was Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1982. Three models were available: Sport Coupe, Berlinetta, and Z28. 173,000 Camaros were sold in the United States in 1982.Renaux, p. 32 12 percent of buyers took the four-cylinder, 37 percent the V6, while 51 percent opted for the V8.Renaux, p. 33
