1981 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe

All vehicle trades considered including classics and performance. We can assist with financing and shipping as needed.

Here is a vintage Corvette that is far more affordable than so many others but is still an exceptional car. We are talking about a rare 4-speed 1981 model (about 14% of production) in its original two-tone colors with a red leather interior and working air conditioning. And while the 1981 was rated at a mere 190hp, that has been remedied with a ZZ4 crate engine producing almost twice that amount.

This attractive C3 was built in early July 1981 and is one of the first 1,000 Corvettes produced by the Bowling Green plant. It has been with its last owner for more than 30 years and includes a reproduction window sticker and build sheet. This one was ordered with the optional D84 custom two-tone paint, that being Autumn Red and Dark Claret along with D88 sport stripes. It was also equipped with the N90 aluminum wheels which were a $428 option in 1981. The Goodyear tires look nice but are more than 20 years old (we can assist with replacement if interested).

The factory 350ci L81 engine was not very impressive for a Corvette, so it was jettisoned in favor of a Chevrolet ZZ4 crate engine. This nearly doubled the power level and really brought the car to life. It is a clean, professional installation that still retains the factory air cleaner. Features include a Holley Street Avenger carburetor, MSD ignition, and headers with a true dual exhaust. Note the smog pump and catalytic converter have been removed. Behind the engine resides the MM4 (Borg Warner Super T10) 4-speed manual transmission. This was the final year for a 4-speed C3, and only 5,757 such cars were built vs. more than 35,000 automatics! The rest of the running gear is standard Corvette with a 2.72 rear end, independent rear suspension, 4-wheel power disc brakes, and power steering.

The interior is code 742 dark red leather. The seats, carpet, door panels, and dashboard all look amazing. Everything appears stock with the exception of the shifter and a Sony AM/FM/CD stereo. The air conditioning has been converted to R134a and blows cold. There is also a tilt / telescoping steering column (which became standard Corvette equipment in 1980). The headlights, wipers, turn signals, parking brake, courtesy lights, power windows, power locks, and power antenna all work properly. Even the clock works!

Corvettes remain one of the most desirable classic cars on the market and their values typically reflect that. But this one carries a very reasonable price despite being a quality car with far better performance than stock, making it a perfect way to join the Corvette club without breaking the bank.