Chevrolet Corvette
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The Chevrolet Corvette is a two-door, two-passenger sports car manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet across more than 60 years of production and eight design.
The 1981 Chevrolet Corvette C3 is considered a collectible classic for several reasons that make it worthy of approval by the Classic Car Association of the United States.
Design and Style - **Iconic Design**: The Corvette C3 is known for its aerodynamic and elegant design, with curved lines and a sporty appearance that distinguishes it from other vehicles of its time³. - **T-Top**: Many 1981 models come with the T-Top roof, a distinctive feature that allows for a semi-convertible driving experience³.
Technical Specifications - **Engine**: Equipped with a 350 cubic inch (5.7 liter) V8 engine known as the L81, which produces 190 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque³. This engine offers a balance between performance and durability.
- **Transmission**: Available with a four-speed manual transmission, which is less common and more sought after by collectors³.
Historical Value - **Limited Production**: In 1981, Corvette production was split between the St. Louis and Bowling Green plants, with the latter being the new home of Corvette production. This makes the 1981 models unique in being the last produced in St. Louis and the first in Bowling Green¹. - **Innovations**: Introduction of new technologies such as the computerized emissions control system, which was a significant advancement in the automotive industry¹.
Popularity and Market - **Consistent Demand**: The C3 Corvette has maintained its popularity over the years, with many enthusiasts and collectors seeking well-preserved or restored models².
- **Auction Prices**: Prices for 1981 Corvette C3s vary depending on their condition and originality, with some models in excellent condition fetching significant prices at auction and private sales².
Examples of Recent Sales - **Notable Sales**: Numerous examples of 1981 Corvette C3s can be found for sale on sites like ClassicCars.com and Collecting Cars, with prices reflecting their condition and rarity²³.
Recognitions and Awards - **Awards**: The Corvette C3 has received numerous awards and recognitions over the years, cementing its status as an iconic and collectible vehicle⁴.
In short, the 1981 Chevrolet Corvette C3 is a collectible classic due to its iconic design, advanced technical specifications for its time, historical value, and continued popularity in the classic car market. [Classic.com](https://www.classic.com/veh/1981-chevrolet-corvette-4yQa1a4/)
²: [ClassicCars.com](https://classiccars.com/listings/find/1981/chevrolet/corvette) ³: [Collecting Cars](https://collectingcars.com/for-sale/1981-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-c3) ⁴: [Paul's Classic Cars](https://www.pauls-classic-cars.fr/car/chevrolet-corvette-c3-1981-6/)
Quotes
[edit]- I do things my way. Vipe or Vette; I tear up the highway.
- 50 Cent, "Poor Lil Rich", Get Rich or Die Tryin' (February 2003), New York: Shady Records
- I could go very, very berserk at this point. But - two things are stopping me. One, the noise. It's driving me mad. And secondly, it was on this very road that the drummer with a band called Def Leppard crashed his muscle car, a Corvette, and as a result of that he now has to drive with a knob on his steering wheel.
- Jeremy Clarkson, "July 6th, 2003" (2003), Top Gear, United Kingdom: British Broadcasting Corporation
- She's sweat, wet. Got it goin' like a turbo 'Vette.
External links
[edit]
Encyclopedic article on Chevrolet Corvette on Wikipedia
