Supercharged V8: 1988 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

Contemporary reports generally weren’t flattering when Chevrolet released the C4 Corvette. Many journalists described the company’s latest offering as a triumph of style over substance, with the performance not meeting expectations. However, the C4 evolved during its production life, eventually recapturing the glory days of the 1960s. This 1988 Convertible takes that to new heights, courtesy of the seller’s decision to add a supercharger to the mix. They have had their fun, and feel it is time for this classic to find a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this blown beast.

Chevrolet offered 1988 Corvette buyers a choice of eleven single paint shades, along with a solitary two-tone combination. This car’s first owner selected Code 40 White, and with a further 3,619 people ticking the same box on their Order Form, this shade ranks seconds to Bright Red in the popularity stakes. The overall presentation is tidy and consistent with a survivor-grade classic. There are no significant flaws or imperfections, and the Black soft-top fits as tight as a drum. The trim is in good order, and the glass is excellent. This Corvette rolls on ZR1-style alloy wheels, but the seller will include the originals for those preferring a more “stock” appearance. Those wheels are the first hint that there might be more to this classic than meets the eye.

The initial disappointment many experienced with the C4 Corvette came courtesy of its performance. Even the most potent example failed to deliver a sub-15-second ¼-mile ET. However, Chevrolet toiled tirelessly to improve the situation and, when it rolled off the showroom floor, this Convertible demonstrated that the time and effort produced a welcome reward. This classic features a 350ci V8, backed by the Doug Nash 4+3 manual transmission. Placing 245hp and 345 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal, the ¼-mile romp would have taken 14.3 seconds. I am speaking in the past tense because much has changed with this ‘Vette since 1988. It is hard to ignore the Vortech supercharger bolted to this V8. What is less obvious are additions like the intercooler, chipped computer, high-pressure fuel pump, pressure regulator, and cat-back Monza-type exhaust. Those additions should unleash plenty of extra power, making a low-13-second pass possible. The upgrades don’t stop there, with the brakes receiving upgraded drilled rotors for improved stopping power and heat dissipation. Potential buyers will welcome the news that this classic is essentially a turnkey proposition. The seller suggests replacing the tires due to age. Otherwise, it appears to have no further needs. They claim it has a genuine 42,000 miles on its odometer, although they don’t mention supporting evidence.

The seller’s interior shots are quite limited, making it hard to perform an in-depth assessment of the condition. They confirm it features Black leather power sports seats and the desirable Delco-Bose CD stereo system. Other creature comforts include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and a tilt wheel. There are no glaring faults or signs of abuse, but I would probably attempt to negotiate an in-person inspection to determine whether there are any shortcomings that will require immediate attention or cost a fortune to fix.

As a modified classic, determining a fair value for this 1988 Corvette Convertible becomes challenging. The seller has listed it here on Craigslist in Windham, New Hampshire, with an asking price of $12,500 OBO. That figure would be considered in the ballpark for an original survivor with an odometer reading of 42,000 miles. The blower muddies the water slightly, and although it has been on the market for nearly twelve days, I do believe this Corvette will eventually find a new home. Do you agree?