40k Original Miles: 1981 Chevrolet Corvette

We’re no strangers to low-mile classics at Barn Finds, although the claims about some stretch credibility. However, this 1981 Corvette is an exception, because the seller states that its odometer reading of 40,000 original miles is documented. It isn’t perfect, but if considered a high-end driver, it offers much to its new owner. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Spencer D for spotting this excellent survivor.

By the dawn of the 1980s, Chevrolet had adopted an evolutionary approach to Corvette upgrades. It knew that its replacement was waiting in the wings, although a few of the upgrades that saw the light of day in 1981 were carried over to the C4 range. The company had traditionally offered C3 buyers a choice of ten paint shades each model year, but that figure ballooned to nineteen single-shade and four two-tone combinations in 1981. White was the most popular, with the Black gracing our feature car scoring second place with a total of 4,712. The vehicle presents extremely well for its age, with no significant paint or panel shortcomings. Life in a dry climate has served it well, with the seller confirming that the frame and birdcage are spotless. The seals are in good order, including those for the glass roof panels. The seller indicates that the Corvette is missing its front air dam rubber fascia, but they are awaiting the delivery of a replacement to install. If this doesn’t occur before the sale, they will forward it to the new owner. The overall impression is that this Corvette will suit someone seeking an extremely tidy driver-grade classic.

There is something undeniably “right” about teaming Black paint with Red interior trim. It makes a bold visual statement but guarantees that any classic will garner attention. As with the exterior, there is little to criticize about the interior presentation. The seller identifies slight warping on the upper dash near the passenger-side A-pillar, also confirming that the leather seat bolsters and foam are relatively new. There are no significant imperfections or issues, supporting the seller’s mileage claim for this classic. They added an upgraded stereo, which appears to be the only aftermarket component. The air conditioning now features R134 refrigerant and is said to blow ice cold. Other comfort items include power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, and cruise control. There are a couple of functional issues for the buyer to tackle, including an inoperative passenger-side power lock and cruise control. Otherwise, everything works as it should.

Chevrolet adopted a “one size fits all” approach to engines for the Corvette’s 1981 model year. The iconic L82 option was a distant memory, with the single-spec 350ci V8 producing 190hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque. This car’s first owner selected the three-speed automatic transmission, while Chevrolet introduced the fiberglass rear spring for this model year that would become a hallmark of the future Corvette range. The seller recently performed a list of maintenance tasks on the brakes, exhaust, and other components to ensure it is a turnkey classic that runs and drives well. They claim it has a genuine 40,000 miles on its odometer, and with supporting documentation, that isn’t an idle boast.

The C3 Corvette’s production life was reaching its end by the time our feature car rolled off the line in 1981. However, even though the sticker price had climbed substantially compared to 1980, the gloss hadn’t worn off the badge. The 1981 sales total of 40,606 wasn’t a record, but demonstrated that plenty of people found the ‘Vette a tempting proposition. The seller listed our feature car here on Craigslist in Pilot Point, Texas. Their price of $19,900 is above the market average, but not by a huge margin. It has only been on the market for a day, and it will be fascinating to see how quickly it finds a new home. Could you be tempted?