For real newbies like myself - A little history of the C4
07-27-2010, 09:28 PM
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For real newbies like myself - A little history of the C4
A Little History of the C4 Corvette
The fourth generation Corvette began production in March 1983 as a 1984 model. The 1983 model year was skipped due to production problems, although 44 prototype 1983 models were completed. The 23rd produced is displayed at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Corvette C4 production began in March 1983 as a 1984 model, and ended in 1996.
This first year model of the C4 carried over the L83 engine from the previous, 3rd generation Corvette. The L83 engine had a unique fuel delivery method dubbed "Crossfire": a dual throttle-body injection system. With the first major body, chassis and suspension change since 1963, the new C4 coupe incorporated a rear glass hatch for much improved cargo access, all new brakes with aluminum calipers, an all aluminum suspension for weight savings and rigidity, and the first one piece targa top with no center reinforcement. The Corvette C4 came standard with an electronic dashboard with digital liquid crystal displays for the speedometer and tachometer. The 1984 C4 was a complete and total redesign except for its engine, and the emphasis was on handling with the introduction of the front transverse composite leaf spring (still used today on new Corvettes). This handling focus came with the penalty of a harsh, uncompromising ride in the 1984 model.
Between 1984 and 1988, the Corvette utilized an unusual "4+3" transmission—a 4-speed manual coupled to an automatic overdrive on the top three gears. It was designed to help the Corvette meet U.S. fuel economy standards. The transmission was problematic and was eventually replaced by a much more modern and satisfactory ZF 6-speed manual gearbox in 1989. This new transmission was also the first to feature Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS), which used a solenoid to lock out 2nd gear during low-speed/low-throttle driving conditions.[16] This allowed the Corvette to maintain EPA fuel economy ratings high enough to avoid the "gas guzzler" tax. Beginning in 1985, the 230 horsepower (170 kW) L98 engine with tuned port fuel injection was the standard engine.
In 1986 the 2nd Indy Pace Car version was released as a convertible only. It was the first drop top Corvette since 1975. It was also the first pace car fast enough in stock form to pace the Indianapolis 500.[citation needed] A Center High Mounted Signal Light (CHMSL, a third center brake light) was added in 1986 to comply with federal law.
1988 saw the 35th Anniversary Edition. Each of these featured a special badge with an identification number mounted next to the gear selector. These Corvettes were easily identified with their white exteriors, wheels and interiors.
For the 1992 model year, the 300 horsepower (220 kW) LT1 engine was introduced, which improved output compared to the L98 in ideal tune with 250 hp (190 kW). Also introduced in 1992 was Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR), a form of traction control which utilized the Corvette's brakes, spark retard and throttle close-down to prevent excessive rear wheel spin and possible loss of control. The traction control device could be switched off if desired.
1993 marked the Corvette's 40th anniversary. Special versions had a commemorative Ruby Red color, 40th anniversary badges and embroidered seat backs. The 1993 Corvette also marked the introduction of the Passive Keyless Entry System, the first GM car to feature it.
1996 was the final year of C4 production, and featured special models and options, including the Grand Sport and Collector Edition, OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics), run flat tires, and the LT4 engine. The 330 hp (246 kW) LT4 V8 was installed in all manual transmission equipped Corvettes. All 1996 Corvettes with automatic transmissions utilized the LT1.
The C4's handling characteristics and cornering ability allowed it to dominate SCCA events and races during the 1980s and 1990s. It was undefeated in SCCA Showroom Stock competition from 1985 through 1987, despite Porsche's best efforts. Porsche reportedly even obtained a C4 Corvette for teardown and examination.[citation needed]
The C4 had plenty of firsts: EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), composite transverse leaf springs, antilock brakes, airbags, traction control, an aluminum frame and suspension components, digital gauges, overhead cams and four valves per cylinder in the superb ZR-1, a computer controlled, six-speed manual transmission, climate control, and a digital instrument panel. Conversely, C4 Corvettes were the last generation to utilize a centrally located fuel filler (1963), opposing windshield wipers (1953), a cast iron engine block (1953), 4 round taillights (1961), fiberglass body panels (1953), distributor ignition (1953).
The fourth generation Corvette began production in March 1983 as a 1984 model. The 1983 model year was skipped due to production problems, although 44 prototype 1983 models were completed. The 23rd produced is displayed at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Corvette C4 production began in March 1983 as a 1984 model, and ended in 1996.
This first year model of the C4 carried over the L83 engine from the previous, 3rd generation Corvette. The L83 engine had a unique fuel delivery method dubbed "Crossfire": a dual throttle-body injection system. With the first major body, chassis and suspension change since 1963, the new C4 coupe incorporated a rear glass hatch for much improved cargo access, all new brakes with aluminum calipers, an all aluminum suspension for weight savings and rigidity, and the first one piece targa top with no center reinforcement. The Corvette C4 came standard with an electronic dashboard with digital liquid crystal displays for the speedometer and tachometer. The 1984 C4 was a complete and total redesign except for its engine, and the emphasis was on handling with the introduction of the front transverse composite leaf spring (still used today on new Corvettes). This handling focus came with the penalty of a harsh, uncompromising ride in the 1984 model.
Between 1984 and 1988, the Corvette utilized an unusual "4+3" transmission—a 4-speed manual coupled to an automatic overdrive on the top three gears. It was designed to help the Corvette meet U.S. fuel economy standards. The transmission was problematic and was eventually replaced by a much more modern and satisfactory ZF 6-speed manual gearbox in 1989. This new transmission was also the first to feature Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS), which used a solenoid to lock out 2nd gear during low-speed/low-throttle driving conditions.[16] This allowed the Corvette to maintain EPA fuel economy ratings high enough to avoid the "gas guzzler" tax. Beginning in 1985, the 230 horsepower (170 kW) L98 engine with tuned port fuel injection was the standard engine.
In 1986 the 2nd Indy Pace Car version was released as a convertible only. It was the first drop top Corvette since 1975. It was also the first pace car fast enough in stock form to pace the Indianapolis 500.[citation needed] A Center High Mounted Signal Light (CHMSL, a third center brake light) was added in 1986 to comply with federal law.
1988 saw the 35th Anniversary Edition. Each of these featured a special badge with an identification number mounted next to the gear selector. These Corvettes were easily identified with their white exteriors, wheels and interiors.
For the 1992 model year, the 300 horsepower (220 kW) LT1 engine was introduced, which improved output compared to the L98 in ideal tune with 250 hp (190 kW). Also introduced in 1992 was Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR), a form of traction control which utilized the Corvette's brakes, spark retard and throttle close-down to prevent excessive rear wheel spin and possible loss of control. The traction control device could be switched off if desired.
1993 marked the Corvette's 40th anniversary. Special versions had a commemorative Ruby Red color, 40th anniversary badges and embroidered seat backs. The 1993 Corvette also marked the introduction of the Passive Keyless Entry System, the first GM car to feature it.
1996 was the final year of C4 production, and featured special models and options, including the Grand Sport and Collector Edition, OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics), run flat tires, and the LT4 engine. The 330 hp (246 kW) LT4 V8 was installed in all manual transmission equipped Corvettes. All 1996 Corvettes with automatic transmissions utilized the LT1.
The C4's handling characteristics and cornering ability allowed it to dominate SCCA events and races during the 1980s and 1990s. It was undefeated in SCCA Showroom Stock competition from 1985 through 1987, despite Porsche's best efforts. Porsche reportedly even obtained a C4 Corvette for teardown and examination.[citation needed]
The C4 had plenty of firsts: EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), composite transverse leaf springs, antilock brakes, airbags, traction control, an aluminum frame and suspension components, digital gauges, overhead cams and four valves per cylinder in the superb ZR-1, a computer controlled, six-speed manual transmission, climate control, and a digital instrument panel. Conversely, C4 Corvettes were the last generation to utilize a centrally located fuel filler (1963), opposing windshield wipers (1953), a cast iron engine block (1953), 4 round taillights (1961), fiberglass body panels (1953), distributor ignition (1953).
07-27-2010, 11:23 PM
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Drifting
Well done!! 
07-28-2010, 02:08 AM
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[QUOTE=BillGBuf;1574831495]A Little History of the C4 Corvette
The C4's handling characteristics and cornering ability allowed it to dominate SCCA events and races during the 1980s and 1990s. It was undefeated in SCCA Showroom Stock competition from 1985 through 1987, despite Porsche's best efforts. Porsche reportedly even obtained a C4 Corvette for teardown and examination.[citation needed]
QUOTE]
I did not know that very
The C4's handling characteristics and cornering ability allowed it to dominate SCCA events and races during the 1980s and 1990s. It was undefeated in SCCA Showroom Stock competition from 1985 through 1987, despite Porsche's best efforts. Porsche reportedly even obtained a C4 Corvette for teardown and examination.[citation needed]
QUOTE]
I did not know that very
07-28-2010, 08:36 AM
#10
Le Mans Master
It seems a glaring omission to have the history jump from the '88 anniversary to the '92 LT1. The ZR-1 was one of the most anticipated Corvettes of all time. The car was making magazine covers before it was even a car, starting around 1987 or so (I believe CandD's memorable "Corvette from Hell" was in '88). I would opine that the hype and anticipation rivaled or bettered that of the C6 Z06 or ZR1 (I think the Z06 was more anticipated than the new ZR1), in spite of there being no internet to speak of back then.
Last edited by Aurora40; 07-28-2010 at 08:40 AM.
07-28-2010, 08:40 AM
#11
Safety Car
That and any mention of the 90 model year whatsoever, last year of the 84-90 body style, updated interior, change from MAF to speed density and of course the long awaited ZR-1...
Great post though!
Great post though!
07-28-2010, 08:57 AM
#12
Team Owner
One of the best books you can buy to learn all about the C4 is Dave McLellan's "Corvette From The Inside". The C4 is not the only car that is discussed as the book also covers Dave's career with Corvette, especially the period when he was the Chief Engineer.
You can order the book at any book store. Published by Bentley Publishers, the ISBN number is 0-8376-0859-7
You can order the book at any book store. Published by Bentley Publishers, the ISBN number is 0-8376-0859-7
07-28-2010, 09:48 AM
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St. Jude Donor '10
A few trivia pieces:
There were only 2 Hugger Orange C4's ever released from GM
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-g...er-orange.html
In 1986, Corvette offered the "Malcolm Konner Commemorative Edition" with two transmissions. A manual 4-speed and an automatic. Only 20 4-speed manual transmissions were installed at the factory.
In 1987 you could buy a Corvette without an engine installed by the factory.
The last year a CB radio was offered as a Corvette option was 1985.
Twenty 1986 Corvettes were sent to Lotus in England to be converted into LT5 powered prototypes for the ZR1 project
In 1989, the ZR1 was produced to approximately 80 cars, however, none were sold to the public. The last of these ZR1s were shipped out of the factory on Dec. 22, 1988
There were only 2 Hugger Orange C4's ever released from GM
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-g...er-orange.html
In 1986, Corvette offered the "Malcolm Konner Commemorative Edition" with two transmissions. A manual 4-speed and an automatic. Only 20 4-speed manual transmissions were installed at the factory.
In 1987 you could buy a Corvette without an engine installed by the factory.
The last year a CB radio was offered as a Corvette option was 1985.
Twenty 1986 Corvettes were sent to Lotus in England to be converted into LT5 powered prototypes for the ZR1 project
In 1989, the ZR1 was produced to approximately 80 cars, however, none were sold to the public. The last of these ZR1s were shipped out of the factory on Dec. 22, 1988
07-28-2010, 10:46 AM
#14
Burning Brakes
07-28-2010, 11:16 AM
#15
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To put it simply :
We C-4 owners / drivers are driving one hell of an Automobile. Still, even today, the C-4 is awesome to drive.
Where else can you drive a piece of Americana / History / Performance ? THE C-4 of course. A totally new era in Vettes. I still find it hard to believe the C-4 is knocked so much by other Vette owners. I personally can find no fault with any generation of Vette. There are a few years, I prefer, but .. push come shove. I would get any year Vette. Sure some of the mid 70 to 80 vettes arent strict performance / handling cars, but they are Vettes and are awesom in their own way.
My favorite year Vette is the 73, but my 87 is just fine in her own rights. She makes me happy. The difference is Farrah Fawcett ( the 73 ) or Jaclyn Smith ( my 87) . You cant go wrong with either of those Hot, hot women
My 87 is fun for me to drive. The OP forgot to mention the Callaway editions of the C-4 ..
We C-4 owners / drivers are driving one hell of an Automobile. Still, even today, the C-4 is awesome to drive.
Where else can you drive a piece of Americana / History / Performance ? THE C-4 of course. A totally new era in Vettes. I still find it hard to believe the C-4 is knocked so much by other Vette owners. I personally can find no fault with any generation of Vette. There are a few years, I prefer, but .. push come shove. I would get any year Vette. Sure some of the mid 70 to 80 vettes arent strict performance / handling cars, but they are Vettes and are awesom in their own way.
My favorite year Vette is the 73, but my 87 is just fine in her own rights. She makes me happy. The difference is Farrah Fawcett ( the 73 ) or Jaclyn Smith ( my 87) . You cant go wrong with either of those Hot, hot women
My 87 is fun for me to drive. The OP forgot to mention the Callaway editions of the C-4 ..
07-28-2010, 11:49 AM
#16
Le Mans Master
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St. Jude Donor '10
It seems a glaring omission to have the history jump from the '88 anniversary to the '92 LT1. The ZR-1 was one of the most anticipated Corvettes of all time. The car was making magazine covers before it was even a car, starting around 1987 or so (I believe CandD's memorable "Corvette from Hell" was in '88). I would opine that the hype and anticipation rivaled or bettered that of the C6 Z06 or ZR1 (I think the Z06 was more anticipated than the new ZR1), in spite of there being no internet to speak of back then.
07-30-2010, 12:39 PM
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07-30-2010, 09:05 PM
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CI 5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11-12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-‘18-'19-'20-'21-'22-'23
NCM Sinkhole Donor
A few trivia pieces:
There were only 2 Hugger Orange C4's ever released from GM
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-g...er-orange.html
In 1986, Corvette offered the "Malcolm Konner Commemorative Edition" with two transmissions. A manual 4-speed and an automatic. Only 20 4-speed manual transmissions were installed at the factory.
In 1987 you could buy a Corvette without an engine installed by the factory.
The last year a CB radio was offered as a Corvette option was 1985.
Twenty 1986 Corvettes were sent to Lotus in England to be converted into LT5 powered prototypes for the ZR1 project
In 1989, the ZR1 was produced to approximately 80 cars, however, none were sold to the public. The last of these ZR1s were shipped out of the factory on Dec. 22, 1988
There were only 2 Hugger Orange C4's ever released from GM
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-g...er-orange.html
In 1986, Corvette offered the "Malcolm Konner Commemorative Edition" with two transmissions. A manual 4-speed and an automatic. Only 20 4-speed manual transmissions were installed at the factory.
In 1987 you could buy a Corvette without an engine installed by the factory.
The last year a CB radio was offered as a Corvette option was 1985.
Twenty 1986 Corvettes were sent to Lotus in England to be converted into LT5 powered prototypes for the ZR1 project
In 1989, the ZR1 was produced to approximately 80 cars, however, none were sold to the public. The last of these ZR1s were shipped out of the factory on Dec. 22, 1988
