80, 81, or 82?
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,883
Likes: 124
From: Lubbock TX
'81 all the way. Last year for the 4-speed, ever. Only year the engine code matched the year - L-81. That engine went in every Corvette and didn't go in anything else. The only drawback of these years is the aluminum differential, but it can be changed.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 830
Likes: 1
That's what I did!
3/4 cam, Edelbrock Performer Intake, Edelbrock 600 Carb, Stans Tri-Y Headers, true 3" dual exhaust. Got rid of the AC pump & pulley, the spare tire. Put on new front steering/suspension, Bilstein Sports all the way around....And....AND NOW THE GD window doesn't roll all the way up!
Racer
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 478
Likes: 0
From: Ellicott City MD
I've always liked the looks of these 3 years - 1980 - 1982. If I were looking to buy one, what are the major differences between the years? How can you tell them apart visually?
Is one considered more desirable than the others? Why?
Any big problems to avoid in specific models or options?
My intent would be to drive it occasionally throughout the year, and park it alongside my 69 vert.
Is one considered more desirable than the others? Why?
Any big problems to avoid in specific models or options?
My intent would be to drive it occasionally throughout the year, and park it alongside my 69 vert.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,891
Likes: 2
From: Baltimore MD
1981 for sure - after de-bubba-ing my electrical the car runs great. First year for the power drivers seat - 6 way power switch so you should be able to find a comfortable position. 81 weighed less than the 80 and a Computer Command Control (CCC) carb and distributor is no big deal - you don't like it change em out. Exterior identification is easy, emblems on the 80-82 are different. Below is for hood and gas lid emblems. 82 had "cross.fire.injection"" on side front fenders. 1980-81 has nothing on the front fenders.
1980: very long (elongated) crossed flags - chrome trim
1981: same as 1980 - black trim
1981: Normal (shorter width) crossed flags - black trim
Like has been said the 81 could be had in either manual or auto - also the exhaust headers are stainelss steel from the factory.
1980: very long (elongated) crossed flags - chrome trim
1981: same as 1980 - black trim
1981: Normal (shorter width) crossed flags - black trim
Like has been said the 81 could be had in either manual or auto - also the exhaust headers are stainelss steel from the factory.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 924
Likes: 15
From: DFW Metroplex Texas
I love my '82. Its all stock and runs great.
Every time I see someone talk about replacing their TBI setup I smile because I can see the value of unmolested '82s continue to rise.
Hey, these are C3s. You can't go wrong whatever year you go with.
Every time I see someone talk about replacing their TBI setup I smile because I can see the value of unmolested '82s continue to rise.
Hey, these are C3s. You can't go wrong whatever year you go with.
