Can someone steer me to a page where I can get info on this year model? He said it was a normal model. 350 with the 350 transmission I assume. What is the rear gear ratio for these cars? It has cloth seats, was that a option? What are trouble spots on these cars? Where do they rust and what other little nagging nickel and dime issues would I expect? I really would like a 82 for the 700r4 but if it has a decent enough gear then that could make it alright.

 

81 automatics have a 2:87 rear gear, 4 speeds came with a 2:72. The automatic was a variation of the 350, but it was unique to the 81. Unlike earlier years, the 81 trans was sourced from Buick/Olds/Pontiac and has 2nd and 3rd gear lock up.

The cloth seats were a no-cost option, available as an "either or" option along with leather. The original cloth material is no longer available, and is not being reproduced. If the cloth seats are damaged, your only choice will be to replace them with leather covers. This is not a major issue, as the 81 trim tags don't differentiate between cloth and leather.

The problem areas are no different than any other 68-82 Corvette. Rust in the birdcage, windshield frames, chassis, and like any 76 or later Corvette, rusted floors. Leaking brakes calipers and power steering components, are another common problem found in any disc brake and PS equipped 63-82 Corvette.

The 81 was the first year that the computer was used on all Corvettes. Some people on here will insist that you have to remove it, but in reality, it's a pretty non-intrusive unit. Unless you plan on a hipo engine swap, I wouldn't worry to much about removing it.

 

Here is a good place to start.

http://www.web-cars.com/corvette/opt...ptionyear=1981

In regards to your question about the cloth interior, yes it was an option and its somewhat rare to see. The rest of your questions have been answered here many times over. You will see many threads concerning birdcage rust as this is one of the items of biggest concern if there is a lot. Do a search as there are plenty of threads with info and pictures. An '81 Corvette is now 31 years old and like any car of that age anything can be considered nickel and dime. The '81 had a 1 year only computer controlled carb (CCC) along with computer controlled spark advance. If the system is working properly it is actually very efficient and should provide decent MPGs. However when problems arise most owners ditch it and bolt on a traditional carb and distributor.

The best thing I suggest is if you want more info, post up as many details and pictures about the car you are looking at and we can offer feedback on it. If you really want an '82 then I suggest buying an '82 as they had the Cross Fire Inj. system and 1st gen. 700R4.

 

The Corvette Black Book has the information you want.

 

The '81 had the first computer controlled engine management system put in Corvettes. It was a "one year only" system that integrated the [unique] carb, distributor, ECU and wiring harness along with an oxygen sensor and connection to other engine operating sensors fed to the ECU. If the system on an '81 car is still operating, then it should work OK.

When you check out the car, you want to turn the ignition key "on", but not to "start" position. You should have dash indications for the various 'warning' systems on the car. One is for the "Check Engine Light" (CEL). If that light is not glowing, you have no knowledge of the condition of the ECU/engine management system. Either the bulb is burned out (or removed, so you can't tell there is a problem) or the ECU system is malfunctioning. If the CEL does light, then you can start the engine, let run a bit, and check the CEL again. If it is out (not blinking or intermittantly 'on') the engine control system should be working as expected. If light stays on, blinks, or goes on/off intermittantly, there is a problem with the system. The owner should fix this before you purchase OR should discount the price of the car about $1000 for not having a properly functioning system [that you will have to fix]. Of course, that ECU system contained the OBD-I diagnostic system to help guide you to the malfunctioning component(s), which is beneficial to repairing the system.

Lastly, while the dist/carb/ECU are 'unique' parts for the '81 only, all of them can be rebuilt to work properly without a lot of trouble. The fuel mixture control in the carb can be purchased and the rest of the carb is just like other Q-Jets. So, there should not be a lot of 'fear' associated with purchasing and '81. Chances are the engine has been stripped of this 'unique' hardware by now, anyway. Then, the car will be like the C3's before it.

 

I am still trying to wrap my head around the " Was offered an 81" statement! Like someone tried to give you one...or said they would sell you one for very little money...or what?

 

Glad i wasn't the only one....................
Please explain

 

I have listed my 80 Z28 for sale or trade for a Vette. I'm looking at C4's and C3's. I like the 81 because it looks like a classic and I like the lines. I like the 92-96 models for the drivetrain and interior.

 

Ahhh and someone offered you an 81 to trade for your Maro!

Hmm, post pics of your z28, and the car you were offered for the trade

 

+1

I looked at a few second gen F-bodies before I got my '81.

Pardon the sleuthing, but is this it?



If so, I'll trade you even for my '81!

 

Yes. But it now wears the correct aluminum N90 wheels that have been restored. I think I'll pass on this 81 and hold out for a 82 or a C4. I've got a bunch of reading to do. What is the birdcage? Going to look at a 89 at buyavette tommorow. It is supposed to be nice and I can waver on the LT1 a bit for a nice car.

 

Best to hold out for what you really want. My '81 is a basket case (I was joking about the trade).

The birdcage is the steel frame that surrounds the driver and passenger. The body panels are bonded to it.



Your Z28 is a great looking car, you should be able to get a fairly cherry '82 for what you can get for it.

Good luck.

 

Buyavette ...you must be in the area...but you would rather a c4 over a c3? If you are going for improved interior and drivetrain why not go with a c5..

 

"an"

 

http://www.vettefacts.com/C3/1981.aspx

 

I'd love a C5 but all I have to spend is what I get out of my car from a sale or trade. I personally think the car is worth between $9000-$9500 and that wont buy a C5. And yes, I'm out west near six flags.

 

A couple more grand and you def could get one.

You are right down the street I'm in Mableton/Smyrna

 

I know. Very strict rule in my house, no family money for buying toys. I'll eventually work my way up. Besides, I've never owned a Vette before.

 

Good luck on your decision