1980 seats
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
From: Rochester NY
1980 seats
The seats in my 1980, as many of you will probably agree, are not very comfortable. In fact, I can't understand how the design even made it to the showroom! In any case, has anyone replaced their seats with aftermarket seats that look good, fit well and are relatively easy to install?
Thanks.
Thanks.
Pro
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 504
Likes: 33
From: NW Michigan
I completely agree, and the often mentioned "Fiero seat swap" is on my list. Until then I did find a short-term improvement that works ok for me. I took heater hose (any larger diameter hose would work), slit it, and cut it into about 8 inch lengths. I placed the slit hose over the lip of the back lower shell where it meets the upper shell in two spots. The hose is dense enough to support some weight, and you can put 2-3 "layers" over each other to adjust how upright the sit seats. For me the severe slant of the stock seats was contributing to the lack of comfort. Tilting the upper seat-back forward allowed my upper back to touch the seat- much more comfortable to me. Is it pretty? No, but you only see it when accessing the cargo area. Is it cheap? Yes, my local parts store gave me the leftover hose for free. 
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
Likes: 1,481
From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 12,652
Likes: 3,110
From: Shamong, NJ
I traded a 74 on my 81, and the difference was night and day. Even after 31 years of ownership, and my 40 pound weight gain (
), I still find my 81's seats to be comfortable. This is a great swap for any 68-82 Corvette.
The shape of the seat back, is so similar to the stock 70-78 seats, that to the untrained eye, they almost look factory correct in those years.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,372
Likes: 215
From: Peoria Arizona
Actually, due to my back issues the flat 68-77 style are better for me. The later design pushes into the center of my back and just doesn't work for me. I do however, like the side bolsters on the later seats.
Adam
Adam
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 840
Likes: 4
From: Syracuse IN
We just removed the most uncomfortable seats I have ever owned. Maybe some like the later model C3 seats, but I could not stand them. Anyway, I am going to get flamed for this but, I found a set of 2005 Mustang GT leather seats under 30k miles. They look new. Really, they fit extreamly easy and look great. Extreamly comfortable, about 1 1/2" higher than OEM. I will take some photos if anyone interested. The install from start to finish was about 3hrs. Again, I like the feel so much, we are again starting to drive the car more often. Al
Racer
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 462
Likes: 1
From: Westernport Maryland
Seats
I used Fiero seats, very comfortable, back adjusts, and got Vette style upholstery here
http://mrmikes.com
http://mrmikes.com
Racer
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 297
Likes: 3
From: Indianapolis
I had the same problem with my '80 seats, insufficient lumber support was causing back pain. I put in Fiero seats, custom upholstered by MrMike.
I explained how I increase lumber support here: http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-g...installed.html
I explained how I increase lumber support here: http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-g...installed.html
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 840
Likes: 4
From: Syracuse IN
We just removed the most uncomfortable seats I have ever owned. Maybe some like the later model C3 seats, but I could not stand them. Anyway, I am going to get flamed for this but, I found a set of 2005 Mustang GT leather seats under 30k miles. They look new. Really, they fit extreamly easy and look great. Extreamly comfortable, about 1 1/2" higher than OEM. I will take some photos if anyone interested. The install from start to finish was about 3hrs. Again, I like the feel so much, we are again starting to drive the car more often. Al
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,372
Likes: 215
From: Peoria Arizona
I just sold a '05 Mustang and those leather seats were the most comfortable thing I've had in any car I've owned. Great seating position and support and good quality leather. Those that flame about it aren't the ones riding in your car. Do what you want to make your car more enjoyable. 
That looks fantastic in there.
Adam
That looks fantastic in there.
Adam
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 24,483
Likes: 311
From: Scottsdale AZ
Boy is that for sure - - we put 82 seats in our 74 and thought it was a wonderful improvement.
Most of the newer seats will fit- although the tracks may not aligns with all four anchor bolts. Use the search feature - -lotsa discussion . . .
