I'm interested in the differences between the '76 and '77 Vettes.

Thank You.

 

I started to list the differences. This is much easier:
https://www.corvsport.com/1977-c3-corvette/

 

That was great, thanks!

I think the biggest visual differences are the change of center console gauges to the plastic 77-82 design, and the possible inclusion of the (recalled) aluminum horn button. Because of the half--completed interior redesign, there are many one-year parts on the 77, while the 76 has the Vega-style steering wheel.

 

77 had lots of improvements / changes over earlier years, these are the ones I can think of right now. It was a transition year from early C3 to late C3.

- Eliminated Astro Ventilation, i.e. no vents behind rear window to collect leaves and dirt
- Ventilation fan runs all the time, even on low setting - cannot be completely shut off
- Tilt steering column shortened by 2 inches to provide better and more adjustable steering wheel position
- New and smaller diameter steering wheel with thick grip - finally a sports car steering wheel
- One year only turn signal / windshield wiper and washer, high beam switch - all in one
- Manual steering and brakes was not an option in 77 - all cars had power steering and power brakes
- 4 speed gear shift handle lengthened
- Center gauge panel, gauges and center console all changed to plastic. Actually fit better than all previous models, especially at top of gauge console
- Cold air induction vent on hood eliminated making hood cleaner looking. Cold air was now provided with underhood ducting
- Hood latching mechanism changed, with hood latches mounted to firewall rather than to hood
- Windshield trim painted black versus unpainted stainless
- Interior windshield trim pieces no longer soft foam on sides and header; improved plastic had closer fit and lasted longer especially at top where T-tops take their toll
- Visors changed to allow movement to side rather than just hinge up and down in front
- Parking brake handle changed to later design
- Center armrest finally built to be an armrest - no aftermarket armrest needed
- Carpet now cut pile carpet versus closed loop
- New "stretched design" crossed flag emblem on front, fenders and gas cap
- Stingray emblems on front fenders replaced with cross flag emblem - some people suggest a 77 is not a Stingray because of this
- First full year of factory aluminum YJ8 wheels that look great; initially introduced in 73, but cancelled due to porosity
- New Sport Mirrors finally look like a sports car mirror and match lines of body versus the chrome mirrors; left mirror was adjustable from inside; I believe all cars had two mirrors
- Center Rear view mirror mounted to windshield rather than header frame

While a quick look at the car from the outside the 77 appears to be very much like the 75 and 76 cars, it actually had lots of minor changes, which I consider improvements. It was the last year of the rear window "sugar scoop" design, before 78 brought the bubble back window. The interior was a partial change between pre-77 cars and the 78, which introduced major dash changes. Its a mix of old and new. I believe it has the best features of all the C3 generation wrapped in one.....but I am biased since I own one.

 

76 ---> man car 77 ---> chick car

 

Actually Chevrolet eliminated the Astro Ventilation- No vents behind the rear window in '76.

 

I've owned a couple '76 and '77's. While slightly different, both years were nice cars. I know the '76 gets much disparaging about the steering wheel, but it never bothered me. In fact, I always thought it was an exceptionally good sport wheel with a very nice grip.
Instead of pissing and moaning about sharing this wheel with another Chevy platform, Camaro/Vega owners should be proud to share the same wheel as the Corvette!
(I never hear the Camaro guys complain about it)

 

The later 77s had an upgraded Air conditioning. Different compressor and used an orifice tube instead of a VIR.

 

So, that would be a similarity.

 

Are those supposed to be real vents? Mine are just dummies. 1974 A/C coupe.

 

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ntilation.html .