1980 T-Top interchange ability
Pro
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 672
Likes: 0
From: Chesapeake Virginia
I think the 80 and 81's have a different latching mechanism than the earlier years, I think the car can be adapted to fit the early ones with two latches but I don't think you can do it the other way around.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 224
Likes: 2
From: Deerfield Beach FL
Went to just one front latch, instead of 2 on each side.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 12,680
Likes: 3,134
From: Shamong, NJ
All 78-82 single handle tops, are interchangeable. These are the tops that have a single release handle in the front and a pin that comes out the back. 68-77 Corvettes, all used the dual handle tops.
There are some minor differences in the 78-82 tops. In particular, the manor in which the headliners are attached on late 80-82 tops, but there's nothing that prevents them from being used on any 78-82 Corvette.
A good pair of 78-82 painted tops, will cost you $200-300. You'll probably end up buying new headliners too, as original ones are usually cracked, or completely missing.
If you absolutely have too, you can use 68-77 dual handle tops on your 80, by changing the top rear body mounting hardware.
There are some minor differences in the 78-82 tops. In particular, the manor in which the headliners are attached on late 80-82 tops, but there's nothing that prevents them from being used on any 78-82 Corvette.
A good pair of 78-82 painted tops, will cost you $200-300. You'll probably end up buying new headliners too, as original ones are usually cracked, or completely missing.
If you absolutely have too, you can use 68-77 dual handle tops on your 80, by changing the top rear body mounting hardware.
