What's wrong with the 84's?
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
What's wrong with the 84's?
I'm currently looking to buy my first vette. I've wanted one for years and finally some money to get one. I'm still in college so I'm looking for a used one. I have found a lot of 84's cheap in my area (st. louis). Starting around $3500. I've noticed that they are cheaper then the other years. What I'm wanting to know is if there's some reason why they are so cheap compared to the others. Is there something I should know about 'em, or should I jump on this chance?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 1,183
Likes: 1
From: MidOhio
Get a copy of Mike Antonicks' Cor-Vette Specs, ISBN0-933534-51-5 (library maybe) and read it at least once-then you'll know. Then read as many of the posts on this site as possible to get an idea of what you'll be getting into money-wise after the buy. Then decide if you want a C4 (or any 'vette for that matter!!
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 20,178
Likes: 0
From: middle of nowhere Pa
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
St. Jude Donor '06
it depends on what you want be it manual or auto.they aren't the fastest vettes ever made but they are a cheap platform for so mods.the manual trans is the weak link on the 84 to 88.in particular the overdrive unit.if you want one to mod replace it with a 5 speed.other than that i'm still learning what my 84 can and can't do.btw look for one with the z-51 package you won't be sorry
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 13,421
Likes: 8
From: Lake Mary Florida
Being a college student and your first vette I'd say no. Its not that there is anything wrong with them, I'm sure compared to the other later model C4's functionality and usability was much improved. It was first year of a radical new design. It was also born during the gas crisis - polution crisis era.
The question is as a college student will you be able to handle the repairs you'll be faced with? The 3500. may get you the keys but plan on repair costs.
It you want a vette, then I'd look at an 88-90. Unless you can find a deal on a later year model C4. But no matter what year allocate for maintenance costs.
The question is as a college student will you be able to handle the repairs you'll be faced with? The 3500. may get you the keys but plan on repair costs.
It you want a vette, then I'd look at an 88-90. Unless you can find a deal on a later year model C4. But no matter what year allocate for maintenance costs.
Race Director
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 14,165
Likes: 9
The biggest drawback with the 84 is it's engine. It is the best handling C4 period.
The engine was the Cross-Fire injection setup. Commonly referred to as the Misfire, CeaseFire, Backfire, or CatchFire fuel injection system.
From the factory they are pretty lacking in the power department but it's nothing that can't be fixed with the right modifications. If you can find one in good shape in your price range, by all means go for it.
The engine was the Cross-Fire injection setup. Commonly referred to as the Misfire, CeaseFire, Backfire, or CatchFire fuel injection system.
From the factory they are pretty lacking in the power department but it's nothing that can't be fixed with the right modifications. If you can find one in good shape in your price range, by all means go for it.
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Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 4,812
Likes: 1
From: New Albany IN
St. Jude Donor '03-'04-'06-'08-'09
According to some....since they are now 20 years old, the values are starting to go up a little. Personally, if your asking for opinions, g with the TPI motor...its quick and can be modded easily as the money comes available. Good Luck!
