A recently restored and recommissioned example of the L82 engined Corvette
Having had over 17,000 Euros spent by the current owner since 2019
Ready with its semi-convertible “T-top” to use and enjoy this summer
The Appeal
The C3 iteration of the Corvette built on the car’s winning formula as the third version of a model which had first appeared in 1953. The C3 was introduced in 1967 and was produced right up until 1982. The C3 featured a brand-new design based on the Mako Shark concept car and an entirely redesigned interior.
This car was acquired by its French current owner in 2019 at which point he commissioned a full restoration and recommissioning attending to every aspect of the car. He has recently had the car professionally appraised with every facet of the car being judged either good or excellent. This fine example is now ready to use and enjoy by its next lucky owner.
The History and Paperwork
This Corvette was originally built in 1980
It was understood to have left the factory in a brown livery
DVLA records in the UK show the car as having spent a considerable time in Britain
The online MOT records in the UK span the period from 2006 to 2019
In 2019 the current owner acquired the car in France
Its last MOT documented its mileage as 81,581 miles
Starting in 2019 the current owner commissioned work totalling over 17,000 Euros
The paperwork on-hand includes the numerous invoices relating to this spend
Numerous UK MOTs in hard copy are also present
There is also a copy of the French Controlee Technique covering 2019 – 21
The French Certificate D’Imattriculation is also present (registration document)
The official appraisal report, in French, is also included
The C3’s interior has been fully restored and presents in an excellent condition
The level of 1980’s originality is exceptional
Everything in here is reported to be working other than the clock
The Corvette’s interior was fully redesigned for the C3 version and, as such, exudes a degree of late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s charm and character. The first thing you notice upon opening the doors are the period, plastic sill protectors embossed with the Corvette name in raised black lettering.
The leather upholstery in the cabin constitutes part of the work commissioned by the current owner. As such, the deeply bolstered soft bucket seats present in an excellent condition. Interestingly the seat backs fold at almost halfway up their height to match the level of the rear luggage compartment. The integral headrests feature embroidered crossed flags signifying the Chevrolet Corvette’s heritage.
The slab fronted dashboard is finished in a complimentary cream colour and contains a large, lidded glove box on the passenger side. On the driver’s side there is a black panelled instrument binnacle housing a speedometer calibrated in miles per hour and a tachometer. These sit behind a cream rimmed leather and black alloy, three spoke steering wheel. In the centre console there is a collection of a further five, supplemental gauges. Below this is the original Chevrolet radio cassette and the heating and air conditioning controls.
The door cards are finished in cream leather to match the seats and have been replaced during the restoration process. The cabin carpet is finished in a tan hue and appears to be original and complete. The rear luggage compartment is fully carpeted in the original tan carpet with three lidded cubbies to the front of the space. A roller blind luggage cover is also fitted to keep the contents of the luggage area away from prying eyes.
The Exterior
The Corvette has been repainted in its current white livery at some point
The condition of the exterior appears to be very good and exudes a good shine
The period correct deeply dished “mag” alloy wheels compliment the car perfectly
Many may know the story of the secretive launch of the C3 Corvette being inadvertently scuppered by the Mattel toy company releasing their Hot Wheels version of the car a full three months early. This is a reminder that enthusiasts of a certain age will have formed a deep affection for this vintage of Corvette thanks to Mattel and other toy car manufacturers. It was popular as it so archetypically represented an American muscle car of the period.
The real C3 certainly doesn’t disappoint in that regard, either. It’s a fine-looking car with long sweeping bonnet, “kammback” rear deck and arched haunches front and rear. This being a 1980 car it also features the distinctive deeper chin spoiler and the deep rear lip spoiler, further accentuating its sporting credentials.
The condition of our car looks to be excellent with no areas of serious imperfection noted. It is worth remembering that the independent appraisal report notes the paintwork as being “good” and likewise the bodywork.
Our car sits on a set of 15-inch aluminium alloy, 8 slot wheels. These are deeply dished and centred with chromed caps. The wheels are shod with BF Goodrich 225/70 tyres at the front and General Grabber 255/60s at the rear. These look to have good levels of tread remaining.
All the C3 exterior attributes are present and correct including the quad pop-up headlamps, the removeable, twin sectioned T top roof and the big “A” pillar “gills.” It all makes for a highly compelling and period looking combination that is almost certain to turn heads and raise smiles in equal measure.
The Mechanics
This Corvette is fitted with the respected small-block L82 350 cubic inch V8
This equates to 5.7L and feeds power to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission
The car has clearly been well maintained since 2019 and reportedly runs very well
By the 1980 model year of our car, the erstwhile L82 small-block V8 was pumping out 230bhp giving the C3 plenty of power and a delightful and recognisable V8 burble from the quad tailpipes. Since being in its current ownership in 2019 the Corvette has benefitted from a long list of mechanical maintenance to keep it in tip-top condition.
Highlights include recommissioning and upgrading of suspension and brake components, anti-corrosion treatment, air conditioning service, engine and gearbox oil replacement with new filters, new K&N air filter and fitment of chromed cover. No expense appears to have been spared in keeping the C3 in a fully operational condition. It is worth noting that the independent appraisal judged the engine, gearbox and exhaust as “good.” Corrosion, underside and tyres were all reported as “normal.”
The under-bonnet condition presents positively and looks refreshingly original with clear signs of diligent maintenance in evidence. The underside of the car looks very good for the age of the car with no areas of issue noted.
Summary
The C3 Corvette tends to be the model that most people think of when they hear the word “Corvette.” After all it was produced throughout the 1970’s when American films and TV shows were sweeping the world and these cars were often featured. This apparent uniquity has helped the C3 Corvette remain the quintessential classic muscle car. As a result, well cared for and recommissioned examples are always sought after and desirable.
This example has enjoyed a very well cared for recent past with it wanting for nothing in its current ownership. It looks amazing, has a fine, period-correct interior and seems to be mechanically very well sorted indeed. There’s so much to like about this Corvette that it really is worthy of your attention and bids.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3
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