1978 Chevrolet Corvette L-82 Pace Car

Description

The 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Pace Car was one of the most interesting collector cars ever offered. It not only celebrated America's greatest race, but it also was the 25th anniversary of America's sports car. That's why they always stay in-demand. And when you can find a well-preserved example that also has its numbers-matching L82 motor and the rare fun of a stick shift, then this becomes a terrific driver's collectible.

What made these such great collector cars was the built-in exclusivity. The base price was over 45 percent more than the standard coupe. That meant fewer people were willing to pay the premium. But those who did got an outstanding sports car inside and out with some of the best options made standard. This was the year of the new sleeker C3 design, but the pace cars took it one step further with a factory body kit that made them ready to own the road. And the two-tone was an exclusive black and silver that will remain attractive even as this limited edition approaches its golden anniversary. And not only did the red pinstripe divide the colors, but also there was one for the alloy wheels. The consignor believes the low odometer represents the full mileage, and with clean details like the good decals, it's hard to argue against it. This example even has a particularly attractive style with some distinct additions. The darkly tinted rear window goes well with the sleekness of the shiny black paint that surrounds it. Plus, the BF Goodrich tires are only about a year old, and so you get a particularly clean look to the desirable raised white letter style.

The extraordinary price for a pace car replica meant Chevrolet delivered a special and luxurious interior, too. For example, you have the kind of supple and shiny leather upholstery that you'll swear Chevy bred silver cows. And this has all the best features like T-tops, power windows, power locks, a tilt steering column, power steering, full gauges, and provisions for air conditioning (it will need servicing to blow cold again.) Plus, the working AM/FM stereo also has an 8-track, and so you'll want to find a few cartridges on eBay.

The engine is the optional - and numbers-matching - L82 350 cubic-inch V8. This higher compression motor was a must-have for performance fans in 1978 because it offered 17% more horsepower than the standard Corvette V8. The way this clean-looking V8 starts quickly and runs strong is another affirmation of the low mileage claim. Another reason why it's nice to have the more powerful motor is because this is one of the rare pace cars that you get to fully control with a four-speed manual transmission. And the proper sports car feeling also includes the kind of confident handling that comes from a fully independent suspension and four-wheel power disc brakes.

The sale comes complete with the owner's manual, warranty info, and T-top storage bags. This is a fun legend with a ton of appeal for both showing and driving. After all, who doesn't admire a stick-shift T-top pace car edition? Call today!!!