The immaculate presentation of this 1986 Chevrolet Corvette is unsurprising, as it shows a genuine 32,000 miles on the odometer. It is largely unmolested, and its affordability adds to its appeal. The buyer could slip behind the wheel immediately, roll up to a Cars & Coffee, and receive plenty of positive comments. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting it listed here on Craigslist in Watertown, New York. So, how affordable is this classic? How does $9,500 sound to you?
Chevrolet’s C4 Corvette represented a “clean sheet” approach by the company. It shared relatively few components with its predecessor, and although the styling was sleeker and more modern, there were undeniable hints of the C3 in its lines. Initial sales were strong, but the figures fell, with 35,109 cars rolling off the line in 1986. Our featured Corvette looks stunning in Dark Red Metallic. It is an interesting shade that almost has a “candy’ appearance, and its condition is extremely impressive. The shine is deep, with no visible cosmetic issues. I can’t spot any panel imperfections, and the seller doesn’t mention potential rust problems. The glass is crystal clear, and the wheels look perfect. Taken at face value, this Corvette looks pretty promising.
Buyers ordering a 1986 Corvette in Dark Red Metallic could choose an interior trimmed in Graphite or Saddle, with this car featuring the latter. The overall condition is consistent with the mileage claim. There are no signs of genuine leather wear, and the carpet looks exceptional considering its pale color. The only real fault is a series of scratches on the driver’s-side scuff plate, an almost inevitable issue as feet drag across it on entry and exit. The dash looks excellent; there is no wheel wear and no evidence of UV deterioration. The seller states that the air conditioning blows cold, and the heater works well. Other features include power windows, power locks, power mirrors, an LCD dash display, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player.
Powering the Corvette is the L98 version of Chevrolet’s 5.7-liter V8. Equipped with Tuned-Port Injection, it sent 230hp and 330 ft/lbs of torque to a limited-slip rear end via a four-speed automatic transmission when the car was shiny and new. Power steering was standard equipment, as were anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes. The power and torque figures were not as impressive as many potential customers hoped, but the situation improved throughout the decade. However, with the factory claiming a top speed of 150mph, the C4 could still get moving if poked with a sharp stick. The listing suggests that apart from a Borla performance exhaust, the car is mechanically unmolested. We must take the mileage claim at face value because the seller didn’t mention any documentary evidence. The condition makes the figure plausible, and potential buyers can consider the Corvette a turnkey proposition.
The 1986 Corvette has experienced the highs and lows of the classic market, although values are currently climbing slowly. Our featured ‘Vette looks like a beauty with no apparent needs. If the listing images and description accurately reflect its condition, the seller’s price is very realistic. Therefore, if an extremely tidy C4 Corvette has been on your Wish List, this low-mile example could be worth a close look.
A beauty actually. I’m amazed that the side bolsters aint even worn. The scuff plates are minor issues and readily avail and a nice week end worth of shampoo’s and tlc will bring the insides and engine bay to showroom. And ( personal taste here ) first thing that goes os the wing even though it was a period correct.addition.