It seems almost wrong to describe this 1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 as a sports car. The performance this car delivers matches that of nearly any European exotic from the era, meaning the ZR-1 always commands respect. The seller confirms that this spotless ‘Vette is a two-owner classic, and while there are apparent changes visible, the original components form part of the deal if the buyer prefers authenticity. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this stunning ZR-1 listed here on Craigslist in Van Nuys, California. There is confusion about the price, with the seller quoting $33,500 and $31,000. Personally, I’d opt for the lower figure!

The seller states that this Corvette is a two-owner classic, and its known history means that confirming the claimed odometer reading of 39,000 original miles with documentation may be possible. Indeed, the car’s overall condition makes the figure plausible. Its Bright Red paint is seemingly flawless, with no evidence of age deterioration or major imperfections. The fiberglass is equally impressive, and there are no signs of potential rust problems. The wheels are the most obvious change, with this ‘Vette rolling on a set of 17″ aluminum wheels from a 1995 ZR-1. However, the seller includes the original, distinctive “sawblade” wheels if the new owner wishes to reverse the change. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.

The 1990 release of the ZR-1 loudly announced to the world that the Corvette was once more a force to be reckoned with. General Motors had acquired Lotus in 1986, and called upon that company’s extensive motorsport history to develop a new V8 to give the badge genuine performance credentials. Although the engine shared its capacity with the standard 350ci powerplant chosen by mere mortals, that is where the similarities ended. The all-alloy LT5 (as it came to be known) featured four camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and fuel injection. Chevrolet didn’t just collaborate with Lotus on the project; it also contracted Mercury Marine to build each motor due to that company’s extensive experience with alloy engine components. The results justified the effort, because while the standard 350 delivered 245hp and 345 ft/lbs of torque, the LT5 placed 375hp and 370 ft/lbs at the driver’s disposal. All ZR-1 buyers received a six-speed manual transmission built by ZF, enormous anti-lock brakes, and suspension upgrades creating a “total” package. The seller indicates that this ‘Vette recently received new injectors and an aftermarket exhaust that liberated extra power and torque. However, they include the original exhaust, allowing the buyer to return this classic to a factory-fresh state. The car has a genuine 39,000 miles on the clock, and is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives perfectly.

Those who prefer their high-performance classics with a luxury touch will enjoy this Corvette’s interior. It features climate-control air conditioning, Black leather trim, power windows, power locks, six-way power seats, power mirrors, a power hatch release, cruise control, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, and a premium Delco Bose Gold Series stereo with a cassette and a CD player. The interior condition is as impressive as the exterior. The seats are particularly noteworthy. The outer bolsters are prone to wear, but this car has avoided that fate. There is no evidence of age deterioration or UV exposure, and no aftermarket additions. The seller recently replaced the A/C compressor and upgraded the system to R134a refrigerant. It appears that everything works as it should, with no functional issues or other problems.

I’ve always considered the 1991 Corvette ZR-1 to be a surprise packet. That has nothing to do with its performance, which is impressive. However, the fact that the ZR-1 package added an eye-watering $31,683 to the Corvette’s sticker price made it an expensive proposition. Therefore, it is astonishing that the ZR-1 accounted for almost 10% of Corvette sales during that model year. Obviously, people liked what they saw and were willing to pay a premium for what was considered the ultimate Corvette. This one is a gem with a known history, bringing us to a point to ponder. Would you leave this classic untouched if it were in your garage, or would you refit the original parts to restore it to its factory form? I’d choose the second option, but would you?