By 1981, Chevrolet (and the buying public) knew that time was running out for the venerable C3 Corvette. A model that had served the company with distinction since 1968 received only minor updates in its final two years. These later C3s spent decades in the wilderness but have developed a strong following as a new generation of enthusiasts recognize them as affordable classics. That is one way to describe this 1981 ‘Vette, although low mileage is another. It presents acceptably for a survivor but needs little to improve its visual impact. The seller listed it here on Craigslist in Fairfield, California. It could be yours for $7,900, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B for spotting it.

By the time this Corvette rolled off the showroom floor, the mighty C3 only had a year to live. However, that didn’t dissuade buyers, and although the sales figures weren’t what they’d been in recent years, you had to rewind the clock to 1975 to spot a lower total. This ‘Vette is original, right down to the Code 10 White paint applied at the factory. It has never undergone any restoration or repairs, and the condition is impressive for a vehicle of this age. The fiberglass looks equally clean, and the good life in California means the frame and birdcage are rust-free. The original owner splashed an additional $414 on the removable glass roof panels, but since nearly 72% of Corvette buyers did the same, that doesn’t make it rare. However, popping the top would be welcome on a sunny day. The trim and alloy wheels are in good order, and I can’t spot any glass issues.

We need to open the doors to spot this Corvette’s Achilles Heel. The leather seat upholstery is well beyond its best, and a retrim would seem the only option. The new owner can select from a large number of suppliers, but they need to budget around $700 for a replacement seatcover set in the correct material and color. The remaining upholstered surfaces look clean, as do the dash, console, and plastic. The carpet shows some spots of typical fading, but the lack of overall wear means replacement is not essential. The interior is largely unmolested, with a modern stereo appearing to be the only addition. Comfort and convenience features abound, with this Corvette sporting air conditioning, power windows, power locks, six-way power seats, cruise control, remote mirrors, and a tilt wheel.

Corvette buyers received a single engine specification in 1981, with the L81 version of the 350ci V8 certified in all states. It produced 190hp, which this car’s original owner elected to send to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. As you might expect, acceleration was significantly slower than its predecessors, with this car taking 16.7 seconds to cover the ¼-mile. However, the aerodynamic efficiency of these classics means that even with modest power, this ‘Vette should still wind its way to 131mph. The seller indicates the car has a genuine 71,000 miles on the clock, which is supported by documentation. For potential buyers craving summer fun, this Corvette delivers. It runs and drives well, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

By 1981, the C3 Corvette was no longer the muscular classic it once was. However, a “softer” driving experience attracted a new breed of buyers, with 40,606 people handing over their cash that year. This one generally makes a positive impression, although replacing the damaged seat upholstery would make a significant difference. It is nicely equipped, but none of the options are rare. The price looks extremely affordable, considering its condition, originality, and odometer reading. It has only been on the market for around a day, and I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home pretty quickly. Could it be yours?