C4 Coupe Driver: 1985 Chevrolet Corvette

One of my bigger gripes with the Corvette community is how many cars seem to be modified with the intent to make the car louder and more eye-catching. The more subtle approach is what gets my attention, however, which is why I dig this 1985 Chevrolet Corvette convertible listed here on eBay and selling later this evening (potentially – the reserve hasn’t been met.) The BBS-style mesh wheels, the mudflaps, and the non-red color scheme all combine to create a C4 ‘Vette that stands out for all the ways that it doesn’t.

Of course, the car hobby could easily be summed up by stating, “Different strokes for different folks,” and that’s totally fine by me. I just like this Corvette because it shows not ever C4 needs a set of chrome 5-spoke wheels to look good. The mudflaps are another personal choice, but one that appeals to yours truly. The rears accent the quarter panels nicely and helps break up the monotone silver paint job. The paint itself is also a refreshing change of pace as so many C4 cars are painted arrest me red with a black interior; silver over black suits the Corvette well.

The black leather interior is in good shape overall, barring some wear on the driver’s side lower bolster. The passenger seat looks like it never been sat in. The missing radio suggests to me that we’re dealing with a previous owner who hailed from the era when head units were still quite pricey and you didn’t leave the aftermarket radio in the dash; you took it with you for the next car. Sadly, it doesn’t seem likely that the original Bose stereo is included with the sale since this Corvette has been listed by a dealer in Massachusetts.

As a former resident of the Bay State, my guess is that this Corvette didn’t see much winter duty given it appears rust-free on the body panels. However, you always need to check underneath with a vintage car that has lived in snow/salt conditions for any length of time, and this seller smartly includes thost shots in the listing. Thankfully, it looks quite clean underneath, with just typical surface-level corrosion that nearly every car of this age has. The L98 engine shows under 70,000 miles, and in ’85, was good for 230 b.h.p. and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. Assuming the reserve is $5K or less, this looks like a lot of car for the money.