When you hear the words “collector’s edition,” you might think that it meant a car would be immune from falling into disrepair. We know that it doesn’t work that way, especially when a so-called collector car is produced in significant quantities. Or, if the actual collector qualities are superficial at best. The Corvette shown here is a 1982 Collector’s Edition model and it was destined to be a parts car for, apparently, a similar car in better condition. The seller has evidently decided to sell this Collector’s Edition whole, and it is listed here on craigslist for $5,200 near Chicago.
There are a few distinctive features about the Collector’s Edition cars, most notably the rear hatch glass that would become a standard feature on Corvettes for years to come. There’s also the distinctive silver beige paint job, and the turbine-style wheels. The Collector’s Edition was also a pricey car at the time, becoming the first Corvette was a base price of over $20,000. That’s par for the course with a special or limited edition car, as dealers see an opportunity to mark the price up significantly. However, that doesn’t translate to higher values later on, as these Collector’s Edition Corvettes haven’t become as sought after as the C3 Pace Cars.
When found in mint condition, the Collector’s Edition interiors feature a two-tone upholstery pattern; in this car, it appears to be heavily sun-faded. The seller notes that in general, the whole car has evidence of prolonged exposure to the sun, which he notes as being a bit shocking considering the mileage of just 24,500 is believed to be original. The listing notes that the Corvette will come with some pieces and not others, highlighting the fact that the door panels are missing, along with the carpeting and the rear package tray. He bought it out of a storage auction, so it seems likely the Corvette was abandoned after some attempt at restoration began.
The Collector’s Edition total production run was just under 7,000, so while it is limited in nature, the numbers aren’t exceedingly low. The engine was a 350 equipped with Cross-Fire injection and paired to a 700R4 automatic transmission. The seller notes the engine will run with an external fuel jug hooked up and that it sounds healthy; interestingly, he notes it is still equipped with the original GM fan belts, perhaps a nod to its low mileage and originality. This Collector’s Edition can be purchased for less if the new owner doesn’t take the wheels and acrylic T-tops, but those two details are essential for building an authentic Collector’s Edition, in my opinion. What do you think of the asking price of $5,200 with all the parts included?
A lot of missing parts. All that a crossfire system is is two throttle body injetion on the intake manifold.
I avoid deals where the seller is a dealer in one make OR is doing a restoration on another just like the one for sale.
Things one can count on. Missing hard to find parts. Parts and trim switched that are much worse. I mean the seller knows what small stuff to pull that you will never realize while looking at it in the driveway.
Remember it’s always easier to flip a non running car.
I bought one of the first third generation Trans Ams with the Ceasefire injection. I didn’t have any problems with it per se but it was just plain slow, Way weaker than I was expecting. I got rid of it after a few years for a 1985 model with the LB9 TPI motor. Literal night and day difference. It felt like going into a rocket sled!
I had a silver 85 LB9 myself that is another one I wish I still had to play with and for a 305 it would fly. Got a trooper friend to clock me at 2am coming down a slight grade on I65 at 144, we just had to know!
Mine was bright blue over silver. It was a great car, especially after coming out of my slow ’82. Mine had the VR rated 50 series tires as she was a WS6 car. I remember they were known to have a real high top end. Never got mine that to 140 but definitely drove it hard!
When the Crossfires came out, we all thought they looked pretty cool, but later we all heard of the troubles they gave the owners. That interior looks pretty tired.
Somebody help me here, but wasn’t the Collector’s Edition meant to “celebrate” the end of this body style/generation?
The decals and interior are pricy, you will be upside down on this one.
If i am right but may be wrong….my 1982 was supposed to be the 1st year for the cross fire injection…..and the 1st year of the 4 speed overdrive automatic….and the 1st year of the mirror T-tops. They had to put the 2 cross fires on it because they were so smogged down to make 190hp but still fast for 1982.
The only C 3 that I liked after the 74 big block. The 82 Vette is a good looking luxury model with clean lines. I think there’s a lot of potential for 4 to 5K to have a decent Vette and not go broke in the process if you like this model like I do.
The Ventures song titled
Walk Don’t Run