We have discussed numerous times on these pages what a deal the first-generation Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 is. The “King of the Hill” will likely forever be the last affordable supercar, as we’ve passed the point of no return with values decreasing and seemingly holding at the $20,000 – $30,000 range – and that’s for a car with relatively few flaws. The example shown here on eBay has been with its current owner for 20 years, and shows little in the way of modifications. Bids sit at just $1,050 with the reserve unmet.
The ZR-1 was the proverbial shot heard ’round the world when introduced. It demonstrated how GM could build world-class performance cars that went head-to-head with the best that Europe had to offer. It was over-engineered to the point of absurdity, the kind of car the bean counters likely lost sleep over. When you consider what GM was spending at Cadillac for Allante production and then hiring the likes of Mercury Marine and Lotus to help design and build the Corvette’s engine, well…the finance guys couldn’t have been happy.
This ZR-1 has been used, with a tatty interior showing worn seat bolsters and a steering wheel with evidence of regular use. That’s what you want to see, however, as it’s better than buying a car that’s barely been driven, paying an excessive price, and then wondering what will immediately fail from lack of use. The seller reports that the ZR-1 has treated him well, running cool and confident in all conditions. Repairing the seat and replacing the bargain basement GM trim bits shouldn’t be a problem, which also points to why the ZR-1 isn’t worth more as a collector car.
Despite the marvelous 375 b.h.p. 4-cam V8, and the trick adjustable suspension, the ZR-1 still looked too much like a standard C4 Corvette on the outside (and inside, too.) The association with a mass production muscle car hurt the model’s perception as being truly special, or a standout. When you build a limited-production performance car, consumers expect some standout quality beyond the mechanical bits to make it seem “better” than the rest of the lineup. Thankfully, you can still experience the wondrous engine and chassis for a relatively modest purchase price if you can get past the fact that it looks like a C4.
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