Rarity claims are nothing new in the classic world, and some stand scrutiny better than others. This 1985 Chevrolet Corvette features a paint combination that was only chosen by around 5% of buyers, but that is the tip of the iceberg. Throw in a low odometer reading and excellent presentation, and the seller’s BIN figure of $13,200 OBO starts to look pretty attractive. The Corvette is listed here on eBay in Saugatuck, Michigan, and there is time for interested parties to get their financial ducks in a row if they are considering becoming the new owner.

A known ownership history is always desirable when an enthusiast searches for a classic to park in their driveway. This Corvette ticks that box, with the first owner retaining it for less than a year and clocking under 1,000 miles before sending it to a new home. It enjoyed a significantly longer tenure with its second owner, remaining in their possession for forty years. It led a sheltered existence, with the odometer now showing a mere 19,792 documented miles. The first owner ticked the box for option D84 on their Order Form, meaning the car left the factory finished in a combination of Silver over Gray. This was the most popular of the two-tone combinations although, with only 2,170 cars ordered in this form, it is relatively rare. This Corvette carries the hallmarks of a low-mile classic, with the paint in good order, and the panels free from physical damage. Close inspection suggests it may have received some paint chip repairs, but there is no evidence of accident repairs or restoration. The glass and removable roof panels are in good condition, as are the distinctive alloy wheels.

It would be fair to say that while many people were impressed by the styling when Chevrolet released the C4 Corvette, its performance meant that some owners and motoring journalists considered it a triumph of style over substance. The company began the long and arduous process of addressing the perceived performance shortcomings for the 1985 model year, retiring the L83 version of the 5.7-liter V8, and replacing it with the more potent L98 version featuring Tuned-Port Injection. While the L83 delivered 205hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque, the L98 boosted those figures to 230hp and 330 ft/lbs. The change didn’t transform the Corvette into a fire-breathing monster, but everyone seemed to agree that it was a step in the right direction. This car’s first owner teamed the engine with a four-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The seller confirms the car’s odometer reading via several document sources, including the Service Records. This gem runs and drives perfectly, and is ready to head into the sunset with a new owner behind the wheel.

Air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, leather trim, cruise control, heated exterior mirrors, and a premium radio/cassette stereo. Everything is there to ensure that time spent inside this Corvette is comfortable and enjoyable. The condition helps its cause, with the Graphite leather in generally good condition. The seats show typical wrinkles and slight wear, but a specialist should have no trouble bringing them back to their best fairly inexpensively. The rest of the interior is excellent, with the condition consistent with the mileage claim.

Although the 1985 Corvette didn’t possess the breathtaking performance of the badge’s early days, it still appealed to the buying public. That year’s sales total of 39,729 vehicles represented a 20% fall compared to the previous year but still showed that the ‘Vette was a market force for those seeking a domestically-produced sports car. This one appears to be a peach, and the seller’s price is realistic. Of course, their willingness to negotiate may allow someone to secure the car for a lower figure, which is always welcome when it occurs. What would you be prepared to pay to park this low-mile classic in your garage?