1985 Corvette, auto, non-Z51 - the most hassle-free C4 in the future?

[Oliver S.]

I’m thinking about buying a C4. Since spirited driving is not a priority, Z51 and manual transmission are not important. Actually, I’m rather towards less is more, because I expect electronic parts like ABS to become rare in the future. The same holds true for airbags. Where I live, things in the car must work, hence just overlooking these not working is no option. So applying this to C4 Corvettes I thought about a 1985, auto, non-z51. Ok, digital dash is a potential problem and other L98-issues, but if potentially more rattling or other body noises ruled out later are no big issue a 1985 appears to be an interesting model year. Furthermore, they are not that expensive, too, even low mileage cars. What do you think?

[Ed H.]

Re: 1985 Corvette, auto, non-Z51 - the most hassle-free C4 in the future?

Oliver, having owned, operated, and had judged, 2 C-4's, the most (NO TROUBLE EVER), was my 1990 6-spd, L98, Covnt. I would also give high kudo's to my 93 Ruby ZR-1, the most fun car I ever drove. The only problem with the ZR, were two very small gaskets that failed in the air conditioning circuit and it took awhile to find them. All is good, that LT-5 motor was dynomite and very fun to drive.

[Joe R.]

Re: 1985 Corvette, auto, non-Z51 - the most hassle-free C4 in the future?

As the owner of a 96 with over 300,000 miles I would not recommend buying one. I can work on them and have replaced the opti-spark many times. The LT motors were made by Chevrolet to make money in the dealerships! A cross fire engine is not a great pick as I call it a Miss-Fire! If you can find a ZR-1 buy it. Wish I had never sold my 91 ZR-1. The ZR-1 is the best of both worlds!

[Mark E.]

Re: 1985 Corvette, auto, non-Z51 - the most hassle-free C4 in the future?

As the owner of a 96 with over 300,000 miles I would not recommend buying one. I can work on them and have replaced the opti-spark many times. The LT motors were made by Chevrolet to make money in the dealerships! A cross fire engine is not a great pick as I call it a Miss-Fire! If you can find a ZR-1 buy it. Wish I had never sold my 91 ZR-1. The ZR-1 is the best of both worlds!

Funny you should say this, Joe. I've owned an '87 auto, '90 ZR-1 and recently acquired a '93 LT1 6-speed. I got the '93 as a road trip car and wanted a reliable vehicle. I chose an LT1 because it is a much simpler engine with readily available parts. ZR-1 is a performance bargain but I kept thinking of scenarios... like a starter failing in the middle of nowhere. I just replaced the distributor on the LT1, which is making me second guess my choice. I upgraded to a vented unit, so maybe it will behave.

Regarding Oliver's question- I like the idea of simple too... I would prefer a car with no FX3, electronic AC or TPMS... complex options with limited usefulness. But if you plan to drive this car (vs. showing it), ABS and airbags are options which may save your life. Whatever C4 you choose, get a new, clone Tech 2 to help diagnose problems quickly.