1981 Chevrolet Corvette C3

The 1981 Chevrolet Corvette brought with it new technology and new materials that helped reduce weight. A new L81 version of the 350 CID V8 engine was rated at 190 horsepower and was fitted with lightweight magnesium rocker arm covers. Examples with the Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission used a new fiberglass-reinforced monoleaf rear spring that eliminated interleaf friction. Another benefit was its eight-pound weight which was a significant reduction of 33 pounds from the multi-leaf spring unit it replaced. Corvette models with the manual transmission continued to use the multi-leaf spring setup, along with the cars equipped with the optional Gymkhana suspension. The Gymkhana suspension was a $54 option that also was included with the trailer towing package.

Another weight-saving measure was the use of thinner side door glass. An additional 14 pounds were saved by using new stainless-steel free-flowing exhaust manifolds which replaced the previous Cast-iron manifolds.

California buyers could now purchase the Corvette with a stick shift transmission.

In regards to new technology, the Corvette received a new Computer Command Control system that controlled fuel metering and a torque converter lock-up clutch that operated in second and third gears. The anti-theft alarm gained a starter-interrupt device, and a new thermostatically controlled auxiliary electric fan increased cooling resulting in a smaller main fan.

Standard equipment on the 1981 Corvette included four-wheel power disc brakes, a four-speed manual or automatic transmission, an AM/FM radio, a tachometer, a Tilt-Telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, halogen high-beam retractable headlamps, air conditioning, power windows, courtesy lights, and a luggage compartment security shade. Interior options included either a cloth-and-vinyl or leather-and-vinyl upholstery.

The Corvette Coupe had a base price of $15,250 and a total of 40,606 examples were built in 1981. The overhead-valve, 350 CID V8 engine had an 8.2:1 compression ratio and produced 190 horsepower at 4,200 RPM. The close-ratio four-speed manual transmission with floor-mounted gear shifter was standard while the Turbo Hydra-Matic was a no-cost option with the base engine. If the automatic was fitted to optional engines, the price increased by $97.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2020