1980 Chevrolet Corvette

Make

Chevrolet

Model

Corvette

Year

1980

Listed price

$9,500

Location

Gilbert

Transmission

Automatic

Mileage

0 miles

The third-generation Corvette, affectionately known as the C3, launched in 1968 and carried the torch of American sports car design through the Malaise Era with its iconic Stingray-inspired lines. While 1980 saw the C3 in its later years, the model remained a potent symbol of performance, albeit with a focus shifting from raw horsepower to refinement and aerodynamics. Chevrolet never officially offered a convertible C3 after 1975, making any later open-top examples a testament to dedicated enthusiasts who yearned for the wind-in-your-hair experience. These conversions, often undertaken by skilled customizers, sought to recapture the essence of the earlier drop-top Corvettes, creating unique interpretations of the classic silhouette. This particular 1980 Corvette is a compelling example of such a conversion, having been transformed into a convertible in the 1990s using an authentic C3 convertible tub and door glass. Under its high-rise hood, added for clearance, resides a potent 454 cubic-inch big block engine, a significant upgrade from the original small blocks offered that year. Mated to a Turbo 350 automatic transmission, this red-on-black custom boasts power steering, power brakes, and power windows, along with electric cooling fans and an electric fuel pump. With 112,195 miles on the odometer, it features new tires, brakes, and suspension components, and while it runs and drives, the seller notes it could benefit from some carb tuning after a period off the road. This is a unique opportunity to acquire a big-block, open-top C3 that stands apart from the rest.