1981 Chevrolet Corvette

Make

Chevrolet

Model

Corvette

Year

1981

Listed price

$9,800

Location

Ontario, New York

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

69,500 miles

The third-generation Corvette, universally known as the C3, arrived in 1968 and continued the Stingray legacy established by its C2 predecessor. Its dramatic, Coke-bottle styling, inspired by the Mako Shark II concept car, became an icon of American automotive design, gracing posters and screens throughout its remarkably long production run. By 1981, the C3 was nearing the end of its journey, representing the culmination of over a decade of refinements. This year also marked a significant change, with production split between St. Louis and the new Bowling Green plant, which would become the exclusive home of the Corvette. While horsepower figures of the era reflected stricter emissions standards, the fundamental appeal of a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive American sports car remained undiminished. This particular 1981 Chevrolet Corvette stands out with its highly desirable manual transmission, a choice far less common than the automatic by this point in the C3's production and one that truly unlocks the car's spirited character. Showing 69,500 miles on the odometer, this coupe presents as a well-preserved example, ready to deliver that quintessential Corvette driving experience. The 5.7L V8 engine, paired with the engaging manual gearbox, ensures a direct connection to the road, inviting the driver to relish every shift and growl from under the hood. For the enthusiast seeking an authentic, driver-focused C3 Corvette, this manual-equipped 1981 model offers an increasingly rare opportunity.