1985 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7 from Malaysia

Summary:

Demands respect, but so much fun if tamed

Faults:

Driver seat reupholstered due to tear on the side bolster.

Mass Air Flow sensor replaced at 118000 miles.

Instrument cluster replaced as it completely went blank.

Rear differential cover gasket replaced upon purchase of the car due to leak.

Brake pads on all four corners.

General Comments:

I bought this from an Australian ex-patriot who was working here. He wanted to return to Australia, so he came to my dealership and asked me if I wanted to buy it. Without too much hesitation, I said "yes".

This is an Australian spec car with a right-hand-drive conversion already done. At first, I thought the car was quite lacking in performance (considering its big 5.7 liter engine),but after doing some research on the internet, I found out that I can easily upgrade the engine performance on this Chevy. After emptying my wallet a few times, I purchased a set of aluminium cylinder heads from Air Flow Research, performance cam from Crane, intake manifold runners and throttle body from Arizona Speed and Marine, K&N air filter, tubular exhaust manifolds and 36lbs/hr injectors from Summit, and a custom made, dual 2.5 inch exhaust with Remus mufflers. I haven't dynoed the car yet, but I'm guessing its putting out around 300 to 350hp at the crank (standard horsepower was 230hp).The upgrade really woke up the performance. Fun to drive factor was multiplied 10 times.

This car handles exceptionally well, although at a heavy price of ride quality. The interior plastics aren't particularly of the highest grade and rattles alarmingly,the digital instruments are hard to see during daylight, the cockpit is claustrophobic, the 4+3 gearbox takes some getting used to, and the turning radius is very poor. But the fun to drive factor is so high, I overlook all the weaknesses. It's a car that is built to excel at what its designed to do, and doesn't pretend to be something its not. It was designed for performance, and to that end, it excelled. And that's the very character that I truly appreciate in this car.

This car is definitely a keeper. Its far from perfect, but when it sounds, looks, and performs this good, nothing else matters.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th June, 2008

1985 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe 5.7 (350) TPI from North America

Summary:

Pure adrenalin!

Faults:

Normal wear and tear for a 20 year old. Leaking engine gaskets, leaking weather striping, 4/3 transmission overdrive feature needed retrofit. Added 160 degree thermo chip/fan switch/thermostat upgrade to keep engine running cooler. Install interior screw kit. Other misc. items.

General Comments:

This is my first Corvette. It feels and handles like a race car. Its rough ride and almost "primitive" feel, compared to my 300z, makes my heart pound and my palms sweat! This is a true American sports car. I love it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th August, 2005

10th Sep 2005, 12:35

Whoever wrote this article can you e-mail me at tvan42288@yahoo.com as I would like to find out about the 160 degree thermo chip/fan switch as I have an 89 and don't like the fact that at 90-95 degrees and A/C running it runs about 220-240 and GM says that is normal and there is nothing that can be done.

14th Jun 2006, 18:32

I purchased a 1984 Corvette 3 years ago. The only issues were minor leeks that were taken care of right after purchase. The cars handling ability is still far superior than a lot of new cars on the road. On the open road the car absolutely screams. For a 22 year old car it is still quite stylish. I would recommend the investment while you can still get one for a decent price, being the first year for the C4 they can only go up in value.

Sincerly,

Satisfied Corvette Owner

9th Nov 2011, 15:47

On my '85 Vette, I had my fan wired in 1990 such that it turns on with the ignition. I have it run continuously regardless of the outside temperatures. I have researched the pros/cons of doing this, and the benefits outweigh the negatives. Google it.