C3 vs C4 corvette, which is the better buy?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ค. 2023
- Today I'm comparing a 1980 c3 chevy corvette to a 1990 c4 corvette. I talk about engine power, getting in and out and general performance of these V8 rear wheel drive cars. as corvettes go down in price they've become a better and better buy. the only question is which one should you buy. whether you're daily driving or hot rodding there's a vette for you. thanks for watching #car #cars #chevy #corvette #v8 #hotrod #classic #classiccars #burnout
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Anyone considering getting a late C3 consider the following:
1) Get one with a manual transmission. Both manual/auto had the same 3.07 rear end. So the C3 auto was 3 spd with a 2.52 first gear (2.52x3.07=7.74); the 4 speed manual first gear is 2.88 (2.88x3.07=8.84) - in other words the manual car amplifies the engines power much more than the auto and has an extra gear - you can do burnouts with a manual car.
2) Fix or upgrade your ignition. The HEI was “ok” for its day but on a 43 year old car it’s more than likely tired even if it’s been maintained adequately. Far better “bolt on” options available that will give noticeable improvement immediately.
3) Similar to above - fix the carburetor. Undoubtedly some monkey has messed with that carburetor over the last 43 years to squeeze “mo powa” out of the smog-era motor - find an old timer who knows how to tune the darn thing.
3) Advance the timing. Factory set the initial timing at 4 BTDC to make the exhaust run very hot to burn more hydrocarbons. Unless you have to take it for emissions testing there is no reason to care about that anymore. Set initial timing to 8 or so; engine will be peppier and run cooler - trade off is you may need to run premium fuel.
4) Fix your vacuum leaks. Pop up headlights, heater controls, power brakes, emissions all run on vacuum. Just removing the air cleaner assembly often disconnected or broke vacuum connections.
5) Unless you are a stickler for originality (or live in an area that inspects your exhaust) remove the catalytic converter and run true dual exhaust.
6) Don’t waste your money doing a head/cam swap - the bottleneck is the low compression pistons. If you fix the ignition, carburetor, timing and exhaust you will find these 4 speed equipped cars are very spirited and fun to drive. If you must have “mo powa” swap in a nice 383 - big blockesque torque in a lighter package and, unlike an LS swap, you and one of your buddies can do the swap in a weekend. Consider though, if you are going that route might as well install a Tremec 5 speed. At that point, financially you would be much better off buying a 68-72 L79, L46 or LT1 car…
In my opinion the 1980 Corvette is the “sweet spot” for late C3s; nicer looking and lighter than the 78/79 and the 81s were the first year with a computer; manual transmission wasn’t available in 82. And they are relatively cheap, and as Junkyard Joe says you can fix them with a ball-peen hammer.
What an awesome wealth of information there. You hit the nail on the head several times throughout. This car is getting a once over this winter. A manual sure would be nice. The 3 speed auto screams at highway driving. This thing definitely runs pig fat and needs a tune up in the worst way. It'll get there eventually
@@junkyardjoe1994 lol. You told me I’m missing the point in the money mark and this educated fellow with good advice says swap the motor which will double or triple the dollars required and he is spot on?
It was an interesting video but the only way I’d buy a later c3 is if it was already restomodded or a roller that I could molest with an LS3 a tremec 5 speed and new gears in the arse end !!!!!
I'd leave the power and down the line t56 magnum swap for highway runs 😅
Personally I far prefer the shape of the C3, regardless of what others think.
I agree. Much more of the corvette look for sure
C2s...❤❤❤...66 convertible. Make mine California yellow,and a 4 gear...
just letting the viewers know that the white c4 is not a 1990. 90 was first year of the updated interior. 89 was the last year of the interior you have in this c4.
I just talked to my grandpa today. It is indeed an 89. You are correct.
I'm just waiting for the next video when he confuses a Mustang for a Porsche ;-)
If you think the C4 is hard to get into try the C7
Yeh I seen that - I have an 89 last year of the bread box dash
@@phillipgarrow2297c7 isn't that bad, my Dad has a 19 Grand Sport and he's 6'4" and in his mid 60s and doesn't have any trouble getting in and out.
Don't push/pull on the steering wheel getting into or out of the C4! You can damage the steering column. Use the side rail when getting out if you need to give yourself a push.
The C4 is undoubtedly a better car, but I'd rather have the C3 every single time because it's just that much better looking. The 1980-82's were among the most beautiful cars ever, IMO. Thanks for the video!
Stingray heritage!
Too bad they had the most emission bogged motors ever.
one of my neighbors had i believe a 1970 or 1971, i can’t remember which year. it’s a dark green, almost like a british racing green. i believe it’s an L46. he said it’s the engine right under the LT1. it’s the most beautiful C3 i’ve ever seen. The color is very unique
Sorry i meant “has” he’s had the car for 30 years and said he’ll never sell it
63-67 has entered the chat
My father designed the early Corvettes and used to restore and put together events for them in St Louis(where they were built)! I still have one. It has 88,000 miles. Beautiful car, thanks.
I have a 1990 and it's like getting out of a bathtub. I am 72.
It's like wearing a sock haha they're a tight fit
I had a black C3 coupe, it was a primitive car, but still a ton of fun! I got so much attention even in car snobby Los Angeles! There is huge aftermarket support for all Corvettes.
I hope that sucker made the air smell like gas! Haha that's awesome!
Enjoyed your video. Looking forward to seeing more
Thanks for watching I appreciate it!
Great Video. Reminds us of just how bad Us cars were in 1980. the 1980 C3 A once great sports car With the performance of a 4 CY Honda. That is if it could keep up. But that being said it is a beautiful car and it is a classic and design we love It.I'm not a corvette fan but if I were to buy one get the better LS engines You will spend more but they are truly great cars.
Great comparo breakdown. TY
Thanks for watching I appreciate it!
Great vid, enjoyable,thanks. Love the c3😮
Thank you! Yes the c3 sure has a good look
I do have both!! Well… I mean, i own both as projects…. Wonder when I’ll get to drive them again 😂😂. Awesome video btw!
Thank you! Get that c3 running. They're fairly simple to make go
8 secs 0-60? Your C4 is broken. Its supposed to be more 5,5 to 6 secs.
Maybe in better shape. This one may look good in pictures but it's been ridden hard and put away wet a few times.
Yeah my stock L98 does 5.5
Tired engine.
Had a 1990 'vert and it was fun, but had some issues. The top leaked a lot even after full replacement and once the electrics/wiring got wet in the back...problems. The interior was falling apart at 100K miles, which sucked because I liked the design, layout and dash. I put in a mild 383 and kept the TPI and it was a giggle inducing burnout machine with a lightly stalled 700-R4.
Great video thanks
Thank you for watching! I appreciate it
Nice cars it is a tough choice to decide when they're both fun rides
Both of them are too new. The newest I would want is 1967!
Like your channel about c 4
Thank you I appreciate that!
You're absolutely right, definitely buy both if you like them. Also I think both of them need some work cuz they should perform better and both should be able to do a good burnout easily.
The 80 is definitely running way too rich. It's in need of a once over. The 90 should be able to do 60 in like 6 seconds too so it's definitely showing its age.
@@junkyardjoe1994 I would love to see videos where you get them close to their former glory even if very slowly one thing at a time, you know
Hell yeah. My first was a 1980 and I miss it. Such a beautiful car. One of the best burnouts I've seen was with my buddy driving my 80. crazy. It was easy with that car. I think it had something like a 4.11:1 rear end - fairly short gearing, and also a high-stall torque converter. The handling was also very responsive - on rails and snappy. Timeless and very classy exterior design. My second was a 1990 (first of the 90s interior). My 1980 was lower - While sitting in the driver seat, I could open the door and put my hand flat on the ground without leaning over. But the cockpit interior of the 90 was the best/my favourite of any car I've experienced. I unfortunately sold that one as well and have always missed it.
I think the L-98 was supposed to make 330lb-ft.
I agree that both of those cars should do massively better than that. In my 90 (stock), I could slam on the throttle at 40mph and do a burnout. The handling was also seriously good. The balance and cornering were awesome. When I had my 1980, I took an 89 for a drive around the block and then had to have one, so then I found the 90. I wish I still had both. I'm envious. 🙂
Would love to see a continuation/series on these two fine cars doing major tune ups and diagonistics and changing aged components but keeping them period correct. Dyno tuning/testing and timed runs at the strip as well! Great video!
Depends on what you want! If you want a classic looking car with absolutely no performance whatsoever or if you're looking to have some fun behind the wheel! If you want just the classic look then the 80. If you want to actually have some fun then the C4!! The C3 needs all kinds of work to have fun! The C4 is fun right out of the box!
good info
Thanks for watching!
without a cat pluggin the exhaust, the 80 should be around 240 horsepower. check the timing and carb function
It's definitely running way too rich. Probably has some fouled out plugs as well
Yes. If you get rid of the cat and fix the plugs, wires, timing etc that thing should pick up almost 60hp
I loved my red C-4 convertible and I'd like to get a really nice C-3, both of these cars have their issues, its all a matter of what your skill level is as a wrencher or how deep your pockets are. Both of these cars need a skilled owner because shops today wont even wanna bother with these cars, also get to know the people over at "Eastwood" for all of your Corvette wants and needs😮
I definitely enjoy driving the c4. A super nice c3 is definitely put of reach for me right now. For me it typically comes down to how deep my pockets can go. Wrenching is just part of the fun.
I hate it when people compare all c3s like that with a L82 in the 80's with 190hp. Mine is 390 hp factory 1969 c3. Starts no problem. Burn outs easily. This car he has obviously has issues. They don't handle like wagons if you have good shocks, springs suspension. That stuff will wear out. They are almost 50 year old cars. Mine has oem replacement suspension and drives pretty good.
He pics the 90's car for daily driver because it has AC. Mine factory has AC from 1969 and power windows. His comparison is of two cars that have not been taken care of and both of them were running like shit.
Well that's what you get for 5 grand? They're not show cars. I'm quite sure your meticulously maintained factory ac 69 c3 is worth a fair bit more than $5,000. I think you missed the spirit of the video
@@junkyardjoe1994 good point. I should have thought that response through a bit better. I will say though the c3s are climbing in value very fast. If you can get one for 5k then do it. In 5 years , it will be hard to get anything c3 under 10k
The C3 looks way better in my opinion. Love the "Maco Shark" look.
Agreed. Much more of a figure than the flat c4
In 1980 the L 82 emblem was on the fender and the engine valve cover was not blue. They were finned black. The frame was basically the same from 63 -82. The C 3 ran 68 -82. Do some research. I've owned 3 C3s 2 C4s. Corvette lost their soul after 82.
Car is titled as an 80 but appears to have some front end damage at some point and the motor has definitely been out and replaced or psinted as well. I don't know if the position of an emblem affects the comparisons I was showing. You definitely get a mutt for when you don't spend much money
I loved driving my C4 Corvette, once in the seat. That rocker height and trying to slide my feet in and out from under the dash though suck. So does changing the spark plugs. My C3 Corvette I still like for what it is as a weekend cruiser. C6 Corvette, although the interior isn't the best and the steering wheel was used on everything Chevrolet at the time, is a decent long distance cruiser. Not familiar with the C5, C7, nor C8.
The c3 is definitely still a head turner. I prefer weekend cruising in that as well
C3 much better looking c4 much better driver.
Cool video. Have to disagree with modern cars not having the porno red interior. They still do.....thank goodness... "Bow Chicka Bow Wow"
Definitely tougher to find though. The big 3 all had bright red interiors for a while. Thanks for watching too!
Great ending. Why not both 😂
The 1980 L-82 Corvette had the L-82 insignia on the fender, not on the cowl like the 1979. It also had 230 horspower from the factory, not 190 like the non-L-82. Something is amiss here.
Car has definitely been molested a fair bit. There's signs of front end damage in the past and I'm fairly certain it has a different hood. Engine looks like it's been out as well and was either swapped or rebuilt at some point in its life. Hard telling with basket case cars. They're still fun!
The C3 straddles this weird line between a sports car and a muscle car while the C4 is definitively the former. It's for that reason I like the C3 more, getting a car to live in both worlds like that is unique.
I agree. It's still got a wild edge to it. A little less refined but much more fun
I like the interior of the 90
The intense red can't be beat
@@junkyardjoe1994intense porno red eh! 😆
I loke the interior of the pre 70s corvettes
Basically, where I'm at with Corvettes is 1965 to 1972 are the highly desirable Corvettes. The power is there, and it's just before all the anti-emissions regulations strangled the horsepower out of them. Plus, those C2s and early C3s look terrific. I also like the late C7s and current C8s. Of the newer Vettes, I think the peak is the 2019 Grand Sport. So, in the clip, I wouldn't want either Corvette. Even for just $5,000. Any Corvette that's $5,000 has a reason (or three) why it's $5,000.
You're not wrong about that. Both are definitely projects. But someone who wants a bargain bin american sports car would probably have fun with either
I collected for a long time. I absolutely loved the sexy C3 body. But every one Ive had, the heads were cracked. Rebuilt it, about 4500 in and I had to take it away from my wife. Im in my company car and watched her light the tires up at a stoplight.
I hope that's not the issue with this one. I still haven't dug into it. It's on my winter project list
I have to go with the C3. My 72 is special (to me) because of the Steel Cities Gray paint, I've never seen another. The motor is from a 63 Vette, a much wider power band than the 350 the car came with. Power windows, brakes and steering, it's a wonderful cruising car. My dad had an 84, which was IMO, not a very nice car. Strange design elements and slower than a Honda Civic. Still a Vette, though, and all Vettes are cool.
Definitely a hard choice. C3 would be a much better car with a better motor. The c3s have a way better look
why is the front end so high??? The C4 was so good and dominant , it was kicked out of the Escort Race Series. It was something like 29-0 against the 944 turbos and the other cars didnt stand a chance. THey had to create a series just for the corvette called the , " Corvette Challenge Series". The 1984 vette ( though the cross fire was terrible) pulled 1.0g on the skid pad with the z51 suspension. The next year the z51 was softened up because it was way to stiff ( but i found a set up front and rears and put them on my 1985 and koni adjustable shocks) .
Both are as I got them. And appear to be in their stock form. I'm sure when thee cars were new they were pretty impressive. But these are not well preserved examples. They're just cheap fun cars
Wrong, the crossfire injection was and is not terrible. This is a long standing myth that the older carb dudes didn’t know them and didn’t know how to work on them so they were deemed bad. Are they the best injection systems? No, but they are simple and easy to diagnose…
Hey, great video, thanks for the comparison!! Just one question: Am I looking in all the wrong places? Where can you find one that runs for $5,000??
Picked up the c3 last year for 4200. C4s can be had for that price in various conditions
@@junkyardjoe1994 That's awesome! Any hints or tricks for how and where you find them?
@dougs7920 well I'm in the Midwest and a marketplace junkie. Lots of deals if you're always looking haha. I saw a c3 today (kinda rough) but ran and drove for 3300 today. They're out there
@@junkyardjoe1994 thanks again! You mean FB marketplace, right?
$5000 seems excessive. My neighbor across the street bought her 1986 C4 automatic in nearly perfect condition for like $3100. I think it has maybe 80,000 miles. I know it’s well under 100,000. It’s nothing special per se but i loved driving it. She only drives it once every 2-3 weeks so she let me drive it just to keep the battery charged. I was kind of amazed how many looks it got, i guess you just don’t see that many these days
Yes, 80 seats are definitely aftermarket. Didn’t have the logo and the bolsters don’t stand up to sliding in and out before they tear.
I figured as much. Leather isn't the highest quality but they still look good which is mostly what this car has going for it haha
I like the looks of the C3..My favorites design wise is the C2 1963 to 1967 The C 5 fastback.The C7 models.All of that I listed.I don't like convertibles. 11:10 The 1980
to 1982 models were beautiful cars
The c2s are great looking cars. I agree on convertibles. Not my favorite look. I'd rather have t tops or a moon roof
Where you can buy driving corvette c3 or c4 at that price? Could you please advise any website ? :) Both are great cars, Corvette ❤
C4 can be had around that price all the time on marketplace, c3 is more of a stretch but they're certainly out there.
True, I bought an 84 last year for 3k, it’s got 23,000 original miles and is a beast!!
Can find plenty of C4 for 5k wish I could find a C3 for 5k.
Had both. Find a clean C3 install crate motor and 4sp.
Enjoy.
They're definitely harder to find. As you can see from this video it's no peach. The body looks way better in video than it really is too.
Now which Vette would be best if you intend to ls swap it to be more reliable and have more power?
Bonus: engine components are ready available.
I think the C4 lends itself better for a swap. But the look of the C3 🤔
I think I would prefer to do the c3. Engine is pretty clapped out on it and I think the turbo 400 would take the abuse a little better than a 700r4.
“Both”… My type of guy 💯 Couldn’t agree more ‼️ If I absolutely had to choose though, gonna go C4 for the win. Updated in almost every way just not as aggressive looking but who says that’s a bad thing. The C4 is almost as classy as the C1 & C2.
It's understated which isn't always a bad thing. People always want to race me in the c3 even though it's a dog
The 82 body design is a much better looking Corvette. The engine and horsepower can Always be improved
& Idk where you live but I live in Michigan & no one is selling their C3 for 5 Grand unless it’s a POS. I tried to buy one from an older guy for 7 grand & his Vette had a large dent on the hood & all types of functionality issues & he still wouldn’t come down form 9 grand. 5 Grand is a dream!
Got this one for 4200 last year. They're out there. I'm up in the UP by the way. Deals are out there if you're a marketplace junkie. And this is a total POS for the record haha
Not sure about that really being an L-82. They had finned aluminium valve covers from the factory. They were no slouches and with minor tuning would really run. That car might have originally been an L-82 with an engine replacement sometime in its life.
You might be right about that. This engine has definite signs of being out at some point.
All REAL corvettes had aluminum valve covers.
I remember experiencing a 1979 L82 and it definitely had some decent pull and torque even for its era (and was stock). So yes, I would investigate this motor in the 1980 and see if it’s correct and/or just needs some tuning perhaps.
Correct, that does not appear to be an L82 for several reasons: no dual snorkel air cleaner (although it appears to have been replaced with an older one), redline on the tach is incorrect, etc.
The 1980 L82 motor was rated @ 220 net horsepower while the base L48 motor was rated @ 190 net horsepower.
The simple facts are it would take an aluminum block and head engine and several thousand dollars worth of chassis parts and nearly 4k of wheels and tires to get the C3 to pull 1g on a skid pad. The C4 will do it with new tires and some better shocks wouldn't hurt the effort. However the C3 will easily accept any configuration of big block Chevy engine that you are willing to fork over the cash for and with at least 5 different transmissions and or a solid rear axle since no factory stock Corvette third member is strong enough for more than 500 hp you could out run that C4 in the quarter mile like it wasn't moving. All aluminum twin turbo 427 Ls with a built 4l80e trans and a specially fabricated rear driveline for the C4 would give you cheap near supercar performance. All it takes is about 75 to 100k in parts to make it all workout.
And then it's only worth 10 grand after all that haha. They're still fun to play with
yes but you would have a way cooler car than any eurotrash out there. Having said that why not a c7 or c8 out of the box?
It's an old parade cruiser not a race car.
You can get side exhaust for the C4, but they are far more uncommon than side pipes for a C3 so expect to pay a premium to get some.
I feel like there'd be no way not to burn your legs if the c4 had side pipes
@@junkyardjoe1994 You are somewhat correct. The most popular brand I am aware of was Side Effects, and they had a fiberglass cover that was meant to be color matched to the car that covered the pipe. Even with that people still installed heat reflective material between the cover and the pipe to insulate the heat as much as possible.
Engine swap in the 80. It is a cooler car. . Unfair to compare the 80 to the 90, both are ancient. The 80 car if set up right will be cooler. The 90 car will have a little better engineering and stiffer and better designed suspension and rear end. Better ergonomics and hopefully after ten years Chevrolet designed the chassis for better leak control, body twist and protection from rust. Love the C3 shape, the C4 nice too, but very clean lines and 80's. Love the C3 from 68' and 69'. Comparing these would be quite hilarious.
Wheels are on backwards on that 89.
What stopped me just recently from getting a C4 is at 1:38. I've always liked the C4 and performance-wise, they are way ahead of the C3 in most ways. They don't compare to the old big block acceleration, BUT, unless you are buying a '68 to '72 big block, AND have a source of good gas (which most isn't today), then you really aren't getting all that those old big blocks were known for. I can speak with experience on this having my '68 427 from 1978 (last of the good gas years) to today (horrible ethanol crap). But back to 1:38, notice how little passenger foot room there is. Everyone used to complain about my '98 Camaro Z28 passenger seating with the catalytic convertor intruding into the floorboard. Well, there is no room for your feet in the C4. What is the point if you can't take a passenger in comfort? If you are solely autocrossing the car, or intend on never having a passenger, the C4 is great. But for a passenger, it sucks. At 2:01, you can see so much more foot room. How the engineers messed this up, I will never know.
As far as daily drivers, the '89 without question. It is an early '80s design in suspension, driveline, and comforts, where the '80 is an early '60s design in all of those with a few minor updates. The overdrive makes long commutes or traveling much more enjoyable and affordable. The TPI makes the economy much better.
The '80 has more room for long traveling. You can take a lot more stuff in the back. Of course, the C4 coupe has a lot more room than the nearly non-existence room in the C4 convertible. And I found many C4 convertible owners fill that with an amp and subwoofer so you have nearly zero room for luggage.
I should mention that the C3 is better for modification. There were many performance mods for C4 corvettes in the '80s and '90s but a lot of that has disappeared today. The problem is the TPI flows somewhere around 650 cfm which limits what you can do above 350 cubic inches. There were kits for making the TPI flow more, and are necessary for the 383 stroker and above. Removal of the TPI for carbs, which some do, then creates issues on the video game dash, which many end up replacing with individual electronic gauges. In the end, the C4 gets pretty modded everywhere and isn't looking very stock anymore.
The C3 you can just pull the anemic '80s 350 and rebuild to something stronger, buy a crate engine, or get interesting. Dash gauges still work, and until one looks under the hood, no one knows you changed anything. Dropping a 383 stroker and a 700r4 in makes a world of difference. The problem is with 4 speeds, as there are not good options. Most end up with a Tremec 5 speed but with a cost.
Good video, by the way.
Someone here said that you don't get in a c4 you wear it haha I thought they nailed it. C3 is a perfect candidate for a 6.0 and 4l80e. Thanks for watching I appreciate it!
@@junkyardjoe1994 I found my C4 to be a perfect road trip car. I drove from Cleveland to Calgary and back. After an 18 hour stretch with only stops for fuel I was perfectly comfortable and only tired from having been awake that long. Getting in and out isn't too bad once you're accustomed to it, and that's from a fat 60 year old.
That’s what we are missing in the world today, “Porno Red” car interiors.
Our society has truly decayed
Hey man that c3 isnt running well at all . Sounds like its running on 7 legs and it should light the tires right up , my 78 l82 lights the tires up easy
C4 is the better car by far, even with it's quirks. One thing I can say, you need to adjust the TV cable on that 700R4 in the C4, the 1-2 shift is WAY too short. Also, check the main battery wire where it crosses over the steering shaft, every C4 I've owned or seen has had damage to that wire.
Mechanically it's light years ahead that's for sure. That's good info to know as well. I will have to check out that wire and see if my tv cable is set right too
Before you make the wrong choice, try both out. I finally drove a new C5. The C4 was so uncomfortable and low to the ground.
I agree the c4 is way too low even for someone young it's a chore to crawl in and out of it. I can't say I've driven a c5 though so I don't have a frame of reference on that one. They're still too expensive for me haha
bros even got the corvette guy fit😭
You're the first person to catch that 🤣
The Porno red comment made me lol.
A couple old fellas got mad at me for saying that. One even said he'd never seen porn before so he wouldn't know what that color was 😂
I would take the 80 Vette , you can’t beat the style !
Hard to beat those massive humps out front. Looks like a wave going down the road
i choose the sharper one
I would go c4 because it’s newer however, there are probably at least numerous problems with both so who knows?
They're both a couple of jolapies. Have fun with what you've got
The c3 was a beautiful work of art. News flash , nothing was really fast in the mid to late 70s. The only reason the c3 isnt considered as the beauty that it really is , is that they where mass produced. I don't own one and never will because i couldn't stand every know -it-all boring me with horsepower stats every time i park it.
Yea that's true about the speed. A modern corolla could put most anything built in the 70s and 80s to shame. The c3 did have a pretty long run and they're kinda common but I still have fun with it. Also there are way too many "corvette guys" with paper skin. The following is definitely the worst part of owning a corvette
I'd buy a c3 before I'd buy a c4. Bigger aftermarket and less to go wrong. I do like the c4 though....
The c3 is definitely the way better toy. Easier to upgrade and make your own
The c3 is definitely the way better toy. Easier to upgrade and make your own
Pretty good comparison. Being a child of the 60's & 70's I prefer my QJet powered 75 for a weekend cruiser. The C3's were designed to be operated and when properly tuned and maintained they can be very dependable. Theres an art to properly operate a carb'ed engine.
After watching your vid a couple times I'll venture a guess that the C3's timing is too retarded and you may not have allowed the engine to warm up enough for the QJet's secondaries to open up. It didn't sound like the engine was at it's optimum performance setting. GM designed the QJet's so the secondaries won't open on a cold engine. I don't know if you're aware of that so I'm throwing it out for GP. Perhaps a choke adjustment could help.
Lighter flyweight springs in the HEI, capped smog and headers can wake even an L48 up. L82's have 4 bolt main's along with a better rotating assembly and is well worth investing in some performance mods.
Also based on the interior ergonomics I would prefer the C3 over the C4 based solely on ease of ingress & egress. The C3 is bad enough, LOL....
The thing about power is moot as it's something that can be increased without altering the fine curves of the C3 and it won't break the bank either.
All that said I wouldn't turn down a great deal on a C4 but I've been digging the C5's anymore, LOL.
Carry On.
While I respect your views there are some I disagree about. A C4, even bone stock, is a superior handling car even by todays standards. While the L98 is not overly complicated to work on it does require the removal of components before you can access what you are after, think EGR valve for one. If you're not handy with a wrench you'll need deep pockets to pay for servicing the car, if you can find a guy familiar with older technology. Lastly, a heater core replacement will set you back $$$$ if you can't remove almost all of the interior dash and a bunch of stuff under the hood yourself. It's cheap to begin with but they can be money pits.
Luckily this car is never driven in the winter so if the heater core ever goes out I'll only ever be adding coolant haha 😄
@@junkyardjoe1994 True, but a bypassed heater core looks like crap and devalues the car a lot.
That L82 sure didn’t wanna take off too fast! You should put an LS in er!
It's a real turd but sounds nice. I think you may be onto something with that LS
I own a 90 that's not a 90 - that's an 88-89 - The 1990 has a one off wheel design - similar to above except the lug nuts are exposed - the 1990 dash was re-designed as mentioned below - updated interior
You're correct. My grandpa bought the white one new in 90 and I was under the impression it was a 90. You always learn something doing these videos
I'd take the 1980, no computer, everybody makes hi-po parts for 350s......but where did you find ones for $5000 ? I see them for 10 or 11 at least , and average $25000
This one looks way better on camera than it really is. They can be had pretty cheap if you're willing to work on them. I just got a 1978 a couple weeks ago for $1700.
I would say the c3 is the better buy provided it’s a pre 1975 vette
They tend to get more expensive the older you go it seems like
"Let's talk about the interior"
Shh. Let's not 😆
Garbage! Haha oh well at least it's not a milk crate I'm sitting on
Where are you getting these things for $5K?
C4s are dirt cheap. I saw a running driving one for 3300 just a couple weeks ago. C3s are a little more of a stretch but I got this one last year for 4200
@@junkyardjoe1994must be down south. They pricey up here in the north unless you want completely ripped up interior and rusted paint.
The 80 should run better. Check the emmission parts for leaks. Mine leaked on exhaust manifold egr parts has cracks in the tubes.
Where I live I could remove all the engines egr stuff leaving that huge octagon catalytic converter that needs to still be replaced with free'er flowing cat.
The L82 has 225hp
And the factory ribbed valve covers designating the last yr corvette with a high performance option read about that engine its a good one. Mines an L48 and can squeal the tires at launch and chirp on 2nd gear. My dream is to install a rack and pinion steering system on it, the early 60s steering is dated feeling to me. A wild styled easily leakable system imo.
Still love the car. It is the last corvette with out a brain 😲
They both should be running better. I'm told the c4 should do 60 in 6 seconds. I will probably do a follow up on the c3 getting it boiling the tires again. It runs pretty rich and I'm sure it has fouled plugs and a myriad of other things. Easy to work on though
Handle like wagons? The C4 was and is a world class handling car. They were world beaters in S.C.C.A. in their day. Still one of the few cars that can pull 1G on a skid pad
I might have misspoke. They handle well but they sure do ride like a covered wagon.
Hopping into the C3 at the dealership and seeing that speedo that only goes to 85mph😅 'Ok, I think we're done here. Lemme look at the outside again.'
Pretty rough. That was federally mandated for a long time trying to get people to save gas
When running them he had to have been scared to break them by pushing them because I know both of them perform way better. Because my grandmas 73 convertible should not be able to dust a 93
They're both pretty haggard and in need of work. Definitely not performing as well as they're able to.
I don't think that 1980 Vette is the L82 version as it has L48 valve covers.
A five thousand C3 or C4 is a tar baby.
Personally I’ll take a pass on all corvettes 1973 through 1994. The gutless years. 95’ forward so much better power plants. Still not without its quirks but so much better than the dead years 73-94.
Definitely not their best work. Doing everything they could to save a buck
Your C3 is ill. It didn't even spin the tires in the 0-60 run. I had one myself, and watching your run there was painful LOL. It should pull much harder than that.
Definitely needs some love. She's running a bit rich
Yes I have driven carb 350s and they go much harder than that
THEY BUILT THE 68. TO 82. 14. YEARS. THE FRAME CAME FROM. THE. 63 TO 67. ...IT WAS TIME TO UPDATE....THE C4::WAS A QUANTUM LEAP.......ITS JUST A STYLE CHOICE...A53.
WOULD BE A SAD COMPARASON.....BUT
ITS A COLECTORS ITEM.
Style is alot for most folks but I do agree the c4 is a better machine in almost every way
So are you offering to c3 for sale 5K?
I think the c4 is appropriately call that because he needs a little dab of that in the trunk and run like heck and watch it explode. I seen these things running for$1,500. I'm not paying to seaport it reminds me of a Ford probe. I guess all the car designers close to the same school every generation. Now I like the original stingrays but my wallet doesn't have enough in it for that. I'm not a big fan of Vettes. But that c3 is appealing. I membered a rich girl in school back her brand-new c3 that our daddy bought her. Write out under the bus as it was driving behind her. I'm pretty sure the bus driver could have stopped before the back tires of the school bus drift back into that car apart. They never did get that car lined up right. That's what I think of when I see c3. Thanks for showing this I enjoyed the demonstration of both cars. Mechanically speaking the c4 would be smarter choice at The wider tires all the way around the tilt hood on front for easy accessibility the extra horsepower. But he buys a vet for logical reasons? Both cars are nice examples of what they are.
I would say this c3 is worth about that much and probably a little less. It pictures well but it's not that nice. But it definitely has the more appealing look. Stories make everything in cars and what you feel is sometimes more important than how fast it drives or how reliable it is.
How about English please? Not this gibberish…
How about the C zero corvette? The 6 cylinder automatic. GM wishes you would forget about THAT generation of Corvette. They say that if it has a solid axle it is a C 1
I guess I'm not familiar with that one. What year was that from?
1953, '54' and '55 . A 1956 Corvette with a 4 speed, a V8 AND double 4 barrel carburetors is a REAL Corvette and is obviosely a different generation than a 1953! @@junkyardjoe1994
@@junkyardjoe1994that would the first 3 years of the Corvette, 1953-1955. 1955 was the first year that the Corvette could be had with a V8 and a manual transmission.
In 1955, few opted for the Blue Flame I6, and it was dropped the following year.
BTW, that isn't a 1990. The 1990 got an updated interior with a mix of digital and analog gauges that was actually really nice.
You are right. My grandpa bought it new in 90. Sorry about the misinformation
@@junkyardjoe1994 Totally cool. Still a great car!
I'm in the minority but I wasn't really a fan of the '90 interior. Looks like a lot of cost cutting compared to the '89 if compared directly. I used to get my leg bruised getting into the 1990 by that damn horn by the headlight knob that's exposed when the door is opened. No issues with the '89 interior and it's still mint where the 1990 had lots of cracks and most of them have the upper and lower door panels separate. Lack of gradients in 1990 with the ancillary gauges was kind of a betrayal to the car, especially since those gauges were excellent digital displays before. I know they fixed some of that though as the years went on.
@@3.2Carrera Hey, you like what you like. I never liked the Atari-looking digital gauges, the bread-box, or the switches in the center recess, but that doesn't mean you are wrong.
thats what i was confused about--i was thinking this guy did an 89 interior swap on his 90 hahahaha
In stock form? The C4 makes a better "daily driver" but that's about all I could ever say to recommend it over the C3. Here's the unvarnished truth from someone who has owned both cars over the years and still owns a C3 today yet wouldn't even consider a C4 again for purchase beyond a possible chance to "flip" for profit. Both cars suffer poor build quality and by today's standard are super weak performers in stock configuration. With that said I could never live with either of these cars "stock". So now you gotta do some work to make them "better". This is where the C3 becomes the objectively argued far better choice. Subjectively I just the style better too. The C4 hasn't aged as well to my eye but that's just opinion yours may vary. So If I stick to which car is easier, less expensive to work on and up grade it's pre computer era C3 I find the far better choice. It will never match the MPG of a modern car but I don't see any car this old as a daily driver. Stroked small block chevy engines making 400-500+ HP with modern roller cam profiles and aluminum heads are super easy today. Upgrading suspension also very easy and many very complete set ups balanced and available all just bolt in place. Where this really works in the C3's favor is found in the over all simplicity of it all. I can think of nothing on the car that should be beyond the ability of the DIY guy to accomplish in his own garage. The C4 shares some of these positive points too but ultimately the car is a big step into the world of tech and a lot of it is not only more expensive but also may prove tougher for the DIY guy to accomplish.
The 1980 is NOT an L-82 unless someone changed out the valve covers. You can also tell by the Tach, which would have a 6 grand red line and actually say L-82. This one does not. Also, either the distributor is a tooth off or the timing is drastically retarded. Missing the cold air intake too. Those are free horsepower. A true L-82 will have 9 to 1 compression and forged everything with 4 bolt mains. This has 8 to 1 and cast everything. The heads are the worst things GM ever made....useless, but they function. This car needs a real tune up and vacuum leak going over. The quadrajet will run fine if you know how to tune them and rebuild that version properly. You MUST use the correct kit with the correct needle and seat or it will never work properly. An L-82 only came with an automatic. It has a lock up converter and you can run a little better stall unit and make it work better. Your best bet in swapping a 700-R4 unit with the lower first gear. The parts from an 82 will allow it to bolt right in....best mod you'll ever do! Hooker makes an affordable true dual exhaust system that bolts on. Worth it. A REAL L-82 made 230 HP at the rear wheels in total stock form. I've dyno'd two of them and thats what they made. Mine was one of them. Mine is making 302 HP now with the 700-R4 and its more than enough to have fun with and still be a docile street driver that gets 25 mpg on the highway. WITH a carb...no EFI. It also looks bone stock (except for the headers) under the hood with the factory cold air intake system.
The C3 styling is vastly superior to the C4 If you want performance you'll be doing an LS swap in either one but good luck finding a C3 for 5k. If the C3 leaves you stranded then you don't know how to maintain your car.
I've replaced many parts on the c3. Can't predict when an old car will break, once starter went, another time coil another the alternator. You just don't know with old cars. I paid 3800 for the c3 2 years ago. They're out there.
post pic of your C3 with bread on hood
Those 80’s are skyrocketing. If you can find a half decent one for 5 g’s you better jump on it.
I got this one last year for 4200
It may need work, but that was a great investment. Classic styling, easily modified with newer drivetrain. They have went up in value dramatically from what I have seen. Good luck with it!
If so, it’s kind of perplexing to me that it’s taken so long for the C4 to finally start going up in value. The C2 was considered a classic within 25 years while the C4 has been vastly outpaced even by other cars from its era. The hopped up G-Bodies including the Monte Carlo SS and Hurst Olds and the Fox Bodies are easily going for 2 or 3 times as much than a C4 Corvette.
Sorry sir... for 5k.. I'd actually get a 87 v6 or 4cyl Pontiac fiero... smaller frame easy to get parts. And still has a trunk for over night bag and a full size space..plus the mini spare up front.. . but you have fun with your vettes...
Can't say I blame you. I'm not a big vette guy either. But my Grandpa sure is. There are probably better ways to have fun for 5 grand but if you're looking for cheap old muscle it's not the worst car to buy
@junkyardjoe1994 my fiero has a Cadillac cts v6 ..it was plug and play with only one extra bracket...$25.00
@mv4463 that's pretty insane. Those motors were pretty good if you keep up of the timing belts. I'll bet that's a wild ride
@@junkyardjoe1994 put extra weight in sand bags in the front trunk.. it sails easy at 90mph.. mine has done 115.. when normal is only 75 at best.. I'm currently looking for a quick silver style fiero.. then I'll have the full set of 5 models of that year...
I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT 89 VETTE WITH 83,000 MILES ON IT WAS ANYWHERE NEAR $5,000. C3 FOR 5 GRAND IS MORE PLAUSABLE
Oh it might look nice in video but it's got many rough edges. I see lots of c4s for dirt cheap prices. I saw one for 3000 a couple weeks ago
@ryanfontaine6131 80s C4s are considerably cheaper compared to the 90s LT1s especially if they're automatic. I got my 94 w/ 70k miles for $6k at a dealer. C3s on average are outrageously overpriced in comparison, so im not sure where you're getting your numbers from.
The c8 literally has a bright red interior
It was just kinda a joke. It's just not as common as it used to be. In the 80s and 90s you could get a bright red interior in plain cars and trucks
@@junkyardjoe1994the bright red interior seems to go in and out of fashion. It was a fairly popular look in the 1960s, and again in the 1980s. It even enjoyed a minor resurgence in the 2000s.
I would buy one of these corvettes just to beat the shit out of it at a drift track. I hate corvettes 😂
They're not my favorite. Would be fun thrash on them at the track
Nothing rides like a c4
It doesn't ride bad on good roads but you still certainly feel the bumps and sways
No offense but you shifted the C4 at 2.5 rpm into 2nd gear…. Lol i feel like you could have easily pulled a 7 second time!!
It certainly did shift a little early. I could've probably improved on a second pass. Tv cable probably needs a little adjusting as well
That 80 is running like shit, my 75 and 81 will both light the tires and not sound like there miss firing
L82....thats about how much horsepower it had
Can't get out of uts own way but sounds good
I owned a 1989 Corvette when it was only 5 years old and had 2600 miles the day I bought it. You aren't correct in your assessment. When they were new, they had a really good ride, firm but a float similar to a Cadillac. In 89k miles, my car had absolutely no issues, and not once did it fail to get me home. I assure you I romped the snot out of that car everybday too. The 1989 Corvette was better handling and faster than the Ferrari Testarossa and the Lamborghini Countach of the same year. Regarding the handling, your examples are tired. I assure you my car in its prime would smoke nearly all contenders of its day. Just like the C8 is highly competitive in its market and time. Somwone will be bashing it in 30 and 40 years without a clue of how good it really is.
I don't think I really bashed on either of them. They're both not prime examples. Just doing a little comparison for a $5000 vette.
@junkyardjoe1994 ride like a log wagon? The Camaro of the day did just that and rattled and squeeked. But, the Corvette was at least 8-10 years ahead of the Camaro in every aspect back then. Plus, the mid-engine layout of the Corvette just gave better handling and ride characteristics with its 50/50 weight distribution. I'm not meaning any offense. Just the car was so much better than you made it sound.
I had a 1980 C3 Corvette. It was a dog and literally the slowest car on the road at all times compared to all cars. If you get one, immediately replace the ENTIRE drivetrain. 😂😂😂
POS #1 vs POS #2
Everyone needs a couple of jolapies in their life
that c3 sounds like it is sick...not good.
Definitely running a bit rich. They're both in need of some love
I don't know where you're looking for cheapest one I can find is like 10,000
C4s you can definitely find that cheap c3s will be a fair project at that price
in May I picked up an '85 with 41k original miles, pristine interior for $4500. Runs great, only done minor repairs to it. Just needs some paint!
Porno red....hasaa....we called it whorehouse red especially in cordobas and Chryslers in general