We’ve owned C4 Corvettes before, and while it’s true the C5, C6, and now C7 have gotten better and better, the C4 was a bad ass back in the day. This 1990 model has the TPI 350 that didn’t make a lot of power, and the 4+3 trans that had it’s fair share of issues. But wait… What this car needs to be a driver is a clutch. What it needs to be fast won’t cost much and can be a riot I assure you. Here’s what I mean.
The TPI 350 would stay if I was just getting into the Pro Touring world and wanted to start out on the autocross. I would put a clutch in it, but while I had the trans out I would take the Doug Nash +3 portion of the 4+3 off and sell it to some Corvette dude that would want it. Then you have to install a new tail housing and such on your trans and have a driveshaft made and you have a Super T-10 behind a small block Chevy which is one of the most bulletproof combos in history. You’ve probably made enough off the Doug Nash unit at this point to pay for the clutch, and having a driveshaft shortened won’t break the bank.
Next I would make some adjustments to the ride height which is a bolt on and DIY project on one of these, and replace bushings and shocks as needed. Throw out the Vette seats, although you could probably get something for them at the swap meet, and then throw in a couple low-buck racing buckets and a seatbelt bar and you are good to go.
For $150 – $500 you can get either Urethane or Delrin bushings for the C4 and with a set of Ridetech HQ Shocks at only $700 you can have your suspension working nicely. There are tons and tons of Corvette forums and such where guys can give you the exact specs for your alignment as well.
In truth we think you could be autocrossing this 1987 Corvette rather successfully for way less than $5000 including good Falken tires!
Check it out and buy it!
Here is the info from the seller:
1987 Corvette for sale. Starts but NOT RUNNING!!!! Please note! Starts, NOT RUNNING. (WE THINK THE SELLER MEANS NOT DRIVING, as it passed smog and the only real mechanical problem listed is the clutch.) A mechanic’s dream car! It is silver with a removable T Top. It has the 350 cubic inch V8 engine. This corvette is a 4 speed with a 3 speed overdrive. A classic 80’s muscle car. The outside of it is fine and the tires are okay. The clutch went out last week. I can have it towed with my Triple A membership anywhere you want if needed. It needs care and TLC. If you invested $2000 into this corvette you will have a really great car worth near $10,000, easy! It was smogged last month and I have a clean pink slip on it in my name and it has 2016 tags. Sold “As Is”. I am asking $1500 cash for it. Please, no flakes or B.S. emails. Please text or call Michael at 760 855-4098. Thank you.
