1981 Good Investment??

[rollsman4]

I was told that the 81 vette will become a good investment car. I was going to buy a 1971/72 vette convertible and sell my 81. I want to be able to drive it and hopefully appreciate in value. I would appreciate any comments on my idea. Thanks, rollsman

 

[Yoda]

This is only my opinion

The 1981 has a few unique features, the most notable being the last of the naturally asperated engines (carb) and the LAST year EVER for the 4-speed transmission. It is in the middle of the three year design of the air damn and rear spoiler..

There are a few other options that our 1981's have that were a first, e.g. less glass in the side windows, built at 2 factory's, St. Louis & Bowling Green.. there are a few others, but you get my drift..

Is it going to be a collector car... only time will tell, my thoughts are if you buy a 1981 for collector value ... find a Bolwing Green 2-tone with a 4-speed or find the ONE and ONLY built Code 24 ~ 1981

I've found through the years that peoples tastes change, as does what becomes valuable... put into perspective you would probably get a better return on your money with consevative investing in the Stock Market

 

[81 Corvette]

its always an interesting question. Sure there are some unique things about 81's, but every year has some unique things. 82 was the first cross fire. 80 was the first with the new nose/butt. I don't think that makes either worth more then the either. I think you take the 80-82 as a group.

That being said, i believe they won't ever be worth as much as the chrome bumper sharks, but i do believe the prices will flatten out then begin to rise. Given them anouther 10-20 years for people to continue crashing and trashing them. Then one that is in good shape should be worth a decent amount.

All that being said, and i didn't really say much, i wouldn't buy a late shark as an investment. I'd buy it to drive, enjoy and mod. But i also know that my shark isn't going to see double digit losses (see 04), nor will it see double digit gains.

 

[mikejpss]

Can only speak for myself- but here's my free opinion:

Mine is paid for. Always wanted that year model (81). It is in prime shape after my restor, we drive it occasionally for fun. Had I invested the $13,500 in the market last year and sat on it, the market value would be worth thousands more $$ in 20 years. BUT, I wouldn't have my lil vette for those 20 years.
Sometimes money just ain't what it's cracked up to be.
Hope you enjoy yours as much as I have enjoyed mine already, and I still have 19 years to go .Nough said....

 

[garycr14]

If you are comparing a 70/71 vert vs an 81, hands down the 70/71 is a better investment. They are already worth a whole lot more, and they are 10 years older, which will only improve over the years, but you have to pay a lot more for the earlier shark in good condition. You will see the 81's jump in value in 2011, when they are exempt from smog regs in California, providing they don't change the smog laws, which they are always fighting to do, so that of course is a gamble. Just an opinion.

 

[rollsman4]

thanks for your feedback

 

[rollsman4]

thanks for your opinion

 

[rollsman4]

Thank you for your feedback

 

[Harv]

One thing I have learned about the value of American made vehicles.
Corvette cars and Harley Davidson motorcycles usually always hold their value (if not increase).

 

[glaso81]

good investment?

Just a thought- in 1982 all my vette buddies in the local corvette club said my 68 would NEVER be worth anything as the new one that was about to come out would be Sooo much better, and that it had so many problems being the first year run... Blah,blah,blah. I figured oh well I can't afford a new one and since the 68 "wasn't worth fixing up" I'd just buy a new 82 Trans Am. I can't remember when I saw one of those piecess of ****. Just remember if it looks cool and draws attention to us after 20 years now, It will just get better,go to a show or car get together and see how many kids and people who know nothing will like your 81 way better than a c5 or c4 and look back 5 years and see what the lowly 80-82 were worth compared to today, It may shock you to see what they have done. I also remember when the c2's were almost all worth less than $5000.00 and no one would touch them because they weren't sleek enough. So buy or keep your 81-Your day and mine will come.

 

[rollsman4]

I appreciate the positive encouragement. I am planning on keeping my 81.

Thanks and all the best, rollsman

 

[garycr14]

I was told that the 81 vette will become a good investment car. I was going to buy a 1971/72 vette convertible and sell my 81. I want to be able to drive it and hopefully appreciate in value. I would appreciate any comments on my idea. Thanks, rollsman

I'd say hedge your bet, and buy both! It's fun to own 2!

 

[like2drive]

except for the C4s, the 81 is the last year vette I would ever have thought about buying...slowest, computer, no rag top...but I got a good buy on mine and enjoy driving it. I hope to sell it in the near future and get a real vette like a '62 , 63, 64, 68 or 69. I like the C5s but not the ridiculous price nor the chassis. I like other sport cars as much, but the Vette is more sensible here in the States with the parts availability and market. like2drive

 

[3Quarters]

IMO the 81 is going to be a good investment... My 81 gets more looks than a lot of the earlier models... A car is worth what someone is willing to pay for it and no more... Most of the late 60's to 70's cars have been so hacked apart that I don't trust buying one... Just make sure you don't chuck the emissions stuff if you decide the Lowly L81 needs more power...