My Dad's C4 Quest

[JimS]

My dad is now looking for a Corvette to have as a dialy driver (commuter) for this comming summer. He's looking for an early C4, *AUTO*, with average miles. He's been checking out Corvettes for the past couple of days, and he's really getting into it. My concern with him is he gets sick of cars quickly. So I told him that if he sells it, I get first chance to buy it.

My question is, as a daily driver, what year C4 (84 to 90) would be a good fit for him? What are the things he should look for, and things he should look to avoid. Thanks for your relpies!

-JimS

He's going to check out a 85' and a 90' today. They are at http://www.corvettecollection.com

 

[Edmond]

There's so much difference between those years. From engine to cosmetics to wheel size... Like they went to the bigger wheel/tire size in 88 along with dyed carpet. Aluminum heads got introduced around that time.

I've heard some good things about Corvette Collection, maybe I can buy a car from them one day.

But there are quite a few private dealers out there. Has he considered a private dealer?

I think the pre-LT1 C4's are a great bang for the buck. Not the most powerful, but if you get the L98, you're getting plenty of torque for regular/daily driving.

PS. How'd you like that snow this morning Jim?

 

[JimS]

Edmond,

He's looking to a dealer because he's got a older BMW that he wants to trade to get the Corvette. I told him to ease into this and do some research, but he's got a limited amount of time before my stepmom changes her mind.

The snow wasn't too bad for me. I work in the loop, but I start at 10. I usually miss the traffic.

-JimS

 

[c4ever]

I'd say it will come down to $$$$$. I use my C4 as a daily driver but I will admit I paid top dollar ( you could get one for 5k less) but the cost was worth every penny. This car will run till the cows come home. All original and never been bastardized. I would suggest the most original well maintained car in your price range for a dependable daily driver. I believe the C4, especially the early years, to be one of the most dependable cars you can buy.

Good luck in the hunt

Carlo

 

[78SilvAnniv]

96CE

Were it me, I'd like the 96 Collector's Edition, but this is not about me.

However, I agree...buy the best maintained vette you can afford!
I'm sure that whatever vette your father purchases, he'll be happy with it so long as it runs dependably...that is why I also suggest the best maintained.

Good luck shopping.
Heidi

 

[Pasquale Carelli]

I have also been looking to buy a Corvette (my 1st one). When I was looking at C4's I think the 1985 is the best value. This model has good power and has a softer ride than a 1984 model. Your father should test drive as many cars as it takes to find the right one. Good luck.

Pasquale

 

[B17Crew]

JimS,

All 84-90’s are fine! Depends on what your dad is willing to part with cash wise. c4ever offered good advice, a C4 in tip-top condition will be worth the extra money, for sure. I wanted to point out the ‘86 model year because that was the first year anti-lock brakes were introduced on the C4, for a daily driver, it may something to think about. I had a yellow ‘86 and I loved it !

Happy Hunting
B17Crew

 

[JimS]

Thank you all for your replies.

I just talked to him and he's test driving a 89 w/75k RIGHT NOW.

He looked at a 90 there, but said the steering wheel had some play in it and it sounded like it was missing. They said there was a leak in the exhaust. Does that sound right?

He's going to call me back in a few, quick replies would be great!

-JimS

 

[JimS]

OK, I'm leaning towards the 90' for him. There is a leak in the exhaust that they are willing to fix. I told him to have them fix it and then take it for a ride. This car as 45k miles on it.

-JimS

 

[JimS]

He's buying the 90'. I'll try to have him on the CAC ASAP. He's very happy and they resolved the exhaust problem. He's a pic they had on their web site.

Thanks again for everyones help!

-JimS

 

[Utah]

Its a good looking car Jim. Do you mind me asking what he got it for??

Utah

 

[SPANISHVETTS]

Do you think he could find one in Red?

The 90 is a good choice. New dash, bullet proof L98. Tell mon to perm and dye the hair, its time to cruise.

 

[JimS]

He got it for 14k and some change, a bit on the high side, but it has low miles for a 90'. He said the guy who owned it before him had it for 7 years, and it's a 2 owner car. The interior is also in great shape. I think I'm more excited then he is. I'm going to go and check it out Thursday or Friday this week.

-JimS

 

[Bob 89]

JimS- I have a file with some corvette information I devleoped for my sister when she was looking at Vettes. Do you have MS Excel 95 or later?

I could send it to you if you want. Bob

 

[JimS]

That would be great Bob! Please send it to Jim_P_Sandusky@aon.com Thanks!

 

[c4ever]

Great lookin ride. I just love Redheads:cool

Best of luck with her

Carlo

 

[*89x2*]

Saw you mentioned steering wheel play - 90+ columns are over a grand to rebuild and if it has play...stay tuned
Sounds like a decent car otherwise

 

[JimS]

89x2,

Thanks for the info. He said it's not bad and you don't noice it while driving. He doesn't intend on fixing it. I think he found a good daily driver. I hope he keeps it for a while.

This is his second Corvette. He had a 74', but sold it when I was born in 77'. I wish he could have kept it. I would love to find that car now.

-JimS

 

[Bob 89]

Jim - You have mail. Good luck. Bob

 

[Daryllawman]

:bar Any year except the 84 in my opinion.....I would stay away from the Cross Fire Injection....After 84, they had the Tuned Port Injection.....alot better.... Happy Motoring....Stay Safe......Remember , Shiny Side Up and Not So Shiny Side Down......