1980 Corvette

Heavy, fuel-consuming vehicles were becoming obsolete due to the newly introduced Corporate Average Fuel Economy regulations. As a result, the 1980 Corvette had to undergo significant weight reduction to remain viable.

Initial modifications for the 1980 model reduced the car's weight by approximately 250 pounds. Key changes included replacing the steel differential housing and front-frame crossmember with aluminum and incorporating more plastic components. The aluminum intake manifold, previously exclusive to the L82 engine, was now also used in the base L48 engine, which saw a slight drop to 190 bhp at 4,400 rpm and 280 lbs/ft torque at 2,400 rpm due to emissions adjustments. Meanwhile, the L82 engine gained an additional five horsepower, reaching a total of 230.

Due to California's tightening emissions regulations, buyers in the state were limited to a 305 small-block engine with 180 bhp, available exclusively with an automatic transmission.

To enhance fuel efficiency, the previously optional front and rear spoilers were redesigned and integrated into the bodywork, and the grille was slightly angled back. These changes reduced the drag coefficient (Cd) from 0.503 to 0.443, marking a notable improvement. Exterior chrome was minimized, resulting in the removal of the crossed-flags emblems from the front fenders.

Additional updates for the 1980 Corvette included standard air conditioning, a tilt/telescope steering wheel, repositioned power door lock buttons, and a speedometer capped at 85 mph due to government regulations. The two storage compartments behind the seats were merged, though the battery remained in its dedicated space behind the driver.

The weight reduction efforts were timely, as another fuel crisis hit the U.S. in early 1979. This time, the crisis was less about OPEC and more tied to the fall of the Shah of Iran. The impact, however, mirrored previous energy shortages: dwindling fuel supplies and skyrocketing prices, which sent both the automotive industry and the national economy into a downward spiral.

Despite uncertainties about its future, the Corvette remained popular. Although sales dropped by about 20% compared to 1979, the 1980 model still achieved a respectable 40,614 units sold. This was impressive for a high-performance, fuel-intensive car that had grown increasingly costly, with a base price of $13,140.24 before options, pushing the limits of its target audience's budget.

As with previous models in the Shark generation, reviews of the 1980 Corvette were divided. Its 0-60 mph acceleration remained a standout feature, with the L82 model achieving times between 7.1 and 7.7 seconds. Critics, however, questioned some of Chevrolet's weight-saving strategies, particularly the lighter rear axle, and the heightened focus on fuel economy. Issues with build quality and finishing were also noted.

Explore other Corvette models from this generation:

Interested in learning more about Corvettes and other vehicles? Check out:

• Muscle Cars: Discover details on over 100 powerful and iconic vehicles.

1980 Corvette Specifications

The 1980 Corvette lost 150 pounds and featured redesigned, fully integrated spoilers on both the front and rear. The interior and emblems also received updates. Below are the detailed specifications for the 1980 Corvette:

Technical Specifications (2-door coupe)

Suspensionfront: Independent setup with upper and lower A-arms, coil springs, tubular hydraulic shock absorbers, and an antiroll barrear: Independent system featuring lateral leaf springs, struts, U-joint halfshafts, trailing arms, and tubular hydraulic shock absorbers

Wheels/TiresP225/70R-15

Brakesfront: 11.75-inch disc brakesrear: 11.75-inch disc brakes

Transmission3-speed Hydra-Matic automatic4-speed manual

Standard axle ratio5:1 (automatic) 3.07:1 (manual)

Engine Specifications

Production Numbers and Base Pricing

Available Options and Production Details

Available Colors and Production Statistics

Explore other Corvette models from this generation:

Want to know more about Corvettes and other vehicles? Check out:

• Muscle Cars: Discover details on over 100 powerful and iconic vehicles.