Does LESS power equal LESS Corvette? - 1981 Chevrolet Corvette - Raiti's Rides

[@darktheist]

I see many people hating on these cars for the lack of horsepower, or because they are old, smelly, creaky, etc. I recently turned 30 years old and decided to purchase a fine 74 C3 as a present to myself. I've been dreaming of owning a stingray ever since I was very young. Speaking from experience, the one thing I never hear people talking about is the amount of attention these rides get, especially from women... To me, that is priceless.

[@RaitisRides]

I appreciate you sharing your input and perspective! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@MrGmilton]

Not to sound douche but I currently own an 81 and 71 vette, ford raptor porsche 997 and 73 450 sl Mercedes . I get the most compliments from my 81 vette , go figure?

[@daveb1081]

yeah, Ive got an 81 aswell, plenty of power lmao. bone stock

[@hondamancl450]

1973 corvette is also a slug bargain corvette

[@hondamancl450]

@@daveb1081 plenty of power who you kidding everything always to me in there dust your blind this car only had 190hp come on don't lie

[@hanscramon9040]

The Corvette c3 is a legendary piece of art on four wheels!!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right!

[@richardherron7670]

For sure

[@F35_JSF]

Agreed.! I guess I would probably say that about any year. Just a marvel of engineering and American nostalgia. If there is one car that screams USA....it is the Corvette, no matter what year. Love me some C3.

[@regenmeister9646]

This is a beautiful car, great colour, great interior, great engine, and fantastic styling - one of the best Corvette's ever - simply stunning.

[@larrydrozd2740]

I picked up an 80 corvette in 2018. My first one. I restore classic and antique cars for a living so I'm very familiar with C1, C2 and C3 corvettes. Our shop has Duntov'ed and top flighted quite a few of these cars. The BEST THING you can do to a C3, especially an 80-81, is install an overdrive transmission. They came with an 82, so the parts are there. A manual car converts to a 5 speed just as "easy". It is by far the best bang for the buck modification you can do to make the car a real driver. My car went from 3000 rpm at 72 mph to 3000rpm at 104 mph!! 80mph is 2400rpm. Oh....plus a 4L60/700R4 has a lower first gear....

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks fore sharing that great info Larry!

[@gcm9820]

Have a beautiful all stock, ceramic coated, 81 Silver, and it is by far one of the nicest Corvettes you will ever see, I park it right next to any newer Corvette and ppl go straight to mine, it is one of a kind.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally believe it!

[@hojo70]

I owned an 80 metallic brown with the L48. I loved that car, it was a blast to drive.

[@RaitisRides]

It was such a unique style!

[@MBailey1977]

Would love a L82 in that color with tan guts.

[@hondamancl450]

No power less corvette

[@believecross1597]

I am happy to say I have a 1981 Corvette I bought it a year 1/2 ago from the original owner with 48,000 miles it's a red on red it did not come with very much horsepower but drop a 383 stroker motor in with 400 HP make it out of a restomod as I did. From the outside it looks totally original until you open the hood it's a fun car and thank you for sharing your 1981 Corvette video I enjoyed it

[@RaitisRides]

That is one amazing find! I really appreciate you sharing that story with me. You are so right that now your Corvette has the perfect balance of performance and beauty! I really appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment!

[@JerrySlatton]

This Corvette is really special. I have always really liked the 1980 - 1982 Corvette as well. I would love to have one this nice and in this color. I think the early 80s Vette just has a really bold and sporty look. Its just absolute amazing. I am seriously wanting one now after seeing this video.

[@Champsterz]

new cars need more curves like this.

[@RaitisRides]

Chinaman Champ I know right! So many cars are losing style!

[@dannyspitzer1267]

Agree

[@RaitisRides]

Great minds think a like!

[@dannyspitzer1267]

@@RaitisRides haha, yes 😁😁

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man!

[@blaketindle4703]

Agree. I love every Corvette. The curvy C3 style is my favorite!

[@RaitisRides]

You have great taste Blake!

[@christianbeevers4937]

Love the 81, such a sexy corvette. I don’t care about how much power an engine has because America has so much emissions restrictions over the years. I appreciate every corvette as my favorite years are the C4, especially the C4 ZR-1 my all time favorite. Great video bud love the Vette.

[@RaitisRides]

I am right there with you! I love Corvettes of all years especially the C4 generation. You and I think a like because C4 Zr1s make my heart pitter patter!

[@gregpolski9819]

C4.....for me not so much . In fact they are the worst as far a styling (IMO). They are just rolling bricks. @@RaitisRides

[@davidadamsbigred1]

I put a 355/325 bph motor in mine perfect range and still safe enough my kids can drive it

[@F35_JSF]

Awesome video my friend. It is great to see car lovers showing off just how special even the oldies are. Love the comments here too. Great channel.

[@robgribble1]

Not all built in Bowling Green Kentucky. The first 300 Corvettes were built in Flint, Michigan in 1953. Production was moved the next year to St. Louis, Missouri and then finally ended up in 1981 at the Bowling Green Plant for production on June 1, 1981. Last St Louis built Corvette was July 31, 1981. Yes, not manufactured with any other GM model in any past or present Corvette plants.

[@RaitisRides]

Calgary Hemi thanks for the input.

[@phyerflizedd3024]

You are correct! Mine was made at the end of June 81, it was #631 w/4spd. ..

[@RaitisRides]

That is so amazing!

[@MAHARDWAY]

Well said . Been lookin' for one from Fischer Auto Body , St. Louis , Mo. for years ( at the right price ) last year for the 350 cid engine as well , or so I'm told .

[@rubyred93chev]

Calgary Hemi: all true but the last line. From 2004 to 2009 the Cadillac XLR was produced in Bowling Green, Kentucky right alongside with America's only genuine sports car, Chevy Corvette. (I know Corvette fans were mortified). But it was because former Chief Engineer for Corvette after Dave McCellan was a Cadillac guy. [Dave Hill]. Although the XLR was definitely a great car, GM purists across the Corvette spectrum were glad it only lasted 6 model years.

[@frankpavan3044]

Joe ,Everything you said in this review rings true to me as well. I own a 1996 and I love it but all corvettes and all years have a special place in my heart. Thanks.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Frank for letting me share my Corvette Passion with you!

[@jdrracer]

Classic corvettes are where it's at!

[@RaitisRides]

jdrracer they are all so amazing!

[@lorikayegiv]

Love this one, used to dream of having one as a kid. It’s crazy to look at all the gauges in there and compare it with the type of instrumentation of today. Great review joe

[@RaitisRides]

Lori Givens thanks as always for watching!

[@Knewners]

The 81 was built at both St. Louis and Bowling Green. The two toned ones came from the latter. (trivia)

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the info!

[@USCG.Brennan]

I have a gorgeous '82 and love it. I believe the '80 through '82 Vettes were the best looking of the C-3 bodies because of the newer wheel-well flares and front body spoiler.....not to forget the mirrored glass T-Tops. Mine is "Steel Blue Metallic", similar to the above. (Don't forget the "396" was a "big block" used in '65-'67 Corvettes, but not mentioned in your video above). I've owned 7 Corvettes over the years (1962-1984) and enjoyed them all. As we used to say "A Vette is a Vette" and all us kids growing up back in the day wanted a Corvette in our driveway someday!! ;-)

[@95hannah38]

私も日本でc3所有してます。キャブ最終＆軽量化された81大好きです。日系アメリカ人ラリーシノダがデザインにかかわっていたのも嬉しいです。

[@paulfasse8032]

Last year for St.Louis Missouri location. Only a few thousand were produced in Kentucky. 1981 was the only year in Corvette history where they were produced in both locations simultaneously.

[@thud9797]

Yup 31,611 at STL 8,995 at BG 😎

[@ffas23]

Been driving and owning at least one Corvette 3 months shy of 50 years. I still own 4 Vintage Corvettes that I believe are 4 of the greatest examples of great looking Corvettes that Chevrolet ever built all Coupes. I own a C2 1967, C3 1973, C5 1999 and C6 2006. It became my Dream Car ever since I saw the first 1963 Split Window Coupe shown to the world back in ‘63. I was 12 years old in Grammar school back then in the 6th grade. Purchased my first Corvette Vert. a 1967 a year out of High School in 1970. Have owned one just about every year since. No regrets at all. I have lived my American Dream.

[@jetsteeltherealdeal7827]

Nope a Corvette is still a Corvette at the end of the day,maybe not the fastest car on the road but a still a Corvette nonetheless,

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the input and perspective! I appreciate you watching Matthew!

[@abc33944]

I remember seeing this era corvettes for sale in the U.K. auto trader weekly magazine back in the early 90s They were around £10000 I was in absolute awe as a young teenager and as a result I’ve had a few Chevy g20 vans and a ram Love old American iron !!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Oh wow that is really cool!

[@chadwimberly5572]

Even though the horsepower sucked on the 80 to 82 Vettes, I still think these are beautiful bodies and would buy one in a heartbeat. Get it, the Heartbeat of America

[@doubleg2815]

First! Love gen 3 vettes. Always wanted one. That’s a beautiful color. Great review as always Joe

[@RaitisRides]

Double G #2 they are still a great value!

[@TripRodriguez]

I don't know if I can nitpick without coming across as an arse, but so much of what you said was off just a little bit! Still a great vibe to the video though. Honestly just constructive criticism, Jay Leno says things that make me facepalm all the time and I love the guy's attitude. This style was 80-82 rather than 81-82. Not all big blocks have a larger displacement than every small block. The 396 is a big block, and the 400 was a small block. What I would say is that all small block chevy's are the same size on the outside, but displacement varies. Big blocks are bigger on the outside to make more room for bigger displacement. The 400 small block was actually a lousy engine because with bores that big there was no space for water jackets between cylinders which lead to trouble. This is why "383 stroker" SBC's are so popular. You put the 400 SBC crank in a 350 block (with a bit of modification) and you get the biggest practical small block without the problems of the 400 SBC. T-Tops were in production at least all the way until 2002 in the F-bodies, Corvette was until 82 with T-tops. IIRC, the reason pop up headlights have gone away wasn't that they are inferior as headlights, I think it was decided that they were more likely to injure pedestrians who get bumped at low speed but don't quote me on that without checking it out. Don't know about that explanation of why the Corvette hood opens backward, everything on a C3 is harder to get to than anything with a front opening hood from the same era I've ever had to work on! On a personal note I agree with you 100% about the front end design being fantastic, second only to the chrome bumper C3's. Again, great content overall and sorry to nitpick... just a bit of OCD on my part!

[@phyerflizedd3024]

Additional info, these Corvettes are coming into there own now. At the Barrett-Jackson auction, they had the same color vette' w/ the 4spd, 40k original miles and original raised outlined tires. It sold for 30k!

[@RaitisRides]

I totally believe it! Their shape is very sexy and they are really starting to come on strong price wise!

[@electricaviationchannelvid7863]

That is because most of them are wrecked a few times...finding an original well preserved is a collector thing...

[@truebetold65]

Beautiful car..each year is a piece of art.

[@bubbaclinton1105]

I love my 1980 C3 4 sp, smooth and fun to drive.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for watching and sharing!

[@stevencole8880]

People tend to get hung up on the horsepower numbers, and that is really not how these years of Corvettes should be judged. All, good running Corvettes are fun to drive no matter the year. These cars are made for taking the tops out, and enjoying the sound of the engine while you cruise around listening to your favorite tunes.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate it!

[@Dingbobber]

Yeah seeing how you could get one for 10k and drop another 10k on an LS swap. All you could get for 20k is a POS used Charger

[@JR-ic4hl]

Beautiful car and color, but I think the 68 threw 72 with the chrome bumpers and the slight tail/spoiler is the best looking years. Like a work of art. Besides, the dash, gauges the seats, the door panels with the twist locks in 68 threw 77 blows 78 threw 82 away.

[@RaitisRides]

I like the way that you think!

[@stephenmitchell3569]

I just got a nice 78 Corvette with a 496 ci, full roll cage and it just looks right with a BBChevy engine. This will be my last hot rod with dual stage NOS. Just plain fun. Even if the gas is $10 a gallon. It's like perfume to us of the 12 to 1 compression generation! Gas, tires, and oil oh what fun. 66 yrs old with a 40 yr old car.... that's like new to me! Fix your ride your style and enjoy! Really miss GTO, Boss mustang, Cyclones with 426 wedge, 429 Torino's carrying families to church! Also AMC, Road runners, Charger RT with 440 ci. Don't miss the draft and funerals of our high school members. But it was a different time and people were nice!

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats on you new to you 1976 Corvette! WOOOOOW! She is a real street beast! I am so glad that you are going to enjoy her!

[@PatrickShubin]

0:37 Everything you said about the Corvette is everything I Love about this car, I really like the long front end also. C3's are the best, my favorites are the 1980 thru 82 because of the rear spoiler. Great video. I'm interested in the 82 collector edition . But this 81 is beautiful !

[@3.2Carrera]

Actually with the C3 you had the St Louis plant in opeation as well with the last one completed in the 1981 MY on 8/1/81. I agree that the 80-82 models finally got the front and rear clips right after the awkward mid year C3's with no spoilers (pace car excepted). The interesting thing is the sales of those late C3's got stronger as the years went on and the more hardcore C4 started off strong and got weaker.

[@davekulberg3215]

I have a 1981 White Corvette. Love it. 68,000 original miles. Good job explaining the Corvette history on this one.

[@davekulberg3215]

Mine has mirrored t-tops. Makes it extra special.

[@RaitisRides]

I appreciate that Dave! You have one heck of a cream puff.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@DeAnnaParisRN]

I have a white ‘81 as well. 4 speed manual. Love it.

[@LAMB53087]

Beautiful car. I agree 100%. Thanks for posting.

[@dobbo770]

A very good balanced review. Have a 1980 C3, love the style and driving set up. Have some new cams in it to give it a bit more go.

[@snappyaj9053]

Small vs big block is more about bore spacing than displacement. The greater bore spacing (basically length of the engine) allows for greater displacement, BUT there is a 400 cubic inch small block (largest iteration of the original 265 SBC) and a 348 cubic inch big block (little brother to the legendary 409) and also a 366 and 396 from Chevrolet, so 3 big blocks displace less than the largest small block.

[@mattarnold198]

The difference between a small block and big block isn't the engine size - it's the distance between the cylinders. You can have an over-bored small block that's got a larger engine capacity than a big block.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing that input and info! I appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@andrewcountis2531]

Corvettes until this model year were not made in Bowling Green but St. Louis. Split between the two locations in ‘81 depending on color.

[@thud9797]

The new Bowling Green assembly plant used the base coat/clear coat paint system and painted all the two-tone cars as well as solid colors. St Louis painted only solid colors and continued to use lacquer as they had done since day one. His comment that this car was assembled at Bowling Green may or may not be true but most 81's were built at St Louis, a quick check of the VIN for the 11th character would tell you, the letter S for St Louis or the number 5 for Bowling Green, damn ironic that Chevrolet picked rwo characters that at first glance look the same. 😀

[@LivingOnCash]

I had a pretty rare 4 speed '81. Bought it from a dealer in Ventura CA in in 1989 with 30K miles on it. It had to have come from out of state because all CA '81s were automatics. Even though I have a pretty nice C5 now I keep thinking I'd like another C3. The C5 does everything better than a C3 but I love the styling of the C3 and the more rough around the edges feel of them. I had a '70, '72, '73 and the '81. The '81 was loaded and had a much nicer interior but I do prefer the metal bumper cars. Metal bumper cars sell for about double of a rubber bumper car though so I may have to settle for a rubber car if I want to have one and keep the C5 too.

[@thud9797]

You could get the 4-speed in California in 1981, that year marked the return of the 4-speed after a 5 year absence. Part of the dropping of the L48 and the creation of the L81 engine with better emissions was to make this happen.

[@charleswilliams3979]

These vettes are nice ! the humps in the front fenders are gorgeous, the duck bill spoiler is awesome too! just needs a lil more HP, I think they were down to 200 hp in 81, sad.

[@RaitisRides]

You hit the nail on the head! It's crazy to think that this basic design was produced from 1967-1982.

[@jodymcclure1300]

I have a 1980 Corvette with a 383 stroker, 450hp with side pipes, it's a lot of fun

[@dirkpoward4382]

Charles Williams this where you put your own flavor to the beautiful sweet dish of your VETTE APPETITE.BEEF IT UP TIME.

[@davidadamsbigred1]

190

The value of the 1974-1982 C3 might stay the same but one thing is C3 will turn heads

[@bennyrobles9194]

The C3 is beautiful in it’s own way. It is special.!

[@rickschmukler9479]

Enjoying the oldies, Joe and Lori

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Rick! This is a really old one. We appreciate you!

[@petercarey6883]

Hi Joe. Still catching up on your older videos. Now THIS C3 really catches my eye! What a wonderful example of what it looked like new at the dealership. Who knows, maybe even better. The owner of this Vette should be super proud. Maybe as time permits, you might sneak in more Corvette reviews, if you can ever get that wandering Mustang eye of yours under control. LOL Save the Wave.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for watching my older videos! I know the sound is a little off because that was before I upgraded to different equipment! If I had my way I would do a review of every year Corvette! I think you are underestimating my love and admiration for America's true sports car! If I can get connected with a Chevrolet dealership I would be doing a lot more views on Corvettes! Thank you for all of your support and I will always support saving the wave! Now if I can just get back into a Corvette!

[@oldpirate7434]

Nice review, brings me back to 1981 when I was station in Homestead AFB and had a 81 Corvette L-48 in Mahogany Metallic paint and those same rims. It has Glass mirror T-Tops, Cloth Beige interior and a AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player and Tilt/Telescopic steering wheel. Use to race them Datsun 280ZX's in Miami.

[@RaitisRides]

Angelo Gonzalez thank you! It’s great hearing this awesome stories about our cars from the past. Thanks for watching!

[@oldpirate7434]

I was at Ferman looking at the RS and Stang GT's there. Seats were tight on the RS and great on the Stang.

[@RaitisRides]

Angelo Gonzalez were they Recaros in the Mustang? I know the Mustang’s optional Recaros are different then the Recaros in the RS. Is your ST a ST1?

[@oldpirate7434]

I didn't see any with Recaro's on the Mustang's, My St is a ST1 with 31K miles with all maintenance done to it by Ford, and I saw the 2018 RS which have the Recaros that were too tight for this old dude.

[@oldpirate7434]

I never seen a dealer so quiet with no one there. All the sales staff were sitting around and with no customers. Very strange to see.

[@richk.4020]

i love the 81s. nose clip is awesome! I too have an 81, i think they're the best looking year..

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@doubleg8999]

That’s a beautiful car. Love the t-tops on this one. Glad they got rid of the chrome bumper on the front, sleek

[@RaitisRides]

Double G I feel the same exact way!

[@JR-ic4hl]

What ever, 68 threw 72 with the chrome bumpers and the slight tail/spoiler is the best looking years. Like a work of art. Besides, the dash, gauges the seats, the door panels with the twist locks in 68 threw 77 blows 78 threw 82 away.

[@paulmcadam6825]

Only one c3 vette in Guyana. A couple of c4s, c5s and c6s no c7 yet. Great cars!

[@RaitisRides]

Wow that is insane! Thank you for sharing that and for watching!

[@Supermankev2001]

I love C3 Corvettes I own a 1975 Convertible. I have to agree with you the look of the 80,81,82 they look great with the front air dam Nice looking cars .

[@Ticona2]

A Corvette is a Corvette. They were all awesome. It depends on the generation as what you like. I own a C5, but that is wanted as a 16 year old me. I love it and would not trade it for a newer one.

[@michaelmancini5773]

That body is known as the Maco Shark design by General Motors as inspired by Marcus Dontov. The first year of the Neoprene front bumper was 1973, I had one, but it still maintained the back spoiler flip for one more year.

[@nikkylastephan1168]

I have a L 48 1976 c3 stingray, my grandfather let me drive it to high-school... now I'm restoring it... oh the joy!

[@RaitisRides]

Labor of love.

[@phyerflizedd3024]

I had the opportunity to attend The Barrett-Jackson auto auction at Mohegan Sun in CT. While looking around, walked into one of their shop displays with the Fords, Dodge, and Chevy's. The one display area I liked was of course the Chevy display. They had a new 2018 Corvette there with the 700 hp engine. One of the Corvette guys comes over and says "you want to sit in it"? I said hell yes! What a machine! , everything wraps around you. He was explaining all the options and how they are just about equal to some of the European cars. I said that I have an 81" stick at home with 35K original miles. I then said it's really to bad it only has a 190 horsepower. The chevy guy then said you have an 81" ? Yep, only 190 hp. He then said "no, it has 225hp!" I then said no, it's 190 according to all "the books." He then stated, "I work at the Bowling Green plant!, an 81" 350 cid, non Califorinia car has 225 hp"!. He then stated that in 1980 - 1982 Corvettes, they had to "write in that it was detuned low hp" because of EPA and emmision regulations and insurance regulations that were placing restrictions on policies for High Performance cars. He assured me twice it was 225. So, according to the "Bowling Green factory guy", the 1981's have 225hp! OR it's 190hp wink-wink, nod nod!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Very cool story thank you so much for sharing it with me! I love getting to know more about the people behind the cars.

[@bertdemeule4802]

Phyerfli Zedd @

[@midnightsun2483]

I have an 81 and it’s low mileage true survivor and she is a beautiful ol girl

[@JB91710]

How much car can you use legally on the road? It should look, sound and handle great. If it pushes you back in your set a little, that's great! I always thought 350-350-350 was all you need.

[@RaitisRides]

That is a very good point!

[@davidmessmer148]

you touched on it, but to say it concisely for Less than the price of an older muscle car, you can do some inexpensive mods and get an awful horsepower out of that car, If that's your only Concern... Great looking simple easy to work on and won't break the bank to purchase one in good shape!!!

[@TheSterlingArcher16]

Looking at ‘69 Vettes. The later neutered ones are still fairly cool.

[@FlipFlopandFly]

Awesome video!! I had a 1980 Vette I restored.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@subietech2019]

Man, this is beautiful. Just swap an newer LS motor to get about 400hp and you'll be good

[@lad63bird]

No need to ...1980 was last year for 4 bolt 350. rated to 500 hp! I just bought a white 1980 41 k mile car . $1000 for aluminum heads, roller cam aluminum intake headers and sidepipes and Hello to 375 hp. total costs if you do work $2300.00. These cars need to breathe and the most restrictive items were the smaller valve 1.94 heads and the catalytic going into a single y pipe at the rear. These vets with a solid lifter roller cam rumble and sidepipes to me were the best C3 made. I think they were the best style , as long as it was daylite and the frog eye headlites were closed

[@jonathanriolo2578]

Only because that cars in different era has there own great looks for many years

[@RaitisRides]

This is true!

[@grahamsmith2022]

There's no argument,it's a truly beautiful,classic shape.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you! The C3 generation was the longest running!

[@grahamsmith2022]

Raiti's Rides yes sir,it's among the best looking car designs of all time,the swoopy curves are absolutely stunning,so many great design cues,it really was so far advanced when it came out and the updates kept it fresh.✌👍

[@davidgappmayer1526]

I love my ‘82 C3. It turns far more heads than my ‘16 C7.

[@tbonec5channel588]

I love the corvettes so much that’s why I bought my 2003 Z06 corvette I didn’t care much about anything else I’m just like you even the corvettes didn’t have the power like other cars but I love it

[@RaitisRides]

That is really awesome! Thanks for letting me share this one with you!

[@CorvettesandCassicCars]

I always liked 1981 they really finished them off nicely.

[@jefflynch9559]

I have a 1980 Corvette, Original 4 speed car but not the original motor (not my fault). Lo lost power now with a custom ZZ4 Crate engine with 455 HP. This car is an absolute blast to drive.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so fantastic to hear!

[@95hannah38]

Corvette81 weight saving model ♪ Goodcar♪

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this Corvette.

[@jcj8840]

Last year and first year for being manufactured at two factories due to the changeover to the new modern plant from St. Louis to bowling green . In 81 you could usually spot a St. Louis car due to more body flaws

[@RaitisRides]

That is an excellent point!

[@jcj8840]

@@RaitisRides enjoyed the vid and it’s cool you’re still replying to comments 👍🏻.

[@pongespob]

Nice color. Disco-era smog motor Vettes are why God created crate motors. Throw in a ZZ4 and a beefed-up 700R4 auto trans and you've got a quick car that will get decent mileage. Need to get a stronger rear end too.

[@russelljdj]

The "Molded" front & rear began in 1980. Hello In 81 they were made in St. Louis & Bowling Green. Hello.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@tbonec5channel588]

The 2003 and 2004 Z06 corvettes are the best ever made because it’s future looks and very beautiful cars it’s nice to have 405 horsepower thank you

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share this one with you!

[@MrLinkiscute]

I used to not like the back window because it looks like a camaro. but I guess it's OK. Nice presentation, Thanks.

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment!

[@papolaboy]

I had a 1980 identical to this one. I would love to find and just like it

[@hondamancl450]

Believe me I had two only because I could afford them ,now that I am 57 I am buying c6 2008-2013 now that's a car with looks and get up an gooooo,the 1981 is a beautiful car but that's where it ends

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you David!

[@plk7592]

love the C-3 model corvette. however, in your video, you state that the new sports cars don't give us the info like the older sports cars did. This is not entirely true. On the newer cars, the info is from a on-board computer and is displayed in a digital readout, instead of a cluster of gauges, just need to scroll down the list to see what's going on with the vehicle. being an old-school type of guy, I do prefer the gauges, looks better, and the info is there, at a glance. towards the end of the C-3 models, the horsepower did drop to below 200, at one point.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective! I appreciate you watching!

[@dirkpoward4382]

Paul Knauf YOU MUST REALIZE THAT THESE NEW ONBOARD COMPUTERS RENDER FALSE READINGS.THE OLD ANALOG GAUGES WERE SOLELY INDIVIDUAL,NOT ALL WORKING OFF ONE CENTRAL BRAIN.I KNOW GUYS WITH NEW VETTES THAT CAN'T DRIVE THEIRS BECAUSE OF FALSE READINGS CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SHUT DOWN MINUTES AFTER START UP. ALL FLUIDS ARE CHECKED AND CORRECT,ALL OTHER ADJUSTMENTS IN TACT. BUT GAUGES ARE OUTRIGHT READING IN ERROR. ENGINES FAIL MOSTLY FROM ABUSE AND NEGLECT OF LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE. REMEMBER, COMPUTERS OFTEN FAIL US IN MUCH MORE WORSE WAYS WHEN IT COMES TO AUTOMOBILES.

[@fatboysgarage7984]

It's actually called a t-top because Targa was already trademarked. That's what they said at the Corvette Museum.

[@dannyspitzer1267]

Beautiful Vette, beautiful color...good video!

[@RaitisRides]

Danny Spitzer thank you so much for the compliments! This one really sparkles like a diamond!

[@dannyspitzer1267]

@@RaitisRides no problem, I'll check out some of your other content when I have time ✌

[@RaitisRides]

That would be wonderful!

[@dannyspitzer1267]

@@RaitisRides I had a few 1980 Vettes and would love to get an 80 or 81 model one day... I've been looking...love the looks but technologically they are a dinosaur....that wouldn't stop me from getting one though

[@RaitisRides]

You had some really cool cars!

[@1966human]

I'm with you bro, I don't know why they don't have oil pressure and battery gauges in cars any more

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for sharing your input and feedback!

[@thud9797]

Funny story on this and think it applies on all cars now. I've had a couple of Crown Vics and Interceptors and originally the oil pressure gage would move up and down slightly with engine rpm as it should. Not like a true mechanical gage but it was noticeable. Well many buyers including older folks and by not reading the owner's manual where this condition was described as normal would bring the car into the dealer saying the oil pressure was dropping so there is something wrong with my engine. So it was wasting dealer's time and costing Ford money so they modified the gage to where it was more like an idiot light, when you started the engine it went to the 2/3 mark and stayed put. Even on the temp gage they added some logic where it wouldn't move much lest more cars coming in for unnecessary service. I bought a new Silverado 20+ years ago and the tachometer on the diesel had a redline for max rpm under power and then a dashed red line in which operation was permitted while descending and for use in engine braking. All of this was clearly explained in the owner's manual, you know the book that nobody reads, but nevertheless owners were pouring into the dealers saying their engine was overrevving going down a hill and was going to blow. Perfectly normal operation it's just nobody read the manual. So Chevrolet eliminated the red lines but changed nothing else and now they were happy, unfortunately those that actually knew what was going were not and our trucks got dumbed down because of dummies not reading the manual. So I think that's it and the average buyer doesn't want to worry about all this so they will continue to make vehicles for the lowest common denominator and the rest of us will just have to deal with it.

[@margerymorris7827]

The 1981 Corvette was made in St. Louis. How do I know? I picked a silver and blue one up new at Kaiser Chevrolet that was very near to the Corvette factory. Kaiser Chevrolet had hundreds of new 1981's on its lot mostly going to be picked up by Military Members returning from Overseas.

[@thud9797]

A Silver/Blue two tone car would have been built at Bowling Green as they built all the two tone cars. The 11th character in the VIN would have been the number 5 for Bowling Green Assembly.

[@richardmorris7063]

They had that mako shark body style.i liked them to,cool wheels also.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you Richard!

[@azeemali7102]

beautiful color

[@rmerka1]

Gotta disagree with you on the bumpers, chrome is much nicer than the plastic bumper. Still a nice ride though 👍

[@MBailey1977]

The 68-72 chrome bumpers front and back are sexy as hell!

[@hydroplaneconvoy8130]

This one is to prowl in. I’d get an 80-82. Black. Tinted windows. Would be so fun. Bet chicks like it better than my C4

[@XxProRider]

Great job ..... Thanks

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much I really appreciate that!

[@gadsdonflag4289]

I've owned 6 or 7 C-3s over the last 30 years and I think the '81-'82s were the best looking because of the front end and the wide flared fenders. The mirrored T-Tops are the icing on the cake. And if you don't like the power plant.....pull it out and BEEF IT UP or drop in a Big Block!! Do people complain and not buy a '55 Chevy's because of the stock 265 engine or do they hop them up? It's a no brainer haters.....or is it just JEALOUSY that bugs you the most!! Any time I hear someone mouthing off about Corvettes I always ask them what THEY'RE driving and it always shuts them up!!

[@jeffwolf8018]

I've been told those 80 ones with the huge hump Wheels unless they have like a 454 in there or very slow due to the EPA regulations. Which I believe really put an end to the 454 for a short time

[@RaitisRides]

They are super slow! The final year was 82 and you couldn't even get a manual option!

[@jeffwolf8018]

@@RaitisRides how can I sell a Corvette without a manual transmission? Especially in older one makes no sense. I had 2 C5 convertibles one of them with over 500 horsepower that thing was insane. Now the new ones come out with more than that wow. But also come with all the plastic and crap that's involved with the computer electronic switch is bad means it's only good for about 6 years depending on the area in which you live

[@RaitisRides]

Very good points!

[@daveb1081]

@@RaitisRides ehh, I beg to differ, I've got an 81 and once you get into the rev range it really starts picking up!

[@1972mercurycougar]

C3, vettes, are visually amazing!! Fun to drive too!! Does not need to be fastest, It was lots of fun to drive.

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true Chris!

[@hondamancl450]

That's the only reason it will never bring big money 💰 190hp

[@marcoarreola9058]

I love the late 60s early 70s cars

[@bern1228]

Always loved that c3 style. The speedo is a laugh at a rocking 85-mph top limit. Different times for sure. One thing about the emblem I wanted to ask for awhile. There is the "fluer de li "on the red flag. Where did that come from? Keep up the good work!

[@traderdan85]

I think it came as a tribute to Louis Chevrolet that was from the French part of Switzerland

[@MarkGelderland]

It's a beauty

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this one.

[@pmgalvin]

1981 was the last year they built them in St. Louis, with this being the transition to Bowling Green happening that year. You can tell where it was built by looking at the VIN. St Louis built cars will have an S.

[@Teramydog]

Love the c3. I want one but the garage is full. 🥺

[@SingerAuto1967]

Not all corvettes were made in Kentucky back then. My 81 was actually St Louis. Midway through the 81 production all of them went to Kentucky. Mine is number 72 off the line in the 81 models.

[@thud9797]

They kept building at St Louis until July 81. 31,611 St Louis cars vs only 8,995 cars at BG.

[@Timeline916]

I have a 1983 corvette 4 door station wagon convertible, it’s very rare

[@thud9797]

Lol yes 1 of 0. 🤣

[@Gunbergdagreat]

I recently bought an 81, just turned 18 and decided to spoil myself with a new daily driver :p

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! What color did you get?

[@Gunbergdagreat]

Black, but the paints feeling off and bubbling up but I got it for a great deal since motor and trans are rebuilt

[@RaitisRides]

Cool! You have to start somewhere and you can do a little at a time!

[@daveb1081]

ayeee, I'm 17 and also have an 81, great car! mine was built in STL, also my home town, and it's red on red!

[@bertramkool]

My '80 vette is from St Louis (she sits in the netherlands now)

[@RaitisRides]

That is so very cool! Thank you for sharing!

[@daveb1081]

Same, I live in STL and that's where my car was built!!

[@michaeljones8582]

My favorite c3 I shoe horned a 454 LS6 450hp making 600hp w/Doug nash 5 spd & widebody

[@bricebabcock7156]

Small block vs big block is not the displacement. It’s the size of the block itself.

[@RaitisRides]

HUH?

[@stevenrich1819]

Oh contraire...in ‘81 Corvettes were made in both Bowling Green and St. Louis. All about power and performance? Wow, the ‘81 had a whole 190 hp Ratman.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the input and perspective!

[@phyerflizedd3024]

According to the Corvette engineers in Bowling green, the 1981 c3 has 225 hp. They said that due to emissions by the DEP regulations and changing insurance guidelines, they had to "modify" the information to satisfy all those concerned agencies and listed the 1981 vettes at 190hp......