For Some Reason I Bought a Cheap Corvette as a Daily Driver & Here's What Happened!

[@ahhamartin]

Interesting. As a TVA field machinist, I drove my '87 (same as your's but an automatic with the saddle interior) all over Tennessee, North Carolina and Alabama. It had 427,000 on the od when it was totaled, and even then was driven onto the rollback. My mother called it "KITT" not just because of the resemblance but also because of the damage it survived on numerous occasions. One winter I drove it 300+ miles home with a shattered alternator brace; the alternator was just sitting on the engine. The whole drive I kept thinking about old war movies, with crippled B-17 bombers being nursed back to base by their anxious crews. It made it!

[@johnmancuso5863]

I have been a car dealer for 40 years, and in my humble opinion, 1985 to 1996 are among the best values and most dependable vehicles ever produced. Very well made, and ahead of the times as far as suspension, frame, and tire size.

[@cozyblackstar2374]

More then a Miata

[@michaelgorman4229]

I agree since I own a 1985 C4 Corvette bought it in spring of 2008 took care of mechanic parts put it new interior and 2010 I took the first road trip to Carlisle Fairgrounds for Corvette National and very good gas ⛽️ mileage it’s keeper always garage kelp now 108000 miles with still run and drive

[@sumofl]

@@cozyblackstar2374 I've owned a miata now for two years, now I'm looking at these instead of looking at a motor swap. That tell you enough?

[@mauser8515]

Lmao, Miata’s are dead freaking reliable. Non interference motors are very hard to kill.

[@JohnBowl14690]

Reliable and Corvette in the same sentence? My brother owned 3 of them and loved them. But he told my they are not for everyone because they aren't the most reliable. I like vettes, but I like NOT fixing them even more. I'll stick with Honda.

[@MarksKicksOnRoute66]

Kase the world needs more young people like you. Nice to see the appreciation of these classics. Your a great part of the TFL team!

[@Jangocat]

I know I'm getting old when someone refers to an 88 as a classic lol. You're obviously correct, I just never thought of these Corvettes as classics. My old man was a GM master mechanic when this gen was introduced in 84, they were like spaceships to us at the time. When they came out with the ZR1 dealerships couldn't even get one unless they had a ZR1 certified mechanic, which my old man was.

[@gd6349]

Mark I Couldn't Agree MORE!!!! This youngman is a One in a Million in his generation 👍👏👏 And Hes ,We Could use Alot More Like Him!!!

[@rodferguson3515]

@@Jangocat What's great about this young man Is that he Respects the Engineering and the Overall design and aesthetics of this car for the period in which it was made ( 1980's ) Instead of complaining about the car's technology "Shortcomings" He kept the car pretty much stock, didn't Frankenstein -ized the car into a rolling Halloween horror Show, and Maintain the original look and style of this C4 model .. as It should look . This Young guy knowledgeable and is a classic true car enthusiast. .. kudos to him!!!

[@Johnnysmithy24]

I don’t really know anything about cars, I want to learn, but I love how old cars look and sound. I’m thinking of getting this one as my first car

[@diogenescompres6829]

Hola un placer verle,soy un fiebru de los autos clásicos,he tenido varios, ahora tengo el C4 1985,todo una joya de autos,muy bueno sus video, desde rep.dominicana

[@pritylo9293]

This generation of corvette style wise is the best they’ve ever done for me, I absolutely LOVE 80s futuristic vision, the interior is the coolest I’ve ever seen in a car

[@CommonsenseMK]

It's the worst body style Corvette ever made. It's like a wedge of cheese on wheels. There are no body lines or style lines to it. Just a wedge. Terrible lazy engineering design. Even DeLorean looks much better than this.

[@ukestudio3002]

It is a beautiful design. Still turns heads and draws looks at the gas station.

[@cacaswag1724]

@@CommonsenseMKlooks like your the only one who thinks that

[@gordocarbo]

@@CommonsenseMK So why even watch it. Ever owned one?

[@jayanthkasarla]

​@@CommonsenseMK I disagree. I like the boxy look to it

[@TheUrbanAlien247]

Just scored an 88 Corvette automatic with 9,000 miles from an auction for $4900 in love 💕

[@lucagigante491]

wow that's impressive

[@gordocarbo]

Great deal if its in good shape Dont know the mileage on this guys C4 but unless its real low he overpaid.

[@donoven5562]

@@gordocarbocould be 10k Canadian dollar

[@daddydonut1165]

@@gordocarbo what would you say is a good price for it with like 100k miles. Im 16 and i found one on facebook marketplace for around 6 grand with 100k miles.

[@gordocarbo]

@@daddydonut1165 Thats not bad but for 6k it should be in pretty good shape not a beat up fixer. THose cars...a cheap fixer is the worst one to pick they can bankrupt you. Look for long term owners that took care of them. THey arent collector cars dont let any seller tell you that.

[@KevinJames-yg9eu]

You don't need to beat on the headlight to get it to go. There is a knob on the end of the motor to manually raise or lower it if it the motor dies. Since your motor obviously works, give it a little twist, and it will go. Just be careful that it doesn't bite you. Both of mine occasionally stick open, so I have to do this to get them to close.

[@robertschoolfield1869]

More likely a loose wire connection than a motor.

[@droppedsschevrolet956]

I sprayed w40 on my light motor to grease it alil and my car lights worked properly

[@paulfagan2964]

Great to see a young person driving a Corvette and on top of that , one with a manual transmission! I appreciate your respect for the classics. Nice looking ride! Congrats! Thanks for the content.

[@doctorfeinstone6524]

Corvettes are expensive. Only doctors and lawyers and retired old men can afford them. That's why it's rare to see a young person in one

[@austinnelson5529]

​@@doctorfeinstone6524 I had a C4 when I was young and I can tell you from firsthand experience, older people do not like seeing a young person in a Corvette

[@REXae86]

@@doctorfeinstone6524 vettes are pretty cheap. I bought mines a few months ago for a little over $8k

[@BigMexicanCookie]

@@doctorfeinstone6524you can get a corvette like this for like 5k

[@Ice-tz8jd]

@@BigMexicanCookiein shitty ass condition if you want a nice one your gonna spend at least 8500-10,000 dollars

[@edwardepps1513]

Whomever was the last owner truly took care of this Vette. 1988 was was the 35th anniversary for Corvette. This color combo is to die for. Your the first person to really explain the 4+3 transmission. For $10,000 you got a good deal with 47,000 miles for a 34 year old car. I had an '85 that was beat within an inch of its life. Like I said it's a great deal...

[@modus_operandi2508]

U really believe 47,ooo miles on a 34 yr. Old car ....yer delusional

[@oneslackr]

@@modus_operandi2508 : You didn't pay attention to the video did you? The odometer at the time this video was filmed reads 47,273.9 miles & it's an old mechanical odometer that can read 6 figures plus 1/10s. You can see it has not rolled over at 8:45 . Yes, 47K on a regular 34 yr. old car would be unusual but there are plenty of low mileage Vettes in the world & some with extra low mileage such as this car. They're weekend toys for most people & some barely get driven at all.

[@brinleynicholson4588]

@@oneslackr I agree. Its too nice inside to appear to be rolled back.

[@BlacksheepLSX]

@@modus_operandi2508 why not, my 92 Zr1 has 29,000 miles

[@whatta7793]

Agreed.

[@deadlybladesmith3093]

Great video!! Just a quick tip about C4s, make sure to shut the doors before shutting the hood. If the alignment is off it can crack the door and/or hood. 😬

[@velocity5918]

THANK YOU !! AND THAT ÌS WHY WE CALL THEM 'JUNK'

[@TheOzthewiz]

Also, don't keep that hood open for more than an hour. Those "landing lights" don't turn off automatically, UNTIL the battery dies!!

[@Timman57]

I daily drove an 89 for 5 years, winter too. Intake manifold gasket, headlight motor gears twice until I switched to the bronze gears, I did Bosch upgraded injectors after a few of the multechs failed. Also did a battery and alternator as well as tires. Everything else worked great and got great fuel mileage too!

[@grantman64]

That's a really cool C4! Love the black over red interior, the 80's starship Enterprise dash, and the super-slick body. And a stick! The C4 doesn't get the love it deserves. It was as big a departure from the C3 as the C7 was from the C6, and frankly the C4 set the stage for the modern front-engine Corvette.

[@flavioc5389]

How’s the handling of the C4?

[@rexgratteaux8655]

So true I loved these cars growing up , and they have the Ferrari Daytona look to them , TPI FEVER

[@havyn9999]

@@flavioc5389 i have an ‘84 C4 which comes with an extra stiff suspension and it handles like a dream!

[@josephblow6654]

@@flavioc5389 .93Gs on the skid pad. I used to scare the crap out of my friends while cornering in mine.

[@windycitywarrior71]

More like c8 was a big departure from c7 not c6 from c7. Got your generations off there.

[@richardnottelmann58]

Excellent smooth camera work. I don't think a lot of people know how hard it is to get in and out of a car that is sitting on the ground and keep a smooth camera. Very well done. 👏

[@samholdsworth420]

👉😎👈

[@khashayarrabbanian2747]

I have a Zhiyun Smooth 3 as my phone gimbal and it work wonders in these situations.

[@apj341]

Getting in and out of a car that is sitting on the ground minimizes the number of 50+ year olds using a Corvette as a daily driver. 💡

[@ChrisEbz]

@@apj341 😂😅

[@tedosmundson5620]

@@apj341 Its really not that hard if you hook your left foot under the door and rise up to get your center of gravity on the door sill. After 7 C4s and 68 years old I found it is still pretty easy to do. Do not use the steering wheel as a place to muscle yourself out of a C4. it will damage the mounting points that holds the column. Looking for a newer C6 if prices come back down to earth with the inflation spike of the last couple years. Otherwise it will be another ZR-1 like the last one that ran good for 17 years.

[@OrionRoen]

We need more Kase! He’s awesome and I love his chilled mode of presenting. Keep it up!

[@blaiserichard5716]

The second you opened the door and I saw your interior my jaw dropped… Absolute gorgeousness my guy 👌🏻

[@Ladco77]

The plastic headlight gears are a feature. They're designed to be the failure point should anything seize up in the system (ice, etc.). It's supposed to be the fuse to be an easily replaceable part that fails. I know at first glance it seems like cheapness making them out of plastic, but there was purpose behind that idea. I love that you view the gauge cluster as "old school charm" when it was the most futuristic "space-age" looking dashboard of it's day. It really does scream everything that was high tech in the 80's. I do love the C4. Everything they did was well done given the technology of the day. Sure, newer cars perform better, but for what they had to work with it was pushing the envelope of the day and it did so while keeping an eye on the styling as well. The clamshell hood and sculpted suspension pieces are still part of one of the most attractive engine bays of it's era.

[@KevinJames-yg9eu]

I don't know that I would say "everything" they did was well done given the technology of the day. It's like they put all of the money and effort into the suspension, steering, and gauge cluster, and a good portion of the rest of the car was an afterthought. It may have been done as well as feasible with marketing dictating design changes and timing and with the bean-counters dictating that everything be extra cheap.

[@TheOzthewiz]

Yeah, COST!

[@ILoveTinfoilHats]

If you're driving this car in a sheet of ice should should not be allowed to own this car

[@nickycarts]

Flip up headlights, retractable antennae, the digital instrument cluster, the center fuel tank cap, blade wheels, and plush bolstered seats are just some of the reasons I love the C4. Proud C5 owner but one day I'll get a C4 as well.

[@RICARDOALARCO]

I have a c4 for sale 😅 86000 miles 7000 dollars 💸

[@mb13972]

The retractable antennae apparently isn't working

[@christianjensen2831]

Also a proud c5 owner (2003), but last month was able to pull the trigger on a beautiful 1994 which the intention of doing some minor restoration and selling it for profit. Long story short, I'm begging the missus to let me keep both! I didn't think I would fall in love the with c4 as hard as I have! It's a joy to drive, and plush with those fun "retro" features!

[@robertbeck5101]

@@RICARDOALARCOif you are in Florida, we should talk

[@theronteagle]

That center gas cap will burn you if the drain holes ever get clogged

[@LS1LE]

You did good with that car. The aftermarket support is insane!!! The L98 is as reliable as it gets. Swap in a ZF 6speed and you are gold!

[@DWH300]

I enjoyed my 1989 vette I purchased new. The 245 horsepower L98 was underpowered for a sports car. I Never had any service issues during my 4 years of ownership. Wasn't my favorite Vette I've owned, but far from the worst

[@LS1LE]

@Milo Jones I think you mean LS1 buddy. And your wrong, coolant was routed through the throttle body, and just about everyone bypassed that.

[@BlackRam17]

The aftermarket support was great 20 years ago. Good luck finding a better intake for under $1k now, not to mention someone who will tune a chip.

[@BlackRam17]

@Milo Jones that’s easy to bypass and the C5 has the LS1, the LT1 died in the vette in ‘96.

[@JohannGambolputty22]

@@BlackRam17 Amen about the tuning. Once the LS1 came out everyone abandoned tuning for the LT cars.

[@oneqwickbird]

You're really under appreciating that L98. Dead nuts reliable and all the torque you need down low to make every day driving fun.

[@joshkrause2977]

Exactly, plus a few mods around 2k in parts and it’s a 400+hp engine.

[@panchosspeedshop8576]

@@joshkrause2977 What mods would those be?

[@joshkrause2977]

@@panchosspeedshop8576 cam not super wild the heads don’t flow for that, headers, Wieland stealth ram intake, tune, gasket matching etc. sbc parts are cheap. The intake alone adds about 60hp.

[@BlackRam17]

Then falls on its face after 4500 rpm

[@BlackRam17]

@@joshkrause2977 good luck finding an aftermarket intake under 1k plus having to find someone that can burn a chip. The 700R4 is also pretty weak

[@larylhuntington5398]

Dude, for a get around town car, your Vette is perfect. Nice looking, runs great and it's manual! I say you've got a great car. I bought my 79 to restore and just be a fun "summer daily driver." These cars are a lot of fun to drive. Keep up the great work. Love the video.

[@d.s7741]

I think you did a fine job of picking out a cool car. It reminds me when I was your age and bought a 1970 Roadrunner that had four and a quarter horse and hiway gears making it go over a buck fifty and able to idle down the hiway at 16 mpg. I'm glad you get to experience a slice of what's left of the big three, before we all go electric.

[@TheOzthewiz]

FYI, the Tesla is the BEST selling EV in the World at 77K units sold!

[@shmac96]

Those hoods especially on the C4 were just so sleek, smooth and elegant even. I can see Corvettes going up in price in the coming years. Great review man! Thanks!

[@TheOzthewiz]

These "C4s" will never ever go up in price!

[@TheOzthewiz]

Not the "C4". My "loaded" C4 in '86 had MSRP of $30K. I bought it with 4300 miles in late '86 for $26K. Sold it in late '87 for $19k. Doesn't sound like a 'Classic" that will appreciate MUCH (lol)!

[@shmac96]

@@TheOzthewiz DAMN! $30grand in '86! WOW! Im sorry for your loss :(

[@1stshepherd]

A well kept corvette never looks old. I love the black and red combination. Wow! A manual shift. Great video. Thanks for sharing ⚘️

[@peaceforlife.2896]

Super cool and appreciating man. I was about 12 years old when these cars came out in 88 and just remember one of my dad‘s friends driving up and showing him and I was most impressed with the sound system. It was playing Dire Straits money for nothing.

[@TheOzthewiz]

I agree! That "Delco-Bose" system with separate Equalized amplifiers at all 4 locations, had STUNNING sound, with CLEAN, DEEP bass! Wouldn't dream of replacing THAT system!

[@richardstoffel6585]

Imo, the C4 is the best Corvette year ❤❤ big hood, center fuel door, e-brake, I remember it just fit like a glove / fighter jet.

[@DG-sf9ei]

Smart kid. This was my dream car growing up in the 80s, tho back then I didn't know the engine was nothing out of the ordinary, thought they looked cool, and it still appears modern and sporty to this day.

[@coryernewein]

Nice car, but your footwear needs to be a bit more "dad-like"...perhaps a nice New Balance, or Saucony lmao

[@jamesbowman7841]

IDC what he's wearing I'd call him daddy either way 🥵

[@loogi_if]

@@jamesbowman7841 😐

[@bldontmatter5319]

@@jamesbowman7841 you're what's wrong with western society.

[@scootermann83]

Needs a corvette hat and jean shorts too haha

[@CurtisL8.3066]

Or some Hey Dudes

[@bradwilliams4921]

Looks like a nice purchase to me. I am a big fan of the later model C4. I really like that low, smooth V8 sound.

[@franzvanjulio5523]

Sweet car. It looks great. The wheels are to die for. Enjoy it and thanks for sharing it.

[@OsoBlanco17]

Very nice vette…especially for 10k! I had the same idea to get something fun but affordable to get around in that I can beat on. Found an 87 Formula for $2500. I whipped the 305 till it started to knock then I pulled it for a 350 crate motor with an L82 camshaft. Now running errands are never boring!

[@jimstephens9491]

I have a 1994 polo green which is fun to drive and gets my zest for speed and acceleration out of my system. Have had the 94 for 25 years and it is still worth $10,000. The car has cost me $1,000 a year to operate--insurance, normal maintenance, and a few repairs. It's been worth the cost. I'll keep it for many more years.

[@DuaneCaldwell]

Nice video guys! I'd love to see a follow up with Toby giving it the once over like he does with the clunkers in your comparison videos. Even if he doesn't find anything major like he usually does with Roman's buys, Toby is fun to see and hear in action.

[@banditone7896]

I have been looking at these lately because they are mostly undervalued. Sounds like you got a great deal here. If you can get something that makes you happy for under 10k, that is a win.

[@peterconnor4193]

I never used to like this model corvette but the last few years it's really grown on me , it looks great and I love that interior ❤️

[@Cocytus]

I had an old school Volvo with the same kind of Transmission. It had the Reverse in the upper left then the first 4 gears, and 5th Overdrive was a button you clicked into, however the Volvo would only allow Overdrive to be turned on when the car was in 4th Gear. Overdrive did not work in the first 3 Gears. So 13:16 when describing driving it like a 5 Speed is most likely the intended use of the Overdrive Button.

[@ScrawnyRonnie89]

I love these. Such a beautiful design. Mid-late 80s Gms are awesome. Can you imagine being a dealership in 86/87 seeing The Corvette, The Pontiac T/A, Pontiac Fiero, and The Buick GNX? Thats the perfect dream IMO!

[@gordocarbo]

Was a teenager during that time period, got to drive or ride in all of them. First cars since the early 70s that were fun to drive and had a lil pep

[@TheOzthewiz]

As for the Fiero, ONLY in GT form with the V6!

[@rubyred93chev]

_Absolutely great price for a 47,000 mile 1988 Chevy Corvette coupe. Plus you touched on some very decent points about the C4 Corvette. (For 1988: there were 4,282 manual cars produced out of 30,632 total production units). And you're 100 percent correct about the coolness of the dash(through the 1989 model year). I do think the ZF-6 speed that was introduced for the '89 model year is just a tad better for a manual car. The L98 is definitely a low end torque monster whereas the LT1(1992 through 1996 model years) has a more even torque curve and seems a little more robust, especially with a manual transmission car. Overall great video with some honest highlights about a car that is super easy to drive/enjoy/daily. etc._

[@RandyBarton]

Great video, perhaps one of the best driver reviews I've seen; filled with very practical, real life perspective. I personally have an 87. Thanks for sharing!

[@mikeholmes1313]

I had a 95 Convertible back in 2013 thru 2015 and drove it every day in spring and summer and LOVED it. I am more partial to the later C4 models because of this but I found all the downtalking people made about C4s to be unfounded. It is a great car! I miss it! I have a modified 1978 vette now which is faster, but I miss my C4. Bose sound system was great too!!!! Nice buy!

[@georgehgordy1690]

There was no one more than me that defended the C4 to anybody that talked crap about it even when it was sitting on jack stands in my driveway. And this wasn't a C4 that was ragged out it had 79,000 miles on it in one year I had already invested as much in the car as what I gave for the car which was $7,000. I'm not a balls to the wall every time I leave the driveway driver I'm almost 50 years old but the breakdowns and repairs rides home on a rollback just kept adding up I mean it was like they never friggin stopped that along with the accumulated maintenance hours were just unreal. It seemed like when I wasn't working I was working on the car and small details and preventative maintenance I love to do but three top of the line Opti Sparks in one year and no leaking water pump. Always an issue with the cooling system. Warped aluminum heads because of a fan controller from Summit Racing that cost me $300 dollars decided it wanted to take a permanent break about a month and a half or 2 months after purchasing it. fans that don't kick on till 230° is rough on that engine even if you have synthetic oil and coolant with a boiling point of 260°, it's still 230° before it gets any relief. I know there are ways to bypass that but you really shouldn't have to and when you do put a fan controller on it they last Maybe 2 months annd they are under warranty but you're the one that has to take it off and put it back on and I know the 230° is for emissions. I had to get rid of it because it was eating my bank account and my free time alive. I always wanted a C4 lt4 but you Couldn't run fast enough to give me one today. I am forever not a fan of that Corvette. And that's sad to say because one with 79,000 Mi really burnt me on them

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

@@georgehgordy1690 Sounds like you had a Summit racing problem not a Corvette problem.

[@georgehgordy1690]

@RanByMonkeys My friend that was just one of many things and And those were not summit problems those were Corvette the optitspark didn't get from summit.. GM doesn't make A dual mass fly wheell anymore And neither do aftermarket companies you've got to convert it to a standard clutch And fly wheel And the gear rattle you get from that is ungodly . I definitely had a Corvette problem And i dumped too much money into it That I knew I would never get out of it But that's not why I dumped the money into it I dumped the money into it because I wanted to fix it and keep it but it just made it impossible for me to do that . And I would have Expected that out of a Corvette with a 140 150000 miles on it But it was in the low 70000 mile category Which theoretically should give you a good base to work with But not in my case . 70000 miles being the category not the miles it had 79000 miles on it.. Which for a 1996 LT4 It's pretty low

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

@@georgehgordy1690 Everything starts going wrong with every car around 80,000 miles that isnt a new car haha no its not a "good base"

[@georgehgordy1690]

@@ranbymonkeys2384 then we'll just have to agree to disagree and I won't throw out the haha.. I can only speak for my personal experience with other cars and with that one I can't speak for yours

[@kylebolt1951]

Just picked up a 96 special edition with a lingenfelter 383. Cant wait to clean it up a bit. Fatty 315s on the back. Only down side its an auto, but John took care of that to and upgraded the whole trans,drive and rear end..little paint and it will be a head turner agian. Atm its a sleeper.. 450 hp 450tq primered up .. give yeah a smile from ear to ear..

[@johncahill3644]

I bought one of these (also in Black), an ’85 with the same Doug Nash transmission. I bought it used from a “friend" in 1990 with about 60,000 miles on it. Turns out it wouldn’t always start, there was an intermittent error that prevented the starter from being engaged and GM had absolutely no idea how to fix it. Then the clutch went out and I sold that puppy as fast as I could.

[@snowman2834]

I enjoyed listening to your insights, I have to say you're pretty spot on with it. I hope you enjoy many miles in it, and that was a good review, looking forward to many more.

[@imkwuzn]

Great choice Cole. I am the original owner of a ‘88 C4 Coupe. Mine is white with black interior and the factory chrome one year only ‘88 wheels. (Although I like the ‘90 turbines on yours also). Yours is loaded, like mine. Dual sport seats with multi adjustable air bladders and full power, auto climate control, Bose, etc. Contrary to some who have never owned one, it was my one and only daily driver for many years here in SoCal. I’ve literally hauled a Christmas tree home sticking out of the back hatch. Plenty of cargo capacity unlike most sports cars and awesome with the targa roof stored in the back. Mine has been absolutely rock solid and has 75k miles on it. It’s not driven as much these days as I also have a C5 convertible and a couple of SUV’s. But it still brings a smile to my face every time I get in it. And for the record, I was 25 when I bought it so contrary to popular opinion, not all Corvette owners are old geezers like I am now at 60! 😉Enjoy it and be well. PS. Ecklers, Mid America and Corvette Central are all excellent sources for parts and accessories. 👍🏻

[@gordocarbo]

My 88 convertible was also my daily here in hot socal. Never skipped a beat, cold ac and fun to drive. Life is too short to "blend in'

[@josefrobinson4843]

I think you made an awesome purchase! With the C8 being released recently, its bring all the attention back to almost all Corvettes and the C4 is the most forgotten and ignored vette of all. And its approaching 40 years of existence in an era where the same cars of that era aren't running anymore, with styling that would suggest only 20 years old. Styling that hasn't really changed until the C8. And since the C8's intro, C4 are climbing in price. The C4 and C8 are the revolutionary change of corvettes while the 5, 6 and 7's were more evolutions.

[@gordocarbo]

Maybe for a pristine 1 owner lo miler. C5s are dirt cheap and C6 now affordable I dont see someone paying more for an L98 car.

[@pete8255]

@@gordocarbo Not dirt cheap in Canada.

[@TheOzthewiz]

The "C8" is LIGHT years ahead of ANY other Corvette! Now if only Chevrolet could bring the price DOWN to the original 'promised' range of $60K! The streets would be FLOODED with C8s!

[@aerynlovell4754]

I prefer analog gauges, but the digital gauges and interior in that car are very interesting. As long as you like it and it's reliable, that's all that matters. I had a 1988 Chevy Cavalier Z24 as my daily driver for several years, and I really liked that car. I even drove the Z24 through a ditch to get on the main road when my shortcut home was blocked by road construction. You buy what you can afford, and sometimes the car will surprise you in a good way.

[@neonvoid]

9:26 the original bose speakers are fantastic. they are also special, the amp is built into them, its not as easy to replace as with other cars. if it works, and works well, you might just need a good audio source othen than tape and fm radio. i installed an FM modulator behind the radio (its 100% invisible) with bluetooth, so I can play spotify on the original radio without changing anything about the retro look, and it sounds fantastic on the original bose system. btw i bought a c4 for the same reasons, as a daily driver / beater, but i started to really like it and keeping it it mint condition. :) another fantastic unexpected feature is that despite its small size, its extreme comfortable, even if you are 6"3, you will fit in very well.

[@georgepelton5645]

Nice Vette! I would stick with the 4+3 transmission, and keep the car mostly stock or easily restorable to stock. That should be a better investment than swapping in a 6-speed, which I predict will hurt resale value down the road.

[@rlmach1]

I beleive that one should make a vehicle his or her own vehicle not necessarily save it for someone else. That being said I typically strike somewhere in the middle. Make personal changes that you enjoy and clean and preserve the original parts so that the next guy/gal can put them back if they desire.

[@Matt-xv2cp]

I had an '88, paid $4500 for it in 2000. Everything started falling apart not soon after; headlight motor, power window motors, digital gauge cluster, peeling clear coat, lots of little things. However, it drove great, no drive train issues, and was very fun. Interior is a bit janky, but passable. Ended up totaling it in a pretty bad accident, wasn't my fault, but insurance paid me $9500, so I actually mad out on the deal.

[@gooney0]

I own an early C3. You're absolutely right about them. They are more "classic" but they are less refined, have fewer features, and don't perform nearly as well. As time goes on, the weird features of old cars change from annoyances to entertainment. The 80's dash is hilarious. It's both futuristic, and backwards. Likewise with the passenger side bumper on the dash. C4's are now judged by NCRS and are collectable. You might think about keeping this car stock rather than upgrading it and regretting it later. If you want to go fast you probably shouldn't buy a car from the 80's! Have fun!

[@gordocarbo]

C4s in general are not and may never be collectible. ncrs doesnt change that They made zillions of these things. Now certain yrs/options will get more if they are nice but I dont see anyone wanting to pay big $ for low powered vettes. Sorta like the C3.

[@TheOzthewiz]

An '86 C4 (stock) with an automatic wouldn't even "break" 15sec "quarters"!

[@gordocarbo]

@@TheOzthewiz They did, depended on the gearing. Most ran mid 14s maybe a few tenths slower depending 85s could run 13.9

[@AccordionJoe1]

I owned a 1991 Corvette, midnight green metallic with saddle tan leather interior. Gorgeous car, handled great, lots of grunt. I sold it after one year because my wife and I both had trouble getting into and out of the car. The seats were actually several inches below the rocket panels.

[@w-dad4040]

Thus exact car reminds me of just after high school. My buddy's Dad let him take it out and we'd cruise all over the place. Kept giving us cooling problems and a million memories

[@blkferrari355]

That's a really cool car and well worth the money spent in my opinion. I love the way those look and have always wondered what would it be like to own and drive. Great video and awesome narration. I found the video to be entertaining and informative without any of the annoyance I typically suffer through from other car videos. Great job keep up the good work!

[@scottstephens8300]

Sweet ride! What a great find Kase, a steal imo! I thought those wheels were not stock, I had this exact car framed on my bedroom wall back in '88… know this car well…Awesome review!

[@MrKnutriis]

"Driving a pick-up truck from the back seat" is the funniest ever. Now I know why I don't need one of these.

[@gordocarbo]

They do ride stiff, its a low slung sports car, just the way they are. Many raved about them pulling a G or better on the skidpad but complained it didnt ride like a caddy.

[@TheOzthewiz]

The Corvette is the LARGEST '2-seater' "sports car". The 'late' Fiero with the V6 would be a LOT closer in concept to a TRUE Sports Car!

[@mikegray1171]

I have an 1989 black on black Corvette. I bought it 15 years ago, it's an automatic. It now has 240,000 miles on it. The engine has been rebuilt, it is not stock. I put a new interior in it. I painted it. It now only goes to car shows and wins. I think you made a good investment. If you want any advice let me know.

[@iinemesisii8964]

I got a gold 87 for $1800 in 2018 from a old guy who couldn't get in or out of it anymore. I love old Goldilocks as I call her. Drives so smooth

[@TheOzthewiz]

You ROBBED that poor old man. Shame on you!

[@williammodlin2621]

I don’t think you made a mistake at all. You’ll have a lot of fun with this car. I have a friend who (in the 80s) drove his Corvette year round here in Snow Hampshire. Wouldn’t recommend that though. I do have to say that all the rattles would drive me crazy. I guess you will always know that it’s a Chevy.

[@michaelbrown5980]

This was great! Definitely not a big mistake in my opinion. I think you found a cool old car to really enjoy and put some work into that will be satisfying to you. Thanks for sharing!

[@vincentspencer3699]

Good looking C4 at a nice price!! I would love to see a series with a tune up and restoring it back to factory condition with some upgrades too

[@lilibethdoherty295]

The L98 Motor is perfect for the Automatic , The low end Torque makes it a kick to drive. At higher Rpm there is no more Horsepower and makes the Manual Irrelevant.

[@TheOzthewiz]

Well, part of the 'charm' of having a MANUAL i s 'rowing through the gears' !

[@lilibethdoherty295]

@@TheOzthewiz I went back to a C3 Manual after getting Bored with the Automatic C4 and can do rolling burnouts into third gear when Dumping the Clutch pedal @ 5000 RPM long live the SBC and 4 Speed !

[@williamwhite9767]

In 1963 I bought a 59 Chevy Impala 2 door hardtop that had the 283 V8 230hp and a 3 speed manual with electric overdrive. The stock rear had 4.10 gears with the OD. Over 45 mph in any gear when I let up on the gas pedal, the OD would come in. I loved that car!

[@lokerola]

Price seems about right. New tires aren't going to be cheap - but such is the auto enthusiast lifestyle. Would like to see it with the engine mods and exhaust.

[@jfruser]

I recall reading about recap vette tires some years back.

[@C10sRule]

@@jfruser - Don’t do recaps!!! They will handle poorly and I would never put them on the front. I sold tires out of my shop for 39 years. For highway trucks, gravel trucks, farm heavy trucks 3 ton & up, sure!! Not for car tires or really even LT tires. I wouldn’t sell what I wouldn’t run myself, even when I was strapped for cash.

[@TheOzthewiz]

@@jfruser RECAPS? Are you kidding?

[@TheOzthewiz]

@@C10sRule Imaging the "warm" feeling of doing 150 on RECAPS! Death wish, ANYONE?

[@C10sRule]

@@TheOzthewiz - Go big or go home!! You only live once! Wait,,,,, why be in a hurry to be 6 ft under??? Haha. I wouldn’t be comfortable at highway speeds even. We had some recap car tires go through the shop. They would come in saying they thought they had a bad tire or alignment. Some had pieces of tread missing and other had the entire tread missing!! Auugghh. Try to sell them tires and the $20 per tire they saved (in 1985 or so) on the recaps was enough they would leave while still driving on the casing!! I offered to put their spare on for free for their safety as well as others, but they felt like we were ripping them off. I never could understand it. Our prices were about 5% less than the city due to lower overhead. We were on a busy intersection in a village paying rural tax rates and so on. We had a huge shop servicing the oil, logging, and mining industries within 80 miles or so. Truckers avoided buying in the city to give us the business just for the service, coffee & free chocolate chip cookies my wife baked! Hahaha. Those free cookies were darn profitable in the end!! Stay safe, Eh!

[@bobparker3215]

Good find and great overview Kase! Good to see you in front of the camera again. Price sounds about right for that spec having the manual. I used to want a C4 but I could never find a nice manual one so I got a Z28 instead. I always liked the later C4 "salad shooter" wheels better. I used my '88 Camaro as a summer daily for years; kept up the maintenance and it never left me stranded.

[@GrandCamino6]

Looks like you got a pretty nice example. The wheels modernize just a bit. I noticed that some 88’s had wheels that were a slightly different design from the 84-87 wheels. I never cared for them. The tires should be your top priority for safety although they do look pretty decent. I didn’t realize you had the ability to change everything to metric. That’s really cool for overseas buyers. Great review! 👍🏼 Ok ok who’s Apex Silver Evo VIII did you park next to?

[@kasevr]

That one belongs to our racing driver Paul Gerrard

[@Mike.Macmyazka]

@@kasevr I came to ask that same question initially but saw this response before adding it to my comment. Very nice. Both vehicles. Good luck on your updates and maintenance and I hope it is a great vehicle for you. Please share updates from time to time with it.

[@wwd4534]

The wheels on this car are factory standard base model only in ' 88

[@GrandCamino6]

@@wwd4534 These wheels mounted on his car are 92-96 wheels. 91 wheels were the same too but the finish was different. I know which 88 wheels you’re talking about. I don’t care for the style but these aren’t them.

[@GrandCamino6]

@@wwd4534 Wow I didn’t actually realize that the base model wheels you mentioned are actually 16” wheels instead of 17’s. The ride is probably a little smoother with the extra sidewall. Maybe they’re not so bad after all lol

[@fattwin3802]

Great video, love the colors. I'm a C4 owner as well with a completely stock 87 Convertible with the Z51 suspension package and 37K miles, it drives like a dream. If you ever have to change the fuel pump you'll love how easy it is :)

[@zackkorth2410]

i have an 87 trans am with that engine and they did not get much from those V8 engines, lazy is a great way to describe it. it isn't slow like you say but it's not an efficient use of potential either. it was probably a bit different in the 80's though, compared to buicks or ford tempos or whatever people with families were driving.

[@palebeachbum]

I'm amazed at how clean it is. This had to be someone's weekend toy. $10k seems fair for such a nice old car. That transmission is so odd. Based on your description of how it operates, it sounds like it's basically two different driving modes. Your regular gears 1-4 and your Overdrive 1-4. So shifting through the overdrive gear set is essentially like driving the car in Eco mode, like many modern cars have where they keep engine revs lower.

[@bldontmatter5319]

Look up "old truck 3 speed on the tree with overdrive unit" This kinda overdrive "gear splitter" unit was much more common on very old trucks to make them effective 6 speeds

[@johnross6314]

Actually, I own Z51 coupe with the 4+3. Very cool combo. I can push a button to engage OD at any forward gear except first gear. J Zoe’s for a cool set of gear options for every situation. Plus OD can be set to auto downshift like the old ATs kick down based on throttle position. There are other settings too. My motor is always tuned. It will get real life 30+ mpg on highway at 75-80 on level and rolling hills. Even for today, that is crazy efficient. The classis is solid as block of hard forged metal. Sure the inside has some plastic on plastic squeaks over rough roads. The Z51 overall rides well for the cars intended use. One of these days, it needs to have the original motor pickled, and put a modern 427 small block ZO6 motor that is tweaked. The C4 is so light +smaller compared to C5 and above. Would be a real screamer in the straights. In the corners, Z51 is as better IMO than a C7. The 4 speed and OD could easily handle the extra power. They were way over built for the stock motor. The digital gauges, once used to them, are very good. Not some goofy Tokyo by night set up.

[@blueridge8992]

After seeing this car and the SN95 Mustang GT they bought, I’m convinced that I need to start shopping for my project cars in Colorado. Both of those cars were incredible examples for great prices.

[@barco581]

Even the chief Corvette engineer called the L98 motor a "tractor motor." Things really changed in '92 with the LT1. Go back and read the auto press from when the C4 was introduced in 1984. It was one of the six fastest production cars in the world back then-even with the carry over L83 Crossfire motor for that one year.

[@schrodingersmechanic7622]

My first vette was a 92 that I bought in 2003. I test drove an 88 convertible. The difference between the L88 and the LT1 was night and day.

[@rapid13]

I’ve read _Corvette from the Inside_ a couple of times, I don’t recall McLellan saying anything like that?

[@TheOzthewiz]

That is why I DON'T miss the '80s. When 'performance' DIED!

[@davidhillbrand2302]

Looks really nice for a 34 year old car! Inexpensive V8 Fun!

[@codygarner7495]

I'm 20 and bought my first Corvette, 1990 6spd L98. I bought it the same reason you bought yours for $12k two months ago I LOVE IT! Originally I didn't think much of the C4s and was looking at the C3s and planned on swapping the transmission with a 5sp overdrive. I've probably put in $400 into lots of little repairs and LED replacements, and $700 "new" targa top. I've been cleaning up old sensors reusing everything I can, the car is basically stock I dread the day if I ever have to sell it

[@codygarner7495]

I have always loved Corvettes, it is THE American sports car. My family had gone to the museum in Bowling Green years before the sink hole. After I graduated I drove through there going to Michigan from Florida after a trip, and I realized how much I love the cars, and swore I was going to get one. 2 years later I got one!! 😃

[@WhattheHusker]

What a cute dude. It's always fun watching people get it the first car they absolutely love. Mine was an '88 Bonneville SSE.

[@TheOzthewiz]

When I got old enough to get a DL (15 in Minnesota), it didn't matter if I loved the car as long as I had "wheels", it was 'groovy"!

[@cmdrdarwin3682]

Nice! I would skip that overly complicated manual transmission, but that’s probably why it gets such great highway mpg. That’s a great low mileage find for $10k!

[@dpfitforlife81]

That is awesome! I am currently looking to buy a Corvette and would love to own a C4 but currently have some financial issues that need to be worked out. For me I am looking more toward the 1991 to 1996. I prefer the newer dash and styling of those years. If I get a manual I want it to be the 6 speed.

[@thomasfolson5869]

Fantastic buy, low miles, sharp...smart young man!

[@motorgearhead]

purchased a 1998 C5 in 2005. I was sad that the front clip didn't fold forward to expose the motor... The car was a blast. RPM transmission and 3.42 diff, vortec V3si. 9 lbs boost. 470 wheel HP & 442 ft/lbs through a 4 speed auto wasn't bad. I have a stock 0-100 & and a blown 0-60 Run that was under 4 seconds. I now have a C6Z. Loved the C5 and I think its the easier to maintain of the two. A&A makes an excellent supercharger mount. Very good belt wrap & belt longevity. The 470 WHP was a basically stock LS1. Borla Cat back, no headers. My Z06 is faster but I loved the C5.

[@GeorgeShoner]

Having owned 2 C4s over the years, one tip I can give you is for that roof panel tool. Get a cheap power screwdriver and adapt the bit to it. Way better than that cheap ratchet thing...

[@TheOzthewiz]

What I did in '86 ( cordless driver were rare), was to put a "rubber donut" on the torx bit so you could spin the bit by hand to seat the bolt and then tighten it with ratchet. Much quicker, especially with an approaching thunder shower!!

[@karlismierins2908]

Always loved the C4 corvettes. Never liked the C3's at all. Glad the C4's are still so affordable. The digital dash is one of its best features.

[@TheOzthewiz]

The C3s have that SEXY body with the 'curves". C4s look like something 'stamped' out by CNC robots! Like 'Tonka Toys"!

[@lunabouch]

For the price it looks like a smart choice for your needs. New tires should be a priority.

[@TheOzthewiz]

Don't forget about a minor problem........................coming up with $2000!

[@randyrush9856]

Without a closer inspection, I would guess you headlight trouble was the result of a poor ground wire or the hot wire connection wasn't solid. Anyway, that would be my first inspection before going any further. The car looks great for the price, and congrats on ownership of an instant classic. And great find on a less common, very collectable 4+3. 👌

[@TheOzthewiz]

The C4 will not be an 'instant classic". Chevrolet built TOO many of them. In '86, I bought an '86 late in the fall (before the snow). When I hit the "main drag", I could see myself coming and going, streets were flooded with 'Vettes. The dealers were having "fire sales" to get rid of them!!!

[@oldridersteve217]

It may be a desired car later because of that transmission. I'm not a C4 fanatic but I know Chevy's well and I've seen only one other with that tranny in 30yrs. The dash clusters are problematic as many know, but good condition car

[@SMTraz]

LOVE THIS VIDEO - 1987 Vette was my first car. So great to see you get the C4s love and attention.

[@RegsChannel]

Great job Kase! For 10k I would have been looking for a 4th gen Fbody personally as the LS1 is hard to turn down, and the "modern" conveniences are nice, but at the end of the day it's still a Vette! I'd be glad to volunteer my Trans am for a shootout if you are ever interested!

[@panchosspeedshop8576]

I was cross shopping C4s and 4th gens. After driving a few, I settled for a nice LT4 96 C4 for less than the average nice 4th gen. Ive had two 4th gens before and the C4 is much more fun to drive.

[@Lambykin]

Depends on the year - early 4th generation Camaros and Firebirds used the LT1. Later models (believe 1998 and newer) used the LS engine. My '95 Firebird has the LT1 engine, producing more power than the engine in the '88 Corvette. It's not the same engine as the Corvette - there are differences that can be found easily by searching, but the basics are the same. To compare fairly, you need to look at same model year Corvette to same model year Camaro/Firebird. The Corvette had different tuning & hardware that always allowed it to produce more power. There's no denying the capability and utility of the LS series engines. However, you can't go wrong with an LT1, either. Modern conveniences? You'd have to define what that is to you - I know of many, myself included, that are simply happy with the modern convenience of power windows, A/C, power brakes, and a working radio. I don't need cup holders, touch screens, or bluetooth in a vehicle.

[@samthecat8829]

Beautiful car, I've always loved Corvettes and the C4 was a huge leap forward in technology. Also the platform for the 250+ mph Callaway Twin Turbo Sledgehammer. Clamshell hood is an awesome feature, sadly not found on later cars. The black on red looks sharp too. I love GM, have had a V8 91 Firebird for 20 years now, still going strong. Well done video, and great deal on that very clean Vette. Still a head turner, and a great sports car.

[@originalscottfree]

Wow, a kid that can drive a stick?!?!?!? That is less common than those old C4s with manual transmissions. I'm glad to see the younger crowd digging on the old C4s, I went through that phase a while ago and while I can't say I miss it I can say I had a lot of fun in mine. Just remember to collect the screws on the floor board that will accumulate while driving, you will need them to fasten the bottom of the dash board when you pull over; BLUE loc-tite helps with this. ;) Also order some bulbs for that cluster, you will need them soon OR you can do an LED swap...Lastly don't try to pull on just about anything, those L98s are pigs, absolute trash so save yourself some embarrassment. Just a heads up.... Enjoy your new whip! :)

[@greggguajardo2522]

Truly enjoyed the video and in 1000% agreement! I just purchased a 92C4 an I'm having a blast with it! My 74 was a blast as well!!

[@Dr_Reason]

The intake manifold is tuned for lower rpm and if you change head and cam, you need to change the intake to match it or you will be disappointed.

[@MrBillsfishin]

Think you did ok. A few simple mods to the engine to add a few hp and it will be a good fun daily.

[@harlandurant7014]

That's a good price for a manual hardtop

[@jeffspicolli593]

WOW your interior is in wonderful shape. The seat cushion bases are interchangeable to even out wear. Never have your doors open at the same time as the hood because if you don't close the doors before you close the hood you can scrape the leading edge of the doors.. The direction of the wheel "vanes" are designed to extract heat from the brakes.

[@ButterfatFarms]

Too bad it's porno red. Feel like I'm on the set of a bad porn flick.

[@bigkev10101]

Beautiful 1988 C4. I had one as a daily from 1988 to 1993. I kept it for 12 years and it was a great car. My son and I just bought an 88 for a daily for him. He just graduated from VT.

[@arewefree]

I bought an 85 with 31,000 miles on it last fall. Just bringing it out now for a spin. The only issue is the horn. Doesn't toot, lol. Having it looked at this week and hopefully not to bad a fix. Car runs like brand new, love it. Mine's an automatic but does chirp the tires going into 2nd. lol. Has lots of power, takes seconds to get up to speed.

[@JohnPitts-x2h]

Great video,I have a 1993 C4. 24 thousand miles on it. I love to drive it. A very cool car to drive.👍

[@BodybuilderLyfe]

I just bought a c4 Corvette with the 4+3 for 2000 and it is very powerful and sounds awesome with true duals and stock mufflers. It's a car I'll keep for a lifetime.

[@Chrissurfs]

First time I hear someone mention the importance of how the car looks when you walk towards it. Subscribed. Love the car. Most people probably drove it exactly that way and the fifth gear was introduced. I prefer seating behind the engine than in front but that's just what I'm used to.

[@retrobear9367]

I actually found my 03 c5 in 2021 for 12k at a dealer. She was in decent shape. She needed lots or minor fixes and upgrades. I love love LOVE my c5

[@kevo11171987]

mann, i've been trying to sell my 1994 Polo with no issues close to this price for a while now and having a hard time.

[@brockobama257]

im getting into cars and i love this video. no cuts, just good audio and speaking to the camera.

[@TomC2100]

I really appreciated this video. I've owned a C1 (when it was 15 years old), a C2 since 1975, a C5 since 2004, and a C6 since July. Never a C3 or C4. An update of your experience would be great.

[@peterflodin5844]

Yooo Boulder Colorado in the backround with the flatirons. Guessing thats Fairview highschool.

[@martymiller2228]

Good man 👍 well done and yes with those low miles, you did excellent 👏

[@Skysmeller1]

I had an 87, that L98 engine is fantastic and has great low end torque. Because the door windows are frameless take a look at all the rubber seals that contact the window. A good way to check is to hose the car.