1985 Chevrolet Corvette Z51 for Sale: 9K Miles, Z51 Package, & Manual — Vintage Performance for Under $11K

Rare 1985 Chevrolet Corvette Z51 with 9,000 Miles for Sale: Vintage Performance at a Used Civic Price

A meticulously maintained 1985 Chevrolet Corvette Z51 with just 9,000 miles is currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, offering “cheap thrills” and an “affordable Corvette dream” for enthusiasts. This C4 Corvette, finished in GM Bright Red 81, boasts an accident-free CarFax and the desirable Z51 Performance Handling package, which includes heavy-duty suspension with Bilstein dampers and enhanced cooling. Despite its vintage, the car features extensive recent maintenance, including a water pump and overdrive unit replacement, transmission repair, and a modern R134a A/C conversion. With its 230 hp LS9 V8, Doug Nash “4+3” manual transmission, and a current bid of $10,606, this Z51 presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of ’80s sports car history without breaking the bank.

A Rare Find: Low-Mileage Vintage Corvette

This 1985 Corvette Z51 offers a unique opportunity to own a classic sports car with exceptionally low mileage.

• Low Mileage: The car has only circa 9,000 miles on the odometer.
• Auction Platform: Listed for sale on Bring a Trailer.
• Documentation: The sale includes the owner’s manual, service records, the original window sticker, and a clean Michigan title.
• Price Point: Described as “a lot of car for not a lot of money,” potentially offering “Vintage Corvette for the Price of a Used Civic.”

Meticulous Maintenance and Desirable Features

Despite being a vintage model, this Corvette has been well-cared for and comes with appealing performance enhancements.

• Extensive Maintenance: The current owner, who acquired the car in 2015, invested significantly in upkeep:
  • 2016: Water pump and overdrive unit replaced, transmission leak repaired.
  • 2022: Freon-based A/C system converted to use R134a refrigerant, brake flush performed, and master cylinder switch issue addressed.
• Accident-Free: The CarFax report shows no accidents.
• Appearance: The C4 coupe is finished in GM Bright Red 81 and appears to be in good shape.
• Performance Package: Equipped with the Z51 Performance Handling package, which adds:
  • Upgraded radiator
  • Auxiliary cooling fan
  • Engine oil cooler
  • Heavy-duty suspension with Bilstein dampers
• Other Features: Turbine-style alloy wheels and a removable painted roof panel.

Interior Comfort and Driving Dynamics

The cabin offers period-correct features, while the powertrain promises an engaging driving experience.

• Interior Accoutrements: Includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a Delco-Bose sound system, an AM/FM/cassette stereo, cruise control, and an onboard computer.
• Engine: Powered by an LS9 V8 engine, producing 230 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. While “a bit lacking by modern standards,” it’s described as “still a whole lot of fun.”
• Transmission: Features a Doug Nash “4+3” four-speed manual transmission for an engaging “rowing your own gears” experience.
• Drivetrain: A limited-slip rear end allows for controlled power slides.
• “Cheap Thrills”: Positioned as a top choice for “cheap thrills” in the sports car segment.

Auction Status

The auction for this desirable Corvette is ongoing and attracting attention.

• Current Bid: The current bid stands at $10,606.
• Auction End: The auction is set to end in five days.
• Bidding Activity: Bidding is “already heating up,” indicating strong interest.

Final Thoughts

This 1985 Chevrolet Corvette Z51 offers a compelling proposition for anyone seeking a genuine piece of American sports car history without the typical vintage car headaches or prohibitive costs. With its incredibly low mileage, a clean accident record, the highly sought-after Z51 Performance Handling package, and significant recent maintenance, it’s presented in remarkably good condition. The combination of a potent V8, a engaging “4+3” manual transmission, and a sub-$11,000 current bid makes it an outstanding “cheap thrill” and a truly accessible way to experience the raw, analog driving fun of an ’80s Corvette. For enthusiasts, this auction represents a rare opportunity to own a well-preserved classic at an exceptional value.

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