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1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£8,100

  • Mileage~78,119KM on clock
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine5.7-litre
  • LocationSandy, Bedfordshire

SOLD

1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3

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Introduction

Ashley Dawson
Professional Consigner

Few cars capture the bold, unapologetic spirit of American motoring quite like the 1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3.

By the late 1970s, the C3 had evolved into a refined yet still unmistakably dramatic grand tourer. Long bonnet, muscular haunches, quad headlamps and removable T-top panels all combined to create one of the most recognisable silhouettes of the era. Beneath that sweeping bodywork sits the legendary 5.7-litre V8, delivering the deep, unmistakable soundtrack that defines the Corvette experience.

Coming to market after almost a year with our vendor, this particular example presents in striking red with a tan interior, a classic and highly desirable colour combination that suits the car’s character perfectly. With its period details, strong road presence and charismatic V8 performance, it remains every inch the all-American icon.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Alan the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed owning this Corvette, it’s one of those cars that makes every drive feel like an occasion, but it’s time for someone else to enjoy it as much as I have.

Alan has cared for the Corvette with clear enthusiasm, appreciating both its presence and its characterful V8 performance. The car has been enjoyed as a classic rather than hidden away, and he now feels it deserves to move on to an owner who will continue to use and cherish it.

Alan will be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Alan
Vehicle Owner

Alan saved £1,440* when they
sold their Chevrolet with us.

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Exterior

True to its era, the exterior of this C3 Corvette is bold, dramatic and instantly recognisable.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on period-style alloy wheels wrapped in Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tyres, which complement the car’s American muscle aesthetic perfectly. The wheels present well overall.

The tyres appeared in good condition at the time of visit, with good tread visible.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

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Bodywork

The body panels appear straight and well aligned, with the car retaining its classic Coke-bottle curves and flared arches.

The distinctive front and rear styling remains sharp, and the overall structure presents well for its age with the shut lines appearing consistent.

There are noticeable scratches and marks on the car including a big crack on the front bumper. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

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Paint

Finished in a vibrant red, the paintwork remains glossy and eye-catching. It presents well overall, giving the car strong visual appeal on the road.

As expected with a car of this age, there are minor age-related imperfections visible upon closer inspection, e.g. some microblistering in places, but nothing that detracts from its overall presence.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

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Glass and Trim

The glass appears clear and intact, and the distinctive T-top panels are in good condition.

Exterior trim, badges and brightwork present well, with the Corvette script and detailing remaining crisp and period-correct.

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Interior

Inside, the Corvette offers a wonderfully period cabin that blends comfort with unmistakable late '70s styling.

Seats and Carpets

The tan leather seats present well and retain their shape, offering both comfort and support. The bolsters appear solid and the overall condition reflects careful ownership.

The carpets match the interior colour scheme, maintaining the cohesive, classic look of the cabin. The carpets do appear to have some black stain marks visible in the footwells and rear bench behind the seats.

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Dashboard

The dashboard layout is quintessential C3, with a driver-focused design and clear instrumentation.

The gauges and controls present well visually, and the overall fascia maintains its original character.

It has no CD player and the RPM Counter isn't working.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel presents in good condition.

The gear selector appears tidy and in keeping with the rest of the interior, with no excessive wear visible.

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Mechanics

At the heart of this Corvette lies the iconic 5.7-litre V8, the defining feature of the C3 experience.

Engine and Gearbox

The V8 fires up cleanly and settles into a confident idle, producing the deep, unmistakable rumble expected of an American small-block. There were no unusual noises noted, and the engine appears to run smoothly.

Out on the drive the gearbox performed as it should, however, Alan said it may need some attention as the changes are not as precise as they should be.

Alan had a new radiator and alternator fitted quite recently.

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Suspension and Brakes

The suspension feels composed and comfortable, offering a relaxed cruising experience in keeping with the Corvette’s grand touring character.

No unusual noises were reported and the brakes perform well and bring the car to a halt confidently.

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The Drive

Alan describes the car as driving exactly as it should, smooth, torquey and immensely enjoyable.

It delivers the classic Corvette experience: strong straight-line performance, a commanding driving position and that unmistakable V8 soundtrack.

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Electrics and Other

There are a few electrical items to note. The RPM counter is currently not working. The pop-up headlights remain in the raised position and do not retract. The passenger-side window requires wiring (a switch is supplied with the car), and the driver’s side window works but it doesn't close all the way to the top.

Aside from these points, Alan told us the remaining controls and systems were functioning as expected, to his knowledge, at the time of our visit.

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History and Paperwork

As with many classic American imports of this era, the car just comes with its supporting documentation reflecting its time on UK roads.

While not accompanied by an extensive history file, the Corvette presents as a well-kept and honest example. Its condition, both mechanically and cosmetically, speaks to careful ownership and regular use rather than long-term neglect.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
27/03/2021 MOT 77,325
14/03/2020 MOT 77,149
28/03/2019 MOT 76,946
Key Details
  • Year1980
  • ModelCorvette C3
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Reg. Date01/01/1980
  • First UK Reg. Date01/05/2019
  • CC5700
  • Mileage~78,119KM On clock
  • ColourRed
  • Interior ColourTan
  • Chassis #1Z878AS421475
  • Engine #421475
  • MOTNo - Exempt
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers2 in UK
  • Tyre BrandCooper Cobra Radial G/T
  • LHD or RHDLHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~10 months
  • Key FeatureKeen Reserve
  • Vehicle RegistrationETH 763V
  • Driver’s SideLHD
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Auction ID3424







Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions
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15 Comments
ColinB
ColinB
Admin
5 days ago

*** RESERVE REDUCED***

Alan has reduced the reserve, so the C3 is more likely to see the highest bidder tomorrow night.

Good luck!

Thanks,
Colin.

lloyd42
lloyd42
4 days ago

Ok has it got a fuel tank in boot or use its original fuel tank thanks for answering last question I only live in St Neots so maybe I’ll drive it home

Pecoro
Pecoro
  lloyd42
4 days ago

Hi the fuel tank is in the boot, and that’s how you put petrol in. I hope this answers your question.

You can definitely drive it home

Alan

lloyd42
lloyd42
4 days ago

Hi has this car been converted to fuel injection

Pecoro
Pecoro
  lloyd42
4 days ago

Hi Sorry I am not sure. I only had it for a year, no conversions during my time. Alan

alanlivesey
alanlivesey
17 days ago

H alan,what else doesnt work ar moment,is the stereo facia with the car?was it yourself that imported it in 2019

Pecoro
Pecoro
  alanlivesey
16 days ago

Hi, that’s a good question. I think I may have it somewhere. Normally I just like the sound of the engine when driving it :). I have only owned the car for a year. I am not sure who imported it unfortunately.

WormaldPaul
WormaldPaul
17 days ago

Which engine is it please l48?l82? Is the t top watertight and where is the spoiler crack please?

Pecoro
Pecoro
  WormaldPaul
17 days ago

Hi, I will have to get back to you on the engine. Yes the top is watertight, but as mentioned the driver’s window doesn’t close all the way up, just 1cm short, maybe less.

There is a big scratch on the bonnet on the pointy bit, there is a clear picture somewhere and minor scratches on the front spoilers. I hope this helps

WormaldPaul
WormaldPaul
  Pecoro
7 days ago

Did you have a look at the engine please?

Pecoro
Pecoro
  WormaldPaul
7 days ago

Hi. I will look today

Pecoro
Pecoro
  WormaldPaul
7 days ago

Hi, I am not very mechanical minded, and I am not sure whether this is clear from the videos. My Corvette has a crate engine, I assume the L48 and L82 were only original engines? Let me know if I am wrong and if so how to find out as I have asked and I can’t seem to be getting much luck. Alan

WormaldPaul
WormaldPaul
  Pecoro
7 days ago

Alan I think you are right and nany thanks for the update.

justbrowsing
justbrowsing
17 days ago

Any photos with the headlights down?
Or, in true Corvette style, are they stuck open? :+

Pecoro
Pecoro
  justbrowsing
17 days ago

Sorry they are stuck, it happened the they before they came to take the pictures as I have never used the car in the dark, but my wanted to see the lights up

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Vehicle Location

Sandy, Bedfordshire

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