Image of 1982 Chevrolet Corvette, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

1982 Chevrolet Corvette: A Swansong to an Era

The 1982 Chevrolet Corvette stands as a testament to the end of an era, marking the final year of the C3 generation that had captivated enthusiasts since its inception in 1968. Born from the innovative minds at Chevrolet, this model encapsulated the transition from muscle to modernity, carrying with it a legacy steeped in American automotive history. Notably, it was the last Corvette to feature a body style that had remained largely unchanged for over a decade, and it was also the first to introduce the new Cross-Fire Injection fuel delivery system.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1982 Corvette boasted a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette that had become iconic by this time. Its fiberglass body panels gracefully wrapped around the frame, culminating in the distinctive "bubble" rear window that offered both improved visibility and a futuristic appeal. Inside, drivers were greeted with a cabin that prioritized comfort and sportiness, featuring high-quality leather seats and advanced-for-its-time electronic instrumentation. The dashboard and console were ergonomically designed to place all controls within easy reach of the pilot.

Technological advancements were not in short supply; the '82 Vette introduced the aforementioned Cross-Fire Injection system, which was a precursor to modern fuel injection systems. Color options ranged from Silver Green Metallic to Two-Tone Silver Blue, with classics like Corvette Red remaining ever-popular among aficionados. While only one body style was available—a coupe—the Collector Edition featured an exclusive hatchback design that has since become highly sought after.

Historical Significance

The 1982 Corvette's introduction of fuel injection technology represented a significant leap forward in efficiency and performance, setting a new standard for future models. It bridged the gap between raw power and refined engineering, influencing subsequent generations of Corvettes and other sports cars alike.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a 5.7-liter V8 engine capable of propelling the car to a top speed of around 140 mph, with acceleration from 0-60 mph achievable in just under 8 seconds—a respectable figure for its time. The Corvette's independent suspension system ensured it remained composed over uneven surfaces while providing responsive handling on winding roads. The symphony of its V8 engine provided an exhilarating soundtrack for drivers who reveled in the visceral driving experience only a classic American sports car could offer.

Ownership Experience

The '82 Corvette found its place as both a daily driver for some and as a treasured showpiece for others. Its reliability was commendable for its era, though like any vintage vehicle, upkeep could require specialized knowledge or resources. Maintenance is straightforward by classic car standards, making it an accessible entry point into classic car ownership.

Fun Facts

This model year saw some unique editions roll off the production line, including the aforementioned Collector Edition with distinctive features like turbine alloy wheels and special paintwork. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records at the time of its release. Criticisms often focused on its weight and reduced power compared to earlier models due to stricter emissions regulations.

Collector's Information

Today, values for well-maintained 1982 Corvettes can vary widely but generally range between $15,000 and $25,000 depending on condition and provenance. Approximately 25,407 units were produced in this final year of C3 production. As interest in '80s vehicles grows among collectors, prices are showing signs of appreciation—especially for low-mileage or special edition models.

Conclusion

The 1982 Chevrolet Corvette is more than just a car; it's a chapter closing on one of America's most storied automotive epochs. With its blend of style, innovation, and performance, it continues to captivate enthusiasts who cherish the thrill of driving something truly emblematic of an age when cars were as much about passion as they were about transportation.

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110Front coil-spring insulator. Fits '41-'60 Oldsmobile and '50-'83 GM passenger models. 5-3/8 in. OD x 3-3/4 in. ID x 3/4 in. high with 13/16 in. wide bottom flange 1/4" thick, 12 flutes. Each.

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 22Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 23Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Windshield pillar post seals-CZ 2000Windshield pillar post seals. Fits '73-'82 Corvette coupe and convertible. Made of long-lasting, jet black EPDM sponge rubber without wire insert. 19-1/2 in. long. Replaces OEM#'s 3966565/6. Pair. R&L.

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Rear Side Window Seals. High quality sponge reproduction-ELP 2053Rear Side Window Seals. High quality sponge reproduction. Made with steel cores. 11-1/4" long. Pair R&L

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Hood Latch Pop-Up Spring Bumper. 3/4" O.D. Each-HF 21-AHood Latch Pop-Up Spring Bumper. 3/4" O.D. Each

1982 Chevrolet Corvette

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Basic Kit., for T-Top Coupe-RKB 2000-103Basic Kit., for T-Top Coupe. Door (LM 19-D) Pillar Post (CZ 2000) T-Top (TP 2001) Rear Vertical (ELP 2053), Seals.

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Snap-In Bumper for Rear Compartment. Each-SB 69Snap-In Bumper for Rear Compartment. Each

1982 Chevrolet Corvette T-Top Seals-TP 2001T-Top Seals. Includes molded corners and steel core across window side. For late '77 models. Pair R&L

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Lower A-Arm Bumper. 3-7/8" long, 1-7/8" high. Each-XB 100Lower A-Arm Bumper. 3-7/8" long, 1-7/8" high. Each

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Upper A-Arm Bumper. Each-XB 101Upper A-Arm Bumper. Each

1982 Chevrolet Corvette Suspension Bumper Kit-XBK 100Suspension Bumper Kit