Barn Find: One Owner 50,000 mile 1978 Corvette Silver Anniversary
The C3 Corvette went into production in 1967 and lasted until 1982 model year - the longest production run of any Corvette which saw 542,741 produced. The 1979 model year saw 53,807 copies produced, a Corvette record, and the 1978 MY was not far behind at 46,776 Corvette 'Silver Anniversary' models that rolled off the assembly line in 1978.
The C3 Corvette was adapted from Larry Shinoda's 'Mako Shark II' concept under the direction of GM Styling Chief Bill Mitchell. Zora Arkus-Duntov was the chief engineer. The C3 was to have been a mid-engine platform, but this idea was abandoned, and the C3 used a very mildly modified C2 chassis.
Initially there were two body styles; a convertible and a notchback coupe, though the convertible was dropped for 1976. Various engine/transmission options were offered throughout the production run with small and big block V8's and manual or automatic transmissions. Engines were available in multiple states of tune. The 3 sub-series of C3 Corvettes were; Series 194 (1968-71), Series Z (1972-75) and Series Y (1976-1982).
The model year 1978 marked 25 years since the Corvette debuted in 1953, and featured a new 'fastback' roof line with a fixed glass window and 'T' Roof. The styling change allowed for better visibility and more cargo space. This was the only body style available - the convertible version was dropped.
Mechanical changes included a widened transverse rear leaf spring, a new manual and automatic gearbox. The fuel tank was increased in size from 17 gallons to 24. There were two 350ci V8 engine options; the L48 (185hp) and the L82 (220hp). Gearbox options were the Muncie 4 Speed manual (L48), choice of close or wide ratio Borg Warner 4 Sp Manal (L82), or a 3sp. automatic (both engines). There were two tire options; standard equipment were 225-70-15 and optionally available were 255-60-15. Other options included a power antenna, CB Radio, power windows and locks, air conditioning, glass T-roof panels, leather steering wheel, cruise control, power door locks etc.
All 1978 Corvettes wore 'Silver Anniversary Edition' badging, though their were 10 colour choices and two special paint schemes; one was the 'Silver Anniversary' (B2Z Option Package @$399) in a two tone Silver/metallic Grey scheme, and the other was Black/Silver with 'Indy 500 Pace Car' livery.
Out of total Corvette production for 1978 of 46,776, 15,283 1978 Corvettes were built with the B2Z 'Silver Anniversary Edition'. Mandatory options with B2Z included 15" aluminum wheels and dual sport mirrors. There were 6502 Indy Pace Car examples produced. The 10 other exterior colours made up the balance of Corvette production for the year.
Base price for the 1978 Corvette was $9,351 for the base car, with optioned Silver Anniversary editions being about $12,500 and the Indy Pace Car Edition being the most expensive at about $13,500 MRSP, though most dealers sold these 'future collectibles
Road and Track tested the L48 Corvette and achieved performance numbers of 0-60mph in 6.6sec, 1/4 mile in 15.3sec @95mph. Top speed was 127mph.
ABOUT THIS CORVETTE
This Corvette Silver Anniversary was bought new in Yorkton, Sask and has stayed with the original owner since. It has covered just under 50,000 miles and has recently come out of long term storage. It is a 100% original 'time capsule' car featuring all of its original equipment and matching numbers.
It was optioned with the L48 V8 coupled to the 4 speed Muncie manual gearbox. It has AC, Power windows, AM/FM stereo, power antenna, leather wrapped steering wheel as well as the '25th' option package (B2Z)which included the Silver on Grey metallic paint scheme, polished aluminum wheels. Interior chosen was the Oyster Leather interior with cloth inserts for the seats.
This is a one owner car that was purchaesed from Logan Chev Olds in Yorkton, Saskatchewan on May 10, 1978. MSRP on the vehicle was $14,235.50 according to the order document. The car was sold with a $1,750 discount, and a 1977 Pontiac Firebird trade in. The car has always been in Yorkton, with the last registration dated 1986. The car is in completely original condition and as accumulated just under 50,000 miles.
It has sat dormant for at least 10 years, and needs a full recommissioning to be put back on the road.
Paint is largely original, though there has been some repair done to the LHS rear where paint has been blown in on the rear fender and trunk lid. There is some cracking and delamination of the gel coat on the rear bumper cover. The balance of the paint work shows fading, chipping and minor imperfections commensurate with the mileage and gravel roads where the car was driven.
The Oyster leather/cloth interior has been well preserved. Dash is uncracked, and there are no noticeable rips or stains on the seats, carpets or interior panels. The car retains its original 8-Track stereo.
The engine bay is unmodified, and shows a light coat of surface rust on the exposed metal parts. The rubber belts and hoses look original and show signs of deterioration. There is a fuel leak at the carburettor. The hood pad has been chewed up.
The undercarriage shows a moderate amount of surface rust, though no soft metal or holes are apparent. The tires are cracked and need replacement, as do all the suspension bushes and brake lines. There are fluid leaks from the engine, gearbox, differential, brakes and fuel tank.
In summary, this is a completely honest, one owner, 50,000mile Corvette that has just come out of long term storage and needs a full recommissioning to be road worthy. It is a solid car and would provide a gratifying project for any Corvette enthusiast.
LAWRENCE ROMANOSKY
Phone: 403-607-8625
Email: Lromanosky@me.com
LAWRENCE ROMANOSKY
Phone: 403-607-8625
Email: Lromanosky@me.com
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