1980 Corvette~Back in Black The 1980 Chevrolet Corvette was the first since 1974 to have more than one engine displacement. Unfortunately the new option was a 305 cubic inch destined for the California market to meet the stringent smog laws. This engine was required for California and was only available with the automatic transmission. The good news is that the 80 was 250 pounds lighter than the 1979. The hood and doors were made thinner saving weight. The tops decreased in density due to the use of microscopic beads in their construction. The rear differential housing and supports were manufactured from aluminum which also decreased weight. On the 350 cubic inch cars the intake manifold was made from aluminum. The California 305 ci engine got a stainless steel exhaust manifold. The front and rear spoilers from the 78 pace car were now molded into the front and rear bumper pieces and were standard. All 80 Vettes now had the 85 MPH speedometer. The Turbo-HydraMatic automatic transmissions recieved a lock-up torque converter which engaged at about 30 MPH. The manual transmissions got new gearing although it was only available with the base L48 engine. Only two storage bins were behind the seats, this had been three. Power windows, tilt-telescopic steering and air conditioning were all included in the base price. The base (non-California) engine lost 5 horsepower this year, the optional L82 engine gained 5 horsepower. The 1980 colors are also new, the Corvette colors were gone.
Posted on: Sat, 20 Sep 2014 15:32:37 +0000
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