The most important thing you mentioned was rule #1 that these cars are going to have something wrong with them. I always tell people looking for Corvettes, Mustangs, etc. to bear in mind that while it may be a neat car always remember that it is still a USED car. And I've never seen a used car that didn't need some work.
Yes, you are right. I search right now for one. And im surprised how much some People want for a crappy 1985 Corvette. When you get for the same Money a C5 oO
The $50 million Ferrari GTO can't keep up with a C5. Also, parts availability not as good. Sometimes you're paying for what you like, not what's practical.
Have an 89 with a 383 stroker. Absolutely fun. Had to get a beefed up transmission recently. If you ever buy one that is no longer stock, be sure it comes with all the paperwork listing everything that is done and where it was done. You'll want a full parts list. You’ll want to know everything about operating temps, pressure readings, and best types of fluids to use. Having data is great when you understand it. You’ll avoid some issues and or at least prevent making an issue worse when you know these things. Some of the best advice in this video is to get the exact set up you want, and don’t settle.
I have an '89 here, the last 4 years have been great! I average about 19 MPG, drive it everywhere and never had an issue :) Just keep the maintenance up and it will go for a very long time
Great video. Used it, and a bunch of research, to buy my C4. Found a 2 owner 85, auto, just under 23,000 miles, in dark bronze metallic (the second least used paint color that year). Absolutely love this car!!
They always look better in the pictures and yes, better to pay $9000 for a sweet low mileage c4 than a mediocre c4 for $4000 that will quickly need $10,000 of work. Personally I love the styling. MAKE SURE THE AC/ HEAT WORKS AND GET ONE WITH THE ZF 6 SPEED. The 4+ 3 is a nightmare to fix. The VATS system can be bypassed for under $10. Great video
@Thomas Todd I just got an 84 for 1500 great condition didn't run but after a new fuel pump and new injectors it drives daily. They are hard to find but they do come around sometimes.
I got my 88 for 1500 136kmiles my transmission gave out found one for 250 over time I kept looking on markets , or it was 1000 to rebuild I dropped it pretty easy tbh one day in and out new clutch car so far runs great I just need a brake booster as well but not to bad if you look constant and take your time 👌🔥
The LT5 motor was also a small block, and it had the same displacement as the rest of them (all c4s came with a 350/5.7). It looks bigger because it had secondary runners and it had twin over head cams. The block was also aluminum. The engine was designed by Lotus and manufactured by Mercury Marine.
Another easy way to disable VATS is to find the hidden fuse under the passenger side dashboard. It’s called ‘Theft’. Not sure if the earlier cars have it, but my 91 does. My car key is slightly worn and it wouldn’t read it sometimes. That’s the reason I did it :)
Mistake that's commonly overlooked that I actually did was checking if the lights worked. So traveling in pitch black at 9pm , on the highway, without headlights , was extremely sketchy
*Great points. 358,180 manufactured. Key note: interiors were freshened in 1994 with different seats, dash, console, door designs. Also a '96 Collector's edition with an LT4-6speed, in a convertible with red leather is a great choice. I've owned 10 Corvettes, 3 in the third generation, 7 in the fourth generation, but C4's are still my favorite.*
+Gene Ebeling Hi ...you lucky person...owning all those vettes...can you tell me which year the interior door cards were colour coded the same..ie. arm rests etc. see my question on here. Thanks.
+studio7 Cool fact: true, after the interior redesign in 1990, the passenger door pull area appears different from the drivers side. I imagine it was done to accept the remote control mirror switch for the driver? As odd as it may seem to look, I love variance in the design of the door skins. Now the cool arm rest/cubby hole made its appearance during the 94/95/96 interior freshening. I love this interior overall, but somehow the 90/91/92/93 interior shape, center console, dash board, seats and door skins inside look way better esthetically. . Mechanically the car got skin deep improvements after 1993 not seen by the naked eye. Just to name a few: better brakes and braking overall, smoother shifting automatic transmissions (shift points), better automatic electronic air conditioning, quieter mufflers in the convertible model (I believe). Better quality leather interior fabric (french seams on the sport seats).....Really the list goes on. Personally I would choose a 1993 Ruby (40th anniversary in ruby red metallic paint) convertible. But the 1996 Collector's Edition in the commemorative silver with red interior, with an LT4 - 6 speed in the convertible model runs a close second. *_Great video Ben, and really great UA-cam channel._*
+David Crow great for the liquid crystal configured dashes on the early C4's, yet to me originality is always the best. That said, functionality really is the most important key to loving your early C4's flawed 'Back To The Future' light gimmickry interior dash designs. The designs did improve for 1985, but it's truly no secret that GM made a few mistakes in the final product (not to mention supplier issues relative to consistently made quality durable goods for the car, notably anything in the interior cabin).
+Gene Ebeling In cherry condition it's not going to make me any money even if I wanted to sell it. That being said aftermarket cooler stuff would be nice. Planning/doing dash and seats now.
If you know what you’re doing disabling the factory vats security system is simple. The 1986 vette was the vehicle the vats system debuted on that GM put in all of its vehicles in the future. Adding a resistor to the proper wires fixes it permanently.
Love me my "Exotic" C4's. Have two actually. An '89 Callaway Twin Turbo with 9k on it, and a '94 Greenwood "Super 440" with Aero Work and 36k on it. Both will spank even the latest Vettes. Love handing people their own ass with a ~25+ year old Corvette. Especially in the Callaway, which for the most part looks stock.
That 2 speed on the end of the 4 speed transmission isn't too dissimilar in concept and design to the air actuated split rear ends of some large trucks, Diamond Reo for example.
I have had a couple c3's and a c6. Back in 85 when I was 16 i went to the Chevy dealership and fell in love with the red Corvette.as I got older the c4's to me were slow and garbage but now the 85 is cool to me again and I found the old love so I'm on the hunt for a red 85 with red interior
my granpa got a 89 corvette c4 with 2000 miles on it. fully stock except the engine tuning made by lingenfelter and the loud borla exhaust. The back tires is also 305´s
I would add a few more rules: 1. Have a look at the frame! The body may seem in perfection condition (it doesn't rust) but the frame can be rotten. 2. Look at the carpet interior (especially below the roof). If it's brown, it means that water penetrates the car and you can be pretty sure that the car is junk. 3. Be sure that the headlights work properly. They often have issues.
Great video man, thanks - love C4's. In 5th grade (92 I think) my school bus passed a dealership every day with a red on red '86 for sale and I used to dream about having that car when I could afford it. One of these day's I'm going to grab one!
Took Gm 10+/- years to make the car close to what it should have been upon its introduction. N.V.H. huge improvement in latter years. As with all used cars........buy the best car you can afford. Service records worth their weight in $$$$. Do your diligence.
first rule of buying a c4: buy the FSM from helms. this is a very well done manual, with great flow charts, parts placement diagrams, and both wiring schematics and functional block diagrams of systems,
I almost bought a 94 corvette convertible (lt1 auto) but decided to wait a couple years. Meanwhile I bought a 2000 Camaro Z28 hardtop (LS1 auto) still kinda want a C4 even though I know it's slower then the Z28. It just looks so good to me, I'm a later c4 kinda guy myself but 80s don't look bad.
Great video with lots of helpful information for first-time or otherwise uninformed C4 buyers. One observation: if this guy knows exactly what he wants (96 CE convertible, red interior, LT4, 6-speed), why did he buy TWO Corvettes, neither which is what he really wants? He said "I have a pair of C4s" so his ownership of both cars is implied... could have pooled the money to buy the ONE car he really wants. Yes his dream C4 is a relatively rare model, and I agree that the C4 market is currently a buyer's market. Cars like his dream C4 are out there. Not sure why he would go against his own advice.Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Funny bloopers! :D
Well, I can answer that for you! 1. The convertible is my mother in laws. 2. The 85 was less than $2,000. Does that answer your question. Oh and I also ended up buying a triple black LT4 convertible, which is close enough to the dream C4. You can see videos of it on my channel!
Thank you so much for making this video I pride myself on thinking I'm somewhat of a shade tree mechanic but there's so many cars out there that it's hard to know everything about everything and you brought up a lot of good points and things to do I think along the lines of how you think about this car because it is a very good car and you get a nice sports car to have fun with and maybe even as a daily driver for way cheaper than anything else that's on the same level there is a place near me called just Corvettes and I'm going to go and speak with them and try to see it if they are a honest shop or not before I do business with them but I think it's time for me to bring a new Corvette into my family part of the reason is not only my love for Corvettes all my life but my son who is 10 years old told me a couple years ago that he wanted a Corvette when he turns 16 so I figure this model is the one to get him find the cheapest one that's an automatic so that way he can learn to drive with it on a private area so that way he can tear it up all he wants and then use that for parts for the car that will be the one that he drives so like I said thank you I appreciate you taking your time to inform all of us
+Zelda Vuitton I looked ALL over for a '96 that wasnt overpriced and ragged out. Ended up with a '94. Had it for 10 years, love it, but I wouldnt buy another one. No, you cant have mine. ;)
The 84 corvette is a great corvette. People just don't know how to fix it and won't know about it. It was a smoged motor and didn't allow to much hp. That's why people don't like it. The 84 is rated 7th best corvette. You must not like it cause you can't fix it, don't know anything about it, and listen to clowns that don't know shit about real American cars.
Thanks for the info! I'm planning to buy one and use as a cool summer car and to try and sell as a winter project to someone else, but now knowing that they can be hard to sell makes me a little more weary
also, research.com has a FREE vin search. it doesn't cost $40 and you have access to any accidents, damage, recalls, make and model, color, engine size and hp, transmission. basically everything that has been documented.
yes I agree...1984 is the taboo Vette....1985 doesn't have Vats....but again it doesn't have ABS...I say 1986 is the target...it also has improved star wars/Disco dash instrumentation over the 84....I believe 86 has the center brake light too....So for me my target would be 86-89 ..1989 being the last year of the original interior design...not red or white ...other colors are fine
We haven't had any trouble relating to the vehicle anti-theft system with our 86. I've locked the car and have not shut the door right away, and the alarm has gone off. Otherwise, no trouble starting except with a sensor that was causing the car to flood itself.
I have a 1989 and 1990. Both low miles and clean. I see that rubber deterioration is a huge problem even if the car was kept in climate controlled storage. So for me rubber brake lines/clutch lines were contaminating my hydraulic fluid (look for the black specs/dark color in the containers). This rubber floating in the fluid will wear out the o rings on the master cylinders for brakes and clutch, plus mess up the slave seals. Weather stripping will lose it's elastically too. The bladders in the sport seats will be toast too.
I need some advice. I'm looking to buy a Corvette as a fun first car. I have about 5k already saved up to buy and I've got a summer job to cover minor repairs once I own one. I live in the northeast but I can borrow my parents cars to get around in the winter, so the Corvette would be a lightly driven summer car for me. I've been pretty torn between the C3 and C4. I love the styling of the C3 a lot more than the C4 and I like its mechanical simplicity so that I can work on it myself instead of paying extra to take it to a shop. However I like the C4 for its better safety features and fuel efficiency, both of which are of a lot of importance to me as a young driver. I'm a responsible guy, I do well in school, and neither I nor my parents have any major concerns about me owning a Corvette. I've been mainly looking at 74-79 C3s and 90-96 C4s. Anyone have any tips as to which way I should go?
A bunch of people say the C3 is a pain in the ass. I've got the 85 C4 and everything is so crammed in small spaces. I like the simplicity of the 85 . People really like their 96 too!!!! The 85 I have is a Z51 came with better shocks, bigger sway bar, better rear end, takes less turns with the wheel (3 instead of 3.5) geared differently. Z51 makes a HUGE difference.
Great Video Can you be more specific about what year you think is the best buy in general I want a convertible and would like a high performance motor without VATS (84 or 85 Right ?) your helping me make my dream come true one day soon and I love white corvettes
I have to use hand controls bc I'm in a chair. I'm gonna find a cheap auto and fix it up if I have to. It'll be mine forever, so why not? It's relatively cheap to do as long as it's not complete trash.
everyone keeps telling me i too young to own a corvette, old or new. i turn 19 tomorrow, and i just feel like if i'm going to spend my money, spend my time working on it, and spend my time driving it and learning how everything works, i mine as well get exactly what i want. i've been literally binge watching videos on c4's all month. i feel like i own one lol but thanks for this video, definitely highlighted some things that I didn't pay attention to in the other videos
I have a 1996 grand sport convertible, only 130 made. And it only has 7000 miles on it. Don’t want to drive it too much or there will be too many miles. It’s cool to have but having a normal one is better because you can drive it.
Should i get one for my first car? Cheap enough, my dream spec for a C4 is 1989,6 Speed Manual,Red Interior,Sport Suspension option(that i forgot the name of),Coupe,and Silver exterior... the rest i can do aftermarket like muffler delete,add some more power
Well you CAN swap a LT4 motor in a regular automatic 1996 Corvette. Check the RPO codes underneath the console lid. Should say LT4 and ZF6. My bet is it will say LT1
Hey there mate, I sent you a PM, I'm a youtuber from China and I'm coming to do an epic 10k mile trip through america in a C4 and I'd like to meet you along the way
I had a c4 for years n drove it with a barely lit dash. Went to sell it and a guy said if you can fix the dash ill take it rest of the car was mint. Done some research took the lcd apart cleaned connectors with a eraser voila worked perfect. My only regret is that i didnt do that sooner it was really a beautiful display when it worked lol
@@aaronmitchell196 I just bought a c4 and the speed and rpms do not show at all. Do you think cleaning the connectors like you did might solve the problem?
5 years later im commenting lol. Just got my 87 corvette. Got it for 5k. Instrument cluster was half ass worked on. The speedometer polarized lenses was toast and the info panel and tachometer was starting to go. Taking it apart and doing it was really fun and simple to do. But the center info panel was an aftermarket panel and found that out when I took of the lense. Bryan from Batee (100% recommended for C4 parts) helped me figure that out and had to buy a new center panel. The digital gauge alone is 100% worth getting the 80s' to me. Just so much more fun!
My 84 is 35 years old now and I can hit the key and it cranks right up and runs like new. It has some mods and I keep adding hp but it has the original l83 with 175,000 miles so eat it haters.
my 86 t/a is the same.twist the key and she fires up,carbed l31 vortec about 375 horsepower,5 speed,4 wheel disc,posie,hardtop with zero options and its a hardtop
I had an 84 that was perfect with only 40k original and lots of upgrades. I got tired of getting my ass busted by Honda Accords, so I upgraded to a C6.
Haters? Screw ‘em. Love the C4 and appreciate enthusiasts keeping them alive. Sub 10k cars can be found in great condition and is underrated for the value and fun factor.
@@kingshabazz1310 Yes i know we have fully screens now in our modern cars , but for people like me who loves that feature in the c4 when i was a kid in that time , it´s like having something like night rider cluster. It is a fact that sooner or later the fantasy was going to be reality in our days .Greetings my friend.
Good video, maybe next time you could make a video about typical C4 issues. (Common problems) Last summer I bought my first C4, actually my first Corvette. Just love how it handles, it's got loads of torque and the way the hood opens is just awesome.
Another rule of thumb when buying a C4 is if you can only afford one up to $5-6k you better be able to turn a wrench and diagnose problems. And be prepared to spend another $2-3k in parts. The early cars are 30+ years old now. Lots of wear, exposure to the elements etc. Don't get me wrong, I love my 86 but it's the project that keeps on giving lol.
+da teatorjr I restored my 86 Corvette. Everything new with a performance engine. Car has 5k miles on it. New paint job by Me. I cant even sell it for 9500. So I am keeping it. Where are you going to get a new 1986 Corvette for 9500? The youtube video is Corvette C4 1986 Frankenstein Restoration.
da teatorjr I'm thinking about purchasing a 86 corvette with 86k on the car. It hasnt been driven in a year. I'm also wondering how I could get more horsepower without making drastic changes to this car. Where would you start for for more house power and getting this car ready for driving.
have both C4 and C5 ..i love my 86 best but it has cost me about 10 thousand in maintenance in the last 20 years.i saved all receipts. and my C5 cost me about $700 in 10 years. But even tho my C4 is old i still enjoy all that hidden hp the L-98 puts out and the handling is great as well. love the gas fill in the middle, the clam shell hood and starwars dash and how the seat hugs my hips on tight turns.. the unique w/s wiper motion. etc....white with red interior...
The 1984 saved the Corvette from extinction . If the C4 wasn't a wonderful achievement in technology there would not be any cars with the Corvette name . Thanks should be given to the creator's . So it had a few problem's .The many improvements over the previous 10 years are too many to List . So if 84 is not a good year 73 - 82 must be real junk . They have the same H.P. and weigh 600 more Lbs. Don't handle as good , and R much slower . The 54 came with a 6 cylinder and bad breaks . Buy a new one if you can't work on it and make it better . My 69 big block doesn't get very good gas mileage , and the radio isn't working . 😢
I’ve been dailying my 87 for a little over a year now, these cars have wonderful visibility. They also scoot through traffic pretty good when they need to, and the gas mileage is pretty good if you keep out of it. Mine is an automatic but it has the 2.72?:1 rear in it, cruises very nicely at any speed. Only problem is the noise level, not from the (aftermarket) exhaust, but from the wind going across the windshield and the glass roof. Most of the noise seems to be coming from the lip where the two meet, and a bit from the windows. I also have 315s in the rear with summer tires, so it’s sketchy in the rain and snow but that’s my fault for running really wide, somewhat worn summer tires in suboptimal conditions. I’m very happy with my purchase overall. Word of the wise, if you buy a car that has done a lot of cruising, and you’re getting a code 33, vary your driving a bit. When the car has spent a lot of time at one throttle position the tps (throttle position sensor) will burn out a little bit in that spot, and the car doesn’t know if the tps is wrong or if the maf (mass airflow) sensor is wrong. $100 repair, but the car will run like shit when it goes into limp home mode. There are other potential causes, but that was my car’s major malfunction when I bought it. Also, the VATS can be bypassed with resistors, you just need to figure out what resistance your key has (ohm meter will tell you) and to match it. My car came with a strange bypass that used a switch that’s hidden in the dash, so effectively it has a secret kill switch for the ignition.
I’m starting to really like the C4 Corvettes...
The design is so 80's. C5 is too modern and c3 is too old.
@@uh3what tbh I love them all
Anthony rayas the stupid critic commenterqqq
@@uh3what that's not true 94 and up are actually bad ass cars and have OBD2 the same as a C5
Check out some of the videos on my C4 I think you'll like them
The most important thing you mentioned was rule #1 that these cars are going to have something wrong with them. I always tell people looking for Corvettes, Mustangs, etc. to bear in mind that while it may be a neat car always remember that it is still a USED car. And I've never seen a used car that didn't need some work.
First rule of buying a C4:
Dont pay as much for a C4 as a similar condition C5 would cost you.
Yes, you are right.
I search right now for one.
And im surprised how much some People want for a crappy 1985 Corvette.
When you get for the same Money a C5 oO
@@kallo182 the condition does matter in my opinion
@@kallo182 I could pay same money for mint condition, low mile convertible C4 with good specs than base 150k mile C5.
100% true my dude
The $50 million Ferrari GTO can't keep up with a C5. Also, parts availability not as good. Sometimes you're paying for what you like, not what's practical.
Have an 89 with a 383 stroker. Absolutely fun. Had to get a beefed up transmission recently. If you ever buy one that is no longer stock, be sure it comes with all the paperwork listing everything that is done and where it was done. You'll want a full parts list. You’ll want to know everything about operating temps, pressure readings, and best types of fluids to use. Having data is great when you understand it. You’ll avoid some issues and or at least prevent making an issue worse when you know these things. Some of the best advice in this video is to get the exact set up you want, and don’t settle.
I have an '89 here, the last 4 years have been great! I average about 19 MPG, drive it everywhere and never had an issue :) Just keep the maintenance up and it will go for a very long time
Bought to buy a 1996 lt4 gonna daily drive it making sure my first car is a v8
@@chriscaldeira7895 how its going
@@chapoelite1491 ended up buying a 92 Corvette which I sold 2 months ago. I upgraded to a 2002 c5 corvette
Great video. Used it, and a bunch of research, to buy my C4. Found a 2 owner 85, auto, just under 23,000 miles, in dark bronze metallic (the second least used paint color that year). Absolutely love this car!!
how much did u pay?
@@JamilH01 I paid just under $8K at the time
I feel like todays vehicles look dated. And those Vettes look like the future.
Co-rrect.
They always look better in the pictures and yes, better to pay $9000 for a sweet low mileage c4 than a mediocre c4 for $4000 that will quickly need $10,000 of work. Personally I love the styling. MAKE SURE THE AC/ HEAT WORKS AND GET ONE WITH THE ZF 6 SPEED. The 4+ 3 is a nightmare to fix. The VATS system can be bypassed for under $10. Great video
What about buying one for 1500 bucks that runs and drives
And yes it exists
@@thomastodd6728 if mechanically inclined why not? Thats such a low price.
@Thomas Todd I just got an 84 for 1500 great condition didn't run but after a new fuel pump and new injectors it drives daily. They are hard to find but they do come around sometimes.
I got my 88 for 1500 136kmiles my transmission gave out found one for 250 over time I kept looking on markets , or it was 1000 to rebuild I dropped it pretty easy tbh one day in and out new clutch car so far runs great I just need a brake booster as well but not to bad if you look constant and take your time 👌🔥
The '84 Vette 4+3 had the rocker switch, on the center console, for the over drive. I owned one Awesome car!
The LT5 motor was also a small block, and it had the same displacement as the rest of them (all c4s came with a 350/5.7). It looks bigger because it had secondary runners and it had twin over head cams. The block was also aluminum. The engine was designed by Lotus and manufactured by Mercury Marine.
Thank you for the video it is great and I just finished purchasing my first C4. You saved the best for last, the take clips certainly add some humor😀
I own an early 85 with a Doug Nash 4+3 and TPi. Built in November of 1984.
Nice job. Am looking for a C4 now, so I'll keep your suggestions in mind.
Another easy way to disable VATS is to find the hidden fuse under the passenger side dashboard. It’s called ‘Theft’. Not sure if the earlier cars have it, but my 91 does. My car key is slightly worn and it wouldn’t read it sometimes. That’s the reason I did it :)
Mistake that's commonly overlooked that I actually did was checking if the lights worked. So traveling in pitch black at 9pm , on the highway, without headlights , was extremely sketchy
you can manually bring them up in emergency situations
*Great points. 358,180 manufactured. Key note: interiors were freshened in 1994 with different seats, dash, console, door designs. Also a '96 Collector's edition with an LT4-6speed, in a convertible with red leather is a great choice. I've owned 10 Corvettes, 3 in the third generation, 7 in the fourth generation, but C4's are still my favorite.*
+Gene Ebeling Hi ...you lucky person...owning all those vettes...can you tell me which year the interior door cards were colour coded the same..ie. arm rests etc. see my question on here. Thanks.
+studio7 Cool fact: true, after the interior redesign in 1990, the passenger door pull area appears different from the drivers side. I imagine it was done to accept the remote control mirror switch for the driver? As odd as it may seem to look, I love variance in the design of the door skins.
Now the cool arm rest/cubby hole made its appearance during the 94/95/96 interior freshening.
I love this interior overall, but somehow the 90/91/92/93 interior shape, center console, dash board, seats and door skins inside look way better esthetically. . Mechanically the car got skin deep improvements after 1993 not seen by the naked eye. Just to name a few: better brakes and braking overall, smoother shifting automatic transmissions (shift points), better automatic electronic air conditioning, quieter mufflers in the convertible model (I believe). Better quality leather interior fabric (french seams on the sport seats).....Really the list goes on.
Personally I would choose a 1993 Ruby (40th anniversary in ruby red metallic paint) convertible. But the 1996 Collector's Edition in the commemorative silver with red interior, with an LT4 - 6 speed in the convertible model runs a close second. *_Great video Ben, and really great UA-cam channel._*
aftermarket dash/interior?
+David Crow great for the liquid crystal configured dashes on the early C4's, yet to me originality is always the best. That said, functionality really is the most important key to loving your early C4's flawed 'Back To The Future' light gimmickry interior dash designs. The designs did improve for 1985, but it's truly no secret that GM made a few mistakes in the final product (not to mention supplier issues relative to consistently made quality durable goods for the car, notably anything in the interior cabin).
+Gene Ebeling In cherry condition it's not going to make me any money even if I wanted to sell it. That being said aftermarket cooler stuff would be nice. Planning/doing dash and seats now.
Looking at buying a 88' supercharged vette, over 500 horsepower! The video was very helpful thanks!
If you know what you’re doing disabling the factory vats security system is simple. The 1986 vette was the vehicle the vats system debuted on that GM put in all of its vehicles in the future. Adding a resistor to the proper wires fixes it permanently.
Love me my "Exotic" C4's. Have two actually. An '89 Callaway Twin Turbo with 9k on it, and a '94 Greenwood "Super 440" with Aero Work and 36k on it. Both will spank even the latest Vettes. Love handing people their own ass with a ~25+ year old Corvette. Especially in the Callaway, which for the most part looks stock.
thaz awessome bro!
Still got that Callaway?
That 2 speed on the end of the 4 speed transmission isn't too dissimilar in concept and design to the air actuated split rear ends of some large trucks, Diamond Reo for example.
I have had a couple c3's and a c6. Back in 85 when I was 16 i went to the Chevy dealership and fell in love with the red Corvette.as I got older the c4's to me were slow and garbage but now the 85 is cool to me again and I found the old love so I'm on the hunt for a red 85 with red interior
my granpa got a 89 corvette c4 with 2000 miles on it. fully stock except the engine tuning made by lingenfelter and the loud borla exhaust. The back tires is also 305´s
I would add a few more rules:
1. Have a look at the frame! The body may seem in perfection condition (it doesn't rust) but the frame can be rotten.
2. Look at the carpet interior (especially below the roof). If it's brown, it means that water penetrates the car and you can be pretty sure that the car is junk.
3. Be sure that the headlights work properly. They often have issues.
They all leak a little, old cars, headlights not too bad but that instrument cluster is really the only thing I would pay attention too.
already a c4 owner, but very informative realy enjoyed it!!
Do you still have it after 3 years
Hope it’s doing well
@@qalba3016 yes I still have it!!
Great video man, thanks - love C4's. In 5th grade (92 I think) my school bus passed a dealership every day with a red on red '86 for sale and I used to dream about having that car when I could afford it. One of these day's I'm going to grab one!
+johnnyribcage1 You can buy my 85!
Took Gm 10+/- years to make the car close to what it should have been upon its introduction. N.V.H. huge improvement in latter years.
As with all used cars........buy the best car you can afford. Service records worth their weight in $$$$. Do your diligence.
Thanks for the information...picking up my first c4 tomorrow
first rule of buying a c4:
buy the FSM from helms. this is a very well done manual, with great flow charts, parts placement diagrams, and both wiring schematics and functional block diagrams of systems,
I almost bought a 94 corvette convertible (lt1 auto) but decided to wait a couple years. Meanwhile I bought a 2000 Camaro Z28 hardtop (LS1 auto) still kinda want a C4 even though I know it's slower then the Z28. It just looks so good to me, I'm a later c4 kinda guy myself but 80s don't look bad.
ZR1 or bust... Actually, a silver LT4 6 speed wouldn't be bad either!
I would take a grand sport too.
I love my LT4!
The Dutch Texan ah I see you’re a man of culture as well
You had or still have one? What part of Texas? I'm from and still here he Austin.
I had 10 minutes to decide whether to buy or not. I broke all the rules here, lol. Mine is red on red 1984 with 18000 miles on it 😁
Great video with lots of helpful information for first-time or otherwise uninformed C4 buyers.
One observation: if this guy knows exactly what he wants (96 CE convertible, red interior, LT4, 6-speed), why did he buy TWO Corvettes, neither which is what he really wants? He said "I have a pair of C4s" so his ownership of both cars is implied... could have pooled the money to buy the ONE car he really wants. Yes his dream C4 is a relatively rare model, and I agree that the C4 market is currently a buyer's market. Cars like his dream C4 are out there. Not sure why he would go against his own advice.Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Funny bloopers! :D
Well, I can answer that for you! 1. The convertible is my mother in laws. 2. The 85 was less than $2,000. Does that answer your question. Oh and I also ended up buying a triple black LT4 convertible, which is close enough to the dream C4. You can see videos of it on my channel!
1:15 i know someone who bought a mgb off of ebay before looking at it
Good thing he was looking for a project car
All MGBs are project cars, and never stop being project cars.
Thank u. Answered lots of my questions
Thank you so much for making this video I pride myself on thinking I'm somewhat of a shade tree mechanic but there's so many cars out there that it's hard to know everything about everything and you brought up a lot of good points and things to do I think along the lines of how you think about this car because it is a very good car and you get a nice sports car to have fun with and maybe even as a daily driver for way cheaper than anything else that's on the same level there is a place near me called just Corvettes and I'm going to go and speak with them and try to see it if they are a honest shop or not before I do business with them but I think it's time for me to bring a new Corvette into my family part of the reason is not only my love for Corvettes all my life but my son who is 10 years old told me a couple years ago that he wanted a Corvette when he turns 16 so I figure this model is the one to get him find the cheapest one that's an automatic so that way he can learn to drive with it on a private area so that way he can tear it up all he wants and then use that for parts for the car that will be the one that he drives so like I said thank you I appreciate you taking your time to inform all of us
I just want one with a spoiler i can add that myself but i dont really car about year and can work on it myself
I have a 95 Greenwood 100 130 miles love the car. Also have a 2005 with 19500 miles on it
Another very important rule: NEVER BUY AN 84
Agreed
+TheCorvetteBen so true..205 hp.. woo hoo..!!
+Benjamin Dover yup
+Zelda Vuitton I looked ALL over for a '96 that wasnt overpriced and ragged out. Ended up with a '94. Had it for 10 years, love it, but I wouldnt buy another one. No, you cant have mine. ;)
The 84 corvette is a great corvette. People just don't know how to fix it and won't know about it. It was a smoged motor and didn't allow to much hp. That's why people don't like it. The 84 is rated 7th best corvette. You must not like it cause you can't fix it, don't know anything about it, and listen to clowns that don't know shit about real American cars.
Thanks for the info! I'm planning to buy one and use as a cool summer car and to try and sell as a winter project to someone else, but now knowing that they can be hard to sell makes me a little more weary
also, research.com has a FREE vin search. it doesn't cost $40 and you have access to any accidents, damage, recalls, make and model, color, engine size and hp, transmission. basically everything that has been documented.
yes I agree...1984 is the taboo Vette....1985 doesn't have Vats....but again it doesn't have ABS...I say 1986 is the target...it also has improved star wars/Disco dash instrumentation over the 84....I believe 86 has the center brake light too....So for me my target would be 86-89 ..1989 being the last year of the original interior design...not red or white ...other colors are fine
Great job! You nailed it
Thanks for this video and explanations.. Nice cars. Love 'em!
We haven't had any trouble relating to the vehicle anti-theft system with our 86. I've locked the car and have not shut the door right away, and the alarm has gone off. Otherwise, no trouble starting except with a sensor that was causing the car to flood itself.
The RPO code sticker is often known as the build sheet.
Amazing video. Thanks!
I have a 1989 and 1990. Both low miles and clean. I see that rubber deterioration is a huge problem even if the car was kept in climate controlled storage. So for me rubber brake lines/clutch lines were contaminating my hydraulic fluid (look for the black specs/dark color in the containers). This rubber floating in the fluid will wear out the o rings on the master cylinders for brakes and clutch, plus mess up the slave seals. Weather stripping will lose it's elastically too. The bladders in the sport seats will be toast too.
Just as a followup, these are good solid cars and easy to work on. If it wasn't maintained and beat to hell, don't expect much though.
+vl5150 Sounds like they are super nice!
There's a rad 1985 with louvers and reupholstered seats (floral!) for sale locally that I reeeeeallly like
yup clinged it and works
This is awesome, thank you!
We bought ours from a Ford dealership...
Another thing unique thing to 90 was the exposed lug nuts.
Excellent video!
Great video! Thank you!
I need some advice. I'm looking to buy a Corvette as a fun first car. I have about 5k already saved up to buy and I've got a summer job to cover minor repairs once I own one. I live in the northeast but I can borrow my parents cars to get around in the winter, so the Corvette would be a lightly driven summer car for me. I've been pretty torn between the C3 and C4. I love the styling of the C3 a lot more than the C4 and I like its mechanical simplicity so that I can work on it myself instead of paying extra to take it to a shop. However I like the C4 for its better safety features and fuel efficiency, both of which are of a lot of importance to me as a young driver. I'm a responsible guy, I do well in school, and neither I nor my parents have any major concerns about me owning a Corvette. I've been mainly looking at 74-79 C3s and 90-96 C4s. Anyone have any tips as to which way I should go?
A bunch of people say the C3 is a pain in the ass. I've got the 85 C4 and everything is so crammed in small spaces. I like the simplicity of the 85 . People really like their 96 too!!!! The 85 I have is a Z51 came with better shocks, bigger sway bar, better rear end, takes less turns with the wheel (3 instead of 3.5) geared differently. Z51 makes a HUGE difference.
very nice video, thank you for the Info.
Great video. How do I get a manual for decoding the codes found under the console lid? Thanks.
+Ole Ironhead it is all available online. Just search c4 rpo codes in google
Hmmm... Is that a 55 or 56 Cadillac under the car cover?
buying my 89 today!
Is there an older body style c4 that has a 6speed instead of the 4+3?
89-91
Great job
Great Video Can you be more specific about what year you think is the best buy in general
I want a convertible and would like a high performance motor without VATS (84 or 85 Right ?)
your helping me make my dream come true one day soon and I love white corvettes
+dave rubenstein 1996 is the best year for c4s hands down
I'm getting a Black 96' LT4 with a 6 Speed.......but I am buying it out of town.....
I have an 84 what’s is a good site for weather stripping
Good video thanks
Im buying one as a donor for a FC RX7
I have to use hand controls bc I'm in a chair. I'm gonna find a cheap auto and fix it up if I have to. It'll be mine forever, so why not? It's relatively cheap to do as long as it's not complete trash.
everyone keeps telling me i too young to own a corvette, old or new. i turn 19 tomorrow, and i just feel like if i'm going to spend my money, spend my time working on it, and spend my time driving it and learning how everything works, i mine as well get exactly what i want. i've been literally binge watching videos on c4's all month. i feel like i own one lol but thanks for this video, definitely highlighted some things that I didn't pay attention to in the other videos
16:30 The garbage man is here to pick up the neighbor’s Mustang.
nice video,
Dream car bone stock silver bullet automatic trans coupe L98 engine
Good job! Thanks!
I have a 1996 grand sport convertible, only 130 made. And it only has 7000 miles on it. Don’t want to drive it too much or there will be too many miles. It’s cool to have but having a normal one is better because you can drive it.
Maybe 130 in your configuration,they made 1000 total GS cars with each having its own sequential serial number.
i enjoy my 85
question. I bought a 87 Nash 4+3. the overdrive button is stuck in the on position. is it fine that way or does it need repair?
Rule #1. Don't confuse them with the explosive
Interesting other people saying C4 parts are expensive 😂
great vid.. thanks bro ;)
Is it true that 93 anniversary edit are only ruby red?
Mine is 86 with l98
Should i get one for my first car? Cheap enough, my dream spec for a C4 is 1989,6 Speed Manual,Red Interior,Sport Suspension option(that i forgot the name of),Coupe,and Silver exterior... the rest i can do aftermarket like muffler delete,add some more power
Are you sure the LT-4 only came with a 6 speed? I'm looking at buying a 96 collectors edition and its automatic and has an LT-4 in it??
Well you CAN swap a LT4 motor in a regular automatic 1996 Corvette. Check the RPO codes underneath the console lid. Should say LT4 and ZF6. My bet is it will say LT1
my dad had a 1987 that he left to me in his will
Hey there mate, I sent you a PM, I'm a youtuber from China and I'm coming to do an epic 10k mile trip through america in a C4 and I'd like to meet you along the way
+serpentza I replied back to you the day you sent it. Maybe it went to spam? Either way I'll send it again
Didn't thought i would find you here SerpentZA. Just watched your videos, haha.
+serpentza Love you videos man!
Good information, thanks!
As a first time Vette buyer that wants a C4, your video is very appreciated! It is not the $'s, I'm near 60 and it was my teenage dream car.
There are alot of C4's that are available, you can get one with low mileage, in good shape for a low price 😎
the digital dash alone is worth the price
It's a glipse into the future.
I had a c4 for years n drove it with a barely lit dash. Went to sell it and a guy said if you can fix the dash ill take it rest of the car was mint. Done some research took the lcd apart cleaned connectors with a eraser voila worked perfect. My only regret is that i didnt do that sooner it was really a beautiful display when it worked lol
@@aaronmitchell196 I just bought a c4 and the speed and rpms do not show at all. Do you think cleaning the connectors like you did might solve the problem?
5 years later im commenting lol. Just got my 87 corvette. Got it for 5k. Instrument cluster was half ass worked on. The speedometer polarized lenses was toast and the info panel and tachometer was starting to go. Taking it apart and doing it was really fun and simple to do. But the center info panel was an aftermarket panel and found that out when I took of the lense. Bryan from Batee (100% recommended for C4 parts) helped me figure that out and had to buy a new center panel. The digital gauge alone is 100% worth getting the 80s' to me. Just so much more fun!
@@betweenthebars19 if you haven't found the problem yet could need new polarized lenses. Most common issue. But yet again, I wouldn't know over here
Just bought a 89 convertible with 13,000 miles on it , 1st one for me , wish me luck ....
Good luck
Damn that's low miles. Guy hardly drove it!
Well, how did it go?
How many miles do you have on it now? How much did you pay when you bought it?
my dad gave me his daily 89 vette. kind of excited.
Lucky ! My dad gave me his 1972 Triumph TR6.
@@xMarkie my dad gave me AIDS
Kind of?
Mr. Queasy That’s a steal
@@erronmorgan993 ha
My 84 is 35 years old now and I can hit the key and it cranks right up and runs like new. It has some mods and I keep adding hp but it has the original l83 with 175,000 miles so eat it haters.
my 86 t/a is the same.twist the key and she fires up,carbed l31 vortec about 375 horsepower,5 speed,4 wheel disc,posie,hardtop with zero options and its a hardtop
I bet I know what your name is....lucky!
I had an 84 that was perfect with only 40k original and lots of upgrades. I got tired of getting my ass busted by Honda Accords, so I upgraded to a C6.
@@GarKeith I don't have that problem thankfully. congrats on your upgrade.
Haters? Screw ‘em. Love the C4 and appreciate enthusiasts keeping them alive. Sub 10k cars can be found in great condition and is underrated for the value and fun factor.
I thought I would learn to buy an explosive
I want a 84-89 just for the digital dash
I have one for sale !! 86 5,000
Funny digital dashes are the norm now
juan garcia where?
@@kingshabazz1310 Yes i know we have fully screens now in our modern cars , but for people like me who loves that feature in the c4 when i was a kid in that time , it´s like having something like night rider cluster. It is a fact that sooner or later the fantasy was going to be reality in our days .Greetings my friend.
Ive got a85, the dash is super cool
Good video, maybe next time you could make a video about typical C4 issues. (Common problems) Last summer I bought my first C4, actually my first Corvette. Just love how it handles, it's got loads of torque and the way the hood opens is just awesome.
Best thumbnail I’ve ever seen!
my dream c4 - 96 grandsport
I had #901 sold it to by my wife a car in 2018.
Another rule of thumb when buying a C4 is if you can only afford one up to $5-6k you better be able to turn a wrench and diagnose problems. And be prepared to spend another $2-3k in parts. The early cars are 30+ years old now. Lots of wear, exposure to the elements etc. Don't get me wrong, I love my 86 but it's the project that keeps on giving lol.
+da teatorjr I restored my 86 Corvette. Everything new with a performance engine. Car has 5k miles on it. New paint job by Me. I cant even sell it for 9500. So I am keeping it. Where are you going to get a new 1986 Corvette for 9500? The youtube video is Corvette C4 1986 Frankenstein Restoration.
I'm really anxious to get into one, but that's obviously a fear of mine.
da teatorjr I'm thinking about purchasing a 86 corvette with 86k on the car. It hasnt been driven in a year. I'm also wondering how I could get more horsepower without making drastic changes to this car. Where would you start for for more house power and getting this car ready for driving.
piece of cake, c'mon. OBD1 guys...
da teatorjr so true....,of more $$$$$
Should I buy 1994 c4 with auto transmission? I'm so confusing about transmission...
have both C4 and C5 ..i love my 86 best but it has cost me about 10 thousand in maintenance in the last 20 years.i saved all receipts. and my C5 cost me about $700 in 10 years. But even tho my C4 is old i still enjoy all that hidden hp the L-98 puts out and the handling is great as well. love the gas fill in the middle, the clam shell hood and starwars dash and how the seat hugs my hips on tight turns.. the unique w/s wiper motion. etc....white with red interior...
Lee Kenney how's the insurance for both of them ?
its not that bad..less than most would think.
Lee Kenney
What’s the hidden hp?
Yeah what hidden hp man ?
The 1984 saved the Corvette from extinction . If the C4 wasn't a wonderful achievement in technology there would not be any cars with the Corvette name . Thanks should be given to the creator's . So it had a few problem's .The many improvements over the previous 10 years are too many to List . So if 84 is not a good year 73 - 82 must be real junk . They have the same H.P. and weigh 600 more Lbs. Don't handle as good , and R much slower . The 54 came with a 6 cylinder and bad breaks . Buy a new one if you can't work on it and make it better . My 69 big block doesn't get very good gas mileage , and the radio isn't working . 😢
I’ve been dailying my 87 for a little over a year now, these cars have wonderful visibility. They also scoot through traffic pretty good when they need to, and the gas mileage is pretty good if you keep out of it. Mine is an automatic but it has the 2.72?:1 rear in it, cruises very nicely at any speed. Only problem is the noise level, not from the (aftermarket) exhaust, but from the wind going across the windshield and the glass roof. Most of the noise seems to be coming from the lip where the two meet, and a bit from the windows. I also have 315s in the rear with summer tires, so it’s sketchy in the rain and snow but that’s my fault for running really wide, somewhat worn summer tires in suboptimal conditions. I’m very happy with my purchase overall.
Word of the wise, if you buy a car that has done a lot of cruising, and you’re getting a code 33, vary your driving a bit. When the car has spent a lot of time at one throttle position the tps (throttle position sensor) will burn out a little bit in that spot, and the car doesn’t know if the tps is wrong or if the maf (mass airflow) sensor is wrong. $100 repair, but the car will run like shit when it goes into limp home mode. There are other potential causes, but that was my car’s major malfunction when I bought it.
Also, the VATS can be bypassed with resistors, you just need to figure out what resistance your key has (ohm meter will tell you) and to match it. My car came with a strange bypass that used a switch that’s hidden in the dash, so effectively it has a secret kill switch for the ignition.
The c4 is much more fun to drive and park than the c5. Looks better to!