1989 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe 5.7L / 350 from North America

Summary:

Truly an American classic

Faults:

Having some issues cooling while stopped in traffic. The wire in the ignition switch for the VATS security broke; a simple solder of wire fixed the problem.

General Comments:

My first Vette, the six speed is smooth and easy, with a ride typical of a sports car, however not too rough. It is a blast to drive, I'm enjoying every minute of this car. Everything works well for a 28 year old car. I know it is not the most popular body style of Corvettes. But the hello officer red car is a head turner.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd July, 2016

1989 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7 TPI from North America

Summary:

Great old American car that can still be used as a functional daily driver

Faults:

Light gears required replacing. 50 dollars and two hours of my time.

There is a "flutter" in the fuel system when below 50 degrees outside. Replaced filter, did not fix. Fuel pump or pressure regulator is more than likely the cause. 91 and 50 dollars respectively, and I can do it myself. Will probably change at some point this summer, but am not concerned about being stranded.

Other than that, nothing. A couple of oil leaks starting, but for 24 years old, expected.

General Comments:

First of all, I find it frustrating to read reviews with only 7000 miles of ownership, but I thought I would chime in anyway.

The car... as others have stated, may not be the best every day driver given your situation. For me, it is. I commute 50 miles one way and have two routes to take. It makes the drive much more enjoyable. The seats are very comfortable, the car is effortless to drive, and winding down two lane roads in the lakes country of Minnesota is enjoyable. The A/C works, the car gets 23-24 miles per gallon, and depreciation is very minimal at this point in the car's life.

Driving around town on bumpy roads, yes it can get irritating. The ride can be very rough. It is worth it to me, however as my driving style lends itself to this car.

Parts are, for the most part reasonably priced. If you like to tinker here and there with your car, and appreciate driving something different, one of these would be a wise and economical choice. It is 24 years old, and I expect some of the quirks that come with that. The rattles seem to be increasing. Time to spend an hour and tighten some screws.

Overall, a great car (so far), and if you have ever thought of buying one, I would not hesitate. I will update this if anything major arises.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th May, 2013

1989 Chevrolet Corvette 350 V8 from North America

Summary:

Wonder weekend cruiser

Faults:

Passenger side courtesy light and trunk switch do not work, and window defogger was missing.

Rear trim and interior roof halo cracked.

Right rear speaker squeals.

Parts are on order.

General Comments:

The car is in good shape and looks great.

Fast for the time, not the fastest now, but still a quick car.

Would like more headroom, sometimes my head brushes the headliner.

I've wanted one for 20 years, and finally got one for my mid-life crisis. I'm loving it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th July, 2010

9th Jul 2010, 18:35

"I've wanted one for 20 years, and finally got one for my mid-life crisis."

I've never even once seen a Corvette being driven by anyone other than a man who is clearly having his mid-life crisis. It's the exact reason I'd never buy a Corvette.

18th May 2015, 02:35

I bought my first Corvette at age 32. Interestingly enough my older son bought a Viper at age 30. If that was my mid life crisis, that means now at age 61 my days seem numbered by your theory. There are certainly some Corvettes that are less desirable to own. 73-96 come to mind; many are entry level Vettes, and are relatively cheap. 97 is fine if it has an LSI vs LT1, as you could have both. I like mid years and C5s up. Some of the 30-40 set I know like 62s or the C5 or C6. Some are engineers, dual income types, or have a business. Not on a respirator or infirm. A lot have a cool street bike like a Street Glide; very common with Vette guys I know. We have fun.