Project 1978 Chevrolet Corvette L82

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1978 Chevrolet Corvette marked a significant milestone as the 25th anniversary of the iconic American sports car. To commemorate the occasion, Chevrolet introduced a special Silver Anniversary Edition, featuring a distinctive two-tone silver and gray paint scheme. The Corvette also served as the official pace car for the 1978 Indianapolis 500, and Chevrolet released a limited-edition Pace Car Replica. This model year also debuted a major redesign of the Corvette’s body, most notably the new “fastback” rear window, which improved visibility and increased cargo space. 

Under the hood, the 1978 Corvette offered two engine options, including the high-performance L82 350-cubic-inch V8, which delivered 220 horsepower. Transmission included either a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic. The interior received updates as well, with improved instrumentation and optional leather seats. All 1978 Corvettes received special 25th Anniversary badging.  With over 46,000 units produced, the 1978 Corvette was a commercial success and helped solidify the model’s legacy.

This Corvette features the desirable L82 V8 engine, but it does not possess the unique chassis number of a true Limited Edition Pace Car; the paint scheme and decals were likely added at a later date. It runs and drives but should be considered a project. 

Highlights 

• Popular 1978 Corvette with the look of the special Limited Edition Pace Car 

• Powered by the desirable L82 350 cu-in V8 engine 

• Three-speed automatic transmission 

• Factory T-Tops for open-air enjoyment or all-weather comfort 

• The body tag decodes as: 

  • Build date: L26 – 26 August 1978 

  • Paint: 19L – Black 

  • Trim: 122 – Oyster Leather 

• The chassis number (1Z8748S408755) decodes as: 

  • 1 – USA   

  • Z – Corvette   

  • 87 – Two-door coupe   

  • 4 – L82 V8 engine   

  • 8 – 1978 model year   

  • S – St. Louis, Missouri, assembly plant   

  • 408755 – Sequential production number 

Features 

• 25th Anniversary badging 

• Leather-wrapped tilt/telescope three-spoke steering wheel 

• Remote-operated mirrors   

• 140 mph speedometer and 7000 rpm tachometer   

• 15-inch aluminum wheels 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint, trim, and surface blemishes throughout 

• Driver window does not work 

• Passenger window only goes down halfway  

• Tach and gas gauge do not work  

• Drivers' door inside pull is detached from the door at the top.  

• A/C does not work (fan blows but does not switch from defrost)

• Horn button missing 

• Radio missing 

Included 

• Keys 

Ownership History 

The consignor of this 1978 Chevrolet Corvette has owned it since 2017. 

Additional Notes 

This vehicle is being offered for the second time as the high bidder on the previous auction failed to follow through with their purchase. This was no fault of the vehicle or the seller. We have restricted their account so they will not be able to participate in future auctions.

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  

Contact: Tim Rollinger   Phone: 912.596.2099   email: trollinger@hagerty.com