Description
Corvette C3 Targa | 1981
Highlights:
-
- Matching 5.7 Liter V8 engine with automatic transmission
- 74,599 miles with verified documentation
- Targa-top coupe
- Good overall condition
The seller offers for sale this 1981 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Targa, located in Tubize, Belgium. Originally imported from the United States, the vehicle is now customs-cleared with an E705 document in order. It still carries US registration and has not yet been registered in Belgium. The car is powered by the classic 5.7-litre (350 cubic inch) V8 engine, coupled with an automatic transmission. With just under 75,000 miles on the odometer, the mileage is declared as guaranteed by the seller.
Mechanically, the Corvette is in running condition. It starts easily and shifts smoothly through the automatic gearbox. The car drives, brakes, and stops without issue based on limited parking-lot testing. The seller notes that due to lack of plates, it has not been fully road-tested. The vehicle is not currently inspected and lacks a Belgian technical check, which would be required for registration. Additionally, the turn signals, brake lights, and general lighting are reported as non-functional and would need attention.
The body and paintwork are in good condition overall, with specific scratches visible on the front end. Chrome and trim elements appear complete and original. The wheels and tires are visually in good shape based on the supplied images.
The interior is rated as very good. Upholstery, dashboard, and controls are all intact with no significant wear or damage. The seller notes no issues inside the car, and seating surfaces and carpeting appear clean and well-maintained. The interior retains its classic late C3 styling with deep, sculpted seats and a driver-focused dash layout.
As the final iteration of the third-generation Corvette, the 1981 model represents a transition year. It was the first Corvette to be fully built at the new Bowling Green, Kentucky plant, and it introduced refinements including a composite rear leaf spring, new computer-controlled carburetion, and a revised fiberglass body. While it retained the same overall form as earlier C3s, detail differences and a focus on luxury options helped align the model with early 1980s trends.
With emissions restrictions and a shifting market, the 1981 Corvette prioritized style and comfort over outright performance. Still, the 5.7L V8 and rear-wheel-drive chassis remained a strong formula, and the C3 continues to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate American muscle aesthetics with open-air motoring capability. The Targa configuration makes it ideal for summer cruising, while its fiberglass body ensures longevity.
This example offers a presentable and usable base for light restoration or registration, with cosmetic details and lighting needing attention to bring it up to European road standards. As prices for earlier C3s and collector-grade Corvettes climb, well-kept examples like this are increasingly attractive entry points into the classic sports car world.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
2. Fair Condition: Shows noticeable wear and signs of aging. The car drives, brakes, and shifts.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Vlaams-Brabant, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has US registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
