For Sale: 1982 Chevrolet Corvette in Concord, North Carolina

The C3 was already an icon by the time this 1982 Chevrolet Corvette Collector Edition was being planned. So GM knew they needed to send off this final edition with the standout features that would make 'Vette fans take notice even decades later. So it's great to find a loaded classic with all its unique pieces appearing original, including the fuel-injected V8 power.

Silver Beige is the name of the exclusive color Chevy put together for this one-year-only offering. It was the champagne celebration to send off the C3, their most popular Corvette to date. They only made 6,759 Collector Edition coupes, and nearly 40 years later, it's going to be hard to find another example that has this much survivor-like quality. After all, you're looking at one that has averaged less than 900 miles annually. The paint is believed to be the full original application, and it has the right amount of ageing that people will love it at the survivor shows. The same goes for the full graphics package that has the unmistakable look of originality. It highlights some of the best features on the car, like the power bulge in the hood and the curve of the door panels. Plus, the matching pinstriping outlines the factory body kit, curvaceous fenders, glass hatch, and full-width rear spoiler. Add in the turbine-style wheels and raised white letter tires, and this one represents its era with pride.

These special edition cars added more than 23 percent to the base price of a Corvette, and so they are expected to be exceptionally well-done. That's why the interior was unique and so distinctive. Just like the exterior, this example is exceptionally original on the inside. You can see the multi-tone sliver leather that nicely coordinates with the metallic tones of the exterior, and it's absolutely retro-cool. An expensive machine also means plenty of great features, like power windows, power locks, rear defrost, and cold-blowing factory air conditioning. The radio is now an AM/FM/CD/HD unit with USB input so that you can get the best driving music for this Corvette. In fact, it truly is a driver's machine. That's why you have a power-adjusting bucket seat, tilt steering wheel, and a full gauge package. There was a special tint to the glass T-tops that make they look great on this special color theme, and the Collector Edition is especially noted for making it easy to stow them. This is the only C3 were the back glass is also a hatchback.

The 1982 engine package was a preview of the new C4 Corvette. The fuel-injected Cross-Fire 350 cubic-inch V8 is a torquey and powerful upgrade only available on the 1982 C3. It's both powerful and efficient, especially because it was paired to a new 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission with handy overdrive. Just like the rest of this car, all the major pieces are believed to be original under the hood. It has been given the right maintenance to make sure it remains a strong-running motor that fires up with the eagerness a proper FI machine should. These C3 were truly built for driving. That's why you have a fully independent suspension, power steering, cruise control, and four-wheel power disc brakes. So this low mileage collectable is also a great candidate for your grand tour experience.

The sale comes complete with the factory buildsheet, owner's manual, and maintenance records. These Collector Edition coupes are always special machines, and so originality is always cherished. That's why you know this is something special that you need to get your hands on right now.