Vehicle Description
The 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Indianapolis 500 Pace Car special
edition is considered the defining line where the Corvette was no
longer just seen as a sports car. This is where they became the
true collector's pieces they are today. So to find one that is
believed to have traveled less than 120 miles annually (oh yeah!)
makes this possibly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at a
collector's collectible.
Factory code RPO Z78 radically transformed the Corvette's looks,
adding the two-tone black over silver metallic paint job with a
bright red pinstripe in between. Then a spoiler was added at each
end to really give it an aggressive look. This was such a unique
appearance for the Corvette that it's terrific to have so much
originality. The story that we are told in this one involves a
first owner who is believed to be a former Chevrolet dealer. He had
it NCRS judged and Gold Certified in 1988, and the certificate
comes with the sale. He kept it for about 33 years total and sold
it to the second owner who has just maintained it correctly since.
So the unique factory finish shows all the right signs of being
original. In fact, the largest criticism you may have about the
paint would be the signs of living under a cover for most of its
life! That's why you have impressive originality with the special
anniversary badging, beautiful redline alloys, correct Goodyear
tires (possibly original) Even the ultra-low odometer is believed
to represent the full actual mileage.
The silver leather interior is the perfect color for this special
edition car. And the way these have been preserved reaffirms the
feeling that this one has hardly ever been driven. The carpets,
door panels, and dashboard have all been treated with respect over
the years, too, so this is a true time capsule. Indy Pace car
replicas cost nearly fifty percent more than a standard coupe, and
so Chevrolet made sure that they were loaded and luxurious. The
includes glass T-tops, power windows, electric rear defogger,
provisions for air conditioning (it will need servicing,) sport
mirrors, tilt steering column, and cruise control. This one even
still has its original AM/FM/8-track stereo. But even if all you
want to do is drive this collector's piece, the leather-wrapped
steering wheel and full gauge package really let you enjoy
America's sports car.
The engine is the numbers-matching L48 350 cubic-inch V8. This V8
appears only to have been given good routine maintenance, without
disturbing the stock factory items. The result is a time capsule
that's also an exceptionally strong runner. This is mated to the
numbers-matching three-speed automatic transmission for a
smooth-shifting grand touring experience. Chevy built these to be
great cruising cars, and so the fully independent suspension, power
steering, and four-wheel disc brakes really make you want to take
it out every weekend and add to the low odometer.
The sale comes with both the NCRS award and window sticker in a
framed presentation. This is an amazing piece of history that's
ready to be someone's ultimate collectible. So do you want to be
jealous or make everyone else jealous? Call today!!!
