Guide for the 1986 Corvette
In 1986, buyers had the option to purchase the first new Chevy Corvette convertible since 1975, making it a great option for collectors.
Written by Sarah Gray
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
For the first time since 1975, Chevrolet offered buyers a convertible option with their 1986 Corvette.
Having rounded off the rough edges of the new C4 released in 1984, Chevy took the opportunity to focus on adding more style and safety options with the 1986 Corvette.
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Ownership costs for a 1986 Corvette
Buying and owning a classic car is a different type of investment than the one we make when we
buy a new car
. Instead of focusing on things like depreciation, financing, and fuel costs, you should be more worried about costs associated with maintenance, repairs, and storage.When they originally appeared on the market, 1986 Corvettes were listed at an MSRP of about $27,027 for the base model with standard equipment. Adding the convertible option or the Z51 Performance Package increased this cost in ‘86, and so it usually ups the price buyers might expect to pay for a used one today.
On average, a 1986 Corvette today will set you back around $9,000, but if you’re looking for one in mint condition, you’ll need to be ready to shell out as much as $25K to $30K.
Even if you can’t find a 1986 ‘Vette in mint condition, you still need to plan for some serious expenditures associated with buying the car. Unlike a new vehicle that usually comes with a warranty, you’re going to have to cover all the
car maintenance
and repairs on your new-to-you Corvette. Even if you’re not looking at a full restoration, basic repairs and maintenance can cost you anywhere from $2K to $10K per year, depending on how often you drive the car.If you’re planning to keep the car and insure it as a classic, you’ll also need to be sure you budget for storage.
MORE:
How much is car storage?
Where to buy a 1986 Corvette
To buy a 1986 Corvette, use
ClassicCars.com
or other sale and auction sites like Craigslist. You can also check out Corvette forums
for listings and information if you’d prefer to buy or learn from a fellow enthusiast.
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What does the 1986 Corvette bring to the table?
Chevy had gotten most of the kinks out of the C4 with the 1985 model, so now they settled down to focus on additions rather than improvements. These included the addition of a convertible option, as well as new anti-theft and safety features.
MORE: Guide for the 1985 Corvette
Strengths and weaknesses of the 1986 Corvette
Here are the standout features for those in the market for a 1985 Corvette—the good and the bad.
The good: speed and performance
The 1986 Corvette offered the same engine and transmission options that earned praise from critics and consumers in 1985.
The good: Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS)
1984 and 1985 Corvettes were being stolen off the streets at astonishing rates. About 7% of all ‘84s and ‘85s produced were stolen.
To combat the rampant
car theft
, GM introduced a new security system that paired each car electronically with a specific key. If someone tried to start your car with the wrong key, the starter relay and the fuel pump would shut down for at least two minutes.Following the introduction of this new anti-theft system, Corvette theft dropped to less than 1% in 1986 and to nearly 0% the following year.
The good: anti-lock brakes
Chevrolet introduced the first anti-lock braking system on their 1986 Corvette.
The bad: pricey convertible
While many were excited to see a convertible option return to the fold, it turned out to be incredibly cost-prohibitive. The option was an additional $5,005 on top of the already hefty price tag.
The bad: squeaks and rattles
Even with improvements to the suspension, the Corvette continued to suffer from squeaks and rattles throughout the cabin.
The bottom line—which 1986 Corvette to buy
It really comes down to what you’re looking for in your “new” Corvette. Much of the added expense of the convertible option has since been absorbed through time and depreciation. However, since so few were actually made and sold, they tend to be harder to find and more expensive to get.
If you’re looking for a true collector’s item, shoot for the convertible; otherwise, the base coupe will do just fine.
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