It was the year of generational film classics like “Top Gun”, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “Stand By Me”. Radios filled the air with hits like Eddie Murphy’s “Party All the Time”, “Say You, Say Me” from Lionel Richie and “Broken Wings” from Mr. Mister. The “Cosby Show” topped the television ratings. It was also the model year for the much anticipated return of the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. It was 1986 and the ‘Vette hadn’t been available in a ragtop since 1975, some 11 years earlier. Available in both a coupe and convertible, the open cockpit Corvette got much of the attention at the time, due to its decade-old absence and its timing with a high-flying movie like “Top Gun”. It did not disappoint. If you want to take a trip back in time just a bit, without feeling like you are being taken kicking and screaming, reintroduce yourself to the coupe and convertible models of the 1986 C4 Chevrolet Corvette.
Both the coupe and convertible were equipped with a 350 cubic inch (5.7 liter) Tuned Port Fuel Injection engine. The TPI engine allows it to convert more produced power to the wheels. This particular power plant, exclusive to the Corvette, has a 90 degree V8 design with overhead valves. The engine produced an impressive (at the time) 230 horsepower and an even more impressive 330 lb. ft. of torque. This Vette can reach from zero to 60 in just a tick over 6 seconds and go from zero to 100mph in just 6.6 seconds. It has a top speed of about 150 mph.
The 1986 C4 Chevrolet Corvette featured a four-speed automatic transmission standard, with an optional 4+ 3 speed manual transmission available. The car introduced aluminum heads and included an automatic braking system (ABS) as standard equipment.
The list of standard and optional equipment is like taking a step back into time with air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks and six-way power adjustable front seats.
The 1986 Chevrolet Corvette continued to build upon the Corvette’s image as a world class sports car. While both the coupe and convertible were highly anticipated and sought after in the mid-eighties, they are a reachable classic/collector vehicle today. As usual, this is particularly true with well-maintained models with original documentation and parts. There is something almost timeless about the 1986 Corvette that keeps its youthful styling even to this day. It remains fun to drive and the resonating voice of its 350 engine is a joy to behold. This is a sportscar in its mid-thirties that may just be reaching its peak.