AutoHunter Spotlight: 1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 46k-Mile 1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1.

Here’s a unique scenario that this car presents: According to the window sticker, the value of the options exceeds the original base price of the car itself. The 1991 Corvette started at $32,455. Added to that in this case were a $31,683 ZR-1 Special Performance Package, dual removable roof panels for $950, and “New York warranty enhancements” (whatever that may entail) for $65.

All said and done, the $65,703 that you would pay for this car 33 years ago was a hefty price to pay. But Corvette collectors will agree that this car is something special for a number of reasons. It is being offered up by a dealer in Buffalo, New York, and the auction ends this Friday.

It is hard to believe, but the fourth-generation Corvette has been around now for 40 years. It first launched for the 1984 model year, with production taking place at General Motors’ Bowling Green, Kentucky assembly plant. Showing just 46,058 miles on the odometer, this C4 is fresh and clean. The CARFAX shows that it has Pennsylvania and New York-ownership.

The ZR-1 variant of the C4 (launching in 1990) took an already-great chassis and ramped things up a notch via a collaboration with Group Lotus in the United Kingdom. The LT5 5.7-liter small-block V8 that was co-developed between GM and Lotus used the same bore centers as the L98 but with four overhead camshafts and 32 valves. A few other performance upgrades were added to the mix including a wider power band and a different air management system. The result was a power output of 375 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. A ZF six-speed manual was the only available transmission for the ZR-1.

There were a number of other innovations that went into the build besides what took place in the engine bay. Additional equipment included large ventilated disc Bosch anti-lock brakes, an upgraded “FX3” suspension, and wider tires. There were three modes available with that Selective Ride. This was a serious machine for the serious enthusiast.