Description

A Chevrolet Corvette rated at 230 horsepower typically refers to models from the early 1980s, especially the 1984 Corvette—the first model of the fourth-generation (C4) lineup.

In 1984, the Corvette was completely redesigned, both in terms of styling and engineering. It featured a sleeker, wedge-shaped body with flush glass, integrated bumpers, and a more aerodynamic profile compared to the outgoing C3. This new generation also introduced a modernized suspension and improved handling, making the Corvette feel more like a precision sports car rather than a traditional muscle car.

Under the hood, the 1984 Corvette came equipped with a 5.7-liter (350 cubic inch) V8 engine known as the L83. It featured Cross-Fire Injection, which was Chevrolet’s early form of fuel injection using dual throttle bodies. This setup produced 205 horsepower initially, but by 1985, the newer L98 engine with Tuned Port Injection (TPI) bumped the output up to around 230 horsepower.

The 230-horsepower L98 engine offered a smoother, more responsive powerband and was a noticeable improvement over the previous Cross-Fire system. Though still modest by today’s standards, it allowed for 0–60 times in the mid-6 second range, which was impressive for the era.

Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a unique 4+3 manual gearbox (four gears with overdrive on the top three). The C4 also came with a digital dashboard, fully independent suspension, and a uniframe chassis, all contributing to its modern feel and precise handling.

Corvettes with 230 horsepower were part of a performance comeback in the mid-1980s, bridging the gap between the emissions-constrained ’70s models and the high-performance fuel-injected sports cars of the late ’80s and beyond.

Today, these Corvettes are recognized as affordable classics, offering a good mix of vintage style, emerging technology, and solid performance for enthusiasts and collectors alike.