1978 Chevrolet Corvette 25th Anniversary
In 1978, the legendary Chevrolet Corvette celebrated its 25th anniversary. All 1978 Corvettes included commemorative 25th Anniversary badging on front and back of the car. This model also saw the most significant changes to the Corvette’s styling since the third-generation “Stingray” models that were launched in 1968.
The traditional rear pillar design of prior models was replaced with a glass fastback window. This design gave this model an appearance of a hatchback, but it was actually fixed in place. It still improved outward visibility and luggage room, though. No convertible option was available, though Chevrolet did offer removable roof panels for those who wanted open-air.
1978 Chevrolet Corvette Silver Anniversary Edition. Photo courtesy Chevrolet Media.
Throughout most of the United States, two engine options were available. One being the 350-cu.in. L48 V-8, rated at 185 hp and the optional L82 V-8, which delivered 220 hp. According to Hemmings, transmission offerings included a four-speed manual, a three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic, and with the L82 engine, a four-speed, close-ratio manual. All 1978 Corvettes came with a Positraction rear, and an example equipped with the L82 and close-ratio gearbox ran from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, through the quarter-mile in 15.3 seconds at 95 mph, and to a top speed of 127 mph.
The Corvette was chosen to pace the Indy 500 and initially, there was supposed to be a 300 Pace Car Replicas produced. However, once the public caught word of this, demand for this model grew and over 6,000 cars were produced. A base Corvette came in at $9,351.89 in 1978 and many 1978 Pace Car Edition Corvette buyers believed they had an instant collectible on their hands.
Photo from Hemmings
The Pace Car Replica includes two-tone black and silver paint, special graphics, removable glass roof panels, P255/60R15 white letter tires, aluminum wheels with red accents, special seats, and so much more. According to Hemmings, NADA shows a jump in value of $4,000, from $24,200 to $28,200 for a Pace Car Edition with the optional L82 engine in average shape, over the past two years. At the high end of the range, show-ready 1978 Pace Cars with the L82 were priced at $36,100 in 2017 but have now climbed to $43,100 in 2019.
At Worldwide Vintage Autos, we believe this model deserves to be celebrated. Our true passion is classic cars and we love making our customers dreams come true by pairing them with their perfect vehicle. Our knowledgeable and dedicated staff are here to help! Browse our current inventory today and reach out to us if you need help making this dream a reality.
