1978 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe (C3, facelift 1978) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1978-1982 Chevrolet Corvette C3 facelift coupe is approximately 1596 kg (3520 lbs). This weight is relatively moderate for a sports car with a V8 engine, balancing strength and agility. The weight influences the Corvette’s driving dynamics by providing stability at higher speeds and during cornering, while still allowing for responsive handling typical of a sports coupe. However, compared to modern lightweight sports cars, the Corvette’s weight is higher due to safety features and build materials of the era.

The Chevrolet Corvette Coupe (C3 facelift) offers a rear luggage space of approximately 238 liters (about 8.4 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. While this space is limited compared to larger vehicles or SUVs, it provides enough room for everyday essentials, weekend gear, or a couple of small suitcases. The storage capacity reflects the Corvette's focus as a performance sports car rather than a family car, emphasizing style and speed over cargo practicality.

The ride height (ground clearance) of the 1978-1982 Corvette C3 facelift is approximately 109 mm (4.3 inches). This low ground clearance enhances aerodynamic efficiency and sporting performance by lowering the center of gravity, which improves handling and stability. However, it also means the vehicle is less suited for rough roads or speed bumps, and drivers need to be cautious when navigating inclined driveways or uneven surfaces.

Yes, the 1978-1982 Chevrolet Corvette C3 facelift coupe will generally fit comfortably into a standard garage. A typical single-car garage measures around 2400 to 3000 mm in width and 4800 to 5500 mm in length. With dimensions of 4704 mm (185.2 inches) in length and 1753 mm (69 inches) in width, it fits within typical garage dimensions, leaving some space around the vehicle for opening doors and maneuvering. The low height of 1219 mm (48 inches) also means no issues with vertical clearance. However, drivers should confirm their garage measurements for their specific situation.

The 1978-1982 Corvette C3 facelift is equipped with rims sized 8J x 15 and tire dimensions of 225/70 R15. These 15-inch rims paired with relatively wide 225 mm tires provide a good balance of grip, comfort, and classic styling appropriate for a late 70s muscle car. The tire and rim combination supports the Corvette's sporty handling characteristics by ensuring sufficient contact with the road surface, thereby improving traction and cornering capability.

Compared to earlier C3 Corvette models produced before the 1978 facelift, the 1978-1982 Corvette C3 facelift maintained very similar overall dimensions, with minor refinements largely focused on styling and interior improvements rather than size. The length, width, and height stayed around 4700 mm in length and 1750 mm in width, typical of the C3 generation's characteristic elongated, low-slung profile. The facelift brought updated front and rear fascias, improved aerodynamics, and minor weight reductions, but the physical size remained close to the original C3 specs to preserve the iconic Corvette look.

In terms of size, the 1978-1982 Corvette C3 facelift coupe is comparable to other American and international sports cars of the late 1970s and early 80s. For example, it is slightly longer but narrower than many European sports cars like the Porsche 911 of the era, which was smaller in length but similar in height. Compared to muscle cars like the Ford Mustang or Dodge Challenger, the Corvette is lower and narrower, emphasizing an aerodynamic sports design. Its luggage capacity is modest but typical for performance coupes of the time, focusing more on driving experience than cargo space.

The 1978 facelift marked a significant update in the Corvette C3 generation, introducing new exterior styling including a restyled front nose with a more pointed shape and updated rear taillights, along with available T-top roof panels that enhanced the open-air experience. Performance-wise, while the core chassis and engine options remained similar, refinements in aerodynamics and upgraded interiors improved the car’s appeal. Additionally, 1978 models featured refinements to safety equipment and emission controls to comply with regulations, reflecting technological progress and customer expectations at the time.

Prospective owners of the 1978-1982 Chevrolet Corvette C3 facelift should consider that, as a classic sports car, maintenance may require specialized knowledge and parts availability can be variable. Fortunately, the Corvette enthusiast community is large and active, with numerous clubs, forums, and restoration experts specializing in C3 models. Since the car features classic GM V8 powertrains and relatively straightforward mechanicals, routine maintenance and repairs are manageable for those with moderate mechanical skills. However, maintenance costs may be higher than average due to the car’s age and the need for OEM or aftermarket specialty components.