Chevrolet - Corvette [Pre-1982] (1964)

Step back into the golden era of automotive design with a guided tour of the Chevrolet Corvette [Pre‑1982] lineup. Whether you’re hunting for a sleek 1964 Corvette or evaluating a side‑by‑side used Chevrolet Corvette [Pre‑1982] price comparison, this entry gives you the essential facts and reliable context for pricing and depreciation insights.

• Model year: 1964–1981
• Engine: 283‑ or 327‑ci V8 with a range of options (4‑, 5‑, 6‑ or 8‑speed manual; upgrades such as the 350ci ‘Hot Rod’ or the 455ci “Chevy II” available later in the 1970s).
  Typical base output: 270‑310 hp.
• Transmission: Manual Borg & Beck 5‑speed; Later models offered a 3‑speed automatic (T-56/3) in certain trims.
• Fuel type: Regular unleaded gasoline. (Fuel economy 12–15 mpg city / 20–23 mpg highway.)
• Dimensions:
  • Wheelbase: 113 in (284 cm) for most variants.
  • Overall length: 176 in (447 cm) (1964‑75) or 175 in (445 cm) (1976‑81).
  • Width: 70 in (178 cm). Height: 47 in (119 cm).
  • Weight: 3,600 lb–3,900 lb (1,630 kg–1,770 kg).
• Exterior styling: Signature flared “bump‑front” on the 1964–1969 models; 1970‑71 models introduced a roof‑line dip for better aerodynamics before the 1972 “chartered” appearance, and the 1976 redesign brought a modern, slicing “slip‑stream” look.
• Interior: Minimalistic racing heritage, punch‑out bucket seats on high‑trims like the Sting Ray, later models offered optional “Helmic” interiors with a shift lever in the trilux region.
• Safety features: Dual‑operator seat belts, later models equipped with a seat‑belt reminder light and a 1977 optional, at the time first, electric parking brake.

When assessing a Chevrolet Corvette [Pre‑1982] price, it’s essential to consider three pillars: the specific year, the condition (rust, finish, mileage), and market locality. The spectrum can range from sub‑\$2 k for heavily modified or damaged examples to over \$70 k for an original 1964 with a pristine interior and full original engine.

Depreciation and Value ‑ A Quick Guideline

Unlike newer models that accumulate high depreciation rates, Chevrolet Corvette [Pre‑1982] depreciation is largely governed by rarity and historical significance. Real‑world data shows:

• Short‑term (first year): typically loses 15‑20% of its value due to market volatility and enthusiast interest. This dip is commonly seen for newly listed items.
• Mid‑term (2–5 years): optional 5‑10% decrease per year as mechanical parts age and restoration costs outweigh potential selling price without significant upgrades.
• Long‑term (5–10 years): the value can stabilize or even appreciate if the car is in original condition, restored to factory specs, or part of a numbered, title‑clear set.

Many collectors note that a sturdy, low‑mileage 1964 Corvette seen in a “Cold‑Weather South‑American” locale can appreciate 25% over 10 years, especially if it is a rare green percezione variant with original rims.

What Is a 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Worth Today?

“What is a 1964 Chevrolet Corvette [Pre‑1982] worth