Since we see so many Corvettes at Classic Auto Mall, it’s easy to forget that they are actually limited run cars. That is, they’re produced in much smaller numbers than typical commuter cars. For example, in 1991, Chevrolet built 104,297 Caprices. In total, Chevy produced 895,569 vehicles that year. But only 20,639 of them were C4 Corvettes!
For consignment, one of those uncommon cars, a 1991 Chevrolet Corvette with a title verified 33,702 actual miles. Its factory color is Turquoise Metallic and while overall numbers are low, it was the fourth most common color produced in ’91 with about 8% of Vettes leaving Kentucky in this hue. Interiors were either black or saddle, and we’ve rarely seen one with the saddle interior, but that’s the combo we have in our Hallowed Halls today.
Exterior
A sign of the times, Turquoise Metallic is gleaming on the car which is one of 1,621 turquoise 1991 Vettes. Other makes and models had shades of teal and aquamarine in the early 90’s and with the bold colors that are covering contemporary cars today, this color is back in vogue. 1991 was the year the C4 when from flat rear and inset marker lights to rounded tail and more flush lights, a change that has paid dividends because it still looks great today. Other refinements include the four horizontal gills on the front fenders and the 17-inch sawblade wheels. Black sculpted mud guards have been added and keep the lower portion free of rock chips. The smoked targa top is in great condition and the only imperfection we found was a light scratch on the corner of the front bumper and some minor curb rash on one of the wheels.
Interior
Saddle and black door panels create a dramatic contrast to the paint and are in excellent condition. The sport seats with heavy bolstering and deep tuck and roll inserts are covered in Saddle leather that is still soft, yet well padded showing virtually zero wear. Electric seat controls are on the inboard side of the seat, veering from placement in virtually every other car. A black leather wrapped steering wheel sits in front of the arched gauge cluster where the tachometer arches up one side, and the gauge needles roll down the arch on the other side of the digital readout in orange backlighting. The center stack is canted towards the driver and contains gray plastic buttons so common in this era, to control the heater/AC and radio. The automatic shifter is in the center console housed in black plastic surroundings and dressed in a leather boot. More seat controls sit behind the shifter and a leather clad armrest. The Saddle carpet is remarkably close in color to the leather seats and creates a clean, monochromatic look. It’s in great shape, protected by color keyed, fitted mats. The rear hatch area is also covered in the carpet and looks virtually untouched.
Drivetrain
Chevy’s venerable 5.7 liter V8 is under the hood, fuel injected and factory rated at 240 horsepower. A 700R4 4-speed transmission sends power to the rear meats via a limited slip differential with 2.59 gears. Power disc brakes live on each wheel. Lift the front body towards the front and we reveal a spotless engine, befitting a car with just 33,000 miles.
Undercarriage
Very clean underneath with no road grime visible. The dual exhaust meets at a catalytic converter, then split again to enter stock style mufflers and black angle cut exhaust tips which provide a very stealthy look. Fiberglass leaf springs and aluminum control arms save weight in the suspension construction and aid in keeping the big 275/40R17 tires planted to the ground. We note some residual oil on the pan but everything else is clean and dry.
Drive-Ability
If you’re reading through C4 descriptions, you know this writer has a thing for them, especially when they’re clean and low mileage. The tinted light that comes through the targa is just enough to brighten the saddle interior without destroying it. A turn of the key this turquoise time machine fired right up. I know GM says 240 horsepower, but the low center of gravity and torquey automatic feels powerful. Acceleration is excellent, handling is go kart like, and braking is more than adequate. We note the radio is inoperable but the cassette player works, and the horn is not working. Beyond that, all functions function.
If you’re in the market for a clean, low mileage C4, take a close look at this one. It’s not a particularly rare color, but it wasn’t offered for very long and the saddle interior absolutely sets it off beautifully. This garage queen is looking for the next steward to provide the royal treatment. Are you ready to be knighted?
1G1YY2381M5117970
1-USA
G-General Motors
1-Chevrolet
YY-Corvette
2-Coupe
3-Manual Belts, Driver’s Airbag
8-350ci L98 240hp
1-Check Digit
M-1991
5-Bowling Green, KY Assy Plant
117970-Sequential Unit Number
