81 L82

[Jim T.]

A co-workers son has a 81 that is undergoing restoration. He was told that his car is one of the few 81's that came with a L82 engine option.
According to the Black Book and the NCRS 68-82 Corvette Specifications Guide there were no optional engines in 81.
Anyone ever hear of a few 81's leaving the factory with a L82?

[Joe L.]

Re: 81 L82

Jim-----

I've never heard of it. In previous times, it would have been possible for left-over components from the previous model year being used in very early build cars of the next model year. However, with federal emissions certifications being what they were by the late 70s, I seriously doubt that such a thing could have occurred with GM installing an L-82 in a 1981 model Corvette. To do so, they would have had to emissions-certify that engine for the 1981 model. This is a VERY expensive process and I doubt that GM would do it for just a few cars.

[Joe L.]

Re: 81 L82

Jim-----

I've never heard of it. In previous times, it would have been possible for left-over components from the previous model year being used in very early build cars of the next model year. However, with federal emissions certifications being what they were by the late 70s, I seriously doubt that such a thing could have occurred with GM installing an L-82 in a 1981 model Corvette. To do so, they would have had to emissions-certify that engine for the 1981 model. This is a VERY expensive process and I doubt that GM would do it for just a few cars.