In 1979, GM started playing around with introducing forced induction to the Corvette in light of the car's decreasing performance due to CAFE regulations of the time. The result was a few different prototypes developed for testing. They featured a L82, 350 ci engine, AiResearch turbo charger and a modified Cadillac fuel injection system. Below are some details and photos that we've been able to collect:
Engine:
Production Corvette RPO L-82 350 in3 (5.7 L) with LM-1 camshaft. Standard internal engine components.
Turbocharger:
AiResearch model T-3 with integral exhaust waste gate which regulates intake manifold pressure to 7 PSI. Turbocharger mounted directly to right hand modified cast iron manifold.
Induction System:
Modified G.M. throttle body injection (T.B.I.) with closed loop electronic air/fuel control. Fuel injected into dual-plane intake manifold. Air throttle valve located at turbocharger compressor inlet.
Exhaust System:
Standard 1979 dual exhaust with single resonator replacing converter.
Transmission:
Standard 3-speed automatic transmission.
Rear Axle:
Production 3.55:1 rear axle with limited slip differential.
Wheels/Tires:
P255/60 R 16 Goodyear Eagle GT tires mounted on 15" x 8 1/2" aluminum wheels.
Body:
Special "Firefrost Silver" paint with external graphics and internal decor by Chevrolet Design Staff. RPO D 75 front air deflector and D 80 rear deck lid spoiler.
Vehicle Weight:
Front 1720 pounds
Rear 1775 pounds
Performance Comparison | Turbocharged L48 (automatic, 3:55 rear axle) |
Stock 1978 L48 (automatic, 3:08 rear axle) |
Stock 1979 L82 (4-speed, 3:70 rear axle) |
Acceleration, sec | |||
Zero to 30 mph | 2.2 | 2.9 | 2.5 |
40 mph | 3.3 | 4.2 | 3.6 |
50 mph | 4.7 | 5.8 | 4.9 |
60 mph | 6.3 | 7.8 | 6.6 |
70 mph | 8.5 | 10.2 | 8.6 |
80 mph | 11.0 | 13.3 | 10.9 |
90 mph | 14.0 | 17.5 | 13.7 |
100 mph | 18.2 | 23.1 | 17.5 |
Standing 1/4-mile | 15.0 sec @ 94 mph | 16.1 sec @ 88 mph | 15.3 sec @ 95 mph |
Top Speed, mph | 111 | 123 | 127 |