Positioning:
The 1988 Chevrolet Corvette represented a significant refinement of the C4 generation, focusing on improved performance, handling, and build quality. It was positioned as a premium American sports car.
Competitors:
Competed with European sports cars such as Porsche 944, BMW M3 (E30), and some higher-performance Japanese models of the era.
Features:
Aerodynamic styling, rear-wheel drive, sophisticated independent suspension, powerful V8 engine, optional Z51 performance handling package, focus on driver engagement.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, powertrain control modules (ECM/PCM), manual and automatic transmissions, clutch system, drive axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear independent), steering system, brake system (including ABS if equipped), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, audio system, HVAC controls, engine control sensors, diagnostic connectors, fuses, relays.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, seats, glass, mirrors, bumpers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, inspections.
Repair:
Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension strut replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring schematic interpretation.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, component measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complex drivetrain and electrical system overhauls, including engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Engine Code:
L98 (LB9 and L98)
Displacement:
5.7 Liters (350 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm)
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4,000 rpm (L98)
Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (L98)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Tuned Port Injection (TPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.0 quarts (11.4 Liters) with heater
Oil Capacity:
5.0 quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
Transmission Type:
700R4 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive
Transmission Type:
Doug Nash '4+3' Manual Transmission (rare, produced in limited numbers for 1988)
Automatic Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.06, 2nd: 1.63, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.70 (Overdrive)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Length:
176.5 inches (4483 mm)
Width:
71.0 inches (1803 mm)
Height:
46.4 inches (1179 mm)
Wheelbase:
96.2 inches (2443 mm)
Front Track:
59.6 inches (1514 mm)
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1534 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,350 lbs (1451 - 1519 kg) depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,200 lbs (1905 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 13.8 cubic feet (391 liters) rear compartment
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in modern terms, but designed with safety cage and impact zones.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on 1988 models)
Traction Control:
Not standard on 1988 models, though later C4 generations offered it.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment, front and rear crumple zones.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, premium sound system available.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control.
Keyless Entry:
Not available on 1988 models.
Connectivity Options:
None (pre-internet era, no Bluetooth or USB)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified in the manual.
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, meeting GM 1825M specification (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron II/III compatible)
Tpi System:
Potential for clogged or failing fuel injectors, vacuum leaks in the intake manifold runners.
Clutch Hydraulic System:
Leaking master or slave cylinders, especially on the manual transmission.
Heater Core:
Can develop leaks, leading to coolant loss and interior fogging.
Active Handling System Errors:
While not standard in '88, electronic issues could arise in later models affecting handling systems.
Interior Electronics:
Aging wiring, switch failures, and intermittent issues with power accessories.
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette nameplate dating back to 1953, establishing it as America's sports car.
C4 Generation Timeline:
1984-1996. The 1988 model year falls within the mid-point of the C4 generation, featuring key updates and refinements over earlier C4 models.
1988 Updates:
Introduction of the L98 engine with Tuned Port Injection and aluminum alloy cylinder heads, revised suspension tuning, updated interior ergonomics, and optional Z51 performance handling package.
Production Years:
1953-Present
1988 Production Volume:
21,554 units
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
