New bumper caps for both ends were featured in 1980, and they included integral spoilers. They were similar to the 1979 and the pace car replica 1978 spoilers, but without the seam, which offered a neater appearance. Radiator airflow was improved with the new design, along with turbo-style back window, allowing better view when backing up.
The 1980 Corvette came fully loaded. Options were as follows: 350 V8 automatic, power steering, power brakes, power windows, AM/FM/Cassette/radio, painted sunroof panels, leather interior, A/C, rear window defogger, tilt and telescopically steering wheel, direct steering, back parcel shelve blind, roof panel carrier, etc.
Corvettes, which had been slowly gaining weight, went on a diet for 1980. Gas mileage was considerably improved. My Corvette averaged 25 mile to the gallon. This was most likely thanks to lightened roof panels, an aluminum differential housing and cross member along with a thinner hood, windshield, frame and door panels.
Federal government regulations entered a new era of absurdity with the requirement of a speedometer limited to 85 mph. Though my Corvette had a pin on the speedometer, there really was no limitation to the top speed of the Corvette.
The only drawback that was ever suffered by this car; if allowed to sit for more than two days, the battery would become completely drained, no matter what quality battery was installed. To my knowledge, no one has ever discovered why the earlier built 1980 Corvettes all did this. It is my best guess that the manufacturer discovered what caused it, and in order to prevent many costly recalls, decided to remain mum regarding this issue.
If you are wondering why my little Maltese Princess is sitting on the hood… well, she much preferred to go “bye-bye car” in my little red Corvette, and she considered this car an absolute necessity to any wardrobe 😉 .