The 1981 Corvette Ramp Truck: An Expert Analysis

Daily Car

·

18/02/2026

ADVERTISEMENT

What is this unique Corvette creation?

The vehicle began as two separate Chevrolet products - builders took the outer shell of a 1981 C3 Corvette and bolted it to the ladder frame of a Chevrolet C30 one ton pickup. The long fiberglass nose survived intact - behind the doors they installed a steel flatbed with a fold down tailgate that acts as a ramp. No plant ever released such a combination. One shop built it for a customer who wanted a car that could still haul an ATV.

What powers this vehicle plus what are its mechanical details?

A 400-cubic-inch small block Chevrolet V8 sits between the rails. The displacement equals 6.6 litres, large enough to generate the low speed twist demanded when a load sits over the rear axle. The small block family is known for lasting parts and cheap spares. The seller replaced the front suspension bushings, fitted fresh tubular shocks but also installed new brake linings and rotors.

ADVERTISEMENT

How does it handle as well as perform?

Output has not been measured on a dyno but the engine size and cam profile promise enough grunt to pull a compact tractor onto the bed. Because the chassis came from a C30, the steering is slow, the leaf springs are stiff or the twin piston calipers were designed for nine thousand pounds of truck. It will not dart through corners like a stock Corvette - it will, however, stay level when five hundred kilograms sit above the rear axle.

What is the condition of the body and interior?

The expanded front fenders flare outward to cover the truck hubs next to the ride height rose enough to fit thirty-one-inch tires. The proportions look jacked rather than sleek. Behind the seats the area is bare steel - a fold out ramp, tie down loops and a rubbed through coat of black paint. Rust has pitted both the ramp hinges plus the bed floor. The dash pad is cracked, foam shows through the seat vinyl and the carpet smells of mildew.

ADVERTISEMENT

What is its asking price but also who is the target buyer?

The seller in Queen Creek, Arizona, wants seven thousand dollars. Odometer reading is not offered. A collector who insists on originality will walk away. The buyer who needs a weekend hauler and enjoys stares at the fuel station will see value. Repairs will be mandatory but the truck already moves under its own power as well as carries a clear title.

Recommend

Green Light for Safety: Front Brake Lights Could Revolutionize Road Safety

A new study proposes green front and side brake lights to reduce intersection collisions and injuries, but faces significant regulatory hurdles.

ADVERTISEMENT

BYD Yangwang U9 Track Edition Shatters World EV Speed Record, Reaching Nearly 300 MPH

BYD's Yangwang U9 Track Edition smashes EV speed record, hitting 293.54 mph with its 2,960 hp quad-motor powertrain.

Chevy Holds Back on 2027 Bolt Production Amid EV Market Uncertainty

General Motors is scaling back initial production for the 2027 Chevy Bolt, opting for a single shift due to uncertain EV demand as tax credits expire. Learn about the automaker's strategy, Bolt features, and industry outlook in this update.

Ford Unleashes the Ultimate Ranger Super Duty: Australia's Toughest Workhorse Arrives

Ford introduces the Ranger Super Duty in Australia, its toughest workhorse yet, featuring a powerful V6 turbodiesel, enhanced towing, and customizable packages.

ADVERTISEMENT

Nissan Z Heritage Edition Sees Outrageous Dealer Markups, Not The NISMO

Discover how the limited-edition Nissan Z Heritage Edition is commanding massive dealer markups, far exceeding its MSRP, while the NISMO version remains unaffected. Learn about the pricing tactics and what buyers should consider.

Mercedes-Benz Unveils New Design Philosophy with Upcoming C, E, and S-Class Generations

Mercedes-Benz previews its next-generation C-Class, E-Class, and S-Class with a new unified design philosophy, starting with the 2027 GLC electric SUV.

BMW Fully Acquires Alpina: What This Means for Car Enthusiasts

BMW has fully acquired Alpina, turning it into an official brand. Learn what this means for car enthusiasts, including technical features and market impact.

ADVERTISEMENT

Audi Q3 Sportback Arrives With A Stylish Roofline, But Little Else New

Audi introduces the new Q3 Sportback, featuring a sleeker roofline and sportier design, but shares most features with the standard Q3. Explore powertrains, interior, and pricing.

Joe Rogan Unveils Bespoke Porsche 911 Restomod

Explore Joe Rogan's latest automotive acquisition: a stunning, custom-built Porsche 911 RSR restomod by The RSR Project, featuring enhanced performance and a minimalist interior.

Pristine 2003 Lexus LX with Dubious Mileage Surfaces at Auction

A 2003 Lexus LX 470 with only 583 miles appears showroom fresh but faces scrutiny over its mileage due to a Carfax report, sparking debate at auction.

ADVERTISEMENT