Rare 1978 Corvette Pace Car with L82 engine and museum history resurfaces with just 521 original miles on the odometer.
A remarkably preserved 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Pace Car Edition has hit the market showing only 521 original miles, making it one of the lowest-mileage examples of this limited-production anniversary model in existence.
Built to commemorate both the 25th anniversary of the Corvette and its role as the official pace car of the 1978 Indianapolis 500, this special-edition model was initially intended to be ultra-rare, but Chevrolet ultimately produced 6,502 units—one for each dealership—due to high demand.
This particular car stands out not only for its condition and originality, but also for its rare L82 high-output 350ci V8 engine, which was the more powerful option available that year, rated at 220 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, the car remains completely stock aside from minor servicing updates.
Finished in its factory-correct black-over-silver two-tone paint with red accent striping, the car features mirrored T-tops, 15-inch alloy wheels, and the unmistakable "Official Pace Car" decals. The silver leather interior is clean and complete, with a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo with power antenna.
Originally displayed at the Swope Museum in Indiana, the car was sold to its current Idaho-based owner in 2020, who has preserved it as a showpiece. Recent maintenance includes rebuilt brake calipers, a new battery, and a fresh oil change. Known flaws include minor paint imperfections, a delaminating windshield corner, and a heater bypass due to a leaking matrix.
Included with the sale are a host of original parts and documentation, including the original wheels, air cleaner, unused floor mats, and an Indy 500 pass dated May 28, 1978.
With ultra-low mileage, museum provenance, and its desirable L82 powertrain, this 1978 Corvette Pace Car represents a unique opportunity for collectors seeking a standout from the late C3 era. See it here.
