1989 Corvette Tech Center
1989 Corvette Model Year Highlights
- The L98 engine for remained the same for 1989, but the highlight of the model year was the introduction of the new 6-speed manual transmission built by ZF (Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen) featuring a Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS) feature that would lock out 2nd and third gears upon light throttle.
- The special six-slot 16 x 8.5 wheels which came standard with P255/50ZR16 tires on 1988 models were replaced in 1989 by the P275/40ZR17 tire and 17" wheel setup which was used on the 1988 Z51/Z52 options.
- Although RPO Z52 was no longer an option for 1989, a new Selective Ride and Handling System (RPO FX3) was introduced and only came with the RPO Z51 Performance Handling package. The SRC system offered three modes of driving: Tour, Sport and Performance. For more information on the FX3 system, please see our FX3 Selective Ride Control Shock Absorbers technical article by Corvette Journalist, Hib Halverson.
- Another new option for 1989 Corvettes was the Low Tire Pressure Warning System (RPO UJ6). The system consisted of a metal band and sensor wrapped around the inside of each wheel which emitted a radio signal picked up by an onboard computer when the tire pressure on one of the wheels dropped below a certain threshold value.
- Further refinements included the following: a simiplified folding top mechanism for convertibles and restyled seats. Sport leather seats were only offered on the Z51 equipped Corvettes due to the increased weight of the seats and overall fuel economy issues.
| Back in 1989... | |
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| As the Berlin wall comes tumbling down the Barbie doll celebrates her 30th birthday and the Corvette sports a new 6-speed manual transmission and an option Selective Ride and Handling system.
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| Gallery: | An online gallery of high quality 1989 Corvette pictures. |
| Identification: | VIN information and other identifying characteristics of the 1989 Corvette. |
| Knowledge Base: | A collection of service bulletins and related technical information on 1984 to 1996 Corvettes. |
| Latest News: | The latest news and headlines regarding 1984 - 1996 Corvettes. |
| Paint Color Chips: | Paint color chips from PPG for the 1989 Corvette. |
| Production and Performance Numbers: | Options, production and performance numbers for the 1989 Corvette. |
| Rare Arctic Pearl 1989: | Interesting article on a rare Arctic Pearl, 1989 Corvette. |
| Specifications: | General specifications for the 1989 Corvette. |
Videos - C4 Corvettes:  |
C4 Corvette videos provided by our sister site - VetteTube.com. |
| 1989 Twin Turbo Callaway Corvette: | Specifications and performance figures for the 1989 Twin Turbo Callaway Corvette. |
| Callaway Corvette Forum: | A technical discussion forum for the Callaway Corvette. |